Compare Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket by Intrepid Travel vs Siam(Thai) Essentials tour by Thai Marano Travel

Day 1 Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Bangkok is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and slick modernity, where markets (obviously bustling) and world-class cuisine are only the beginning. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you do arrive early, kudos to you! How about acquainting yourself with this frenetic city of tuk tuks, street food and traditional khlong boats winding down the Chao Phraya River and just having a walk around. After your important meeting, you might want to experience the unique tourist mecca of Khao San Road with some of your new travel crew.

Day 2 Bangkok

You’ll start today with a visit to Wat Arun – Temple of the Dawn. Named after the Indian God of Dawn – Aruna, this impressive landmark of Bangkok sits on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rest of the afternoon is free for optional activities, and this city has so much to offer – perhaps head next door to the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Pho, home to the country's largest reclining Buddha and keeper of the magic behind Thai massage. You may want to take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous 'khlongs' (canals) of Bangkok. Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Tonight, board an overnight train southbound for Surat Thani (approximately 13 hours).

Day 3 Ao Nang/Krabi

Arrive into Surat Thani this morning and continue by bus (approximately 2.5 hours) to the resort town of Ao Nang in Krabi Province. Ao Nang has a main street with open-air restaurants, shops that light up the sidewalk and bars perfect for kicking back with a beer. It’s also in a great position to hop on longtail boats to places like Railay Beach and the idyllic islands surrounding the bay. There's plenty of free time to relax on the beautiful beaches and get into the spirit of southern Thailand. You also might want to take advantage of some of the optional activities on offer, like a cycling trip that takes you on back country tracks, gets you close to local culture, and rewards you with a lovely afternoon dip in a beautiful waterfall. Otherwise, consider a relaxing massage on the beach (no kidding), or just sit back with a good book and a cool cocktail to watch the sun slip beneath the horizon. This is living. In the late afternoon, visit Baan Na Teen village and take part in Batik Making to learn about this ancient technique of dyeing and then join in a local family for some home-cooked feast. Here is also an opportunity to assist with the preparation of tonight's meal – learn some of the delicious secrets of southern Thai cooking and enjoy a dinner that tastes all the better thanks to your handiwork! This is a wonderful opportunity to absorb some of the daily rituals of Thai culture.

Day 4 Ao Nang/Krabi

This morning, head out to Ao Nang beach and on board a speed boat to start today’s exploration. Immerse in the beauty of the coast line with stops at Phra Nang Cave, Railey Beach, Koh Tup, Koh Gai and discover the amazing coral and tropical fish through snorkelling in the crystal clear water. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling and return back to Ao Nang beach in mid-afternoon. Tonight, why not grab some travel pals and stroll down the main drag to find a seafood restaurant.

Day 5 Khao Lak

Say goodbye to Ao Nang this morning and continue your journey to Khao Lak. On the way, stop at a great Community-based tourism initiative at Baan Nai Nang village (supported by Mangrove Action Project) and you’ll spend a better half of the day here, experiencing the amazing nature and learning about local culture. Get active and venture out in a kayak to explore the amazing water, limestone cliffs and mangrove forests at Khao Ka Rot. Return back to the village and enjoy a hearty home-cooked lunch after a good workout, then learn to prepare and taste the organic local mulberry leaf tea. Head out for a walk in the village and its organic fruit orchards after lunch before hopping back on your bus and continue to Khao Lak (approx. 3 hours).

Day 6 Khao Lak

Enjoy a free day at Khao Lak. There are plenty to do in Khao Lak. Why not visit Lam Ru National Park andTon Chong Fa Water Fall, or make it a day trip to Similan Islands or Surin Islands? Your tour leader will be on hand to help you make the best of the day.

Day 7 Phuket

This morning leave for the tourist haven of Phuket, Thailand’s largest and most visited island. This island is certainly a brasher, more vibrant extrovert to the mellower sibling of the last few days. If a little modern pizazz is what you’re after with your dose of sunshine exotica, look no further – this island offers a little something for everyone. It’ll take about 3 hours to get to Phuket.Once you've arrived on the island, there's a chance to stop at the Tsunami Memorial if you would like to visit. Then continue to Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation which support the protection of turtles and research of the Marine Biodiversity. You'll be able to learn about the important work that they do here and see the different type of turtles at the foundation. Then it's another hour to Kata beach. You’ll stay in the heart of Kata beach, where everything from shops to restaurants to nightclubs awaits.

Day 8 Phuket

Phuket is ringed with beaches, each with their own distinct personalities, from a party vibe to perhaps something quieter and more romantic. If you can pull yourself away from the beautiful beaches and curving coasts, Phuket also has a range of activities to fill your day, from Thai boxing exhibitions to cabaret shows. If you love getting out on the water and exploring the islands, then perhaps use your last day to take a day trip out to the stunning Phi Phi and Khai Nok, a tiny island surrounded by white sandy beach perfect suitable for swimming and snorkelling. If you want to spend some time with Thailand’s magnificent elephants, take a visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. You will get to see the elephants in the safety and security of their natural home and get an insight into the behaviour and personal history of each elephant. Perhaps gather together your fellow travellers tonight and enjoy a celebratory dinner.

Day 9 Phuket

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! If you’d like to continue to soak up the very best of Phuket, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Day 1: Bangkok

You will be picked up from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International airport at Gate No.3. Your tour will start with a visit to The Royal Grand Palace, where the Kings of Thailand once resided and a spectacular example of an ancient Siamese court. Stroll around the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, Royal Guest House, and the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple. After lunch, you can enjoy a voyage of discovery through the canals of Thonburi on a long-tailed boat, observing the venerable temples sitting among lush greenery, wooden houses built on stilts, coconut groves, garlanded shrines and spirit houses. Experience the “Venice of the East” with vendors selling goods from their boats. Life along the river and canal is an integral part of the Thai culture, and a boat cruise gives visitors the chance to see traditions that have barely changed with the passage of time. Your guide will then take you to Wat Pho, with the largest sleeping Buddha in Thailand. This temple tops the list of six first-class royal temples in Thailand and recognized by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme. Next on the agenda is a visit to Wat Traimit Bangkok's most famous temple with the Gold Buddha made with over 5.5 tons of solid gold. Summary: transportation by private car; Bangkok city and canal tour; overnight hotel accommodation in the center of Bangkok, including breakfast.

Day 2: Bangkok

The morning is free to spend at your leisure. At 5 pm you will take the sky train with your guide and then go on a food walking tour through one of the most captivating areas of Bangkok. Bangkok’s Chinatown; Yaowarat, is one of the most renowned street food destinations and a local dining favorite. During this early evening activity, you will discover the sophisticated flavors of a 200-year old Bangkok community rich in delicious food and Thai-Chinese tradition. As you wander along the street, you can explore and taste the local cuisine at seven famous eateries, from street vendors to renowned Thai-Chinese restaurants. Between each tasting location, you will have the chance to experience this unique neighborhood from behind the scenes — meeting fascinating characters at the food bazaar, listening to stories, and visiting cultural landmarks. This unique adventure will be one of the highlights of your trip to Bangkok. Summary: transportation: public sky train and on foot; Bangkok walking food tour with meal included; overnight hotel accommodation in Bangkok, including breakfast and dinner.

Day 3: Bangkok / Ayutthaya

After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel at 8 am and taken to Ayutthaya. First, you will visit Bang Pa-in Summer Palace which was first used as a summer retreat in the seventeenth century by the Royal Court. The tour will then take you to Wat Yai Chaimongkhol and see one of the biggest Reclining Buddha images and the ruins of the old Royal Grand Palace and temples. You will then visit Wat Mahathat, situated in front of the Grand Palace, next to Pa Than Bridge, and believed to be one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples. You will then cross the river to see Wat Na Phra Men, and although it has been restored numerous times, the fine ancient ubosot in typical Thai style still exists, as does the viharn. You will then be transferred to Wat Chong Lom Pier in Nonthaburi Province to enjoy a cruise to Bangkok, including a delicious on-board meal. Sit back and relax on the cruise deck or in the air-conditioned passenger cabin as you observe rural life along the riverbanks and take in the beauty of the Chao Phraya River. As you cruise into Bangkok, you will pass by the majestic Grand Palace and Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn). The evening is free to spend at your leisure. Summary: transportation by private car and boat; Ayutthaya Discovery with meal included; overnight hotel accommodation in Bangkok, including breakfast.

Day 4: Bangkok / Kaeng Krachan

After breakfast at the hotel, at 8 am you will be taken by private car from Bangkok to Kaeng Kranchan National Park (3 hours). After dropping off your luggage at the resort, you will be driven through the wilderness to the national park. Upon arrival at Baan Krang, your guide will take you on a trek to find families of langur and maybe some wild elephants. After lunch, you will take a different trail to visit some mineral licks before joining the birding trail. You will then be driven back to the resort, stopping at different places to observe large mammals. Summary: overnight hotel/resort accommodation, including breakfast, in Kaeng Krachan National Park or camp; transportation by private car; visit to Kaeng Krachan National Park with meal included.

Day 5: Kaeng Krachan

Early morning bird watching opportunity. After breakfast, you will be driven once again to the national park and up toward the mountain where you can see the mist over Phanenthung. Your guide will then take you on a trek down the Thor Thip Waterfall — the most beautiful in Kaeng Krachan. After a picnic lunch, you will continue trekking until the late afternoon when you will be driven back to the hotel. The evening is free to spend at your leisure. Summary: transportation by private car; visit to Kaeng Krachan National Park with meal included; overnight accommodation, including breakfast at a hotel in Kaeng Krachan National Park (or camp).

Day 6: Kaeng Krachan

After breakfast, you will return to the national park and join the butterfly trail to observe butterflies and beetles. Your trek will continue to include an encounter with families of gibbons. You will leave the jungle around midday and be driven back to the hotel. The afternoon is free for relaxation. Summary: transportation by private car; visit to Kaeng Krachan National Park with meal included; overnight accommodation, including breakfast at a hotel in Kaeng Krachan National Park (or camp).

Day 7: Kaeng Krachan / Bangkok / Phuket / Hat Khao Lak

After breakfast, you will be driven by private car from Kaeng Krachan to Bangkok for the short flight to Phuket. You will be picked up from Phuket airport at 1.30 pm and driven to Khao Lak to check in at the hotel. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation. Summary: transportation by plane and private car; overnight hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Khao Lak.

Day 8: Hat Khao Lak

Breakfast at the hotel with the day free to spend at your leisure. Summary: overnight hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Khao Lak.

Day 9: Hat Khao Lak

Breakfast at the hotel with the day free to spend at your leisure. Summary: overnight hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Khao Lak.

Day 10: Hat Khao Lak / Bangkok

Breakfast at the hotel with the day free to spend at your leisure. In the afternoon, you will be transferred by private car to Phuket airport for a late afternoon flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Bangkok, you will be taken to the hotel where you can check in and spend the evening at your leisure. Summary: transportation by plane and private car; overnight hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Bangkok.

Day 11: Bangkok

Breakfast at hotel. Free at your leisure until getting a private transfer to the airport for your departure flight home. Safe travel and see you again!