Thailand Discovery: 13 days or 16 days: Beginning in bustling Bangkok we travel to the famous River Kwai, the ancient kingdoms of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai and on to the serene mountains, rivers, and hilltribe villages of the north. You have the option of escaping to the golden sands of Phuket at the end of your Thailand discovery.

Days 1-2 Bangkok:

Arrive Bangkok and transfer to your downtown hotel. This evening get to know your tour leader and local guide during your town briefing and welcome drinks. The following day we will take a city tour visiting such sites as the Grand Palace and the Reclining Buddha, mix with the locals on a ferry ride on the Chao Phraya River. In the evening, hunt for bargains at the famous night markets.

Days 3-5 River Kwai:

We travel directly to Kanchanaburi by bus and longtail boat. Visit an authentic floating market, Khao Bin Caves and stay overnight on a houseboat surrounded by mountains and jungle. The following morning we drive to Hellfire Pass and the Death Railway which stands as a moving monument to the POW lives lost in the World War II. Travelling by train we cross the bridge over the River Kwai. En route back to Bangkok we stop at Erawan Falls for a swim before connecting with our overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Days 6 Chiang Mai:

Today we visit the temple of Doi Suthep located in the mountains above Chiang Mai. Known as one of Thailand's most sacred temples it offers magnificent views of Chiang Mai below. In the evening, you may wish to enjoy a traditional northern Thai Kantoke dinner and dance or explore the town's exciting Night Bazaar.

Days 7-9 Hilltribe Adventure:

We drive in an open air vehicle to an elephant training camp before visiting the impressive Chiang Dao Caves. We visit the Lasu, Karen and Akhu hilltribes and spend the night at a Palong village. On awakening you will enjoy an elephant ride through the jungle before travelling by bamboo raft through beautiful scenery. Finally stop at Mae Se Waterfall before returning to Chiang Mai. Take an optional Thai cooking class or spend the day at leisure.

Days 10-12 Phitsanulok & Ayutthaya:

This morning drive to Sukhothai (Thailand's first capital) where you can cycle or walk amongst the impressive ruins, dating from the 13th Century. The following morning visit a local folk museum that houses a fascinating collection of rural exhibits. Continue on to Lopburi, which was once an important outpost of the Khmer Empire. Travelling south we visit the former capital Ayutthaya, including the Royal Palace, before arriving into Bangkok for a farewell dinner for those taking the 13 day option.

Days 13 Bangkok Tour ends / Phuket (optional):

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home, or to connect with your flight further south to Phuket. On arrival take a walk along the beach or take a swim in the clear blue water.

Days 14-16 Phuket:

We cruise the waters around the island of Phuket. Try your hand at snorkelling before taking a picnic lunch on one of the pristine isolated islands in the area. Return in the afternoon in time for sunset over the bay.

On day 16, your jouney ends with your airport transfer.