Thailand Beach Escape

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand.
Your adventure begins in the lively capital of Bangkok, where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. A city of bustling markets, colourful tuk tuks, winding canals and incredible street food, Bangkok offers the perfect introduction to Thailand.

If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore some of the city's iconic attractions, such as the magnificent Grand Palace and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Alternatively, stroll along the lively Khaosan Road or unwind with a traditional Thai massage before your journey begins.
After tonight's welcome meeting, gather with your fellow travellers and head out to sample Bangkok's world-famous street food, the perfect way to kick off your Thai adventure.

Please make every effort to attend the welcome meeting, as your leader will collect important information, including your travel insurance details and emergency contact information. If you expect to arrive late, please inform your booking agent or the hotel reception as soon as possible. Upon arrival, check with reception or look for a notice in the hotel lobby for details of the meeting time and location.

Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. Standing proudly on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, this iconic temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and shimmering porcelain-covered spires.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to discover Bangkok at your own pace.

You may choose to visit Wat Pho, home to Thailand's famous Reclining Buddha, explore the bustling markets and street food of Bangkok Chinatown, or cruise along the city's historic canals aboard a traditional longtail boat for a glimpse into local life.
This evening, board an overnight train to Surat Thani, travelling south towards Thailand's spectacular islands and tropical coastline.

Today's overnight train journey takes approximately 12 hours, providing a comfortable and authentic way to travel through

Thailand while maximising your time at the destinations.
Before departure, shared hotel rooms will be available if you'd like to freshen up, relax or reorganise your luggage. Each room is shared by up to four members of the group.

Accommodation on the train is in air-conditioned multi-share sleeper compartments with bunk beds, fresh bedding and pillows provided. Your luggage remains with you throughout the journey, and food and drinks are available to purchase from the onboard service during the trip.

Arrive in Surat Thani this morning before continuing by minivan to the spectacular Khao Sok National Park. Home to one of the world's oldest rainforests, the park is a breathtaking landscape of dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, towering limestone cliffs and emerald lakes.

From there, board a traditional longtail boat and cruise across the tranquil waters of Cheow Lan Lake towards your floating accommodation. As you glide through the dramatic scenery, keep watch for wildlife such as wild elephants, gibbons and dusky leaf monkeys hidden among the trees.
Tonight, experience a truly unique stay in a traditional floating raft house, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the lake on one side and the ancient rainforest on the other. It's the perfect setting to relax, disconnect and immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of southern Thailand.

• Your raft house will be situated above the water, with wooden walkways connecting the huts and the land. There will be a private bathroom attached to your room.

Wake up surrounded by the ancient rainforest of Khao Sok National Park, where your floating raft house offers a unique front-row seat to one of the world's oldest evergreen forests. Early this morning, board a traditional longtail boat and cruise across the mist-covered waters of Cheow Lan Lake, keeping an eye out for the park's remarkable wildlife.

Before lunch, head out on a guided jungle hike through the rainforest. Depending on the season, you may discover hidden waterfalls or climb to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the dramatic limestone landscape. Along the way, you could be lucky enough to spot wild elephants, hornbills or playful dusky langur monkeys.
Later, continue your journey to the tropical island of Ko Tao, famous for its crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs and relaxed island atmosphere. After checking in, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace.

Perhaps join a Thai cooking class, unwind with a spa treatment, swim at the beautiful Sairee Beach or simply relax beneath the palm trees. As evening falls, those looking for entertainment can experience Ko Tao's laid-back beachfront bars and lively nightlife.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding Ko Tao on a memorable snorkelling excursion through some of southern Thailand's most spectacular marine environments. With crystal-clear waters, colourful coral gardens and abundant tropical fish, this island is considered one of the country's premier snorkelling destinations.

Depart from Mae Haad Pier and cruise around the island's southern coastline towards Shark Island, where you may be lucky enough to spot reef sharks or even the occasional leopard shark gliding through the clear waters.

Continue to Aow Leuk, one of Ko Tao's most beautiful bays, renowned for its soft sandy beach and thriving coral reefs that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Later, enjoy lunch onboard while anchored in the peaceful waters of Hin Wong Bay.
In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Ko Nang Yuan. Hike to the island's famous panoramic viewpoint, unwind on its pristine white-sand beaches, snorkel among schools of colourful parrotfish or simply relax on board while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

After breakfast, board a ferry to the tropical island of Ko Samui. Known simply as Samui by the locals, the island is famous for its palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs and endless coconut groves that create the perfect tropical setting.

This afternoon, visit the inspiring Khum Sa-ke Village community project, where local residents are working together to promote sustainable living and environmental conservation. Stroll along peaceful birdwatching trails and rice paddies while learning about the village's organic gardens, waste management initiatives and community-led efforts to protect the local environment.

Round off the day with a delicious home-cooked dinner prepared by the local community, featuring authentic southern Thai flavours. Along the way, discover the important role coconuts play in the region's cuisine and culture, making this a memorable cultural and culinary experience.

Your travel time on the ferry will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Today is yours to enjoy however you choose on the beautiful island of Ko Samui.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider an optional day trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, a breathtaking archipelago of around 40 islands, many of which remain uninhabited. Cruise past dramatic limestone cliffs before visiting the stunning Emerald Lake (Talay Nai), a hidden saltwater lagoon connected to the sea through an underground cave and surrounded by spectacular tropical scenery.

If you'd rather stay on the island, you may wish to visit the ethical Samui Elephant Sanctuary, where rescued elephants roam freely, socialise and bathe in a natural environment dedicated to their wellbeing.

Alternatively, simply embrace the slower pace of island life by relaxing on one of Ko Samui's beautiful beaches, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying a good book by the sea.

As there are no further activities, your Thailand adventure comes to an end this morning. This doesn’t mean you have to go home! If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.