Uncovering Thailand's History

DAY 1 International Flight

Your overnight international flight to Bangkok leaves London at around midday and takes 11-and-a-quarter-hours

DAY 2 To Ayutthaya

Landing into Bangkok this morning the holiday really gets under way as you are collected from the airport and whisked just over an hour north in a private vehicle to Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya is a fascinating city, full of temples and monasteries and surrounded by the colourful floating markets and bustling life on the Chao Phraya and Pa Sak Rivers which run around the city. Once you have checked in to your hotel, head out for a wander along these rivers, experiencing local Thai life for the first time as you do. With your legs stretched it's then back to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon taking it easy as you settle into your new time zone.

DAY 3 To the River Kwai

Get up early this morning to head west to Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai. The drive is around two-and-a-half-hours and will lead you to the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai which was built by allied prisoners of war during World War II. Stop for lunch in a local restaurant here and then wander across the bridge before visiting the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum to get a better understanding of the brutal history behind the bridge and the so-called 'death railway' that it served. Afterwards you'll also be able to stroll through the charming and historic lanes of the Pak Preak community before heading to your hotel for the night.

Rather than your average hotel transfer, this afternoon's is via a traditional longtail boat to your equally untraditional hotel, which is floating along the banks of the river. Without compromising on the luxury levels you'll here be able to enjoy the completely unique experience of sleeping in a floating room, dining in the floating restaurant and stargazing from your floating terrace.

DAY 4 To Bangkok

Wave goodbye to the peace and quiet of the water as you are transferred by boat and private car to the hubbub of the capital. With its bustling streets, lively atmosphere and rich culture Bangkok is a must visit for any Thailand trip and we'll make sure you get to see all the very best of it. Once you've checked in to your hotel, relax for a few hours before you are picked up for your evening adventure. Passing the floodlit Grand Palace and Wat Pho on your way, you'll be driven to the Chao Phraya riverside, where you'll go to a small boutique hotel for a cocktail overlooking the river. Afterwards make the short walk to your dinner spot for tonight, also on the banks of the river, but with Wat Arun as the backdrop.

Having eaten you'll then be able to explore the grounds of Wat Pho after hours, making sure to stop at the chedi (Buddhist stupa) which will be lit up and looking especially magical, and visit the famous backpacker's haunt and lively market street, Khao San Road.

DAY 5 To Chiang Rai

With a few days in the city under your belt we wouldn't be surprised if you're itching to get back out exploring the countryside by now. You will be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport to take a short flight north to Chiang Rai, and then collected and dropped off at your new hotel in the heart of the lush north. This afternoon you'll explore the historic streets of Chiang Rai on a guided rickshaw tour - the best way to see the sights. Start at the King Mengrai Monument, which pays tribute to the ruler who founded Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai and built the foundations of the Lanna Kingdom. From here, climb aboard your rickshaw and head to the local market, where you can browse the stalls piled high with fresh produce, joining the locals as they chat with stall owners and bargain for the best prices.

Then, continue to the Wat Phra Kaew Temple, home to a beautiful brass and copper Buddha, before visiting the Hilltribe Museum, where you'll learn more about the tribes who live in the rural areas north of the city. Finally, journey on to the stunning white temple of Wat Rong Khun with its unusual and controversial kanok architecture. The tour then finishes with a leisurely lunch of traditional Thai dishes, eaten at Chivit Thammada with views of the Kok River.

DAY 6 To Chiang Mai

Head towards your final destination of the holiday today as you are picked up from your hotel and transferred to Chiang Mai. The journey takes you around three hours south west and will pass some beautiful scenery on the way so keep your eyes peeled. When you arrive, the afternoon is yours to enjoy settling in to your new hotel and relaxing by the pool or in the hotel gardens.

DAY 7 Home Time

Unfortunately it's time to head home this morning with a short flight from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and then on to the connecting flight to the UK from there. The fight time is 12 hours, but with the time difference on your side you'll be home in the early evening.