Thailand Destinations

Thailand’s most fertile farming area, a wide-ranging landscape of paddy fields, orchards and plantations. More than 1,000 years ago Thai settlers moved down from the north, gradually replacing Mon and Khmer influences and establishing communities at Lop CENTRAL & EAST COAST Buri then at Sukhothai, before founding a kingdom that lasted 417 years with Ayutthaya as its capital. When the Burmese destroyed Ayutthaya in 1767, the capital moved to Bangkok.

Bangkok Luxury Travel Information

A thrilling mix of modern business and ancient tradition, Thailand's sprawling capital of Bangkok is the first step on a much larger travel experience.

Bangkok is Thailand's largest and most densely populated city with 10 million residents (over 15 percent of the country's population lives within the city limits). Divided into 50 different districts, the country's sprawling capital covers over 600 square miles. Unlike many Southeast Asian countries, Thailand was never colonized by the West. Today, the city is a unique blend of dynastic heritage and modern development that offers a distinct flavortravelers on luxury tours of Thailand avidly consume.

A modern mecca for tourism and business, there's a plethora of sights and activities for travelers on Thailand tours to experience. The amazing sights and experiences in the Bangkok region include The Grand Palace, The Thonburi Canals, Wat Pho or the temple of The Reclining Buddha, Wat Arun, the Royal Barge Museum and Wat Phra Kaew.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

: Bangkok is a busy, international city that draws throngs of visitors year-round for tours and business. The high season runs from November through February, but the rains in July and August are a welcome relief from the high summer temperatures for travelers and the natives alike.

How to get to Bangkok

: Serviced by two airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport, providing international and domestic flights, Bangkok is well connected to the rest of the world.

Bangkok Highlights

: Bangkok is a must for any international traveler. Offering a mix of distinct cultural heritage and modern convenience, Bangkok's streets hold wonders waiting to be explored.
Appropriate Attire: While Bangkok is a modern metropolis, many of the city's tourist attractions are temples and other sacred places. For most outings western dress is perfectly acceptable, but if you're heading to a shrine or other holy site, it's best to dress conservatively by covering your shoulders, arms, and legs. Many temples and shrines also require visitors to remove their shoes upon entrance.

Chiang Mai Luxury Travel Information

Offering a distinct mix of cuisine, language, and culture, Chiang Mai blends these unique flavors into an East meets West, ancient meets modern cocktail delightfully consumed by travelers on luxury tours of Thailand.

The capital of Chiang Mai Province, and the economic seat of power for the Golden Triangle Region (where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet), Chiang Mai’s history dates back to the 13th century when the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was moved here by King Mengrai.

Travelers here enjoy the luxury and opulence found in Bangkok while experiencing the distinctive cultural flavors of Northern Thailand. The food and architecture, influenced by trade with China, Myanmar, and Laos, is as distinct as the Northern Thai dialect spoken in outdoor bazaars by the vendors on Walking Street.

With the lush, green mountains as a backdrop, visitors have access to a plethora of activities in Chiang Mai. The amazing sights and experiences in the Chiang Mai region include Doi Inthanon National Park and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

: The best time to visit is November to February to enjoy the surprisingly brisk weather near the mountains. August through September rains make the jungle bloom with life.

The Songkhran festival, April 13-15, is particularly popular time to come to Chiang Mai for the Thai lunar calendar New Year. For three days the so called ‘Rose of the North’ celebrates the end of the summer heat with a city-wide water fight.

How to get to Chiang Mai

: Located in Northern Thailand, the best way to reach Chiang Mai is via flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai International Airport.
Chiang Mai Highlights: The unique blend of old Thai culture and modern development make Chiang Mai a must-see destination for tours in Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is acceptable for most excursions, but if you plan to visit any of the hundreds of temples in the area, it’s best to dress conservatively covering shoulders, arms, and legs.

Chiang Rai Luxury Travel Information

Part of the Golden Triangle region, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge, Chiang Rai is the capital of Thailand’s northernmost province of the same name.

Heralded as the gateway to the North, Chiang Rai province and the city of Chiang Rai are cultural strongholds for hill tribes and other ethnic groups in Northern Thailand. These distinct cultural flavors can be found in the food, language, and faces of the people here.

The amazing sights and experiences in the Chiang Rai region include Wat Rong Khun and the Hill Tribe Villages.

Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) is a particularly unique monastery created just before the millennium by a Buddhist artist turned architect. From a distance, this modern reimagining of a traditional Thai temple looks like an ice sculpture.

Best Time to Visit Chiang Rai

: The rains June through October are light. The best time to visit is during the temperate season running from November through January as the highest temperatures are February through May.

How to get to Chiang Rai

: Thailand’s northernmost province and its capital city are best accessed via a flight from Bangkok to Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport, which is just a few miles outside of the city.

Chiang Rai Highlights

: Cultural enthusiasts looking to sample the distinct flavors of Northern Thailand spiced with hints of China, Myanmar, and Laos find this destination particularly attractive on their Thailand tours. The relaxed atmosphere makes Chiang Rai a great place to see by bike.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is fine in town, but if your itinerary plans should bring you to any temple grounds, or if you’re planning a visit to the hill tribes, it’s best to cover your arms, shoulders, and legs as a sign of modesty.

Ayutthaya Luxury Travel Information

Ayutthaya can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
The city of Ayutthaya was the capital of the former Siamese kingdom of the same name for centuries before a Burmese invasion sacked the city in 1767.

The stone temples and palaces of the former city were the only structures to survive the fires set by the Burmese. Today travelers come to Ayutthaya to explore what remains of what was one of the world's greatest trade cities.

Travelers stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site leisurely feeling the presence of antiquity on their luxury tours of Thailand. Not far from the city, The Ayutthaya Historical Park houses 100 full-scale replicas of the ancient city's temples and palaces.

Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya

: Although it is hot from April to June, and rainy from July to September, it is okay to visit the area anytime of the year but best to visit from October through March for the best weather during a luxury tour in Thailand.

How to get to Ayutthaya

: About 30 miles north of Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River, Ayutthaya is best reached by private car using Thailand's modern roads.

Ayutthaya Highlights

: Rich in cultural antiquities and natural wonders, guests on Thailand tours feel like they could spend weeks in Ayutthaya and leave still wanting more.
Appropriate Attire: Though most of the temples are in ruin, it’s still best to dress conservatively by covering your shoulders, arms, and legs in keeping with local tradition.

Kanchanaburi Luxury Travel Information

Kanchanaburi can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
Located at the convergence of the KhwaeNoi and KhwaeYai rivers, Kanchanaburi offers travelers on luxury tours of Thailand an escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

The amazing sights and experiences in the Kanchanburi region include Death Railway Bridge, usually referred to as the Bridge over the river Kwai, and the Erawan National Park. Full of ecological and geographical wonders, Kanchanaburi Province is home to splendid conservation areas. Visitors on tours of Thailand can enjoy elephant treks, swimming in clear pools beneath waterfalls, and river cruises while staying in Kanchanaburi.

The province also played a pivotal role in Japan’s war efforts during World War II. The area is home to the Bridge over the River Kwai, immortalized by a book and film of the same name, and the Thai-Burma Death Railway. Hurriedly constructed by the Japanese using Allied prisoners of war and conscripted laborers from Southeast Asian countries, thousands of workers died building the bridge due to the brutal and unsanitary living conditions.

Best Time to Visit Kanchanaburi

: Rains falling in July and August, and high temperatures from March through June mean fewer crowds and easier bookings. Kanchanaburi’s high season runs from October to February with the best weather.

How to get to Kanchanaburi

: About a 3 hour drive north from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is best reached using a private car on Thailand's modern roads.

Kanchanaburi Highlights

: The wealth of ecological sites draws travelers from across the globe to the beautiful national parks found here.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for a hike, and a swim, as most of your excursions in the area will have a place to dip in and cool off.

Phuket Luxury Travel Information

Phuket is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Phuket is the ultimate Thai beach destination. The island situated off the southern coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea has a long history as an international destination. The mixed architecture of Phuket City’s historic district where Chinese row houses are nestled beside European style homes and Portuguese villas is a great place to absorb the island province’s mercurial history.

Thailand’s richest province, and largest island, Phuket is home to a diverse range of activities available to travelers on luxury tours of Thailand. The many spas in the area are heralded as some of the best in the world, and throngs of Thai and international tourists come here for pampering.

The emerald waters of the Andaman Sea make snorkeling, diving, yachting, and surfing popular and readily available maritime activities. The island also offers numerous beaches ranging from secluded to bustling depending on guests’ tastes.

Off the beach, nature preserves like Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park lure travelers on Thailand tours into the jungle to visit waterfalls and see diverse wildlife. Elephant treks and jeep safaris into the deeper forests are popular excursions. Phuket’s Big Buddha (an alabaster statue nearly 150 feet high) sits quietly atop the Nakkerd Hills offering a stunning view of the island.

Family oriented attractions are plentiful on the island. Dinner shows like Phuket FantaSea’s pyrotechnic-filled animal extravaganza is a popular itinerary item on tours of Thailand, and Splash Jungle (Thailand’s largest water park) features water cannons, slides, and a wave pool that will have children and adults squealing in delight.

Best Time to Visit Phuket Beach

: The island’s best weather is from November to March when the beaches sparkle like gold in the sun. Annual rains fall from April to October and can cause the seas to be choppy, but the forests are at their lushest during this time of year.

How to get to Phuket Beach

: Lying in the Andaman Sea off the coast of southern Thailand, Phuket Island can be reached by private boat launching from beach destinations on the mainland like Krabi, or domestic and international flights to Phuket International Airport.

Phuket Beach Highlights

: With a range of activities both luxurious and family friendly, Phuket has been the top beach destination in Thailand for decades that no traveler on a tour of Thailand should miss.
Appropriate Attire: Beachwear is a must while visiting this island paradise, but if you plan to visit any of the temples or other religious sites, it’s best to dress modestly in clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and knees.

Krabi Luxury Travel Information

Krabi is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Krabi is a quaint town nestled among the craggy karst rock formations of the Andaman Coast in Southern Thailand. It’s the capital of Krabi province, and one of the most visited destinations on the Andaman Coast.

Krabi is small, only 25,000 residents call the town home, but it’s a busy place due to its proximity to popular destinations like the Phi Phi Islands and Ao Nang City. Ferries and chartered boats launch regularly from here heading towards the 150 islands in the archipelago chain offshore.

Though not off the beaten path, Krabi is still a quaint Thai town with an authentic atmosphere. The local motto “Lively town, friendly people” perfectly defines the perceptions of travelers on luxury tours of Thailand as they stroll down the quiet side streets, and take in the leisurely pace of life here.

Wat ThamSeua (Tiger Cave Temple) is a popular destination just outside of town. The hill and cave temple is a sprawling complex of shrines and Buddha images hidden in limestone enclosures. Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular and readily available activities in Krabi, and it’s not uncommon for travelers on Thailand tours to see climbers scaling Krabi’s famous karst rock formations.

The many waterfalls and caves of Khao PhanomBencha National Park are also popular destinations for tours in Thailand. The jungle forests of this park team with wildlife and the buzz of insects, and the trails that wind through this 20 square-mile national park are a rare treat for nature enthusiasts. .

Best Time to Visit Krabi

: The best time to visit Krabi is during the temperate season running from November to March when the beaches are the most beautiful. The heaviest rain falls from April to October and can cause choppy seas.

How to get to Krabi

: Krabi Town is the capital of Krabi Province in Southern Thailand. It’s best reached by flight from Bangkok.

Krabi Highlights

: While Krabi is often used as a stepping stone to reach the hundreds of bleach-blonde beaches in the Andaman archipelago, travelers often modify their Thailand tour itineraries to enjoy this quiet and scenic town longer.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for the beach, or a hike depending on your excursion plans, but travelers visiting any of the temples in the area should wear clothing that covers shoulders to knees while on holy ground.

Koh Samui Luxury Travel Information

Koh Samui is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Long stretches of peach-colored beaches, turquoise waters, luxurious spas, sea cruises, and elephant treks are just a few of the diverse attractions that Koh Samui offers guests in the Gulf of Thailand.

One of Thailand’s most developed islands, Koh Samui’s activities and beaches are as diverse as the travelers who flock to this well-established tropical paradise. Manicured golf courses are almost as common as palm trees, and there are more opportunities for sea kayaking, day cruises, and spa pampering than can be easily counted.

Nearby islands Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are easily reached from Koh Samui, and the bright coral reefs and shimmering multi-hued schools of fish residing in the blue-green waters make for some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving the Gulf of Thailand has to offer.

The interior of the island has several excellent viewpoints worth hiking to, and The Secret Buddha Garden is a popular stop filled with intriguing sculptures of Buddhist legends.

Enjoying the sunset from a luxury catamaran, and boat tours of Ang Thong Marine National Park are two popular excursions that no luxury tour of Thailand would be complete without.

Best Time to Visit Koh Samui

: Koh Samui’s beaches and sea are largely unaffected by monsoons, which means this busy, year-round destination is the perfect place for a little fun in the sun regardless of the season.

How to get to Koh Samui

: Just a few miles off the coast of Surat Thani Province in Southern Thailand, Koh Samui is easily accessed by flight to Koh Samui International Airport.

Koh Samui Highlights

: A range of family friendly and sun-soaked activities make Koh Samui a top destination on tours of Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: Beachwear is a must for most activities, but if you’re planning on doing any of the trekking excursions it’s best to dress for a hike.

Koh Lanta Luxury Travel Information

Koh Lanta can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.

Koh Lanta is possibly the most under rated beach destination in Thailand. Located near the southern end of Krabi province, it is a large island that maintains a very relaxed vibe. Lanta is a very good destination for families to visit for two reasons. (1) It has some the calmest water you will find anywhere in Thailand. Most of the beaches are rock free and have very gradual grades into the water. Swimming is both enjoyable and safe for kids. (2) It maintains a relaxed and conservative atmosphere. While nightlife is certainly present on the island, it is not pervasive as in many destinations. The best beaches hence most of the development is on the west side, while the east side is home to several traditional Thai villages.
Getting There: Koh Lanta is reachable by vehicle, as there are car ferries that take you across the small inlet that separates the island from the mainland. Visitors will fly into either Krabi or Trang.
Weather: As it is located on the Andaman Sea side of Thailand, the weather on Koh Lanta is best between November and March. From April through October is the rainy season and the beaches are sometimes not at their best. During this season, rough seas sometimes interfere with boat trips in the Bay of Phang Nga.
Accommodation: For its size, there are not a large number of resorts. Koh Lanta is not as developed in terms of hotels and resorts as many other islands, which contributes greatly to its charm. Several of the resorts that are present are superb and considered among the best in all of Thailand.
Activities: While Phuket and Krabi visitors often take day trips to Phi Phi and other islands in the bay, Lanta has its own different set of islands available for day trips. These islands, such as Koh Kradan, are very sparsely inhabited, and offer some of the best beaches and water in the entire country. Snorkeling and diving is top notch in these locales. Koh Lanta also has many inland activities including exploring the island’s traditional Thai east side and jungles by bicycle, elephant trekking, and hiking to waterfalls. The town known as Ban Saladan offers plenty of civilization, modern conveniences, and restaurants.
Beaches: Khlong Dao - This long beach located near the town of Ban Saladan is the most active on the island. The water is excellent for wading and swimming and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and people watching.
Khlong Dao - This long beach located near the town of Ban Saladan is the most active on the island. The water is excellent for wading and swimming and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and people watching.
Khlong Jak - Located on the southern part of Lanta’s west coast is this true little gem. The beach and water here are simply beautiful, and this is an ideal place to spend the day sunbathing and swimming.
Khlong Kantiang - home to one of Thailand’s best resorts, this is a superb beach. It was once voted “Thailand’s Best Beach” by a major British newspaper. It has excellent sand, great swimming, and postcard views.

Koh Phangan Luxury Travel Information

Koh Phangan can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.

Just a 30-minute ferry ride from the major tourist hub of Koh Samui is the home of the famous Full Moon Parties. These are rather wild affairs with people partying until early morning. As such, the island tends to carry a party vibe during all phases of the moon; i.e., all the time. Ironically, the other thing Phangan is known for is wellness programs. There are several resorts on the island that cater to guests seeking to recharge their body and mind and participate in cleansing / detoxification programs. The island is not much smaller than Koh Samui, but far less developed. The topography is mountainous, and traveling around the island can be somewhat of an adventure as the road infrastructure is not modern.
Getting There: There are more than 20 daily flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui. There are also flights from Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and internationally from Hong Kong and Singapore. Once on Koh Samui, there are several ferries throughout the day, which take approximately 30 minutes to reach Koh Phangan.
Accommodations: In recent years, Koh Phangan has seen a dramatic increase in tourism and hotels. There is quite a large selection of accommodation, although far less than Samui. Most hotels are of a lower quality and price category as they cater to a young demographic there to experience the Full Moon Parties. There are however, a select few resorts that meet our standards.
Activities: All of the standard beach and watersport activities are available, as well as hiking. In addition, Koh Phangan does have good snorkeling on some of its beaches. A fun thing to do is rent a moped and explore the mountainous terrain and beaches.
Beaches: Haad Rin – Located on the southeastern corner of the island, this is the sight of the Full Moon Parties. In terms of wow factor, it is really just an average beach, but it is always the center of the action on Phangan.
Thong Nai Pan – This is actually two separate bays on the northeastern side of the island. This area feels more isolated, although there are traces of civilization, restaurants, and nightlife. This is a great area for swimming, canoeing, and snorkeling, and also happens to be where some of the best resorts are as well.
HaadKhom / Bottle Beach – These two beaches on the north shore of the island are ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying their clear, still water and relaxed atmosphere. This also is a great area for snorkeling and swimming. Provisions are available here, but not in large quantity as it is a relatively undeveloped part of the island.
West Coast Beaches – There are a myriad of beaches along the west coast that are popular spots. Many of these offer a nice package of great sand, snorkeling, and swimming. There is good infrastructure on this side of the island, making it good for those who want to spend some time on the beach but not too far away from a large selection of restaurants and services.

Thailand Sights

The Grand Palace

A paramount attraction for travelers on luxury tours of Thailand, the opulent Grand Palace of the Thai kings in Bangkok draws crowds year round.

The palace was founded in 1782 by Rama I as the first structure of the king’s new dynasty. Having won his crown from quelling the rebellion that unseated King Taksin of Thonburi, Rama I moved to Bangkok to found the capital city of his dynasty that still reigns today. The royal family no longer lives on the palace grounds, but it is still used regularly for both political and religious ceremonies.

The palace grounds are massive, and feature a mix of traditional Thai architecture and more modern buildings with Western style facades. With dozens of small structures spread throughout the rambling complex, travelers on luxury tours in Thailand can spend hours traversing the palace without taking in everything.

The palace grounds are divided into multiple courts, some of them of still functioning offices for the royalty. The Emerald Buddha resides in its own temple, and is an especially popular among the many holy sites inside the Grand Palace for visitors. Local tradition says the holy relic is the source of the country’s prosperity, and the Thai king, or an emissary in his stead, dresses the statue in a specially crafted set of gold clothes for each season as a supplication to continue the country’s good fortune.

Best Time to Visit Grand Palace

: Open year round, the palace is almost guaranteed to have crowds of visitors at any hour of the day, but the best time to visit is between November and January to beat the high temperatures.

How to get to Grand Palace

: Located in the heart of the historic Rattanakosin district in Thailand’s capital Bangkok, The Grand Palace sits on the Eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River that bisects the city. Private car service makes this historic destination easy to reach and depart.

Grand Palace Highlights

: Massive, opulent, and historically significant, no visit to Thailand would be complete without visiting the former home of Thailand’s ruling dynasty.
Appropriate Attire: The dress code is strictly enforced for all attendees. Shoulders, arms, stomach, and legs must be covered or entrance will be denied by the palace’s staff. When entering any of the holy shrines on the grounds, you may be asked to remove your shoes.

Wat Pho

Adjacent to Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Wat Pho houses the famous Reclining Buddha of Thailand.

While the Reclining Buddha dwarfs the other religious icons -- the statue is a little over 150 feet long and 15 feet high -- there is a wealth of historic and religious items for travelers on luxury tours of Thailand to enjoy.

The massive grounds of Wat Pho cover some 000,000 square feet and house almost enumerable Buddha statues, stupas and shrines housing the ashes of royalty, monks, and a few said to contain remains of Lord Buddha.

Wat Pho has also been the epicenter for learning Thai Massage since King Rama III made the temple a public learning institution in the early 19th century to preserve ancient medical techniques.

Best Time to Visit Wat Pho

: The rains in July and August will do little to quell the number of guests at this busy religious and educational temple, but most visitors on tours in Thailand come through between November and February to enjoy the balmy weather as they walk through the grounds.

How to get to Wat Pho

: Adjacent to the Grand Palace in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin cluster of districts, Wat Pho can be accessed easily using private car service, or Bangkok’s modern rail systems.
Wat Pho Highlights: Wat Pho is a grand excursion for anyone visiting Bangkok, and its proximity to other tourism spots within Bangkok’s historic area mean it’s an easy sight to visit regardless of your itinerary plans.
Appropriate Attire: A working monastery, travelers entering Wat Pho should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs as a sign of modesty while on the temple grounds. Certain areas will also require you to remove your shoes upon entrance.

Wat Arun

Known as the Temple of Dawn in English, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s most visited tourist sights.

Built over the remains of another temple during the 19th century reign of Rama II, Wat Arun is named for the Hindu god Aruna, whose dominion is the rising sun. Built in the Khmer style found in Cambodia, Wat Arun stands apart architecturally from the vast sea of temples visited throughout Bangkok by travelers on luxury tours of Thailand.

Though named for the dawn, Wat Arun is particularly beautiful with the setting sun as a backdrop. Once full dark falls on the city the entire temple glows a brilliant gold, lit by lamps on the temple grounds.

Best Time to Visit Wat Arun

: The temple grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., but the best time to view Wat Arun’s unique architecture is with the setting sun as a backdrop.

Most travelers come to Bangkok between November and February to evade the heat in the summer months, and the heavy rains in July and August.

How to get to Wat Arun

: Across the Chao Phraya River from the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, Wat Arun can be accessed by private vehicle, but most visitors take a short boat ride across the water from the Western bank.

Wat Arun Highlights

: Architecturally unique, the sharp edifice of Wat Arun silhouetted by the setting sun is a sight no traveler on tour in Thailand should miss.
Appropriate Attire: A functioning temple, guests who enter Wat Arun’s grounds should dress modestly by covering their shoulders, arms, and legs. For certain sections of the grounds, guests will have to remove their shoes when entering.

The Canals of Thonburi

In the 18th century Bangkok was often referred to as the Venice of the East because of the many canals dividing the city. While today’s Bangkok is a thriving metropolis of skyscrapers, metro rail, and paved streets, travelers on luxury tours of Thailand can drift back through time on the Canals of Thonburi to experience Old Bangkok’s buoyant mystique.

Navigating the canals on the Eastern side of the Chao Phraya River that bisects Bangkok by boat, travelers gain access to the Klong Lad Mayom, Taling Chan, and Wat Sai floating markets where Thai vendors still proffer their wares from boats resting on the water the way their ancestors did.

Wat Arun, The Temple of Dawn, and The Royal Barge Museum are also in this area of the city, and easily reached while exploring Bangkok’s ancient canals on a tour of Thailand.

Best Time to Visit The Canals of Thonburi

: The highest temperatures run March through May, and the heaviest rainfall is from June through August.

The best time to visit is between October and February to enjoy the balmy weather.

How to get to The Canals of Thonburi

: The Canals of Thonburi run west of the River Chao Phraya that bisects Bangkok. A short trip across the river from the city's Rattanakosin historic area, the Thornburi's water ways are best accessed and navigated using a chartered private boat.

The Canals of Thonburi Highlights

: Drifting leisurely down the canals in a private boat is an excursion no one's luxury tour in Thailand would be complete without.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is fine for the boat travel and market, but if you plan to visit Wat Arun or any other holy site, dress conservatively by covering your shoulders, arms, and legs while on holy ground.

Royal Barge Museum

The Royal Barge Museum in Bangkok houses the resplendent boats that have chauffeured Thailand’s royalty across the city’s waters for centuries.

These long, thin boats are intricately decorated with gold carvings, and each barge’s masthead is uniquely splendid. Suphannahong, the king’s personal barge, features a golden swan’s head carved into its prow. Other barges include dedications to Hanuman, the Hindu monkey deity, and the seven-headed serpent, Naga. No luxury tour of Thailand would be complete without seeing these ancient and stunning watercraft.

While the barges were originally used for military purposes and daily transport, today the boats usually only see the open waters of the Chao Phraya River during holidays.

Best Time to Visit Royal Barge Museum

: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Museum is a hot itinerary destination throughout the year on Thailand tours. Seasonal rains come in June and August, and the highest temperatures are in March and May. The best weather is from October to February.

Travelers heading to Bangkok in late October and November might miss the barges at their docks when they are being prepared for the flotilla ceremony that marks the end of the rainy season, but they can catch them in the ceremonial flotilla on the canals with a little planning.

How to get to Royal Barge Museum

: The museum is in Bangkok's Thonburi canal district, and best reached using a chartered boat.

Royal Barge Museum Highlights

: The barges and their amazingly detailed mastheads are something almost every luxury tour in Thailand includes on the itinerary. It’s a must-see for Bangkok.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is fine for the museum, but many travelers also visit the temples on the West side of the Chao Phraya River, and those that do should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs while on holy ground.

Wat Phra Kaew

Housed on the grounds of Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew shelters Thailand’s famous Emerald Buddha statue.

Located in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin area, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha covers some 200 acres with its grounds, and has hundreds of small structures enshrining a plethora items including royal ashes. With over 200 years of royal architectural experimentation neatly displayed on its grounds, the temple is a must see on every Thailand luxury tour itinerary.

An artifact with a history in many countries around Southeast Asia, The Emerald Buddha has been a part of Bangkok since Rama I came to the shores of the Chao Phraya River to found the Chakri dynasty in 1782.

Three times a year - during the winter, summer, and rainy seasons - King Rama IX of Thailand dresses the statue in specially crafted gold clothing as part of a ceremony that local legend says guarantees the country’s prosperity.

Best Time to Visit Wat Phra Kaew

: July and August rains offer visitors relief from the high summer temperatures, but the best time to visit the area is during the November through February high season. Early risers can expect to beat some of the crowds by visiting temple when it opens at 8:30 a.m.

How to get to Wat Phra Kaew

: Resting in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin within the grounds of The Grand Palace, The Temple of The Emerald Buddha can easily be reached using private car service or the modern rail system in Bangkok.

Wat Phra Kaew Highlights

: A sight with rich historical and cultural implications, Wat Phra Kaew’s proximity to other historical places in Bangkok mean it’s a place no one on a luxury tour of Thailand should miss.
Appropriate Attire: Attendees are required to dress conservatively by covering their shoulders, arms, and legs while on temple grounds. Some areas will also require you to remove your shoes before entering.

Hill Tribe Villages

The hill tribes of Northern Thailand are several distinct indigenous groups that have lived in the Golden Triangle Region for centuries as subsistence farmers.

Comprised of multiple ethnic groups, the hill tribes have distinct languages, styles of dress, and cultures from one another. The Akha, Lahu, Karen, Hmong, Mien, Paduang and Lisu tribes can be found in the mountains of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. The bright clothing, hand crafted goods, and intriguing culture of these hill tribes entice travelers on luxury tours of Thailand to visit the sleepy villages of these indigenous people.

Of these tribes, the famous “long-necked” women of the Paduang are probably the most recognized. As part of the Paduang culture, women begin wearing a series of interlocking brass rings around their necks at an early age, and add an additional ring each birthday. .

Best Time to Visit Hill Tribe Villages

: The best weather for tours of Northern Thailand is during the temperate November through January season. The heaviest rain falls June through October, and the highest temperatures run February through May.

How to get to Hill Tribe Villages

: Hill tribe villages dot the Northern Thailand mountain ranges. The most traveler friendly villages lie in the northernmost province of Chiang Rai. These villages are best accessed by a private vehicle.

Hill Tribe Villages Highlights

: Cultural enthusiasts on tours of Thailand are particularly fond of experiencing the simple life style of the hill tribes. The distinct dress, cuisine, languages, and hospitality of these indigenous groups leave lasting impressions on visitors.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is acceptable in the villages.

Wat Rong Khun

Shining like an ice sculpture in the midday sun, Chiang Rai’s Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) forgoes the traditional gold and orange dressing of a Thai Buddhist temple for bright white walls and statues speckled with shards of mirrored glass.

Most Thai temples have centuries of history, but Wat Rong Kun’s story only started in 1997. The creation of artist turned architect Chalermchai Kositpipat, Wat Rong Kung’s grounds hold far more unusual features than the irregular white color scheme.

Visitors on luxury tours of Thailand enter the temple by first crossing a footbridge spanning a lake of grasping concrete hands meant to represent the hell of desire. Passing two sword-wielding giants glinting like porcelain in the sun, travelers on tours of Thailand gain access to the inner sanctum, where traditional Thai decorative styles found in other temples has been fused with contemporary images. The walls weave together images of Superman, Neo from The Matrix, and the International Space Station into a modernized version of the traditional depiction of the Buddhist cycle of life and rebirth, Samsara.

Best Time to Visit Wat Rong Khun

: The White Temple is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Chiang Rai’s best weather comes November through February. The highest temperatures in the province are March through May, and the light rainy season runs from June to October.

How to get to Wat Rong Khun

: About 7 miles south of Chiang Rai City, Wat Rong Khun is best reached by private vehicle.

A flight from Bangkok to Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport is the best way to visit Thailand’s northernmost province.

Wat Rong Khun Highlights

: A popular destination among domestic Thai tourists, the temple's unique design aesthetic also draws throngs of travelers on tours in Thailand. Cultural and art enthusiasts are particularly fond of the chance to see modern interpretations of ancient Thai Buddhist style.
Appropriate Attire: Wat Rong Khun is holy ground, and visitors traveling on Thailand luxury tours should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs in modesty while touring the temple.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Shinning like a beacon near the summit of Doi Suthep Mountain, the golden chedi of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep has been an important pilgrimage destination for Thai Buddhists since the 14th century.

Legend has it that the temple was founded after the ruler of the Lanna Kingdom placed a remnant of Buddha’s body on the back of a white elephant, and followed the animal through the jungle. When the elephant reached what are now the temple grounds, the creature trumpeted three times and died on the spot. King Keu Naone promptly built the golden chedi and temple to house the holy relic.

Today, Wat Doi Suthep is one of the most highly revered holy places for Buddhists in Thailand, and this busy temple offers meditation courses to travelers on luxury tours in Thailand.

Best Time to Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

: The best weather in Chiang Mai runs from November to January. June to October Rains turn the surrounding area to a lush green dotted with bright flowers, and the highest temperatures fall March through May.

How to get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

: Near the summit of Doi Suthep Mountain, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is best reached by private vehicle from nearby Chiang Mai City. From the parking area, visitors can either surmount the 300 plus steps guarded by the twisting bodies of twin golden Naga carvings, or take a cable car to the monastery.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Highlights

: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most important religious sights for Buddhists in Thailand, and the well-kept temple grounds and pristine forests surrounding it are popular destinations for the devout and travelers on tours of Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: While on holy ground in Thailand visitors should dress modestly in clothes that cover their shoulders, arms, and knees.

Doi Inthanon National Park

The often mist-shrouded peak of Doi Inthanon National Park is the highest point in Thailand. Reaching more than 8,000 feet into the sky, Doi Inthanon’s temperate forests are home to a diverse range of animal and plant life.

Travelers on luxury tours of Thailand flock here to enjoy the splendid views of Chiang Mai province, and the mountain park is equally popular with Thai tourists who relish the chance to experience the significantly cooler temperatures and the uncommon temperate forests at higher elevation.

Numerous waterfalls like Nam Tok Mae Klang twist through the mountain forests of Doi Inthanon National Park, and 400 species of birds call the park home. Dozens of animal species reside within the park’s 186 square-miles of protected forests like Assamese macaques, and there are hundreds of temperate flowers and lichens that are unique to the national park.

On the road towards the summit, Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Nophamethanidon are popular temples to visit that were dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand on their respective 60th birthdays.

Best Time to Visit Doi Inthanon National Park

: The park’s best weather is from November through January. Rains fall from June through October, and March through May temperatures are significantly lower on the mountain than on the plains below.

Year-round, the park is a great destination for Thailand tour itineraries.

How to get to Doi Inthanon National Park

: Doi Inthanon National Park is about 37 miles west of Chiang Mai City, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.

The park and its various attractions are best reached and navigated using a private vehicle service.

Doi Inthanon National Park Highlights

:The unique plant and wildlife in the park, and the spectacular views for the summit make Doi Inthanon a nature lover’s paradise.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for a hike, and bring a jacket or sweater as the mountainside can be shockingly cool compared to the plains of Chiang Mai.

Death Railway Bridge

Usually referred to as the Bridge over the River Kwai because of the 1957 film of the same name, the Death Railway Bridge was constructed by Allied prisoners of war under incredibly harsh conditions.

Built as an alternative supply line for the Japanese during their invasions of Southeast Asia during World War II, the bridge spans about 1,000 feet across the Khwae Yai River. Constructed almost entirely by conscripted laborers and POWs, the bridge and rail line’s grueling conditions and hazardous work claimed thousands lives during World War II.

Best Time to Visit Death Railway Bridge

: The best time of the year to visit the area is October through February. The highest temperatures are March through June, and the heaviest rain fall is in July and August.

Travelers who plan their luxury tours accordingly can watch the annual memorial light and sound show that commemorates the allied bombing of the bridge. The show starts the last week of November and runs through the first week of December.

How to get to Death Railway Bridge

: The bridge lies about a mile north of Kanchanaburi Town, and is best accessed via private vehicle.

Death Railway Bridge Highlights

: At odds with the peaceful veneer of Kanchanaburi, this World War II landmark is one of many historical sites, like the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, that draw travelers on tours of Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is acceptable for this excursion.

Erawan National Park

The gushing blue-green waterfalls in Erawan National Park are a must-see for travelers on luxury tours in Thailand.

Named for the three-headed elephant that carries the Hindu god Indra, the seven tiers of Erawan Falls spread for a nearly a mile through deciduous forests filled with birds, monkeys, and other diverse wildlife.

The park is also home to several complex cave systems. The glittering limestone stalactites and stalagmites of Mi, Pha Lun, Phartat, Wang Bahdan and Rua caves are popular destinations within Erawan National Park. There’s also a mix of moderate and easy hiking trails like the 5 kilometer Khao Hin Lan Pee Nature Trail, which ends at the 5th tier of Erawan Falls.

Best Time to Visit Erawan National Park

: The falls are particularly beautiful during the rainy season running June to October after the dry season running from March to May.

The high season for the park runs from October through February, and the first few tiers of the falls are particularly busy this time of the year.

How to get to Erawan National Park

: The park is about an hour’s drive from Kanchanaburi Town in Kanchanaburi Province, Western Thailand. Guests on Thailand tours can easily access the park and falls with private vehicle service.

Erawan National Park Highlights

: With diverse wildlife, good hiking, and spectacular waterfalls to dive from and swim beneath, Erawan National Park is a busy destination on Thailand tour itineraries.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for a hike with good shoes as the higher tiers of the falls can be slippery, and bring something to swim in as the cool waters in the basins make for an irresistible swim.