Thailand Family Holiday

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm. If you arrive early, there is plenty to see and do in this exciting city. Bangkok is famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Perhaps take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road or indulge in a Thai massage. After the meeting, head out for an optional group dinner to get to know your leader and the other families on your trip.

After breakfast, set out to explore some of Bangkok's hidden treasures. Visit the flower Market, where you and the family will learn how to fold a lotus petal. Then, hop on the underground to get to the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll board an EV boat and explore the famous khlongs (canals) of Bangkok. Life along these canals seems a world away from the busy streets of the capital. Stop at an artist's house to make a special keepsake before enjoying some lunch at a local riverside restaurant. Then sit back and travel by private transfer to Kanchanaburi, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights in a unique floating rafthouse resort.

It’s nature day today! Head out to the stunningly beautiful Erawan National Park this morning. The park boasts the incredible Erawan Falls, a famous seven-level waterfall with turquoise pools and colourful tropical fish flitting about. It's a great place to explore or simply swim and relax. If you do some exploring of the lush surrounds, keep your eyes peeled for the eagles, pheasants and leafbirds that might be soaring above or perched in the treetops. Then return to your rafthouse resort where you and the kids can enjoy swimming in the pool. Still in adventure mode – maybe take a raft ride down the river.

Transfer by minibus today to the nearby city of Ayutthaya. Once the capital of ancient Siam, Ayutthaya offers a great opportunity to stroll the World Heritage-listed ruins of this once magnificent city. Get a closer look on a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across town. Snap a few photos at the ruins at Wat Phra Mahathat and the Buddha head, surrounded by Banyan tree roots – it's one of the most photographed sites in Ayutthaya. After, you’ll have access to a day room at a local hotel in Ayutthaya to relax, have a swim in the hotel pool and freshen up before the overnight train journey north.

And just like that, you’re in Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city of Northern Thailand. Wake up and get out to explore this friendly city full of amazing temples and with an interesting Old Town. Then, enjoy some lunch before your drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards will justify the climb, as Doi Suthep – one of Thailand's most stunning temples – reveals itself. From up here, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city and might even be able to listen to the evening chants of the resident Buddhist monks. Return to Chiang Mai, and with free time in the evening, perhaps wander through the colourful night bazaar or visit one of the restaurants along the riverfront. In any case, don't miss out on the signature northern dish kao soy – yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth with chicken or beef.

Today’s an especially fun one for you and the kids, as you’ll get to meet some free-roaming elephants! Drive out of Chiang Mai to Chang Chill, where you’ll learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of elephants in the region. With expert local guides at your side, observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialize with their friends. Enjoy some refreshments nearby the elephant’s mud pit – but be careful not to get a spray! After lunch at the sanctuary, head back to Chiang Mai, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll have some free time to maybe visit the night markets or take a wander around the city.

Set off early today through the Chiang Dao Valley to the rural village of Ban Hua Thung. When you arrive, your family will be welcomed by the community. Join local guides for a walk around the village, learning about their farming practices, traditional basket weaving and the community forest, managed by the local Hua Tung people – the trees are actually ‘ordained’ by Buddhist monks, a sacred practice symbolising how the people nurture the forest, and the forest nurtures the people in return. Learn about herbal medicines and wild foods that come from the forest, then sit down with your hosts for a homemade lunch prepared by the community and learn a little more about their lives. Later, return to Chiang Mai for the final evening of your Thailand adventure.