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Laos & Thailand Highlights
Bangkok to Bangkok
15 Days
From
US$ 1,096
+ Local Payment of US$210.00
View Tour Notes
Starting and finishing in bustling Bangkok, we travel first through Laos, a diverse country with much to be explored. From it's emerald rice fields, amazing waterfalls and ancient temples this tour takes you through the highlights of this undiscovered destination. Travelling onto Thailand, roam temples in Chiang Mai and try your hand at an authentic Thai cooking course. The ancient capital of Sukhothai is a favourite amongst travellers, with its ancient ruins and spectacular scenery. The perfect mix of highlights and the path less travelled, this adventure ticks all the right boxes.
Itinerary
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Day 1 to 1 - Arrive Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok and the start of your South East Asian adventure. This loud, vibrant and tantalizing city is the centre of economics in Thailand and is seen as the gateway to South East Asia for most travellers.
Today you are free to arrive at your leisure and enjoy the various activities in the city. We highly recommend booking pre tour accommodation to maximise your time here.
One of the biggest highlights of the city and a must see is the opulent Grand Palace, which was built in 1782 and was home of the Thai King for over 150 years. The palace complex has several impressive buildings such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Just walking around this vast area will give you an idea of the spectacular Thai architecture and vibrant colours. Another must see is the temple of Wat Pho, which houses the impressive reclining Buddha. The position of the Buddha represents entry into Nirvana and the end of reincarnations and is an important symbol for Thai people.
Today you can also visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok's largest market which is also said to be the largest in the world. There are over 15,000 stalls offering anything and everything that you could dream of. Mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in the bustle of vendors and shoppers going about their daily lives.
Tonight you will have a pre departure meeting to meet your tour leader and group. Please check reception for details and timings.
Optional Excursions
Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar 
Day 2 to 2 - Fly to Vientiane
Laos is the landlocked gem of South East Asia, boasting a much more quiet and calming nature than that of it's rowdy neighbours. In fact before 1970, the city of Vientiane only had one set of traffic lights. Today we leave Bangkok for this charming city where we will spend two nights.
The city of Vientiane has a lot of French infusion, after the French rule between 1893 and 1946. From the colonial architecture to the wine and coffee, there are plenty of French legacies around the city. Enjoy some free time to wander around and take in the sites. This evening we will meet up again for 10-pin bowling with our tour leader and those who are joining the tour here in Vientiane.
Please note that your flight today from Bangkok to Vientiane in Laos may be unaccompanied by a Tucan Travel tour leader. If this is the case, all flights and airport transfers will be provided and your new tour leader will arrange to meet you at the Vientiane hotel.
Approximate Travel Times 1h10m flight to Vientiane.
Included Excursions
Enjoy an informal evening of Laos 10-pin bowling with your tour leader and group
Optional Excursions
Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar
Day 3 to 3 - Vientiane
Today we visit the COPE centre in Vientiane, one of the most important museums and therapy centres in the country. As well as a learning centre, it acts as a therapy unit to offer support to those affected by the UXO (unexploded ordnance). During the Vietnam War, over 2 billion tonnes of bombs were dropped in Laos, many being left unexploded in the ground. Laos is historically the most bombed country in the world, and over the years the country has seen many casualties due to these unexploded devices.
During your free time in the city you could check out the Laos Textile Museum, or explore the many Buddhist temples dotted around.
Included Excursions
Visit to the COPE Centre
Optional Excursions
Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 4 to 4 - Vang Vieng
This morning we travel to Vang Vieng passing some stunning scenery on route. The landscape here is just as impressive as the final destination and you will witness scenes of village life on the way. The serene town of Vang Vieng is situated on a plateau surrounded by mystical limestone caves and beautiful waterfalls. The area is inhabited by the Hmong and Yao tribes, and the countryside here offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
Indulge in some local cuisine and explore the markets which are filled with fruits and handcrafted textiles. The food in Laos is colourful, vibrant and packed with herbs and spices. Sticky rice is a staple and you will see the residents eating it by hand and dipping it into various sauces.
Approximate Travel Times 4h on a local bus including a 30 min lunch break.
Optional Excursions
Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2
Accommodation
1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 5 to 5 - Vang Vieng and Blue Lagoon
Today we enjoy a scenic Tuk Tuk ride through the incredible scenery and out to see local villages and rice paddies. Make sure to bring a swimming costume as we will also visit the Blue Lagoon where you can take a dip. Lush jungle, hanging trees and crystal blue waters make this hot spot a fun and beautiful place to swim and relax.
The rest of the day is free to further explore and relax. A great option is to hire a bike and explore the surrounding area further. Thanks to the nature that surrounds it Vang Vieng is the perfect place for a host of outdoor activities and you could tube down the river, kayak or explore the nearby caves. Simply walking through the rice paddies is a great way to experience the calm nature of the area and be sure to look out for giant snails, dragonflies and frogs!
Included Excursions
Scenic Tuk Tuk ride to the Blue Lagoon
Optional Excursions
Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2
Accommodation
1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 6 to 6 - Luang Prabang
Enjoying more of the calming scenery in Laos we make our way to Luang Prubang on a four hour local bus journey. Many say that Luang Prabang is the most memorable town in all of Laos. Renowned for a fascinating history and its many temples, Luang Prabang refers to the holy Pra Bang, Laos' most sacred image of the Buddha given to Fa Ngoum.
As you explore you will see that Luang Prabang is dominated by Phousi - the marvellous hill-top temple that sits in the middle of the town. A popular highlight of any visit to Luang Prabang is to visit Wat Tham Phousi located on a small 'mountain' in the town's centre offering breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area. You'll notice a combination of Lao, French and Lao-French colonial influence as you admire the city's buildings and architectural highlights - all of which you can see discovering the town on foot.
Approximate Travel Times 4h45 on a private minibus.
Included Excursions
Entry to Mount Phousi
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 7 to 7 - Luang Prabang
We awake early to visit the monks at sunrise who collect alms that are donated by the locals. This is a very memorable experience and gives great insight into the local traditions and way of life of the Laos people, which dates back centuries. The practise is done early since monks cannot eat after midday.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy the sites. Head to the beautiful cascading Kuang Si Falls, a multi level waterfall with the green and blue waters flowing into each other. The area is perfect for a relaxing dip and is well maintained with walkways and bridges.
You could also explore Luang Prubang's best known Buddhist temple, Wat Xieng Thong, which dates back to the 1500's.
Included Excursions
Early visit to see Monks collect alms
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 8 to 8 - Fly to Chiang Mai
We return to Thailand and the head to the Rose of the North otherwise known as Chiang Mai. A vibrant and bustling city, Chiang Mai is renowned for its temples and unique old city. Founded in 1296, it was the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom until 1558. The city is a wonderful blend of old and new, with plenty of temples to be seen. The surrounding mountainous landscape makes for the perfect backdrop, and there are also some lovely gardens and parks to relax in. Chiang Mai is also the largest city in northern Thailand and provides a lovely contrast to Bangkok.
We arrive early evening in time to explore the local area and enjoy some Thai cuisine. Chiang Mai has a mouth watering food scene with plenty on offer for everyone.
Approximate Travel Times 1.15hr flight to Chiang Mai.
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Winner Inn or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 9 to 9 - Chiang Mai
Today is free to enjoy the city and its host of activities. Learn the secrets of Thai cuisine on a cooking course, indulge in a relaxing massage in some of the best spas in the country or take in a night time Muay Thai match. Chiang Mai is also home to a dazzling night bazaar where you can sample street food and browse the large selection of crafts, clothing and art.
Northern Thailand is famous for having amazing food and there will be plenty local delicacies to sample. Try the Khao Soi, a coconut and curry soup filled with egg noodles and topped with crispy noodles.
Optional Excursions
Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Winner Inn or similar
Meals
1 Basic Breakfast(s)
Day 10 to 10 - Chiang Mai
A highlight of Chiang Mai is to visit Doi Suthep, located about 12 km outside the city that has fantastic views of the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to a 13th century temple and replica of the Emerald Buddha.
Take a stroll down San Kamphaeng Road, also known as the Handicraft Highway due its pottery, wood carving and silk products. This area is also well known for selling Celadon, a type of pottery that has a green glaze making it look almost like jade. Some of the finest silversmiths in Thailand also sell their work here, so keep an eye out for some unique jewellery.
Optional Excursions
Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at Winner Inn or similar
Meals
1 Basic Breakfast(s)
Day 11 to 11 - Ancient Sukhothai
This morning we travel to our next destination, the ancient and golden city of Sukhothai.
A UNESCO World Heritage City, Sukhothai is home to various temples and other historical sites. The Sukhothai Kingdom, which ruled from around the 12th to the 14th century, is known as the birthplace is Thai civilisation, and where Thai art and language have their origins.
Tomorrow we will enjoy a bike tour of the Historical Park and it's sites, so the rest of today gives the perfect opportunity to relax and perhaps sample some of the food on offer. Check out the markets and try one of the beloved dishes, such as the Sukhothai noodles, a style of rice noodle soup which is popular in the area.
Approximate Travel Times 5h30 on a local bus.
Accommodation
1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar
Meals
1 Basic Breakfast(s)
Day 12 to 12 - Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins
Sukhothai is a wonderful place to soak up Thai history and tradition, and today we do just that in the Historical Park. It has over 200 ancient sites to be explored, including temples, ruins, statues and other religious symbols. We depart just after breakfast while the weather is still cooler, with the opportunity to stop for ice cream on route.
A must see in the park is the Wat Si Chum, which is home to what is said to be Thailand's most beautiful Buddha statues. Wat Saphan Hin, due its elevated position, offers views of the surrounding area and the 11 meter tall Buddha found here was once a favourite spot for royalty to worship.
Included Excursions
Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins
Accommodation
1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 13 to 13 - Bangkok
This morning we hop on a local train and head for Bangkok. Bangkok has a host of fascinating sights waiting to be explored. If you haven't already check out the Golden Mountain, Wat Arun temple and the many markets nestled within the city.
You could take your own street food walking tour, enjoying delicacies from the many vendors dotted around the city. Foods to look out for include green papaya salad, Thai fried rice, Pad thai and pork skewers. You could even take a Thai cookery course and learn more about the secrets behind these mouth watering foods.
Optional Excursions
Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Day 14 to 14 - Bangkok Boat Trip & Wat Pho
This morning we enjoy a short riverboat trip experiencing a different perspective of the Bangkok skyline. We disembark at Wat Pho and visit the famous reclining Buddha.
If you have booked post tour accommodation, tomorrow you can also visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok's largest market which is also said to be the largest in the world. There are over 15,000 stalls offering anything and everything that you could dream of. Mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in the bustle of vendors and shoppers going about their daily lives.
Included Excursions
Bangkok River boat to the Giant Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (entrance included), walking back via the Grand Palace. (entrance and guide to Grand Palace optional)
Optional Excursions
Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free
Accommodation
1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar
Day 15 to 15 - Depart Bangkok
Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.
What you need to know
- We will try to run your tour as close to the itinerary as conditions will allow. On very rare occasions, local events may affect the way your itinerary operates. We ask for your flexibility and understanding in these situations.
- Many countries have strict rules on the age and quality of foreign cash. We therefore recommend you bring only new, unmarked and undamaged bank notes. This includes your Local Payment on tours where required.
- Always have a few ID photos on you for visas. This is especially important in arrival places such as Laos or Vietnam where photos are needed
- Pack Light! In addition to there being plenty of laundries available on tour, clothes are simply so much cheaper in Asia. Leave the designer gear at home and visit the local markets.
- This tour includes a compulsory Local Payment that needs to be paid to the Tour Leader on Day 1 of your tour. For more information on our Local Payments please click here.
- If using Thailand's 'visa on arrival' or 'visa exemption' program please be prepared to have your Tucan Travel confirmation invoice, itinerary and proof of onward flights available for inspection at flight check in and Thai immigration.
What's Included
Excursions & Activities
- Enjoy an informal evening of Laos 10-pin bowling with your tour leader and group
- Visit to the COPE Centre
- Scenic Tuk Tuk ride to the Blue Lagoon
- Entry to Mount Phousi
- Early visit to see Monks collect alms
- Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins
- Bangkok River boat to the Giant Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (entrance included), walking back via the Grand Palace. (entrance and guide to Grand Palace optional)
Accommodation
10 night(s) in hotels, 4 night(s) in a guesthouse
Transportation
Travel by 2 flight(s), Tuk-Tuk, Public Bus, Train
Meals
8 Breakfast(s), 3 Basic Breakfast(s)
What's Not Included
- Visas and travel insurance
- Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras
- International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes
- Tips on excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.
- Optional excursions - On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone's taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don't hesitate to ask your tour leader.
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2019
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