City, River & Island

Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Destination: Bangkok, Ayuthaya, Bang Pa-In, Chao Phraya River, Koh Chang
Category: Culture, History, River Cruise, Island
Class: 4 Stars
Description: A highly recommended holiday package tour that combines a history lesson with some relaxing time on a cruise and tropical island.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE BANGKOK (-)

Transfer Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel for check-in and overnight.

DAY 2: BANGKOK (B)

Home of the Kings of Siam of the Chakri Dynasty, originally built by King Rama I, it served as the royal residence until 1946. Today the palace is still in use on certain occasions for visiting royalty or special guests of the Kingdom. Adjoining the Grand Palace you will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Keo), this is probably the best known of the royal temples. It is regarded as the most important in all of Thailand. Return to the hotel approximately around noon, the remainder of the day is at leisure, your hotel is in the center of town, with both the subway and sky train station just a short walk away, therefore getting around town is a breeze.

DAY 3: BANGKOK (B)

Free day at leisure to explore Bangkok on your own or on an optional tour.

DAY 4: BANGKOK - AYUTHAYA - MEKHALA (B/L/D)

mekhala cruiseDuring this day trip you will visit many interesting ancient sites including Wat Phra Si Sanphet, in 1491 the temple was located inside the compound of the Grand Palace-the foundations of which are still visible-and served as the royal chapel, as Wat Phra Kaeo does in Bangkok. This Royal Palace was built by King U-Thong upon the founding of the city. In Ayutthaya's heyday, this was the largest temple in the city. Continue to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. Within the complex is a huge image of a reclining Buddha in brick and stucco. The chedi is bell-shaped and constructed on a mound of raised ground with steps going up to the Buddhist image placed midway to the top. The chedi itself now has a distinct tilt, but still can be entered via the stairs. After we visit Wat Phanan Choeng, overlooking the river on the opposite bank from the main city, Wat Phanan Choeng was founded shortly before the establishment of Ayutthaya as the Kingdoms capital. Our last stop is to Bang-Pa-In, the former Royal Summer Residence, which represents a fine example of Thai architecture. Start cruising downstream from the pier near Bang – Pa – In Palace, captivating the spectacular views of rural life along the “River of Kings”. Just after the sunset, the Mekhala docks at Wat Kai Tia, a Thai temple set in a tranquil rural village. An exquisite candlelit dinner of mouth-watering Thai cuisine is served on the deck. Overnight on board in your air- conditioned cabin.

DAY 5: MEKHALA - BANGKOK - KOH CHANG (B/L)

An option for alms offering to monk can be made prior to a delicious breakfast on board, cruise down the river to Bangkok, passing spectacular views of the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn. Arrive Bangkok in the late morning and transfer to Koh Chang island on the East Coast of Thailand. Lunch will be provided enroute. After check in you are at leisure for personal activities, dinner is included at the hotel.

DAY 6 - 9: KOH CHANG (B)

Free days at leisure.

DAY 10: DEPART KOH CHANG (B)

Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to Bangkok Airport for your return flight.

TOUR PRICE IN THAI BAHT
On a per person basis

COMPULSORY GALA DINNERS @ KOH CHANG TROPICANA RESORT & SPA

24 Dec 2011: Christmas Eve Dinner @ Baht 3,300
31 Dec 2011: New Years Eve Dinner @ Baht 3,300

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED

Accommodation as stated
Sightseeing tours and transfers as outlined
Meals as mentioned
English speaking tour guide
Air conditioned vehicles

NOT INCLUDED

Services not mentioned
Expenses of a personal nature
Tips and porterage
Domestic & international air tickets
Visa fee and handling services