Tour description
The trip begins in the metropolis of Bangkok, where there is so much to do it is impossible to name everything. In any case, you must make the Grand Palace and the glittering temple complex of Wat Po top priorities to visit, but it is also entertaining to sample the exotic atmosphere of Chinatown.
Klongs
Journey along or through the 'klongs' by boat or by bike; the many channels that walk through the city. Naturally, you should also experience the night life; there are countless bars and disco's which will stay open for your pleasure until the small hours.
Chiang Mai
On day 3, head in the direction of Chiang Mai on board the comfortable night train. The seats which you sit on during the day collapse into beds after dinner and are made up by the staff onboard. In the coming days you will get to know the pleasant Chiang Mai. Once you are there, why not rent a bicycle or motorbike and visit one of the many parasol workshops, woodcarving studios, or silversmiths in the neighbourhood. You can also wander endlessly around the famous night markets with the hundreds of stalls full of curiosities and souvenirs or stroll through the small shopping streets, where there are a lot of antiques to be found. A visit at the Doi Suthep is also worth the trouble. The glittering temple, situated on a hill is accessible via a staircase 300 meters high, flanked by dragons. During an optional cooking course you can extend your knowledge of the Thai kitchen. Also in Chiang Mai, you will find many bars and disco's in which you can jig with your fellow travellers.
Himalaya mountains
The optional two day trek (book in advance!) takes you through the Himalaya mountains. You will be accompanied throughout this experience by a guide that works also as a cook. Each day you walk between 4 and 5 hours and naturally you stop regularly along the way, so to improve your knowledge of the many colourful mountain tribes. You stay a night at one of the minority villages of the Lisu, Akha or the Carts. Take a spectacular ride on the back of an elephant, and take a trip on a bamboo raft. After this you travel to Chiang Rai via a town of the famous Longnecks. A beautiful base for an optional exploration of the Golden Triangle, where opium is the most important product. You visit a smugglers market and can even visit the adjoining Myanmar.
Bangkok
On the evening of day 10 you leave by night train in the direction of Bangkok, where you arrive the next morning fully equipped. Then travel by bus and boat to the paradise island Koh Samet, where you will remain for the coming days in a charming resort on the beachfront. You can do everything here; lie delightfully under a palm tree, dive and snorkel, sail and surf. The lady can let herself be massaged on the beach under the sunset whilst enjoying a lovely cocktail. There are also various restaurants with beach terraces and many different excursions available. On day 14, travel back to Bangkok and finish your adventure with Shoestring.