Thailand on a Shoestring

Day 1: Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok and meet your local representative for the transfer to your riverside accommodation. Settle into your Deluxe River View room and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, with the Chao Phraya River and Asiatique’s night market within easy reach.

Day 2: Bangkok

Explore a quieter side of Bangkok, beginning at the Museum of Siam and its interactive displays on Thai history and national identity. Board a traditional longtail boat and travel through the city’s canals, passing waterside communities before arriving at Wat Arun. Admire the temple rising above the Chao Phraya River before returning to your hotel by private vehicle.

Day 3: Bangkok

Travel through Bangkok by tuk-tuk, passing the Democracy Monument before visiting a Michelin Bib Gourmand-listed pad Thai restaurant. Continue past the Giant Swing and explore local night markets, sampling grilled meat, stewed pork leg, coconut pudding and other Thai favourites. At Pak Khlong Talat flower market, fold fresh lotus flowers and learn about their cultural significance and connection to Thai wedding traditions. Finish with views across the Chao Phraya River from a relaxed rooftop bar before the experience concludes at the nearest MRT station.

Day 4: Bangkok – Phuket – Khao Sok

Transfer to Bangkok Airport and fly to Phuket, where you will be met for the onward journey into Khao Sok National Park. Settle into your riverside bungalow, surrounded by tropical rainforest, limestone formations and the sounds of the jungle. Your Khao Sok accommodation is on a full-board basis.

Day 5: Khao Sok

Enjoy a day at leisure in Khao Sok, with optional activities available through the lodge. Follow a professional guide into the rainforest in search of gibbons, hornbills and monkeys, uncover hidden waterfalls and tropical flora, explore limestone caves or drift along the river by tube. Optional activities can be arranged and paid for locally.

Day 6: Khao Sok

Spend another day surrounded by the forest, with further opportunities to explore Khao Sok National Park and Cheow Lan Lake. Kayak across emerald water, swim beneath limestone cliffs, visit the lake’s floating bungalows or join another guided jungle experience. Alternatively, remain at the lodge and enjoy the river, organic farm and natural surroundings at your own pace.

Day 7: Khao Sok – Phi Phi Islands or Ao Nang

Leave the rainforest behind and continue towards the Andaman Sea, where your next seven nights can take one of two forms. Retreat to a secluded resort on the Phi Phi Islands, with an 800-metre private beach, tropical gardens and easy access to swimming, snorkelling and diving. Alternatively, stay beside Ao Nang Beach, close to restaurants, island-hopping departures and Krabi’s magnificent limestone scenery. Whichever setting you prefer, breakfast is included throughout your stay.

Day 8: Phi Phi Islands or Ao Nang

Wake to your first full day beside the Andaman Sea. On Phi Phi, the resort’s private beach and surrounding reefs provide an inviting setting for swimming, snorkelling and diving. In Ao Nang, you can relax on the beach, visit the resort spa or explore the nearby restaurants and shops. All activities today are optional and can be arranged according to your interests.

Day 9: Phi Phi Islands

Travel by speedboat through the clear waters surrounding the Phi Phi Islands, stopping for swimming, snorkelling and sightseeing. Pass Maya Bay for photographs before continuing to Loh Samah Bay and the reefs nearby. Look out for monkeys around Monkey Beach before enjoying a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. The day also includes a stop at Bamboo Island for further swimming and snorkelling.

Days 10 – 13: Phi Phi Islands or Ao Nang

Enjoy four unhurried days beside the Andaman Sea, shaped around your chosen beach retreat. On Phi Phi, settle into island life with time along the private beach and optional snorkelling or diving among the surrounding reefs.

Ao Nang offers a wider choice of optional excursions, including island-hopping, kayaking, rock climbing, spa treatments, jungle walks and visits to nearby waterfalls. You can also simply enjoy the beach, resort facilities and local restaurants at your own pace.

Day 14: Beach Resort – Krabi – Departure

Depart your resort and transfer to Krabi Airport for your onward journey. The return flight is expected to connect through Bangkok, subject to confirmation. International and domestic flights are priced separately.