Travel with Conscience : Thailand Luxury Tours | Sustainable Vacation Packages

Bangkok

Thailand’s capital city with a population of approximately 10 million people has become one of Southeast Asia’s top economic, spiritual, cultural, and diplomatic centers. Bangkok, the “City of Angels,” has become a modern splendor in the eyes of many travelers searching for culture with a cosmopolitan spirit. Over 400 ornate Buddhist temples can be found throughout the city and its surrounding areas, including the remarkable Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which serves as the royal chapel. Take a journey back in time on the Chao Phraya River, described as the “Venice of the east,” and stop at the many floating markets on the way. It’s a city of aromas, cosmopolitan pleasures, and temples.

Grand Palace Complex and Wat Phra Kaew -home of the Emerald Buddha. While no longer the king’s residence, it is still used for certain ceremonies. Wat Phra Kaew is a true architectural wonder with shining chedi (stupas), colorful tiles and mosaic pillars. Housed in the main chapel is the renowned Emerald Buddha .

Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha – This is the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok and its foremost attraction is the massive reclining Buddha measuring 46 meters long and 15 meters high. Wat Pho also houses the Traditional Medical Massage School-join the locals and have an intense Thai massage.

Wat Arun – the 19th century temple of the Dawn. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya, this magnificent Wat is covered in porcelain tiles left behind by a Chinese merchant ship.

Relax along the city’s Khlongs (canals) – these canals once serves as Bangkok’s roads transporting goods and people. Be guided through these khlongs to complete with floating markets to get a taste of ancient Bangkok life still alive today.

Stroll Patpong Night Market – One of the world’s most famous red-light districts, this area includes more bars and sex shops than one can imagine. It is now also a vibrant night market offering a fun evening diversion.

Visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market - with some 15,000 vendors you will see everything from snakes and live chickens to antiques, handicrafts silk and clothing. It’s a must.

Tour Jim Thompson’s - Learn about how this New York architect settled in Bangkok during WWII and almost single-handedly revived Thailand's silk industry by promoting it to Western markets. In 1967 he mysteriously disappeared in Malaysia and the cause of his disappearance is still unknown. The house is a beautiful representation of Thai architecture and is full of Thai art and furnishings.

Some of the Best Shopping in the World - Bangkok is known to offer some of the best shopping in Asia. Stoll the active streets of bustling Chinatown or waltz through the modern shining malls of Siam Center or the World Trade Center

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s largest city to the North. In comparison to Bangkok, Chiang Mai is better known for its natural beauty and friendly residents. The city has maintained its original, 700-year-old layout, with many modern twists. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, Chiang Mai has a beautiful array of waterfalls, wildlife and flowers, which can be found in their national parks. Explore an important park devoted to Elephant Rescue and Conservation. Weave into your stay a cooking class at one of the areas most notable Thai cooking schools.

Visit Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, perched high on the flank of Suthep Mountain, 1,022 m (3,000ft) above sea level, is Chiang Mai's most famous temple. The pagoda in its centre contains some of the relics of the Lord Buddha. The temple is visited throughout the year by thousands of tourists and Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. Climb the 300-step flight of stairs or take a lift to see the restored 14th century chedi which hides sacred relics, and stroll around the marble courtyard.

Trek in the National Park or to the hilltribes – One of the most popular activities to do in this area is to trek into the mountains to visit some of the famous traditional hilltribe villages. These ethnic minorities have their own culture, language and traditions. Please note that tourism has had negative effects of these precious villages by becoming tourist attractions. Dress properly and let our guides inform you of the proper mode of conduct when visiting. 2150279

Doi Inthanon National Park has Thailand's largest peak, at more than 8,000 feet. Enjoy a picnic or a walk to a nearby waterfall.

Elephant Nature Park - Visit the Elephant Nature Park and learn how “Lek” has dedicated her life to rescuing and caring for Thailand’s abused and suffering elephants. Her work is internationally recognized and culminated in her being awarded Time Magazine’s Hero of Asia last year. This park is a true beacon of conservation with respect to these precious animals, as well playing an active role in protecting the environment and heritage of the region. http://www.elephantnaturepark.org

Local Orphanage/Temple - Your guide will take you to a special Buddhist temple located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. The temple doubles as an orphanage and school for some 400 ethnic minority orphans from the Northern Provinces most of whom have lost parents to poverty, aids, war or political persecution.

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China. Today, Chiang Rai is a traveler’s paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.