Chiang Mai Cultural Excursion

Your day begins with the exploration of Chiang Mai’s vibrant lifestyle. Start at a bustling food and flower market, a hub for locals’ daily shopping. Dive into the lively atmosphere before heading to Wat Suan Dok, where the golden chedi stands as a testament to the city’s royal heritage in Sri Lankan Buddhist style.

A short 30-minute drive takes you to the majestic Doi Suthep mountain, the site of the revered Wat Phra That temple. Absorb the breathtaking views of Northern Thailand’s forested landscape. The temple, dating back to 1383 AD, is accessible by climbing 309 steps or by tram. After soaking in the spiritual aura of Doi Suthep, enjoy a quaint rickshaw ride through the old town’s serene streets, then relax at your hotel for the afternoon.

As dusk falls, join your guide for an evening at the lively Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. A treasure trove of stalls offers everything from local handicrafts and art to jewelry, toys, clothing, and the flavors of Northern Thai cuisine.

Stay: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort (or a similar standard hotel).

Includes: Breakfast

Journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with a Wat Rong Khun Interlude

Coordinate with your guide for a scheduled departure to your next destination, the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, situated at the confluence of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. The drive will take you through the picturesque landscapes of Northern Thailand, lasting around six hours.

On the way, make a stop at Wat Rong Khun, a unique temple distinguished by its modern construction in 1997 and its use of white glass, offering a modern contrast to the region’s time-honored temples.

As a guest at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, you’ll enjoy the exclusive Golden Triangle Luxury Explorer Package, which includes:

• A visit to the Opium Museum (one per guest).
• A choice of one activity per night of your stay, options include: Elephant Camp Experience, Golden Triangle Excursions, Spice Spoons Cooking Class, a 60-minute spa session, private yoga, or Pilates classes.

Your accommodation: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort (or a comparable hotel of similar standing).

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leisure Day

Take this day to indulge at your leisure, experiencing the array of opulent amenities, captivating activities, and exquisite culinary offerings of the resort.

Renowned for its ethical approach and celebrated elephant encounters, the resort is also actively involved in scientific research and conservation efforts to safeguard these magnificent creatures.

Stay: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort (or a similar caliber hotel).

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Huay Xai to Huay Ting (Jul-Oct) / Huay Xai to Kang Hang Yai (Nov-Apr)

In the morning, you will meet with your guide and transfer to Thailand’s border with Laos, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours.

At the border, you will be assisted through the immigration process of both countries by a representative from Heritage Line and thereafter escorted to your luxurious cruising vessel for your three-night cruise down the fabled Mekong River towards the ancient Lao city of Luang Prabang.

Cruise itineraries will differ depending on the season.

For those travelling between July and October, you will be welcomed on board and shown to your cabin before the Anouvong embarks on her journey downriver. As the ship heads towards the first stop, an expert guide will host a compelling lecture about the intricate cultural tapestry of Laos’ diverse ethnic groups that live along the Mekong River. The ship will soon reach the confluence of the Mekong and one of its major tributaries before dropping anchor at a modern village whose 800 residents belong to the Tai Lu ethnic group, who span Laos, China, Myanmar and Vietnam. At the village, you’ll gather for a traditional Baci ceremony, a Lao ritual whereby local elders (perhaps monks also) will bless your journey. The Anouvong will then continue drifting downstream, reaching the overnight mooring spot at Huay Ting. Here, you can enjoy a delicious cocktail as the sun sets followed by a sumptuous dinner, the breathtaking Mekong scenery forming a captivating backdrop as you dine.

For those travelling between November and April, your Mekong voyage will commence with a ride aboard a traditional longtail boat that will take you to the Anouvong by Heritage Line. Passing through some of the astounding Upper Mekong scenery, this transfer will last for approximately eight hours. During the cruise aboard the longtail boat, you can enjoy lunch and snacks, with the option for neck and shoulder massages also available. As you journey downstream, the team onboard will provide insight into the cultures and landscapes that surround the Mekong River and the Lao hinterland. Arriving at the Anouvong, you will board the vessel and check into your cabin. This will be followed by a safety briefing and a multi-course dinner in the ship’s restaurant. Should you wish, you can then join a nightly cinema experience in the ship’s comfortable lounge.

Accommodation: Heritage Line Cruises – Anouvong.

INCLUDES: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Huay Ting to Khok Ek (Jul-Oct), Kang Hang Yai to Khok Phou (Nov-Apr)

Travellers during both date bands can opt to join an invigorating morning yoga class on the terrace deck as the morning mists rising off the river and rainforest gently subside.

For travellers between July and October, the itinerary will then take you to the charming town of Pakbeng. Here operates one of Laos’ best elephant sanctuaries, which houses elephants rescued from the harsh conditions of the logging industry. A beacon of sustainability and ecotourism, at the sanctuary you can learn about the elephant conservation endeavours and observe these majestic mammals lumbering through the rainforest. Time permitting, you can reach a hilltop vantage point that affords stunning panoramas of Pakbeng and the surroundings mountains. After lunch, you can join a bamboo weaving workshop, a traditional Lao craft, and create a bamboo basket to take home as a souvenir. In the afternoon, the Anouvong will continue floating along to a rural village inhabited by three distinct ethnic communities: Hmong, Lao Loum and Khamo. Meet members of each group and learn about their cultural differences and day-to-day lives. Back on board, enjoy a traditional khene performance as the hypnotic melodies of this traditional reed instrument are complemented by unique dance. After a delicious dinner, you can head to the boat’s cinema lounge to enjoy a viewing of the 1927 film Chiang, which was shot in the region.

For those travelling between November and April, your first morning includes a visit to the picturesque village of Khok Luang, which is inhabited by members of the Khum people. This simple village comprises rustic bamboo huts raised on stilts that sit amid vast and verdant rice fields. Meet either an elderly couple or a multigenerational family whose lives are deeply rooted in the land, learning about their livelihood of manual agriculture. Afterwards, you’ll head back to the Anouvong for a replenishing lunch before continuing to the charming village of Khok Phou, a 200-year-old settlement inhabited mainly by ethnic Lao people. Here you can observe daily life in rural Laos and take part in a traditional Baci ceremony. Should time permit, you can also walk to a small temple and meet a local monk who will guide you through the basics of meditation. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious cocktail before sitting down for dinner. After dinner, you can head to the Anouvong’s cosy lounge to watch the 1927 movie Chiang, which was filmed in the region.

Accommodation: Heritage Line Cruises – Anouvong.

INCLUDES: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Khok Ek to Khok Phou (Jul-Oct) / Khok Phou to Ban Mueng Kay (Nov-Apr)

Guests travelling between July and October can start their day with an optional yoga session as the Anouvong sets sail towards a charming village inhabited by the Khum people. This village consists of simple bamboo huts on stilts surrounded by lush rice fields. Meet either a senior couple or a multi-generational family deeply connected to the land, and learn about their traditional agricultural practices. Afterward, return to the ship for a delicious lunch before continuing to the delightful village of Khok Phou, a historic settlement home to mostly ethnic Lao residents. Experience rural life in Laos and gain insights into the villagers’ daily routine along the Mekong River. The ship will dock near Khok Phou for the night, perched above a vast sandbank. Explore the village, interact with locals, and perhaps visit a small temple to learn meditation from a monk. Enjoy a cocktail and dinner on board as night falls in the tropics.

For travellers going between November and April, begin your day with a calming yoga session on the deck as the Anouvong sails towards the mystical Pak Ou Caves, a spectacular cave system along the Mekong River. Discover over 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and artifacts within the caves before choosing between a kayaking adventure along the Nam Ou River or a visit to the village of Ban Muang Keo, known for its silk weaving and Lao whisky production. Meet a local healer in the village and learn about natural remedies. Enjoy lunch on board as the ship continues to Luang Prabang, and participate in a presentation on the history of the Golden Triangle, including colonialism, opium trade, and geopolitical struggles involving Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Britain, and China. The ship will dock overnight, and guests can enjoy a local dinner and traditional dance performance on shore.

Accommodation: Heritage Line Cruises – Anouvong.

INCLUDES: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Khok Phou to Luang Prabang (Jul-Oct)

For travellers between July and October, your Mekong River journey will end with a visit to the famous Pak Ou Caves before arriving at Luang Prabang. Nestled on the riverbanks, these two caves are home to around 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. After exploring the mystical caves, you can choose between two exciting activities: kayaking on the Nam Ou River or visiting the village of Ban Muang Keo known for traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky production. In the village, you can meet a local healer who will explain the natural remedies provided by Mother Nature. In the afternoon, a presentation will educate you about the history of the Golden Triangle, focusing on colonialism, opium production, conflicts, and the influence of Burma (Myanmar), Thailand, Laos, Britain, and China. The Anouvong will arrive at Luang Prabang around 15:00, where you will meet your guide and check into your hotel.

Ban Mueng Kay to Luang Prabang (Nov-Apr)

Travelers between November and April will embark on a minivan trip to a local elephant sanctuary. Here, you will meet the elephants cared for by Lao mahouts who have been rescued from the logging industry. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk with the elephants along the riverbank and through the rainforest. The journey continues by minivan to the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls, where the glistening blue water amidst lush greenery creates a picture-perfect setting. You can even take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water at the base of the falls. After this, return to the ship for lunch as it sails towards Luang Prabang. Disembark around 15:00, meet your guide, and transfer to your hotel.

Accommodation: Rosewood Luang Prabang (or similar standard hotel).

INCLUDES: Breakfast, Lunch.

• Early Morning Alms Giving
• Luang Prabang Heritage Talk and Walk
• Baci Ceremony at Local Home

A generations-old Buddhist tradition in Luang Prabang, the morning alms (“Tak Bat” in Lao) is an integral fabric of the city’s culture and its close-knit community. Wake up before dawn to witness a steady stream of saffron-robed monks progressing through the city streets, with residents lining the pavements to hand out alms (gifts). If you wish to make an offering yourself, inform your guide a day in advance so that a gift of alms can be prepared. After the almsgiving ceremony, the town will burst into life, making it an opportunistic time to explore the bustling morning market.

With architecture that combines influences from both East and West, Luang Prabang is a truly charming city brimming with culture. Enjoy a stimulating presentation on some of the various preservation projects and initiatives designed to help preserve the city’s cultural heritage and identity, followed by a walking tour to some of the city’s architectural centrepieces. You’ll meet Francis Engelmann, a writer and consultant to UNESCO on heritage preservation projects since 1994. Born in Paris in 1947, he has lived in Laos for over 20 years, dedicating his life to preserving its unique identity. Listen as he shared some of his expertise regarding Laos’ cultural heritage as well as providing insight into the history of Laos and its people. The walking tour will see you walk through the city’s small streets and alleys to observe the rural lifestyle practised by Luang Prabang’s warm and inviting residents, maintained over centuries. If time permits, you will be able to stop by a local home and meet some local Lao people for a glimpse into their daily lives in this laidback town.

Baci ceremonies are an integral fabric of Lao culture and are held to celebrate special events like marriages or a homecoming. The ceremony is believed by Lao people to realign the kwan (soul), which watches over the body. During the ceremony, a village elder will wrap a white cotton thread around your wrist while chanting an invocation to strengthen the power of the blessing. In Laos, the colour white is a symbol of peace, good fortune and health. Experience an authentic part of Lao culture during the Baci ceremony, which will take place in a local family’s humble home and see you come away enlightened by one of Laos’ most unique, traditional and ancient practices.

Accommodation: Rosewood Luang Prabang (or alternative hotel of equal standard)

INCLUDES: Breakfast

Tuk Tuk Library Experience & Luang Prabang Night Market

Join the Tuk Tuk Library today on its mission to the neighboring villages. The initiative aims to enrich the educational landscape of Luang Prabang’s outskirts by distributing books and engaging in interactive activities. Catering to ages three to eighteen, the mobile library loans out approximately 100 books at a time, for two to six weeks. It also promotes health and hygiene by providing essential personal care items to the children.

As dusk settles, venture into the heart of Luang Prabang’s celebrated night market. Amidst the lively atmosphere, discover the aromatic stalls laden with fresh, local delicacies. Your guide will illuminate the distinct ingredients and culinary techniques of Lao cuisine. Post exploration, relish a traditional sindad barbecue at a well-known eatery, where you can grill your meal tableside, guided by the recommendations of local gastronomic favorites.

Your accommodation: Rosewood Luang Prabang (or a comparable hotel).

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Luang Prabang

At a prearranged time, you will meet with your guide and transfer to the airport, arriving in perfect time for your departing flight.

 INCLUDES: Breakfast

The displayed prices are starting rates per individual, applicable for off-peak travel periods unless specified otherwise. Due to the constant fluctuation in the availability of tour elements and flight seats, the final pricing is subject to change. The initial quoted price is thus indicative only.

For a personalised quote tailored to your group’s needs, we encourage you to contact our travel specialists today.

Luxury Tour Dates & Rates:

• 1st September 2024 – 30th September 2024
  Starting at £6,399 per person
• 1st October 2024 – 31st October 2024
  Starting at £6,989 per person

Essential Details

• Peak Season Price Adjustments: Additional charges may be applicable during peak travel periods. For details tailored to your travel dates, please consult with Best at Travel.
• Lodging and Airfare: Subject to availability. Prices are quoted for two people sharing a room.

What’s Included

• Round-Trip International Airfare.
• Accommodations: Twin sharing as outlined in the itinerary or a comparable alternative, subject to availability.
• Dining: As indicated in the itinerary.
• Airport Transfers: Private vehicle transportation to and from airports.
• Excursions: All tours, sightseeing, and entry fees as detailed in the itinerary.
• Mekong River Cruise: A 4-day/3-night journey on the Upper Mekong River.
• Guides: Local guides fluent in English.

What’s Not Included

• Additional Meals and Beverages: Those not specified in the itinerary.
• Visa Charges.
• Personal Expenditures: Including gratuities and personal insurance.
• Unspecified Services: Any services not explicitly listed in the itinerary.

Starting from £6,989 per person