9 Day Highlights Of Thailand Premium Small Group Tour
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
✓ 8 nights in 4-star accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches & 1 dinner
✓ Fully escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides until Day 7
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.
Explore Thailand’s cultural highlights over 9 exciting days: sightseeing tours through Bangkok’s Grand Palace, board a historic train over the River Kwai, city tour of Chiang Mai, local Thai-style cooking class, and so much more!
Greetings and welcome to Thailand! On arrival into Bangkok International Airport (BKK), please make your way to your hotel.
The vibrant city of Bangkok, renowned for its iconic tuk tuks, khlong boats, and delectable street food, eagerly awaits your arrival. With countless attractions and experiences, we suggest arriving a day or two in advance to truly immerse yourself in the city's charm. Consider embarking on a scenic riverboat ride to Chinatown, where you can wander through its bustling streets and savour the local culture.
Tonight, at 6pm, prepare for our welcome meeting, where our knowledgeable guide will offer recommendations for your Bangkok exploration.
Note:
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
After breakfast, discover the magnificent Grand Palace, a stunning architectural marvel featuring a series of exquisite structures on the exterior and a truly enchanting interior. This historic palace served as a royal residence from the 18th to the mid-20th century and stands as an undeniable national treasure, likely the most frequented royal monument in Thailand. It's an absolute must-visit.
Embark on a picturesque river cruise along the Chao Phraya River to explore the renowned 'khlongs' or canals. Life along these waterways presents a stark contrast to the bustling streets of the city, offering a tranquil and captivating experience.
As the day progresses, journey westward to Kanchanaburi, a drive of approximately 2.5 hours. Situated at the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers, Kanchanaburi is home to the iconic 'Bridge on the River Kwai.
Begin your day by heading towards the enchanting Erawan Falls, which gracefully cascade into a series of emerald-green pools. This natural wonder provides an idyllic setting for swimming, leisurely strolls, or simply unwinding in its serene ambiance. Following your visit, continue your journey to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, a poignant tribute constructed to honour the memory of the Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and Asian conscripts who lost their lives while toiling on the most challenging sections of the Thai-Burma Death Railway.
Next, board a train at Nam Tok station and embark on a historic ride along the tracks that meander beside the Kwai Noi River. Traverse the original wooden viaduct painstakingly built by the Allied POWs, all while being enveloped by awe-inspiring landscapes. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Depart from Kanchanaburi this morning and set your course for Ayutthaya. Once the majestic capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya's Historical Park is now home to the remnants of grand palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries, and ancient statues. Your afternoon will be dedicated to exploring these remarkable historical sites.
Prepare for a day of travel adventure! Begin your journey by catching a traditional songthaew from your lodging to the train station. There, you'll hop on a day train bound for Phitsanulok. Don't forget to have your favourite music, podcasts, movies, or a captivating book at the ready, as you'll be treated to a leisurely ride through the picturesque countryside on this relaxing travel day.
Upon arrival, you'll have some free time in the afternoon to explore at your own pace. Later, make your way to a local residence for a delightful Inspiring Taste – a Thai-style cooking class. Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the Sukhothai region as your host guides you through the preparation of these authentic recipes. Together, you'll create a delectable feast to enjoy at the end of the session.
Embark on a journey to the ancient ruins of Old Sukhothai, nestled amidst picturesque lakes and gardens. The religious art and architecture from the Sukhothai era represent quintessential Thai styles. Upon reaching the park, you'll have the opportunity to hop on an electric vehicle, enabling you to explore the area at a relaxed pace while delving into the captivating history of this remarkable site.
Following your exploration, the afternoon is yours to savour. You can unwind by the pool or consider engaging in one of the optional activities listed below.
Participate in a hands-on workshop at one of the local businesses that have been preserving the traditional Sukhothai crafting techniques for generations. An excellent example is Suthep Sangkhalok, a small family-run enterprise located near the historical park. Here, visitors have the opportunity to engage in a ceramics workshop, gaining insights into the enduring tradition of Sukhothai ceramics.
In present times, Sukhothai boasts several modest ceramic factories typically managed by families who have carried on the craft through successive generations. These establishments not only offer exquisite handcrafted pieces for sale but also provide valuable information about the Sukhothai ceramics process and the distinctive Sawankhalok style.
Duration: 2 hours (including instruction and hands-on experience) with transportation included.
A local guide will be on hand to assist.
Begin your day by journeying to Chiang Mai, the bustling cultural hub of northern Thailand, renowned for its wealth of famous temples and captivating old city district. Upon arrival, your first stop will be Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a revered temple situated high on a mountain with commanding views over Chiang Mai. To reach this sacred site, you'll have the option to either ascend the 309-step staircase or take a convenient cable car ride.
Continue to your hotel to check-in before a late afternoon walking orientation tour of Chiang Mai.
Please note: your guide services will conclude after your orientation tour.
Chiang Mai holds a special allure, especially when you venture into the ancient districts within its city walls. You have the entire day to leisurely explore or consider participating in one of the optional activities listed below.
Drive out to the ChangChill Elephant Reserve and learn how this organization supports the protection, conversation, and lifestyle of free-roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialize with their other friends. The expert local guides will give you a live lecture on the elephants as well as the reserve’s sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments near the elephant’s mud pit, then be treated to lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside the giant mammals.
Depart hotel: 10:00 - 10:30 am
Arrive hotel: 5:30 - 6:00 pm
Inclusions: local guide, return transfers, buffet lunch
At the appropriate time today, make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Sights
Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Pre/post accommodation
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Upgrades
Not available
Airport Transfers
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $645.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller
In this trip you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.
If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.
You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your trip.
Changes to room configuration during the trip must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.
This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after the tour.
Triple Share
Not available
Payment Information
This product requires full payment upfront to secure your booking. Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions
Tour Suitability
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours.
When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.
Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.
Child policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
The standard check in is 2pm. Should you be arriving earlier in the day, the hotel can hold your luggage until your room is ready.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.
Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.
When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
On arrival you will be given a Welcome Letter with information on the first days of your tour. At 6.00pm you will meet your tour leader and the rest of the group for a brief welcome meeting on details for your time in Thailand.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
You also have the option to share details in your online feedback after the tour. However, please keep in mind that it's challenging for us to offer practical assistance once the tour is completed. Therefore, notifying us while still travelling allows us the chance to address the issue in real-time and provide a timely resolution.
For general contact details please visit the Contact Us page on our website.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Tour Pace
This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
Group Size
Minimum: 4 people, Maximum: 20 people
Escorted Style
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader up until day 7.
Tour Type
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.
Exclusions
Optional Tours
To secure your spot and enjoy the best rates, pre-booking these tours in advance is highly recommended. While some tours require a minimum number of participants to operate, you'll be fully refunded if the tour is cancelled at your destination for this reason. Our optional tours are typically led by your tour leader or local guide. Please note that transportation to and from the optional tours may not be included, but your tour leader will be happy to assist you with navigating public transportation options like trains or taxis to reach the starting point.
Travelling in a group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group.
We kindly ask that you are requested to be at a place at a certain time that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your tour before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs. Local Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire tour, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Itinerary Changes
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience.
This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your tour! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM at the airport is the final option. For a prepaid fee, you can get data by simply swapping your current SIM with your new SIM and depending on which package you purchase, you’ll be able to text and make phone calls, just as you would at home.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential tour information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Getting Around
While touring Thailand, you will be travelling by private coaches and by train. For longer coach journeys, there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often, purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops as they can easily accommodate our large groups.
For certain flights, you may travel unaccompanied, but our tour leaders will assist you at both departure and arrival points to ensure a smooth experience.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
This tour features a curated selection of 4-star hotels and resorts throughout Thailand. Each accommodation has been carefully chosen based on a stringent set of criteria, ensuring the high standards of comfort and convenience. Accommodation in Thailand can differ from what you might be used to at home, but rest assured, we carefully select options to ensure your stay is both comfortable and enjoyable.
Packing Essentials
What you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the tour style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs.
A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this tour. Many tours will include internal flights which often have luggage weight restrictions, and it is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.
Clothing:
Accessories:
Health and Toiletries:
Travel Essentials:
Climate
Thailand’s north, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, experiences three main seasons. Cool season (Nov–Feb) offers pleasant temperatures (18–32°C) and low humidity—ideal for travel. The hot season (Mar–May) sees soaring temperatures (35°C+), especially in Bangkok. Rainy season (Jun–Oct) brings heavy but short-lived downpours, mainly in the afternoon. Despite the rain, travel remains enjoyable, with lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Pack light clothing year-round, with a jacket for cooler northern nights in winter.
Currency and ATMs
Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht (THB). While ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, carrying cash is essential, especially in rural regions where card payments are often not accepted. International credit and debit cards can be used at most ATMs, but be mindful of transaction fees and withdrawal limits. It's best to exchange larger bills at banks or official exchange bureaus for better rates. Ensure your notes are in good condition, as damaged or torn bills may be refused. Always notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.
Food and Allergies
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of local cuisines. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour.
Thai cuisine is a vibrant mix of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours, with regional specialties across the country. In Bangkok and northern cities like Chiang Mai, you’ll find everything from street food stalls to fine dining. Must-try dishes include Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum Soup, and Chiang Mai’s famous Khao Soi (coconut curry noodle soup). Markets and night bazaars offer authentic local eats, while fresh tropical fruits and Thai iced tea are perfect for cooling down. Spice levels vary, so ask for “mai phet” (not spicy) if needed!
Always ask about ingredients and preparation methods, as cross-contamination can occur. Opt for freshly cooked dishes and avoid sauces or condiments that may contain hidden allergens.
For travellers with food allergies, it's crucial to exercise caution. Common allergens such as peanuts, shellfish, soy, and gluten are frequently used in Asian cooking.
Local Customs
When travelling in Thailand, it's important to respect local customs. Thailand has deep-rooted cultural customs that travellers should be aware of to show respect and avoid misunderstandings.
In Thailand, respecting the Royal Family is crucial—speaking negatively about them is illegal. When visiting temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, and always remove your shoes before entering homes or religious sites. The traditional Thai greeting, the wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together), is a polite way to show respect. Avoid touching people’s heads, as the head is considered sacred, and never point your feet at people or religious objects, as feet are seen as the lowest part of the body.
Dress Code
In Thailand, dress modestly to show respect for local culture. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot, humid climate. When visiting temples or religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. In cities, casual attire like shorts and t-shirts are acceptable, but avoid overly revealing outfits. For rural areas, dressing conservatively is appreciated. Proper attire helps you blend in and show respect for local customs.
Responsible Dining
Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.
Tipping Your Leader
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that staff have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
An expected tip in this region would be 4-7 USD per person, per day, shared among your driver, bellmen, restaurant staff, and more. Your trip leader will discuss tipping further with you while on tour, and may also discuss having a group tipping kitty that will be fairly dispersed throughout your trip.
Peak Travel Times
In Thailand, the busiest season is the cool season (November–February) when temperatures are comfortable, and there is little rain. Popular destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi are crowded, and accommodation prices rise. December and January are the absolute peak months due to Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year tourism. Songkran (Thai New Year, mid-April) also sees a surge in domestic and international travellers, especially in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Safety and Security
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour.
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth tour survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your tour has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Your tour concludes at the hotel after breakfast on day 9. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
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