Spectacular 15 day custom private sightseeing tour of exotic Thailand including a visit to the magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Update 04-6-2022 : New air itinerary, see details below.

4 spots available (26 sold). A few more Ground Packages are now available.

Note: price is $100 more if less than 30 travelers.

                                                                    

Register online and reserve your spot now with only $500 down payable by check, or online with credit card. 

 

If you rather not register online, you can download and print the hard copy Trip Application which you can then mail to the Trip Leader, along with a copy of your Passport and your deposit check.

 

Download/Print the Trip Flyer

You must be a current member to make a reservation. Each member of a family must complete a separate reservation. If you are not a current member, you can join or renew here.

If paying by check, make it payable to Gator Snow Ski Club and mail to your Trip Leader:

Estela Basso

1001 Jupiter Park Dr Ste 112

Jupiter FL 33458

estelavpofski@gmail.com

Cel 561 214 1603

Please be aware that when paying by check your registration will be marked as "pending" until our Treasurer receives and processes your payment- may take up to 3 weeks. If you register and pay with credit card, your registration is effective as soon as received –  upon confirmation of availability by the Trip Leader.

Cancellation fee for your registration is a minimum of $500 unless you are transferring to another Gator trip, not previously signed up for. See the detailed rules and regulations on Special Activities trips.

IMPORTANT:
Trip price may increase by $100 if less than 30 travelers sign up.

The Tour Operator for this trip requires all travelers to be VACCINATED against COVID-19 (2 Doses)

Payment Schedule If you wish to pay an Installment with credit card, inform your Trip Leader and an Invoice will be created for you. Credit card payments do not qualify for the 3% cash discount	Date	Amount
Deposit	With Registration	$ 500
1st Installment	Jan 15, 2022	$ 1,500
2nd Installment	March 15, 2022	$ 1500
3rd Installment	June 1, 2022	tbd-according to options and tender

 

DETAILED ITINERARY

Click here for a printable version of the detailed Itinerary

Palm Beach Gator Snow Ski Club

Thailand & Cambodia Adventure

October 30, 2022 - November 16, 2022

 

Itinerary at a Glance:

Day	Overnight	Hotel	Highlights
1	---	---	Today depart the USA for your Thailand & Cambodia Adventure.
2	---	---	Today is spent in the clouds en route to Bangkok via your connection in Dubai
3	Bangkok	Ramada Plaza Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside	Today arrive in the bustling capital of Thailand, Bangkok. On arrival you will be met by your English-speaking guide and transferred to your hotel. Later this night enjoy a Welcome Dinner at your hotel (D)
4	Bangkok	Ramada Plaza Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside	After breakfast, set out on a (3) hour tour of some of the most iconic temples in Bangkok w/ visits to the Golden Buddha, Wat Pho, & the Marble Temple. After, take part in a long tail boat half day tour on Thonburi’s Canals. (B)
5	Bangkok	Ramada Plaza Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside	Start your day with a visit to the MaeKlong railway market.After seeing trains coming and the wonders of this market, continue to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.End your day with a stop at Lao Tuk Luck Market (Old Damnoen Saduak Market) (B)
6	Bangkok	Ramada Plaza Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside	Start your day off with a (3) hour tour of Thailand’s Grand Palace. The rest of your day is at leisure. (B)
7	Siem Reap	Lotus Blanc Resort	Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
8	Siem Reap	Lotus Blanc Resort	Start your day with a visit to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, after, enjoy lunch with the group. Later in the afternoon explore the magnificent Angkor Wat complex. This evening enjoy dinner with an Apsara Dance Show at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
9	Chiang Rai	Phowadol Resort & Spa	This morning visit the Artisans d’Angkor, you will visit a number of different workshops and learn how these artisans are ensuring the continuation of their ancient art. After, transfer to Chiang Rai with the rest of your day at leisure. Dinner included. (B, D)
10	Chiang Rai	Phowadol Resort & Spa	Today take a full day tour to the Golden Triangle. The day starts with a visit to the Akha & Yao hill tribe villages. Next, continue to the Mekon and board your boat as you make your way up to the golden triangle. Later visit the Hall of Opium. Enjoy your evening at leisure. (B)
11	Chiang Mai	Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel	In the morning visit the Wat Ron Khun temple. Later that evening, the group will enjoy the Yii Peng Festival (B)
12	Chiang Mai	Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel	Today, enjoy a half-day tour, visit four of the most iconic temples as well as a mountaintop temple, while driving past city markets, residential areas and Chiang Mai’s main street. In the afternoon, stop by the San Kamphaeng District, the heart of the handicraft industry in the city. (B)
13	Chiang Mai	Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel	Today, take a A half-day tour  to the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary. Tonight, enjoy a typical “Khantoke Dinner” featuring local specialties as well as breathtaking performances of songs and dances by a local hilltribe dressed in traditional costumes. (B, D)
14	Phuket	Novotel Phuket Resort	Today, the group will transfer to Phuket. On arrival, enjoy a walking tour of the city with multiple stops. Stop by a local shop for a snack and a refreshing drink. Later this evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)
15	Phuket	Novotel Phuket Resort	Today, cruise by boat to Phang Nga Bay Hop into a kayak and explore the tidal caves and washouts.Enjoy buffet lunch and dinner on board (B, L, D)
16	Phuket	Novotel Phuket Resort	After breakfast, get ready for a full day on a catamaran: destination Phi Phi islands. Enjoy a buffet lunch on board and some free time to enjoy the amazing views while you sail.. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B, L)
17	---	---	Today, you will be transferred to the Phuket airport for your flight to Bangkok, where you will connect to your international flight home. (B)
18	---	---	Your amazing Southeast Asia adventure comes to an end as you touch back down in the US today.

Accommodations

Nights 3-6 Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok menam Riverside

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside is located along the Chao Phraya River. It offers rooms with river and skyline views. The hotel provides a free round-trip shuttle boat service between its own pier and the nearby Saphan Taksin BTS Skytrain Station. Asiatique the Riverfront shopping mall is a 5-minute walk away or guests can use the hotel's free Tuk Tuk shuttle service. The famous IconSiam is just a minute boat away. The hotel is a short distance from the shopping and entertainment area of Silom and is a 40-minute drive away from the airport. Rooms at the hotel are recently renovation with wooden laminated flooring and feature a contemporary Thai decor with elegant furnishings. Each room includes a TV with satellite channels, work desk and coffee table. Bathrooms are large and modern with separate showers and bathtubs. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. Its high class facilities include a large outdoor pool with spa pool. The hotel’s wellness and spa offers several soothing massages, with sauna, jacuzzi and steam room. Guests can also exercise at the fitness Centre. Guests can enjoy 5 dining options with a choice of BBQ and seafood at its riverside restaurants.

Nights 7-8 Lotus Blanc Resort Siem Reap

Built in an exotic design of luxury French art and decor coupled with a Cambodian cultural touch, the Lotus Blanc Resort provides a timeless, holistic and harmonious experience. If you are looking for elegance, a rich heritage and a combination of middle ages and a twenty first century outlook, this Siem Reap's premier boutique resort is the place to be, a destination that provides a tropical bliss landscape which intimately defines the perfect escape - a home away from home!

Nights 9-10 Phowadol Resort & Spa  

Boutique Resort in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai, Chiangrai Province, focusing on the charms of a northern village.

PHOWADOL RESORT AND SPA, A UNIQUE DESTINATION FOR THOSE IN SEARCH OF UNSPOILED PEACE AND RELAXATION. WITH ITS ROOTS STEMMING FROM THE SACRED BODHI TREE THAT SPREADS WIDELY TO OFFER REST AND PEACE OF MIND, PHOWADOL RESORT AND SPA IS LOCATED IN CHIANG RAI PROVINCE AND OFFERS AN IDEAL HOLIDAY HIDEAWAY WITH A PERFECT BLEND OF RELAXATION AND INDULGENCE.

Nights 11-13 Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai 

Discover Thailand’s breathtaking north at Mövenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai, where the warmth of local traditions combines with quality service. Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, a few steps from the famous Night Bazaar and close to the Ping River, the hotel's contemporary interior complements its traditional Thai Lanna architecture. From the rooftop pool there are awesome city views, and the atmospheric dining scene serves both local Thai dishes and classic international specialities. The hotel is perfect for culture buffs and adventure seekers, with easy access to hundreds of temples and spectacular zip lines in the surrounding forest. Chiang Mai events can be hosted in the ballroom.

Nights 12-14 Novotel Phuket Resort 

Novotel Phuket Resort is nestled on a hillside overlooking Patong Bay on eight acres of tropical landscaped gardens, just a short stroll from Patong Beach, the island’s nightlife and shopping center. Novotel Phuket Resort offers a unique holiday and boasts beautiful traditional Thai architecture. The hotel features 217 contemporary rooms plus three-tiered pool facing to the Andaman Sea, Traditional Thai-style restaurants and bars with spectacular sea view, kid’s world, spa massage and fitness center, then take in the sunset on the terrace. At Novotel Phuket Resort, everyone can enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

 

Tour features and inclusions:

●        Round trip flight from MIA on Emirates

●        Airfare taxes, fees and fuel surcharges

●        Intra Thailand flights and ground transportation

●        Intra flight to/from Siem Reap

●        Accommodations at 4 and 5 star hotels

●        23 meals: 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners

●        Comprehensive sightseeing as per itinerary

●        Cost of admission to Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai

●        Experienced English-speaking Tour Director

●        Ground Transportation for your itinerary as outlined below

Exclusions:

●        Airport departure tax

●        Travel insurance - can be purchased through smarTours for $199 per person for TripMate Insurance

●        Gratuities and personal expenses

●        Excursions and meals not included in the program

Tour Highlights:

●        Thonburi Klong (Bangkok)

●        Floating Market (Bangkok)

●        Grand Palace (Bangkok)

●        Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

●        Silk Farm visit (Cambodia)

●        Yi Peng Festival (Chiang Mai)

●        Khantoke Dinner (Chiang Mai)

●        Sawasdee Phi Phi Island (Phuket)

Flights

UPDATE 4-20-2022  This is our new air itinerary with Emirates Airlines. We are flying back from Phuket with a 14 hour layover in Dubai. Emirates will pay for hotel, transportation and some meals during the layover in Dubai.

Flying from Miami (MIA) to Bangkok (BKK) with one stop in Dubai (DXB), on Emirates Airlines. Return flying from Phuket (HKT) to Miami with one layover of 14 hours in Dubai. Airline will pay for hotel, transportation and some meals during the layover.

Date	Flight #	Departure	Arrival
10/30/2022	EK0214	MIA 9:10 PM	DXB 7:25 PM +1
10/31/2022	EK0384	DXB 3.05 AM	BKK 12:05 PM +1 (we arrive Nov 1)
11/15/2022	EK0397	HKT 9:30 AM	DXB 1:15 PM
11/16/2022	EK0213	DXB 3:25 AM	MIA 11:00 AM

For those with Ground Packages, a local flight from Phuket to Bangkok is included in your price. You will leave Phuket early in the morning (7 am or 8 am) and the flight takes 2-3 hours. Therefore you can choose to return from Phuket to Miami or catch a flight in Bangkok later in the day on November 16.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Sunday, October 30, 2022:

Depart USA

Your Thailand and Cambodia adventure begins as you board your departure flight from the US.

Day 2 – Monday, October 31, 2022:

In The Clouds

Today is spent in the clouds en route to Bangkok via your connection in Dubai.

Day 3 – Tuesday, November 1, 2022:

Arrive in Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok and Welcome to Thailand, the “Land of Smiles”. Upon arrival, meet and greet with your English-speaking guide and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Day 4 – Wednesday, November 2, 2022:

Bangkok

This three-hour tour is the perfect journey to visit some of Bangkok's most iconic temples. First, visit the glimmering Golden Buddha, the world's largest solid golden statue, housed at Wat Traimit. Next up, explore Wat pho, one of the largest and oldest temples in Bangkok, and home to more than 1000 Buddha images. The temple is also considered the first public University of Thailand, and known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, housing one of the oldest massage schools in the country. Your third and final stop is Wat Benchamabophit, one of Bangkok's most beautiful temples. Also known as the Marble Temple, this structure glistens from the white marble that makes up the entire building's facade,exemplifying Bangkok's ornate style of high gables, stepped-out roofs and elaborate finials. It’s all aboard a traditional ‘long tail boat’ on the Chao Phraya River to kick off this half-day tour of Thonburi’s canals. Meander your way through the klongs and soak up the sleepy, quieter side of Bangkok. Sail past children waving frantically from the docks, hot bowls of spicy soup bubbling away in the makeshift waterside houses, and aunties hang the family’s washing out to dry off in the hot midday sun - all tell-tale signs of life on the western side of the river. A trip to Thonburi is never complete without a visit to the iconic Wat Arun, a magnificent temple which towers 79 metres into the sky - once the tallest structures in Bangkok. Notice the intricately-tiled temple façade as you explore the complex, decorated with shards of pottery from a nearby shipwreck almost 100 years ago. Finally, head back across the river one last time to catch your transfer back to the city. (B)

Day 5 – Thursday, November 3, 2022:

Bangkok

Start a half day tour by  being picked up at your hotel and driven about 100km southwest of Bangkok to Ratchaburi Province. En route, visit the Mae Klong railway market. This famous live action market is also called Talad Rom Hoop, which roughly translates to closing an umbrella or awning. As the name suggests, part of the market is situated on the railway. After seeing trains coming and the wonders of this market, continue to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This world-famous floating market is located about 30 minutes away.. Harking back to a time when water transport was the primary mode of transportation, the floating market features fresh fruits, flowers, colorful clothing, souvenirs and more along the waterways and on vendor boats. Walk around and check out the many stalls or rent a paddle boat (at your own expenses) to experience the market from the water. Continue to Lao Tuk Luck Market (Old Damnoen Saduak Market) which is located just over a local bridge. It is a very attractive place for tourists to see the old and traditional style of selling and buying fruits, vegetables, etc. The market is over 100 years old and the traditional Thai style houses will bring you back to its wonderful history. (B)

Day 6 – Friday, November 4, 2022:

Bangkok

Prepare for a day of amazement at what is undoubtedly one of Bangkok's - and Thailand's - most famous landmarks, the Royal Grand Palace. This three-hour tour begins in either the morning or afternoon at your hotel, where your guide will pick you up and drive you to the palace gates. From there, enjoy a tour of the magnificent palace grounds and its expansive complex, home to Thai kings  until the turn of the 20th century. Still as the seat of power and the spiritual heart of the Thai kingdom, the palace contains throne halls, two of which are open to the public, which symbolise the great historical and cultural significance of the complex. Here, explore Wat Phra Kaew - Temple of the Emerald Buddha - which houses the small, yet greatly revered Emerald Buddha, dating back to the 14th Century. Around the palace grounds, witness six-meter tall statues of colourful demons from the Ramayana, who watch over the Emerald Buddha from every gate to ward off evil spirits. Finally, take some time to check out the vibrant, colourful murals of the Ramayana, which depict the ancient story of the triumph of good over evil, before being transferred back to your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 7 – Saturday, November 5, 2022:

Bangkok/Siem Reap

Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 8 – Sunday, November 6, 2022:

Siem Reap

Start with a visit to the South Gate of Angkor Thom where statues of the gods of good and evil line the entrance. Your next stop is the Bayon, known for the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. The base reliefs are quite impressive and tell stories of daily life and the great battles that were fought between the Khmers and ancient Thais. Move on to Phimeanakas, shaped a bit like a pyramid with two ponds in the rear. The ponds were once used for religious rituals but today serve as swimming pools for Khmer kids. Walk to the top of the temple for impressive views of the Angkor complex. See the rows of trunks that form the wall of the Terrace of the Elephants, a platform from which King Jayavarman surveyed his army. Close by is the Terrace of Leper Kings, which includes a statue depicting Yana, the Hindu god of death. Then it’s a short drive to one of the most loved temples of all - Ta Prohm. This small crumbling temple is held together by giant tree roots giving it a magical feel. Return to Siem Reap for lunch and to escape the hot sun. Then later in the afternoon explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. This visually spectacular temple is a massive three-tiered pyramid, rising 65 metres from the ground and crowned by five lotus towers. It’s the national symbol of Cambodia and proudly appears on the country's flag. End your day with sunset views over the jungle from the top of Pre Rup Temple before returning to Siem Reap. Tonight, enjoy dinner with an Apsara Dance Show at a local restaurant. (B,L,D)

Day 9 – Monday, November 7, 2022:

Siem Reap/Chiang Rai

Cambodia is a country that has a rich artistic history, much of which was lost during the Khmer Rouge Regime; Artisans d' Angkor  is a unique project that is helping to ensure the skills of the ancient artisans are never lost. You will visit a number of different workshops teaching stone carving, wood carving, lacquer application and silverwork to underprivileged Cambodians. There is also an opportunity for some shopping should you desire: afterwards, continue with a visit to the old market and artisan handicraft market in town. After the tour, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Rai via Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer with your guide from Chiang Rai Airport to your hotel in Chiang Rai. The balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B,D)

Day 10 – Tuesday, November 8, 2022:

Chiang Rai & Golden Triangle

Today, embark on a full-day tour leading to small towns and diverse border cities in Thailand’s northernmost region. Set off from your hotel in Chiang Rai and head onward to nearby Akha and Yao hill tribe villages. The Akha people are famous for their exotic and beautiful costumes, the Yao people for their peaceful and aristocratic demeanor; both tribes are welcoming to visitors, eager to show people their day-to-day life. After meeting some of the tribe’s people and exploring their villages, continue to Chiang Saen, a small town on the Mekong River. Then enjoy a boat trip along the Mekong River up to the Golden Triangle, and view the scenic point where 3 countries meet. Next, visit the Hall of Opium, which is constructed on over 40 acres of land at a site near the Golden Triangle. The site incorporates an exhibition area and information center on the Hall of Opium within the landscape of the Golden Triangle Park. The Hall of Opium combines a museum on the history of opium and the impact of illegal drugs, with an information center for research and extensive education on opium, opiates and other narcotics. Learn about some of the surrounding areas at the Hill Tribe Museum, where you can explore exhibits touching on the area’s long history of opium and the effect it has had on the lives of the mountain people and hill tribe villages. Return to your hotel in Chiang Rai for an evening at leisure. (B)

Day 11 – Wednesday, November 9, 2022:

Chiang Rai/Chiang Mai

After breakfast, check out of your hotel to visit the Wat Rong Khun Temple. A lifetime project of artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple has a fine blend of traditional Buddhist art with contemporary themes. The temple is almost entirely white – no other colors are used at all. It is decorated with small pieces of mirrored glass which add substantially to the temple’s spacious and airy feel. In the late afternoon, transfer from your hotel to Chiang Mai and enjoy the “Yi Peng Festival”. (B)

*Exact schedule of events at Yi Peng Festival TBA - estimated itinerary is below:

- Guests are welcomed to the Yi Peng Festival

- Lanna Thai style food and beverages are available

- Ground show activities and display

- Lanna games and performances

- Monks’ ceremonial chanting

- Lantern release demonstration

Day 12 – Thursday, November 10, 2022:

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, one of the largest cities in Thailand and the cultural and business centre of northern Thailand, is overflowing with ancient Buddhist Temples, each with their own unique design and history. In this half-day tour, visit four of the most iconic temples as well as a mountaintop temple, while driving past city markets, residential areas and Chiang Mai’s main street. After being picked up at your hotel, your first destination is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, a must-see temple and one of the most respected amongst all Thais. As the temple is located at the top of a mountain, challenge yourself to walk up the 300 steps of the intricately-carved mythical Naga Serpent Staircase, or take a cable car to the top for an incredible view over the stunning architecture, statues, murals and shrines of the city and surrounding areas. After you descend the mountain, drive through the city to begin your temple hopping. First up is Wat Chedi Luang, a Lanna-style chedi that was once one of the tallest structures in ancient Chiang Mai. Next, visit Wat Phra Singh, or Temple of the Lion Buddha, where you can view a collection of classic Lanna art and explore an old library. Finally, wander the gardens at Wat Suan Dok, Flower Garden Temple, where you can check out a 500-year-old bronze Buddha statue, one of the largest in Thailand. In the afternoon, stop by the San Kamphaeng District, the heart of the handicraft industry in the city. Many of Thailand's major producers are located here and you'll find all of the traditional crafts of both the old days and the new. Spend some time exploring the different craft shops and stalls, and even learn how some of Chiang Mai’s famous products are made, from silk umbrella painting, cotton weaving and lacquer ware, an ancient art form of decorating wooden objects with layers of black lacquer. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure. (B)

Day 13 – Friday, November 11, 2022:

Chiang Mai

A half-day tour to the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary offers visitors an enjoyable opportunity to spend quality time with elephants in their natural home, as well as gain an insight into their history and behavior, and create cherished lifelong memories. Spend time with these amazing, friendly and happy elephants in a safe and sustainable environment. Drive approximately 50 minutes north of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forests and local farming areas and arrive at the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary. Walk through and learn about the elephants, change into traditional clothing and prepare fruits for our elephants. Meet the elephants, feed, interact, and play with them in a natural environment and get muddy as you learn about their behavior and history. Walk with the elephants to a river and bathe them. Enjoy tea, coffee and seasonal fruit and then say goodbye to the elephants as you leave the sanctuary and drive approximately 50 minutes back to Chiang Mai. Tonight, enjoy a typical “Khantoke Dinner” featuring local specialties as well as breathtaking performances of songs and dances by a local hilltribe dressed in traditional costumes. (B,D)

Day 14 – Saturday, November 12, 2022:

Chiang Mai/Phuket

Today, transfer from your hotel to Chiang Mai Airport for your  flight to Phuket. With a fascinating blend of Chinese and Portuguese influence, Phuket Town is a melting pot of culture and stories. Set off on a leisurely walking tour to discover some of the city’s stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture whilst enjoying a few classic Thai experiences along the way! Start the journey with a visit to a Kajorn Rangsan Temple and nearby Chin Pracha Mansion. This stunning example of Sino-colonial architecture offers fascinating insight into how a wealthy Phuket family once lived decades ago. After exploring the interior of Chin Pracha House, walk to Thai Hua Museum for an in-depth look at how Chinese immigrants settled in Thailand. Just a stone’s throw from Thalang Road, this museum is the perfect jumping-off point for a stroll down this intriguing avenue lined with stunning Sino-Portuguese style buildings and charming street-level shops. Stop by a local shop for a snack and a refreshing drink and snap a few pictures at the vividly colourful Soi Rommanee, before exploring the interior of the old post office, a unique glimpse into the area’s colonial past. On Phang Nga Road, stroll past Phuket’s oldest hotel and visit a hidden Chinese temple. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 15 – Sunday, November 13, 2022:

Phuket

Today, cruise by boat to Phang Nga Bay to view this fascinating seascape where limestone cliffs rise vertically from the sea, creating a surreal image fit for mythological legends. Hop into a kayak and explore the tidal caves and washouts called 'hongs' which are part of the incredible limestone karst formations. Spend the rest of the afternoon kayaking, swimming and relaxing at sea before making a personal ‘krathong’ to float on the water after dark. Enjoy this unique and cultural experience and, if luck strikes, get the chance to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton illuminating the ocean at night. En-route back to Phuket play 'star games' on the starlight deck. Buffet lunch and dinner will be served on board. (B,L,D)

Day 16 – Monday, November 14, 2022:

Phuket

After breakfast, get ready for a full day on a catamaran: destination Phi Phi islands, widely considered to be amongst the most beautiful islands in the world. Start your voyage to the underwater world of Phi Phi, swimming and snorkeling among the colorful fish and exploring the abundant coral reef at Monkey Beach. Admire the beauty of Camel Rock and Nui Bay while cruising to Tonsai Bay where you will enjoy a buffet lunch in a local restaurant with a good selection of Thai and International dishes. After lunch, take your time to relax and wander around the village. Continue cruising on through the breathtaking scenery of Piley Lagoon and Viking Cave to Phi Phi Leh where you will have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling or just relaxing on the upper deck or at the beach before heading back to main land. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B,L)

Day 17 – Tuesday, November 15, 2022:

Depart Phuket

Today, you will be transferred to the Phuket airport for your flight to Bangkok, where you will connect to your international flight home. (B)

Day 18 – Wednesday, November 16, 2022:

Arrive USA

Your amazing Southeast Asia adventure comes to an end as you touch back down in the US today.

SAFETY STANDARDS:

*Please note: we rely on the conditions in destination and those conditions are subject to change.

We have been working tirelessly with all of our partners to elevate our standards for health and safety for our guests. Here’s the information you need to know about upcoming trips! 

COVID-19 travel requirements:

●       In addition to destination-specific entry requirements, SmarTours requires all travelers to provide a negative, viral COVID-19 antigen or PCR test issued no more than 3 days prior to departure, documentation of recovery from COVID-19 from your healthcare provider, or proof of full vaccination before leaving the U.S.

●       All travelers returning to the U.S., including those who have been vaccinated, must provide a negative, viral COVID-19 test issued no more than 3 days prior to departure or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 from your healthcare provider. NOTE: smarTours will arrange testing for the group in destination. The cost of the test varies by destination.

While in the destination, you should expect:

*Subject to change depending on protocols in destination at the time of departure

●       The buses will be disinfected daily

●       Additional face coverings will be available where possible

●       The action plan for emergency situations will be available

●       The list of health services and institutions in the destination(s) will be available

●       The tour guide will avoid crowded locations as much as possible

●       You can suspend daily housekeeping service (by request)

●       Contactless check-in will be available when possible

●       Limited or suspended buffet meals or alternative options

●       Limited group sizes

●       Social distancing practices will be in effect

Luggage Policy:

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase) max. 44 pounds, and one carry-on not exceeding 18”x10”x8”. We recommend that you do not overpack and that you take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.

YI PENG (LANTERN RELEASE) AND LOY KRATHONG FESTIVALS

Perhaps one of the most visually mesmerizing celebrations in the world, the Loi Krathong (also spelled as Loy Krathong) festival in Thailand is a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Without a doubt, Loi Krathong is the most popular festival for Thailand in the fall.

Thousands of small, candlelit floats are released on rivers and waterways as offerings to the river spirits. In Chiang Mai and other parts of Northern Thailand, the Loi Krathong festival also coincides with a Lanna festival known as Yi Peng, which involves the launching of thousands of fire-powered paper lanterns into the air for good luck. The sky appears to be full of burning stars, creating a dreamlike world that appears too surreal and beautiful to be real.

Standing on a bridge in Chiang Mai during Loi Krathong and Yi Peng is truly unforgettable as both the Ping River and sky appear to be on fire at the same time. Adding to the beauty are perpetual fireworks displays—both sanctioned and illegal—that contribute even more fire and brilliant lights to the setting!

30 lucky Gators will be there! be one of them!