Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & River Kwai

This most interesting excursion brings you to the rural floating market of Damnoen Saduak, situated 110 kilometers west of Bangkok.
Continue to Kanchanaburi and take a scenic boat trip on Maeklong River towards the famous bridge over the River Kwai. After lunch, visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, an interactive museum, information and research facility dedicated to presenting the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. The fully air-conditioned center offers the visitor an educational and moving experience. Then visit the two well-kept war cemeteries, which contain the graves of an estimated 9,000 allied soldiers who lost their lives while building the bridge and constructing the notorious "Death Railway" which the Japanese had hoped to stretch all the way to the Burmese (Myanmar) border. On your return journey to Bangkok, stop at Phra Pathom Chedi, considered to be the highest pagoda in the world.

Cycling Around Koh Kred

This easy tour heads north to the ancient province of Nonthaburi and discovers the beauty of Bangkok’s hidden gems, Nonthaburi and Koh Kred. The ride starts at Wat Ko Kriang, near the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Following a canal path, you will pass through local villages, past rice paddies, fruit plantations and the local riverside communities. Cross the Chao Phraya River to Ko Kred where you cycle around the island enjoying its peaceful scenery and car free roads. Finish cycling by having a great Thai lunch overlooking the river.

This is a very gentle 15-km ride along country back roads and suitable for anyone that can ride a bike. You ride as a group with experienced cycle guides setting a gentle pace and stop often to visit points of interest and allow everyone to catch up. Guides are knowledgeable on the local area and customs and explain the history, culture and local way-of-life each time we stop.

Colorful markets around Bangkok

Depart Bangkok in the morning to Mahachai, home to one of the biggest seafood piers in the Gulf of Thailand. Stroll along the river towards the pier at the junction where Klong Mahachai canal and the Ta Chine River converge to watch fishermen offload their catch: big and small shrimps, myriad fish, cuttlefish, shellfish and other fruits of the sea. Deckhands slide baskets of seafood down from the boat into the hands of traders who immediately auction off the catches and distribute them either to one of the many frozen seafood plants in the area or to vendors at the fresh market just behind the pier. At 10:00hrs board the local train for a scenic one-hour ride to Mae Klong. The train passes right through the bustling fresh market, which offers unique photo opportunities. Walk around the market for 30-minutes, then ready yourself for the hectic activities of the vendors along the railway tracks, when they raise the awnings of their stalls to clear the passage for the train on its return journey to Mahachai. Continue by van or coach to Ampawa to Baan Ampawa Resort for lunch. Afternoon, depart on a boat trip through the scenic canals, passing coconut and fruit orchards and rural dwellings. Visit the Benjarong House and Museum and watch skilled artisans painting delicate china ware with intricate designs. Continue by boat along Mae Klong River to Wat Bang Kung, built during the Ayudhaya period (more than 200 years ago). This interesting temple is completely embraced by the roots of a huge Banyan Tree. Return van / coach transfer to Bangkok (60-90 minutes, depending on traffic)

Bangkok Country Side Cycling Tour

This one day tour takes you out of Bangkok and back into the Thailand of old. Participants will be picked up from their hotels. The ride starts at the Kamalulislam mosque, the hub of the local Muslim community. Riding along the canals, you will glimpse the harmonious lifestyles of Thai families, as well as seeing fish farms, working rice mills, traditional Thai wooden houses and a traditional medicine shop. Visit the bizarre temple of Phurt Udom Pol where you have a chance to visit Buddhist heaven and hell while waiting for lunch. Continue cycling for another 10km to the old market town of Nong Chock. Then trade bikes for boats and complete the journey with a river cruise down the Saen Seab canal back to the mosque.

This is a gentle 40-km ride along country back roads and suitable for anyone that can ride a bike. You ride in a group with experienced cycle guides setting a gentle pace and stop often to visit points of interest and allow everyone to catch up. Guides are knowledgeable on the local area and customs and explain the history, culture and local way-of-life during each stop.

Ayutthaya to Bang Pa In by bycicle

Towering chedis amidst crumbling ruins create the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Situated just north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya once claimed Thailand's capital, but that governance ended abruptly in 1767 when the city was sacked by Burmese invaders. Despite destruction, the ruins emanate the city's prior dominance, beauty, and rich history. An easy day ride, this tour reveals the historic treasures of Thailand. From the impressive ruins of Ayutthaya to the grandiose summer palace of the kings, this bike trip takes you off the beaten path and onto the local trails through authentic Thailand.

After a short transfer from your Bangkok hotel, take to bikes to explore the ruins of the impressive Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991. Its distinct reputation is well earned - weathered layers of burnt bricks compose the stately stupas and chedis that guard these grounds. First, see Wat Yai Chaimongkol and its towering chedi, one so large that it presently is sinking. Then, biking through the ancient city's walls, visit Wat Phra Mahatat, the symbolic heart of the old city now famed for the picturesque tree roots that ensnarl its imbedded Buddha relic. Fruitful jujube trees still surround the Old Royal Palace, our next stop. From there you have time to continue exploring these precarious, precious structures, including the prominent Wat Chaiwattanaram. The ride to the summer palace at Bang Pa-In is a real pleasure, escaping into the Thai countryside, riding on quiet roads passing by the local communities that line this part of the Chao Phraya River.

TRIP PROFILE
This is a gentle 25 kilometre ride along country back roads and is suitable for anyone that can ride a bike. The roads are flat, quiet countryside trails pass by many local communities. You ride in a group, with an experienced SpiceRoads cycle guide setting a gentle pace. Stopping often to visit points of interest, there is opportunity to sample some of the local food. A support vehicle follows close behind with plenty provisions. Guides are knowledgeable on the local area and customs and explain the history, culture and local way-of-life at each stop. Water, soft drinks and snacks are all included as well as lunch and a quality mountain bike and helmet. This trip is suitable for most levels of riders and is an excellent trip for families.

Ayutthaya by Car

Among the “must see” attractions in Thailand is a visit to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand situated 76 kilometers north of Bangkok. The Thai capital for 417 years, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's major tourist attractions. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in the city, which was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong. 33 kings of 5 dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.
During this day trip you will visit the principal sights: Wat Sri Sanphet - this important and outstanding monastery was used as a residential palace in the reign of King Ramathibodi I. Wat Phananchoeng: This monastery existed before Ayuttaya was founded as the capital. The principal 19 metres high Buddha image is made of stucco and is the most revered by the inhabitants of Ayutthaya. Wat Yai Chaimongkhol: The chedi at this monastery is among the largest in Ayuttaya and was built by King Naresuan (1590-1605). There are many Buddha images and a beautiful garden behind this chedi. This tour also includes a boat trip to Bang-Pa-In, the former Royal Summer Residence, which represents a fine example of Thai architecture.

Ayutthaya by Boat (Shangri La Horizon)

Depart by coach from Shangri-La Hotel to Ayutthaya. Visit Wat Chai Wattanaram, Wat Sri Sanphet, Wat Mongkol Bophit and Wat Yai Chai Mongkol. Depart for Bang-Pa-In, the former summer palace of King Rama V. Board the Shangri-La Horizon cruiser and enjoy the International & Thai buffet lunch on board, while cruising down the Chao Phraya River towards Bangkok. Coffee and tea are available free of charge later in the afternoon. Disembark at Shangri La Hotel’s pier at 17:00 hours.

Thonburi Klongs & Grand Palace

Among the best ways to explore Bangkok is by boat. A cruise along the Chao Phraya River - the city's lifeblood - and the canals of Thonburi on the east side of the river reveals scenes at odds with the bustling, modern inner city. Visitors get a glimpse of the serene and simple lifestyle of riverbank dwellers. This picturesque view is what earned Bangkok the title of "Venice of the East." En route, stop at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn, one of the most attractive temples in Thailand. The boat trip ends at Chang pier, from where you walk to the Grand Palace (200 meters / yards). The Grand Palace was the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenellated walls the entire government administration. The architecture is vibrantly Thai though there are some European designs as well. Brilliantly colored and gilded, and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in color, the Buddha is actually carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. Also within the grounds are several palaces, used for various occasions: the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House. The majority of halls and palaces can be viewed from outside only, but the exteriors are captivating enough to please. Note: The entire Grand Palace is closed during special royal ceremonies and during visiting heads of state, while other buildings (such as the Throne Hall and Coronation Hall) are always closed on SAT/SUN and public holidays, during special ceremonies and on Buddhist Holidays. A calendar for visiting the Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha can be viewed on the web-site of the Bureau of the Royal Household at: http://www.palaces.thai.net/calendar/calendar.htm

Suan Pakkard Palace

Wang Suan Pakkard ("Palace of the Lettuce Garden") is one of Bangkok's most delightful retreats. This peaceful oasis was the home of Princess Chumbhot of Nakhon Sawan. Five 19th-century teak houses were moved from Chiang Mai in 1952 and rebuilt in a beautifully landscaped garden on a private klong (canal), separated by a high wall from the tumult of Bangkok's streets. The Lacquer Pavilion (actually an Ayutthaya house, moved here in 1958) was a birthday present from the prince to the princess. Princess Chumbnot was an avid art collector and one of the country's most dedicated archaeologists-credited with having partly financed the excavations at Ban Chiang I in 1967. There is an entire room of objects from that site, including pottery and jewelry, surpassed only by the prehistoric findings exhibited at the National Museum. The balance of the collection is diverse, with Khmer sculpture, ivory boxes, perfume bottles, nielloware, marvelous prints by European artists depicting their image of Siamese people before the country opened to the Western world, a superb Buddha head from Ayutthaya, and a royal barge. Do not miss the pavilion housing the princess's exquisite collection of Thai and Chinese ceramics! The gift shop at Wang Suan Pakkard offers ceramics, some genuine and some reproductions at reasonable prices.

Siam Ocean World

Siam Ocean World, the 10,000-square-metre world-class aquarium occupying two levels of Siam Paragon, Bangkok’s newest upscale shopping destination, is billed as the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. The project, which includes a 2.8 million litre Oceanarium, represents a significant investment of US$30 million by Oceanis Australia Group, the world’s largest aquarium owner and operator (ranked by number of customers and volume of displays) with more than 15 years experience in the aquarium business. The aquarium has the capacity to hold more than 4 million litres of water (equivalent to 3 Olympic swimming pools) and is described as “Thailand’s first and Southeast Asia’s biggest aquatic education and entertainment centre”. It showcases more than 30,000 marine animals and as many as 400 aquatic species. These include Seals, Blue Ringed Octopus, Ragged-tooth sharks, Stingrays, Leafy Sea Dragons, Giant Spider Crabs and others. The journey through Siam Ocean World will take you through seven different zones: * Weird and Wonderful * Open Ocean * Deep Reef * Rainforest * Rocky Shore * Living Ocean * Sea Jellies Shows: Seal feed Show 1: 12.30hrs Show 2: 16.30hrs Shark feed Show 1: 13.30hrs Show 2: 17.30hrs Dive with the Sharks! Experience the huge adrenaline rush of coming face-to-face with a shark or almost touching a giant stingray. Take the plunge inside Siam Ocean World's 2.8 million litre Oceanarium...if you dare! Age and medical conditions apply. Dive with fully qualified instructors. Suitable for all those brave enough! 3 dive sessions per day, 7 days a week. All equipment supplied if required. Dive session is not included in tour price. Siam Ocean World is open daily from 09:00 - 22:00hrs

Sampran Elephant Ground & Zoo

Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo is situated on 60 acres of land an-hour drive west of Bangkok. Visitors watch an elephant show complete with dramatic sounds and narration and see demonstrations of elephants at work and re-enacting ancient battle scenes in full battle gear. There are also entertaining performances of elephants playing football and playing games, spectacular shows of crocodile wrestling between man and crocodiles, a magic show and orchid nursery.

Rose Garden Cultural Show

Situated just 32 kilometers outside of Bangkok is the popular Rose Garden Aprime Resort or Suan Sam Phran in Thai. Set in 75 acres of landscaped tropical gardens and lawns encompassing a small lake, the resort is an ideal setting for family picnics and walks. A cultural village show starts every afternoon with Thai folk dancing and demonstrations of handicraft skills, Thai boxing and sword fighting. There are also performances on certain Thai rituals, traditional ceremonies, and an outstanding elephant show. Tourists searching for souvenirs can stop at nearby shops that sell a variety of locally made consumer goods, such as handicraft products.

Rice Barge Cruise

A visit to Bangkok would not be complete without spending some time on the Chao Phraya River. An ideal way to take in the “River of Kings” is to join a tour on an old style wooden rice barge converted to accommodate passengers. You will be picked up at your hotel by van or coach around 14:00hrs (pick up time depends on the location of your hotel as well as on traffic conditions). At 15:00hrs, depart from River City pier by taxi-boat, touring along the Chao Praya River. An English-speaking guide points out all the famous landmarks such as the Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun), the Grand Palace and Royal Barge Museum. The river is teeming with boats of all shapes and sizes. On all sides, cross-river ferries, speeding long-tails, river taxis and trains of massive barges pulled by tugboats a fraction of their size haul their cargoes to and fro. Disembark near Wat Nairong in Klong Bangkok Noi and board a converted rice barge for a leisurely trip back to the starting point. As an added bonus to your languid journey down the lazy river, the barge has a centerpiece table full of the country’s delightful tropical fruits. Rambutan, mangosteen, pineapple, bananas and more are offered for you to sample away to your heart’s content. Soft drinks and Thai whiskey are offered on the rice barge without extra charge. Disembark at River City pier at around 17:00hrs and transfer back to your hotel.

Prasart Museum

This charming private museum on the outskirts of Bangkok is one of Bangkok's hidden treasures and can be visited by appointment only. The owner, Khun Prasart started the antique collection from an early ago on and it now includes a magnificent selection of Bencharong, Thai paintings and cabinets decorated with black and gold lacquer. Replicas of some beautiful Thai architecture are constructed within the complex. Open daily except Monday 9:30hrs - 15:00hrs

Manohra Cruise Cooking Class

Meet the chef and crew at the Longtail Bar at Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa. They will take you on board the Manohra Cruise to a local market where you will be shown a variety of fresh foods for sale. Some of the ingredients required for the cooking will be bought at the market.As you sail along the River of Kings, you will be served with a cold towel and iced lemongrass, the the preparation of the food will begin. Each step will be explained and the nature of the ingredients will be described. The meal will be cooked and eaten step by step, an original way to learn Thai cooking.

Manohra Cruise Cooking Class

Meet the chef and crew at the Longtail Bar at Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa. They will take you on board the Manohra Cruise to a local market where you will be shown a variety of fresh foods for sale. Some of the ingredients required for the cooking will be bought at the market.As you sail along the River of Kings, you will be served with a cold towel and iced lemongrass, the the preparation of the food will begin. Each step will be explained and the nature of the ingredients will be described. The meal will be cooked and eaten step by step, an original way to learn Thai cooking.

Jim Thompson House

One of the best examples of traditional Thai residential architecture and a breathtaking collection of Southeast Asian art are exemplified in a house built by an American national. Nonetheless, Jim Thompson’s House is one of Bangkok’s more popular destinations for visitors – and deservedly so. Jim Thompson, who was born in Delaware in 1906, fell in love with Thailand while posted as an intelligence agent in Bangkok during WWII. He later made it his permanent home and started a business supplying fine Thai silk to overseas fashion houses, single-handedly saving what had been a dying cottage industry. His silk company continues to flourish today. With the proceeds of his success, Thompson collected an impressive range of art works, and sections of derelict teak houses, assembling them into a teak house/museum complex set in a lush garden alongside central Bangkok’s Saen Saep Canal. The main house is full of tastefully displayed Asian art and curios including Buddha images, paintings, ceramics and antique furniture. The living areas have been preserved as they were when Thompson lived there before his mysterious disappearance in Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands while on holiday in 1967. Near the entrance there is a newly-built Thai restaurant and bar plus a sizeable boutique selling quality silk items, books and prints.

Hiking the Colors of Bangkok - Walking Tour (excl. transfers)

“Hiking the Colors….” every morning at 10 AM. Participants will be surprised what happens behind and away from the concrete walls and buildings of Bangkok. After visiting a typical local temple, we walk at a relaxed pace through one of the poorest neighborhoods of Bangkok. You’ll learn that, although people don’t have much by our own western standards; they’re all more than friendly, and happy with their lives. This remains an authentic part of the Thai-way-of–life. The way people live along the many canals in Bangkok is not seen while passing by in a tourist boat, but by actually walking amongst them. After this experience, we go for a short long-tail boat ride across the Chao Phraya River. Once on the other side, we actually enter a jungle of banana, mango, papaya and coconut-trees. You can’t even reach here by bicycle, but nature-lovers will feel at ease. A little further on, we visit a beautiful park, where we rest a while, and feed the hundreds of fish waiting at the pond. After enjoying the beauties of the park; the birds, squirrels and butterflies, we continue our walk to our lunch destination. A Thai-lunch will be served in a typical local setting. When everyone is ready, the next surprise awaits. We continue our journey in a real “samlor” (Thai rickshaw or “bicycle taxi”), to make a cycling trip through the greenest part of Bangkok, before reaching the jetty. There a long-tail boat awaits, ready to bring us back to the familiar concrete side of Bangkok. A friend says “it’s a shame the tour’s over, I could have spend hours in this jungle”

Half-day Bangkok Behind the Scenes

09:00 AM Our guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel. Walk to the nearest skytrain station and travel to the Chao Phraya River. Embark on a public taxi boat and travel to Bangkok's vibrant Chinatown district, which runs along Yaowarat Road. The street is lined with gold shops, Chinese herbalists, food stalls selling a large variety of snacks, household goods, incense and just about everything else. We will visit Sri Gurusingh Sabha Temple, where local Sikhs come to worship and then continue on foot through Sampang Lane, a labyrinth of small alleys. Here you will find a large variety of stalls and shops selling cheap clothing and household goods. Explore Pahurat Market, located more or less in the heart of “Little India”. This is the place to shop for fabrics, clothing and wedding keepsakes. In Thailand, it is customary, that guests invited to a wedding reception receive some small memento of the occasion. Along Pahurat road will see numerous shops sell them by the dozens in hundreds of varieties. Having walked along these truly bustling districts, take a short rest at one of the numerous food stalls along the footpath and taste one of the local dishes (noodle soup or phad thai or fried rice). By Tuk Tuk (the local version of a motorized samlor) we continue to Bangkok’s oldest temple (founded in the 17th century), Wat Pho with its Reclining Buddha. King Rama III turned this temple into a center of learning, making it in essence Thailand's first university. After a guided visit, we will walk down to the River and take a taxi boat back to Taksin Bridge and return to the hotel by Sky-train. Note: After the guided visit of Wat Pho, guests may also choose to continue exploring the sights along the Chao Phraya River on their own (our guide will say good-bye to them after the tour of Wat Pho).

Grand Palace & Vimanmek Mansion

The Grand Palace was the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenellated walls the entire government administration. The architecture is vibrantly Thai though there are some European designs as well. Brilliantly colored and gilded, and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in color, the Buddha is actually carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. Also within the grounds are several palaces, used for various occasions: the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House. The majority of halls and palaces can be viewed from outside only, but the exteriors are captivating enough to please. Note: The entire Grand Palace is closed during special royal ceremonies and during visiting heads of state, while other buildings (such as the Throne Hall and Coronation Hall) are always closed on SAT/SUN and public holidays, during special ceremonies and on Buddhist Holidays. A calendar for visiting the Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha can be viewed on the web-site of the Bureau of the Royal Household. Vimanmek Mansion was the first permanent residence in Dusit Garden, built in 1900 by the royal command of King Rama V. The mansion was in fact his former Summer Palace. The celebration for the completion of Vimanmek Mansion was held on March 27, 1901. King Rama V moved from the Grand Palace to reside in Vimanmek Mansion for 5 years. After his death, the Vimanmek Mansion has not been used as a royal residence and has been used as a place of storage by the Bureau of the Royal Household for the past 50 years. King Rama VII ordered a few renovations to the Mansion. For example, he ordered the installation of electrical wiring and repairs to the main pier at the man-made lake in the garden. In 1982, Her Majesty the Queen asked for His Majesty’s permission to renovate the Mansion to be used as a museum to honour King Rama V by displaying his photographs, art and artefacts to commemorate royal visits to Europe as well as to exhibit Thai handicrafts to serve as a showcase of the national heritage for future generations.

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace was the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenellated walls the entire government administration. The architecture is vibrantly Thai though there are some European designs as well. Brilliantly colored and gilded, and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in color, the Buddha is actually carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. Also within the grounds are several palaces, used for various occasions: the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House. The majority of halls and palaces can be viewed from outside only, but the exteriors are captivating enough to please.

Note: The entire Grand Palace is closed during special royal ceremonies and during visiting heads of state, while other buildings (such as the Throne Hall and Coronation Hall) are always closed on SAT/SUN and public holidays, during special ceremonies and on Buddhist Holidays. A calendar for visiting the Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha can be viewed on the web-site of the Bureau of the Royal Household at: http://www.palaces.thai.net/calendar/2010/english_2010.htm

Exploring China town & Thonburi by bycicle

Our half day cycle trip is a fascinating glimpse into the Bangkok of old. We take in some of the more popular Bangkok Landmarks: Chinatown, Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), and the Royal Barge Museum, but we also goes off the beaten path and show you some lesser known sites that are not on the tourist map. We start by exploring the bustling Chinatown area (Yoawarat) before crossing the Chao Phraya to the more serene and often less visited temples and sites of Thonburi. We ride along quiet back roads of this area stopping at the occasional market as we head to the Princess Mother Memorial Park and museum, although small, this is well kept and well worth a visit. Some lesser known temples, the Chao Praya river and a sampling of a local Thai dessert that has it origins from the Portuguese who settled here, Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) and the Royal Barge Museum are all part of this interesting and varied bike trip. This is a very gentle 15-km ride along quiet back roads and suitable for anyone that can ride a bike. We ride as a group with experienced cycle guides setting a gentle pace and stop often to visit points of interest and allow everyone to catch up. Water is included as well as a bike and helmet. Van transfer from hotels in the city to the starting and ending point of the cycling trip are included.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

There are countless floating markets throughout the country, many within a couple of hours’ of the capital. The colorfully clad merchants at these lively markets paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruit and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. There is lots of chatter and activity – bargaining is common – that’s all part of the fun -- but don’t expect to get the price down more than a few baht. The most famous of the floating markets is Damnoen Saduak, about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. This buzzing market is at its best in the early morning before the crowds arrive and the heat of the day builds up. Our tour further includes a visit to Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakorn Pathom, supposedly the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

Crocodile Farm

Visit the world's largest crocodile farm, founded in 1950. Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo is dedicated to the education, preservation, research and the conservation of wildlife. Experience the thrilling "Crocodile Wresting" stage shows, where the audience is invited to participate and discover a photographer's paradise along the zoo's shady walkways while coming face-to-face with exotic animals.

Cooking Class at Baipai Cookery School

Learning Thai cooking would be an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience something different or who are just curious about being able to cook well or in some case, at all. Furthermore there is no better way to learn Thai cooking once you are in Thailand and taking a Thai cooking class, taught by qualified Thai personnel. Baipai Thai Cooking School has established and prides itself on presenting the authenticity, the art of Thai cooking and Thai culture onto a plate. Only for half a day in the morning, participants will get to learn and enjoy the cooking lessons with genuine and traditional Thai recipes which are properly and accurately transferred together with secrets, tips and tricks. The cooking course at Baipai is a short course teaching the art of preparing fine Thai cuisine. Each individual will be fully equipped with necessary cooking tools i.e. stove, wok etc., completely hands-on and conducted in English. Our price includes lesson fee, use of school’s cooking utensils, all fresh and dry ingredients, recipe book, meals, coffee or tea, and taxes. For further details, please ask for our separate Fact Sheet of Baipai Thai Cooking School.

Colors of Bangkok - Cycling Tour & 2 hours Spa Buffet

Colors of Bangkok” is a 4-5 hour bicycling tour through the metropolis Bangkok. The trip is about 25 – 30 KM long and the distance traveled can be adjusted to the condition of the participants. Every healthy person who is able to ride a bicycle can join this trip. During this trip participants get to see the huge differences this metropolis has to offer. We will visit a local Buddhist temple complex, a sweatshop making sandals or other items, take a short boat trip across the Chao Praya river in a longtail boat, see not only luxurious villa’s and apartments but slum houses and the people living there as well, see an open-air Muay Thai school (kick boxing), a Burmese style (Mon) built Chedi, a local elementary school, ride through the greenest area of Bangkok and recognize the plants, you might have at home, only here they are bigger. Rest stops about every hour are made to provide you drinking water or a soft drink.
Bicycles used are all imported, U.S. designed, 21 speeds, full suspension mountain bikes.
Note: Visit of the above mention school will be skipped during school holidays.

Bangkok Way of Life

A guided walking tour through Bangkok’s China town with great opportunities to explore the way of life and the Chinese heritage. A Tuk Tuk ride to the Thieves & Pahurat markets is included as well.

Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is dedicated to preserving the national cultural heritage through collections of art, archaeological and cultural objects in the Palace of Wang Na compound near the Grand Palace. The Gallery of Thai History is located in the Sivamokhaphiman Hall, with the Prehistory Galley at the rear of the building. The History of Art collection is displayed in the South and North Wings and the Minor arts, Royal Cremation Chariots and Ceremonial Objects are exhibited nearby in other buildings within the palace compound. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

Bangkok City Tour & Grand Palace

This tour includes three of the most unusual Buddhist temples in Bangkok: Wat Trimitr with its invaluable Golden Buddha (5 1/2 tons of solid gold). Wat Po, the most extensive temple in Bangkok, with its colossal Reclining Buddha and the Chedis of the Kings. The Grand Palace was the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenellated walls the entire government administration. The architecture is vibrantly Thai though there are some European designs as well. Brilliantly colored and gilded, and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century.
The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in color, the Buddha is actually carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. Also within the grounds are several palaces, used for various occasions: the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House. The majority of halls and palaces can be viewed from outside only, but the exteriors are captivating enough to please.
Note: The entire Grand Palace is closed during special royal ceremonies and during visiting heads of state, while other buildings (such as the Throne Hall and Coronation Hall) are always closed on SAT/SUN and public holidays, during special ceremonies and on Buddhist Holidays. A calendar for visiting the Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha can be viewed on the web-site of the Bureau of the Royal Household at: http://www.palaces.thai.net/calendar/2010/english_2010.htm

Bangkok City & Temples

From several magnificent temples in Bangkok, the three most unique ones are Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Benchamabophit. Wat Traimit houses a striking 3-meter tall Golden Buddha image - a gleaming, 5-ton figure of solid gold. Wat Pho, which features the largest reclining Buddha image in Thailand, and the Chedi of the kings, is Bangkok's oldest and largest temple. Finally there is Wat Benchamabophit, a fine modern Thai temple constructed from white Carrara marble with ornate crossbeams decorated with lacquer and gold.

Bangkok by Boat

A unique way to experience Bangkok. Start with a trip by Skytrain to Taksin Bridge and continue by taxi boat to Bangkok's most well known fruit and flower market, Pak Klong Talad. Continue by local Tuk Tuk to Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest temple which features the largest reclining Buddha image in Thailand. A ferry crossing brings you to the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) and its impressive ceramic covered Pagoda. Back to your hotel by taxi boat and skytrain.

Ancient City

The Ancient City, also known as Muang Boran, is both entertaining and historically interesting. This 320-acre outdoor museum is an architectural reflection of Thailand's glorious past. Nearly a hundred of the country’s most important historical landmarks and monuments, including palaces and temples, have been reconstructed as miniature replicas. Muang Boran also houses several ethnological displays of artifacts and antiques, including rural arts, ancient tools, and hunting equipment, evidence of the long-term survival of a native culture.

A Morning at the Park

Often called the “lung of the city” Lumpini Park occupies 140 acres or 56.6 hectar in the main business district of Bangkok, located on the north side of Rama IV Road, between Ratchadamri Road and Witthayu Road. It is the first public park of Bangkok, a heritage of King Rama VI given to his people in 1925. The activities in the past included kite competitions, cow races, swings, merry-go-rounds. Giving this land to the government, King Rama VII stated that the land could be used as a public park only. During World War II, the park temporarily became a Japanese soldiers’ camp. After the war in 1952 - 1954, it was a venue for the celebration of the constitution and the Miss Siam Beauty contest was held on the park's island. Lumpini Park houses the city's first public library and dance hall, a senior citizens club and sports club, where swimming and ballroom dancing are taught. During winter time, the park becomes the site for the annual Concert in the Park festival featuring classical music by the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra and other bands (every Sunday at 5.00pm in December and January).

One of the “must do” things for every Bangkok visitor is to watch the morning activities in Lumpini Park or even better, participate in one of the morning Chi Kung exercises. Most of the “action” takes place between 0700 and 0800 in the morning, with people practicing Tai Chi, Qui Gong, Yoga, jogging, ball room dance, Thai dance and martial arts. Weekends and public holidays are the busiest days of the week with over 40.000 visitors a day, while Mondays tend to be the most quiet (street vendors are not allowed to set up their stalls on Mondays, which might contribute to the lower number of people visiting the park).

Itinerary: 06:30hrs Our guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel and accompany you to Lumpini Park by private car or van. Participate in a 50-minute Tai Chi / Chi Kung exercise or take a leisurely walk through the park to watch the various activities taking place in the morning. Watch out for the large lizards at the lakeside and notice, how everyone comes to a standstill, when the national anthem is played over loudspeakers in honor of the king at 08:00AM. Transfer back to your hotel for a refreshing shower and breakfast.

HALF DAY TOURS EX BANGKOK

4-hour Spa Buffet at Dahra Spa

Select from the spa’s extensive menu any treatments for a maximum of 4 consecutive hours (or 240 minutes of total bliss and relaxation) at one fixed price. No need to decide weeks or months in advance, which treatments you might want to choose once you arrive in Bangkok. Just pre-book the spa-buffet for a specific date and then choose from the spa's menu once you arrive there. Choose among massages, body scraps, body wraps, facial treatments and complete packages that suit your taste. Dahra Spa is located on Silom Road, right in the center of the business, shopping and entertainment district and is open daily from 10:00 AM until 11:00 PM. The spa is within walking distance of Sofitel Silom and Narai Hotels and just a few minutes walk from BTS Skytrain station Chong Nonsi. For an overview of available treatments please ask for our special flyer (registered agents can view, print or download the flyer from our document library).