2027 Thailand Group Trip
Thailand · Spirit of Bangkok, Chang Mai & Phuket
11 days 06/05/2027 - 06/15/2027
Discover Thailand on an unforgettable journey through the country's most iconic destinations. From the traditional temples of Bangkok, with its unique night markets and vibrant culture, to the green oasis of mountainous Chang Mai. Explore the natural biodiversity on mainland before relaxing on the island paradise of Phuket.
After recently visiting Thailand, I immediately knew it had to be our next group adventure! Thailand offers an incredible combination of culture, adventure, beautiful beaches, amazing food, and unforgettable experiences—all while being very affordable once you arrive.
This itinerary gives you the best of both worlds: the ease and comfort of planned, guided experiences along with free time to safely explore, add optional activities, shop, relax, or experience Thailand your own way.
I’ll also assist with your flight arrangements, and you’ll have the flexibility to add extra days before or after the group trip if you’d like to extend your time in Thailand.
Thailand truly has something for every type of traveler, and after experiencing it myself, I cannot wait to go back and share this incredible destination with all of you!
Cost $1,999 per person (double occupancy- 2 per room) Land Only
$250 deposit per person to secure spot
OR
Cost $2,599 per person (single occupancy-solo travelers) Land Only $250 deposit per person to secure spot
***Price may reduce if we get enough travelers. ***
Deposit is nonrefundable unless we do not meet group requirements to go forward with trip.
SPOTS ARE LIMITED AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE with paid deposits!
FLEX cancelation coverage of $149 included: cancel for any reason up to 30 days pre-departure. Get 100% of the trip cost back in travel credit.
Trip Details
Included services
-
Internal flights: Bangkok - Chang Mai - Phuket.*
-
9 nights accommodation in Charm category hotels
-
9 breakfasts.
-
Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.**
-
Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary with English-speaking guide.
-
All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
-
Khantoke Dinner and Dance Show.
-
Temple Walking Tour in Bangkok and Ciang Mai Temples Tour.
-
Guide/s during the excursions.
Not included services
Drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.
-
Additional vaccinations are not required but recommended. Standard US Vaccination requirements are necessary Consult CDC for details to make your decision.
-
Passports are required with 6 months time before expiration of dates of trip.
-
Please note: Children under 3 years and adults over 70 years are not permitted to join according to guidelines of group. While I am not restricting children, I do feel mature, older children are best suited for group travel. Days can be long and filled with so many activities, that I do not feel these style trips are best suited for younger children and can book you separately within a group if interested.
Group Travel Requirements & Expectations
Christy Travels group trips are designed for travelers who are easygoing, adventurous, flexible, and ready to have fun! We fit a lot of incredible experiences into our trips, so some days may be busy, start early, and require a good amount of walking. Thailand is also hot and humid, so travelers should be prepared for an active itinerary and time spent outdoors.
International travel doesn't always go exactly according to plan. Weather, transportation, schedules, and other circumstances can sometimes require adjustments, so patience, flexibility, and a go-with-the-flow attitude are essential. These trips are about embracing the adventure and enjoying the experience—even when things don't happen exactly as expected.
Different Travelers, Different Vacation Styles
Our private groups bring together travelers with different personalities, lifestyles, and preferences. At the end of the day, this is everyone's vacation, and each traveler is responsible for their own personal choices and actions.
During free time, some travelers may choose to relax, explore independently, participate in additional activities, enjoy nightlife, or consume alcoholic beverages. Drinking or participating in any optional activity is never required or expected. However, travelers should understand that they may be around other adults who choose to drink or enjoy their vacation differently.
The personal choices and actions of individual travelers are outside the control and responsibility of Christy Travels. We ask everyone to respect each other's choices, boundaries, beliefs, and individual vacation experience.
The Most Important Requirement: A Positive Attitude!
I want these trips to be filled with adventure, laughter, new friendships, incredible experiences, and lifelong memories. A positive and respectful attitude toward your fellow travelers is extremely important.
No complainers or unnecessary drama! Come prepared to be flexible, respect others, embrace a different culture, try new things, and enjoy the adventure.
If you're ready to go with the flow, experience the world, have fun, and make some amazing memories, you'll fit right in!
ITINERARY:
1st Day: Home - Night on board
Arrival at your departure airport* ready to check-in for an overnight flight to Bangkok. Night on board.
* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
2nd Day: Bangkok
Touch down in the buzzing capital of Thailand, where you’ll be welcomed by an airport representative. Then, transfer to the hotel.
Bangkok is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, located in the heart of the country. It offers a variety of unique experiences, from its impressive temples and lively culture to its exciting night markets and world-renowned cuisine. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure and begin discovering this fascinating city. Overnight stay in Bangkok.
3rd Day: Bangkok
Breakfast at the hotel. Head to the meeting point* and discover the city and its temples on an exciting guided tour!
Your first stop is Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, commonly referred to as Wat Phra Kaew. Along the way, stroll through the amulet market, Rattanakosin Island’s famed spiritual marketplace. Next, explore the Grand Palace complex, a symbol of the city and the former official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the late 18th century until the mid-20th century.
Afterwards, pass through Tha Thien Market, a riverside market known for its dried seafood, traditional shophouses, and vibrant local atmosphere. Continue to Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha), home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world, measuring over 46 metres (150 feet) in length.
To finish the tour, visit Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn), one of Bangkok’s most iconic riverside landmarks, known for its towering spires adorned with intricate decorations. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Bangkok.
*Meeting point: Big Country Vacation office, ground floor of River City Bangkok (23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100).
**Optional Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk: Bangkok’s food scene is calling, and it’s ready to show you its very best on this group tour. Your guide will take you to some of the city’s most iconic local street food stalls, where you’ll discover beloved dishes such as fishball egg noodles, Chinese-style Pa Tong Go Savoey doughnuts, and the flavour-packed rolled noodles at Nai Ek — a truly otherworldly experience.
Travelling by Tuk Tuk from stop to stop, you’ll also enjoy crab fried rice served with lime and chillies, and visit the legendary Jay Fai, the only Thai street food vendor awarded a Michelin star.
Visit to the Bangkok's temples
Explore Bangkok’s treasured temples, including the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, on this guided temple tour. Along the way, visit local markets and uncover the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
What's included: Drinking water, a professional English-speaking tour guide, and admissions.
Not included: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, tips, and other personal expenses.
Duration 07:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:00
Physical rating: Moderate
You will be required to walk short distances and climb some steps. Time will be spent both standing and sitting down.
Meeting point: Big Country Vacation office, ground floor of River City Bangkok (23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100).
4th Day: Bangkok
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy the day at your leisure to continue exploring the capital. We recommend an unforgettable optional excursion to Ayutthaya.* Overnight stay in Bangkok.
*Optional Full-Day Ayutthaya Historical Park Tour with Lunch: The former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is a historic city waiting to be discovered. UNESCO-listed and filled with ancient ruins and diverse architecture, ranging from Gothic to Thai-inspired, this extraordinary place offers a unique glimpse into the past. The tour includes a visit to the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, lunch at a local restaurant, and a scenic private longtail boat trip along the Chao Phraya River, also known as the "River of Kings."
Please wear smart casual summer attire and comfortable walking shoes. For cultural respect, women are advised to wear short-sleeved tops with full-length trousers or knee-length skirts, and men are advised to wear trousers with short-sleeved shirts. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any temple.
5th Day: Bangkok – Chiang Mai
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival in the mountainous city—one of the gems of Thailand—you’ll transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to begin exploring this magical destination. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
6th Day: Chiang Mai
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, visit Chiang Mai’s incredible temples. Explore the old part of the city within its ancient walls and discover five of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples.
First, visit Wat Phra Singh, built in 1345, home to a Buddha image over 1,500 years old. Next, explore Wat Jed Yod, followed by Wat Chiang Mun, and the centuries-old Wat Chedi Luang, believed to be the first temple to house the famous Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Finally, visit Wat Suan Dok, built in the Sri Lankan style and serving as the resting place of the Chet Ton Dynasty.
After the tour, transfer to the hotel and enjoy free time to continue exploring the city. Overnight stay in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Temples Tour
Explore five sacred temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Jed Yod, Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Suan Dok. See the 1,500-year-old Buddha and learn about the rich history of each site.
What's included: Transfers, English speaking guide and admissions.
Not included: Meals, drinks or tips.
Duration 03:30h Approx. Pick up time: 08:30 Approx
Physical rating:
Moderate
You will be required to walk short distances and climb some steps. Time will be spent both standing and sitting down.
7th Day: Chiang Mai
Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day exploring Chiang Mai at your own pace. Surrounded by mountains, Chiang Mai is an ideal place to enjoy lush natural beauty. We also recommend an optional visit to the temple of Doi Suthep.*
In the evening, enjoy a tasting dinner featuring traditional northern Thai dishes, accompanied by a Khantoke show showcasing dances typical of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. After dinner, you can either transfer back to the hotel or visit the city’s famous night market. Overnight stay in Chiang Mai.
*Optional Visit to Doi Suthep Temple & White Hmong Hill Tribe: Visit the magnificent Doi Suthep Temple, perched atop the mountain of the same name, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Chiang Mai. Afterwards, explore the ancient settlement of the White Hmong hill tribe, learning about their rituals and daily life.
Dinner Show with Khantoke Dancing
Enjoy traditional northern dishes with a Khantoke show featuring dances from the ancient Kingdom of Lanna. After dinner, transfer to the hotel or the city’s famous night market.
What's included: Transfers, show, dinner with one non-alcoholic drink.
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 18:30 Approx
Physical rating:Light
8th Day: Chiang Mai - Phuket
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight to Phuket. Arrive in beautiful Phuket, a paradise island of rainforests and mountains known as the ultimate escape in Thailand. After getting comfortable at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to lounge by the pool or search for the most idyllic paradise coves. Overnight stay in Phuket.
9th Day: Phuket
Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to enjoy the magnificent beaches of the island, either sunbathing, strolling around or cooling off in its crystal clear waters. Why not visit the old part of Phuket Town, the beautiful Buddhist and Chinese temples on the island or the great bazaars of Karon Beach and Patong Beach? We recommend an exciting optional excursion to Phi Phi & Bamboo Island.* Overnight stay in Phuket.
*Optional Excursion to Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speedboat: Check-in and light breakfast (toast and refreshments) at the pier. You’ll depart from Panwa Harbour by speedboat, enjoying extraordinary views en route to Phi Phi Leh. At Puleh Lagoon, you can swim in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.
You can rent a traditional long-tailed boat to experience the local culture while cruising past the famous Viking Cave. Next, stop for lunch at a hotel on Phi Phi Don Island. After lunch, head to Bamboo Island to swim, snorkel, and relax on its beautiful sandy crescent beach. Finally, return to Panwa Harbour, where a van will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.
10th Day: Phuket
Breakfast at the hotel. Make the most of another free day to relax, explore and enjoy Phuket. We recommend our optional excursion to the James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay.* Overnight stay in Phuket.
*Optional Excursion to James Bond Island & Beyond: An unforgettable adventure awaits! Transfer to a private departure lounge at Royal Phuket Marina, where you’ll enjoy coffee and a snack with your expert tour guide. Then set off to discover a stunning landscape shaped by towering cliffs, limestone formations, and hidden caves.
Arrive at Panak Island for a walk-in cave exploration featuring tranquil lagoons and mystical hongs (limestone caves with water channels). Next, visit the famous James Bond Island, made iconic by The Man with the Golden Gun—a truly cinematic and picturesque destination. The adventure continues with canoeing at Siam Adventure World, Tam Lod. Paddle through caves and mangroves in this secluded area of Phang Nga Bay.
Next, explore Koh Panyee village, a unique fishing village built on stilts. Savour delicious dishes at a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, relax on a tropical beach, soaking up the sun while admiring the incredible natural backdrop.
Finally, return to Royal Phuket Marina for a seamless transfer back to your hotel.
11th Day: Phuket - Night on Board
After breakfast* at the hotel, say goodbye to beautiful Thailand as you transfer** to the airport for a flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip.***
*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
**If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
***Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in the US the following day.
Charm Category Hotels
Hotels are decided closer to trip time. Hotels on this trip will vary from trip I recently took as it was all luxury accommodations. The company gives an example of hotels at time of initial quote. They will be similar and equivalent to those quoted. Charm category is the entry level. They are usually a 3+ star type accommodations in the country ad in a safe environment. To keep pricing budget friendly, they are not luxury accommodations.
Day 2 to 5 · Bangkok- 3 nights
Villa De Khaosan by Chillax
Day 5 to 8 · Chiang Mai
De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai
Day 8 to 11 · Phuket
Optional activities -extra cost
Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
Suggested activity for day 3 in Bangkok
Explore Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown on a street food tour by Tuk Tuk. Visit Michelin-recognized stalls, taste local dishes like fishball noodles, Pa Tong Go doughnuts, and crab-fried rice, and learn the stories behind each dish.
What's included: Bottle of water, Tuk Tuk round trip from the meeting point, English-speaking guide, and food tasting (noodles, Chinese doughnuts, and fried rice).
Not included: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, tips, and other personal expenses.
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 17:30
Physical rating:
Moderate
You will be required to walk short distances and climb some steps. Time will be spent both standing and sitting down.
Meet your guide at 17:30 at the Big Country Vacation office, located on the ground floor of River City Bangkok (23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100).
Full-Day Ayutthaya Historical Park Tour with Lunch
Suggested activity for day 4 in Ayutthaya
Journey to Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO site. Visit Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace, enjoy lunch, then take a long-tail boat along the Chao Phraya River to explore ancient temples.
What's included: Drinking water and cold towels, entrance fees for Summer Palace and temples, English-speaking guide, visit to two temples (Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Mahathat), air-conditioned transportation, lunch at a local restaurant, and a one-hour boat ride.
Not included: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, tips and other personal expenses.
Duration 08:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx
Physical rating:
Active
You will be required to walk for a few hours on comfortable terrain.
Meet your guide at the Big Country Vacation office, located on the ground floor of River City Bangkok, 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100.
Doi Suthep Temple & White Hmong Hill Tribe
Suggested activity for day 7 in Chiang Mai
Discover the impressive Doi Suthep Temple. Then visit the White Hmong hill tribe settlement, also known as the Meo, Thailand’s second-largest hill tribe, making up about 17% of the hill tribe population.
What's included: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, professional English-speaking tour guide, admission fees, transport by air-conditioned minivan.
Not included: Meals, tips or other personal expenses.
Duration 04:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:30 Approx
Physical rating: Moderate
You will be required to walk short distances and climb some steps. Time will be spent both standing and sitting down.
Phi Phi & Bamboo Island Excursion by Speedboat
Suggested activity for day 9 in Phuket
Depart Panwa Harbour by speedboat to Phi Phi Leh, passing stunning cliffs and bays. Swim in Pi Leh lagoon and enjoy lunch on Phi Phi Don Island. Then relax, swim, and snorkel at Bamboo Island before returning to Phuket.
What's included: Park fees, snorkelling equipment, soft drinks, fruit, snacks, lunch, round-trip hotel transfer, travel accident insurance, English-speaking guide with ecotourism awareness, speedboat.
Not included: Tips and other personal expenses.
Duration 09:30h Approx. Pick up time: 07:00 Approx
Physical rating:
Light
Even though you will be seated most of the time, you may be required to walk short distances or climb some steps.