Amazing Thailand Extended

The Grand Palace was the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenulated 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.

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 reveal 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 with a return to your hotel however should you wish (entrance not included) its an easy walk to the Grand Palace (290 meters / yards). 

FREQUENCY: Daily                                                                                  

TIMING: 0800-1300 & 1330-1800                                  

Tour Phuket town and take in the magnificent views of the island from Phromthep Cape and Phuket view point.  Discover the biggest temple on the island and on the way back visit the Gems Gallery, where your will see a gigantic aquarium and a magnificent dark-ride “Gems Gallery the Ride” which affords the audience with a unique way of demonstrating gemstone mining.

FREQUENCY:       Daily                                                                             

TIMING:            0730-1700                                                         

Your magical full-day Thai island adventure begins when your friendly local guide picks you up from your hotel in Phuket. Leaving for Koh Panak around 9am, you’ll travel to the island by speedboat. Explore the mangrove cave or just admire the gorgeous wildlife as you wander around the island. Next you’ll travel to Khao Tapu, famous for its role in the James Bond film ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ (for this reason, the island is often referred to as ‘James Bond Island’). Here you can visit the Leaning Rock (Khao Ping Gun), a 164-foot behemoth situated atop other nearby rocks, or wander through the mangrove swamp. A delicious buffet lunch will be then served at Koh Panyee, known for having its homes built on stilts in the water. After lunch it’s time for canoeing through a sea cave and wandering through a mangrove forest on Tham Lod. Upon reaching magical Naka Island you might choose to swim, sunbathe or simply relax on the beach. From here you’ll leave around 4pm and arrive back in Phuket between 4:30 and 4:45pm. Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the tour

FREQUENCY: Daily    

TIMING: 0700-1900         

This day adventure in the Khao Sok jungle is perfect for fun and education at the same time. Jungle Hiking on foot in Khaosok National Park, enchanting plants, flowers, butterfly, birds, squirrels, reptiles, etc. awaits your discovery. A self-guided nature trail explains a many way of native plants were used throughout history (approx. 3-hrs.). Canoe silently down the Sok river in a stable canoe paddled by an experienced guide. Keep your eyes open to spot for birds and other small creepy animals that shall remain unnamed and limestone cliff mountains along the way. Relaxing after the long walk at Rommanee Hot Spring; you can either try self-foot-spa or whole body before returning to Phuket.

FREQUENCY: Daily, Except Thursday      

TIMING:  0700-1900         

Inspired by Thailand’s rich and exotic heritage, Phuket FantaSea not only showcases the charm and beauty of Thailand. You will see Las Vegas-style theatrical show with state-of-the art technology and special effects enhance the grace and beauty of Thai myths.

FREQUENCY: Daily                                                  

TIMING:1530-2030                                                 

Wandering through the Sino-Portuguese centre of traditional Phuket – there is no better means to smell feel and touch Phuket’s architecture along its side streets and historical buildings. Crafted and designed in accordance to old and still practiced measures, Phuket Town represents to be admired and there is no better way to see the eye for detail in the design work by foot. Outside its rich cultural heritage, its quaint colonial mansions, Phuket Town is a true melting pot of street side eateries and stalls that serve only the best. All this, including a visit to an old Chinese temple and finishing the evening off with a delicious dinner on top of Rang Hills, uncovers a different Phuket, hidden from its touristic trails.

FREQUENCY: Daily                                                  

TIMING: 0800-1600                                                

A short speedboat trip 15 minutes by speedboat to Coral island (Koh Hey) to enjoy the white sandy beach, snorkeling and swimming in a turquoise water.  Or a various sea activities (optional) such as sea walking, diving, parasailing and banana boat.  Lunch at Hey restaurant. Afternoon take leisure time left through relaxing on the beach.

NOTES: Pick up & drop off from Phuket Town, Tri Trang, Kalim, Patong, Kar Kata, Rawai, Yacht Club, Naiharn, Ban Krating beach area only. Pick up from other beaches are available on request at a surcharge.     

FREQUENCY: Daily    

TIMING: 0800-1700            

Experience the tropical forest with its great variety of plants and wildlife. Hike past the impressive limestone rock of our cove through the untouched jungle and learn more about indigenous plants, trees and animals. Then gaze at the highlight of this nature trek, the magnificent Buddha tree. This so called “Ficus Religiosa” rises well above 30 meters and it takes about 20 people to reach around its trunk.