We meet in exotic Bangkok, the Venice of the East (2 nights), with generous time for the Grand Palace, a countryside walk that leads to a visit with a village family, exploration of the klongs (canals) and even a traditional Thai massage.

A brief air hop delivers us to Chiang Mai and our temple-style hotel
(2 nights). On foot, we’ll explore on foot the fine archaeological sites at Wiang Kum Kam and time our visit to a Buddhist temple to offer alms to monks. You’ll also enjoy a delicious cooking lesson at the Oriental Culinary Academy before our ascent by trail or by funicular to Wat Doi Suthep. En route to Angkhang Nature Resort (2 nights), we'll stop for an elephant trek in a mountain forest. Walks in the cool air include a visit to a hill-tribe village and a bonsai garden.

A relaxing boat trip on the lovely Mae Kok River gives us time to stop and mingle with the villagers and farmers to see their way of life. We’ll settle into our spa hotel (2 nights), overlooking the hills of Laos. An array of activities here includes demonstrations of Siemese arts such as silk weaving and pottery. On our last day, there’s time for shopping in a local market before a flight back to Bangkok.