Kingdom of Siam
Exotic Thailand
December 7 – 18, 2005

KARMIC ADVENTURE

In Buddhist theology the word “Karma” literally means “action.” It is therefore highly appropriate that Thailand, which is predominately Buddhist, presents a dazzling array of adventures for the active traveler. Hiking, jungle treks, scuba diving, bird watching, whitewater rafting, rock climbing—these are just some of the ways to discover the country’s huge natural and cultural riches.
     On the map Thailand has the shape of an axe with a long, narrow handle. From top to bottom is a span of more than 1,000 miles, or roughly the distance between New York and Miami. Thanks to its extraordinary length, the country has the most diverse climate in Southeast Asia.
     Geographically Thailand is divided into four regions, and the landscape varies from one to the other. The Central Plains, which include the nation’s capital, Bangkok, are flat and fertile. The North is marked by forested mountains while the high plateau of the Northeast is relatively dry. The Southern Peninsula, flanked by the Gulf of Thailand to the East and the Andaman Sea to the West, has beaches and wetlands on either side of its lush central mountain range. With nearly 1,700 miles of coastline, Thailand is a prime destination for beach lovers.
     Thailand’s location at the heart of Southeast Asia provides a diverse array of plants and wildlife. A large part of the country’s charm is the work of nature; the cultural diversity that exists here is responsible for the rest. Village life varies from one place to another, and ethnic tribes of each region have their distinct traditions. Trails lead deep into the rainforest past cool waterfalls, and seemingly endless beaches of white, soft sand beckon sun-worshippers.
     The country experienced a devastating tsunami on December 26, 2004, and the beach resorts along the Andaman Sea, particular Phuket, quickly moved on the road to recovery. Hotels and services have returned to normal operations, and tourist attractions and the coral reefs survived with little damage. Now, almost exactly one year later, the people of Phuket are ready to welcome visitors once again, and we hope to do our part for the recovery effort by bringing Toto Tourists (and our gay dollars) back to the Andaman region.
     Ride an elephant through the jungle and relax in the sun on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Bargain-hunters who love haggling will thrive at street markets everywhere, which are crammed with all manner of goods your friends and relatives will love to receive for Christmas. Early December is absolutely the best time of year to visit Thailand for picture-perfect weather!
     Toto’s pre-Holidays tour in Thailand combines the primal beauty of the northern province of Chiang Mai, the restored beaches of Phuket, and the dynamic capital, Bangkok, with its futuristic high-rise buildings juxtaposed against the exquisite beauty of the gleaming Grand Palace. From the golden spires and soaring roofs of the country’s fabled Buddhist temples, to the awe-inspiring ruins of ancient cities, join us as we take in the most majestic wonders of the fabled Kingdom of Siam.

ITINERARY

Wednesday, December 7, 2005
Leave Home / Flight to Thailand

Make arrangements to leave your home city today on an international flight bound for Bangkok, Thailand, arriving tomorrow afternoon.

Thursday, December 8, 2005
Arrival in Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok, known as the City of Angels. Because group airfare is not provided and participants tend to arrive at widely varying times, we have not included a group transfer from the airport to the hotel in the tour cost. Once we receive flight details for each participant we will arrange private meet-and-greet transfer services and invoice you accordingly, clustering small groups of arriving participants whenever possible. If your flight arrives late at night, we strongly suggest you consider arriving one day early so that you do not miss our welcome events.
     This evening Toto Tours hosts a Welcome Dinner at the gorgeous Blue Elephant Bangkok Restaurant and Cooking School, for some authentic Thai food. Afterwards, those who have the energy or inclination will want to take the plunge into Bangkok’s gay nightlife.     (Welcome Dinner)

Friday, December 9, 2005
Touring “The Big Mango”—Bangkok

After breakfast at our hotel, embark on a half day sightseeing tour of “The Big Mango”—Bangkok. Tour the Temple of the Dawn, a stupa entirely encrusted with pieces of antique porcelain ceramics, which offers a spectacular view of the city. Next we visit the Grand Palace with its adjoining Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Finally, visit Wat Pho, the oldest of Bangkok’s temples, predating the foundation of the capital itself. It is considered Thailand’s oldest university, and traditional massage is still taught here. You will marvel at the enormous reclining Buddha (over 150 feet long). Return to the hotel and the afternoon and evening are free.     (Breakfast)

Saturday, December 10, 2005
Ayutthaya

This morning embark on a full day journey to the heart of ancient Siam—Ayutthaya. En route we stop to visit the Summer Palace at Bang Pa-In, formerly the summer retreat of the early kings of Ayutthaya. The grounds contain a Russian and Swiss style pavilion, a wat in the surprising form of a Gothic church, and the dainty Sala in the Lake Aisawan Thipaya-At.
     Our tour in Ayutthaya includes entrances to several famous sites. Visit a monastery known as Viharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It houses an ancient Buddha image which dates from the 1500’s and is a popular place of Buddhist pilgrimage in Thailand. The Wat Phra Maha That reliquary dates from the late 1380’s and is one of the earliest city temples. Wat Ratburana contains a distinctive Khmer-style “prang” (corncob-shaped tower) rising from the ruins of this temple dating from 1424. It is said to be the cremation site of two royal brothers who died while sparring for the throne. Many of the most important treasures recovered from Ayutthaya ruins were found at this site during excavations in the 1950’s. We also visit the Wat Yai Chhai Mongkon, site of a giant reclining Buddha.
     Return to Bangkok via a three-hour cruise aboard the beautiful Shangri La Horizon (owned and operated by the Shangri La Hotel in Bangkok). Enjoy a buffet lunch as we cruise around Ayutthaya, viewing the monuments from the vantage point of three converging rivers, and continue all the way to Bangkok, arriving in late afternoon. Our coach meets us at the pier, transfers us to our hotel and the remainder of the day is free.     (Breakfast / Lunch)

Sunday, December 11, 2005
Chiang Mai / Doi Suthep

Rise early for breakfast, then transfer to the airport for our morning flight to the province of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. Popularly known as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai is blessed with stunning natural beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity.
     Upon arrival, drive to the 100-square-mile Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park, full of historical sites, sacred places, and natural beauty. Ride a cable car up to the top of the park’s most visible and important monument, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a pagoda containing holy Buddhist relics and boasting a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside. Check-in to our hotel in late afternoon, and the rest of the day is free.     (Breakfast)

Monday, December 12, 2005
Hill Tribe Jungle Adventures

This morning partake of an early breakfast at our hotel, prior to our 7:30am pick-up. Our group transfers to Lisu Lodge, where we stow our luggage and embark on today’s adventure. Begin with a one-hour gentle bike ride through pretty hill country to the Mae Taeng River. Mount a majestic elephant for a one-hour ride through the deep jungle, stopping for a picnic lunch at a picturesque site along the river. Hop aboard for a gentle rafting excursion (with a few light rapids) upon the river, followed by a visit to the friendly and exotic ethnic village of Huay Pong. Here we will meet with the local shaman (doctor) and learn about the lifestyle and beliefs of the Akha people. Finally get back on the mountain bikes for a return to Lisu Lodge for dinner, evening entertainment, and overnight accommodations.     (All Meals)

Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Ethnic Villages

After breakfast at the lodge, we tour the Lisu Village. The tour is conducted by a village elder who will talk about life, customs, religion, and beliefs of his people, and includes a visit to the shrine that overlooks the village. After lunch, transfer to the village of Ban Pang Mae Daeng by oxcart, to glimpse jungle life from another community’s perspective. Return to Chiang Mai by shuttle bus, arriving in the late afternoon, and the remainder of the day is free to relax.     (Breakfast / Lunch)

Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Spectacular Phuket

After breakfast take a flight south to enjoy the spectacular beaches on the island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. Monolithic limestone karsts tower into the sky like fairytale castles, and lovely tropical islands dot the horizon, beckoning for adventure. NOTE: Following the tsunami disaster of December 26, 2004, this area has rapidly recovered, with full services for visitors returning to normal levels.
     After check-in at our hotel at Patong beach, the day is free to enjoy the surf, explore the town, sample the fresh local seafood, or indulge in one of the many adventure options available on this paradise island.     (Breakfast)

Thursday, December 15, 2005
Phang Nga Bay / James Bond Island

After an early breakfast at our hotel, transfer to the northern end of the island and hop on a long-tail boat for a leisurely, full-day excursion on Phang Nga Bay. Among the more dramatic limestone outcroppings from the sea are Koh Pannyi and what has become known as James Bond Island, which was used as the setting for Dr. Scaramanga’s lair in The Man With the Golden Gun. We will make stops to enjoy a seafood lunch and take a dips in the sea at quiet, secluded beaches. Return to our hotel in the late afternoon, and the remainder of the day is free.      (Breakfast / Lunch)

Friday, December 16, 2005
Free Day

Today is completely free to do as you please. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy an optional full-day boat tour of the lovely Phi Phi Islands. Snorkeling around the archipelago’s coral reefs or climbing to one of the many karst limestone lookouts is an unforgettable experience. Phi Phi Don, the larger island, has idyllic tropical beaches lining its southern and eastern shores. Phi Phi Le, to the south, has great snorkeling and the Viking Cave to explore.     (Breakfast)

Saturday, December 17, 2005
Return to Bangkok

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our late morning, 80-minute flight back to Bangkok. After check-in at our hotel, the afternoon is free for last minute souvenir shopping. This evening Toto Tours hosts a Farewell Dinner at Sirocco Restaurant on top of the State Tower. Afterwards, take advantage of one final opportunity to indulge in Bangkok’s gay nightlife.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Sunday, December 18, 2005
Departure

The tour officially ends after breakfast. Arrange your return flight home for any convenient time today. We will provide one group transfer to the airport this morning, timed to accommodate the greatest number of departing tour participants. We will be happy to extend your stay in Bangkok if you so desire.     (Breakfast)

We have organized an optional extension to see the temples of Angkor in Cambodia. Click the link below to read the details:

OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO SEE ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA