Optional Post Tour Extension to
Bangkok, Thailand
October 27 – 31, 2004
ANCIENT SIAM
Founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty,
Bangkok is now the country's spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial
and educational hub. Covering an area of more than 930 square miles,
it is home to ten million people, or more than 10% of the country's
population.
Over the last few decades, this capital
city has changed into a modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It
offers to visitors the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from
other big cities, as well as a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions.
Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonized and thus
kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors
the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle
culture amidst the bustle of a dynamic metropolis. This great city has
had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern world.
For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions
to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of
great beauty and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas,
numerous shopping centers and traditional ways of life. A great way
to see the city is along the “Venice of the East” timeless
canals and the Chao Phraya River of the “River of Kings"”
winding through the city. It is worth taking a trip along its waters
before exploring further into different canals to take a glimpse of
old Bangkok.
ITINERARY
Friday, October 27, 2006
Arrival in Bangkok
After breakfast at our hotel in Siem Reap, transfer to the airport
for our morning flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival we are met at the airport
and transfered downtown to our beautiful hotel. After checking in, enjoy
an orientation tour of Bangkok’s gay entertainment district near
the hotel. The evening is free. (Breakfast)
Saturday, October 28, 2006
The Big Mango
After breakfast at our hotel, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour
of “The Big Mango”—Bangkok. Among the many highlights
will be the Grand Palace with its adjoining Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are
free. (Breakfast / Lunch)
Sunday, October 29, 2006
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, including
a monastery, shrines, a giant reclining Buddah, and ruins of ancient
temples.
After lunch we return to Bangkok on a
river boat cruise. It is a most dramatic way to view the city as we
pass under modern bridges and see the old Temples contrasted with the
high-rise architecture. Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the
day is free. (Breakfast / Lunch)
Monday, October 30, 2006
Free Day
Today is entirely free, without any planned activities. Having received
a general overview of the city, today is the day to target your special
interests. Perhaps you want to do a canal cruise. Or you might wish
to see the Royal Barges museum. You will have no shortage of exciting
options from which to select your day's activities! (Breakfast)
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Departure
The tour extension ends officially after breakfast. We provide one
group transfer to the airport timed to accommodate the greatest number
of departing participants. (Breakfast)
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