Supreme SE Asian Adventure

Supreme SE Asian Adventure Bangkok, Amphawa, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai ‐ Thailand Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake ‐ Myanmar Ancient temples, glittering gold palaces, stunning stupas, dazzling lakes and smiling faces in the most enigmatic corners of SE Asia Background This experience is designed to take the traveler into the heart of Thailand and Myanmar in exquisite style. From vintage corners of Bangkok and the Gulf of Thailand up to nostalgic Chiang Mai and then further north to the world’s most talked about resort, Four Seasons Tented Camp. In between, enjoy a full adventure in mysterious Myanmar from the city to the mountains and back. This expedition echoes the spirit of early explorers – albeit with some dazzling creature comforts! Prepare to be hosted. Act 1: Bangkok 1910 A nostalgic journey into vintage Bangkok and her lesser known charms… Modern Bangkok boasts undeniable allure, but hidden beneath a layer of time and development, tucked behind lanes and canal communities, lies a treasure trove of stories, sights and secrets waiting to be discovered. The year 1910 marked a time of dramatic change in Thailand. Rama V, the first Thai monarch to visit Europe, passed away, leaving a legacy of modernization by propelling Siam into the global community. It was a time of tradition, family, trade and travel – a time of discovery. Step back 100 years and delve into a different kingdom, a different Thailand – this is Bangkok 1910. “No other city in South‐Eastern Asia compares with Bangkok in the gripping and growing interest which leaves a permanent and fragrant impression on the mind of the visitor.” - Major Erik Seidenfaden, ‘Guide to Bangkok with Notes on Siam’, 1927 Day 1: Welcome to Bangkok Upon arrival, exit into the Arrivals Hall, turn right, and your host will be waiting for you at the ‘Meeting Point’ next to ‘Door #3’. Settle‐in to your private car and journey to Chakrabongse Villa, your home for the next two nights. Dive into your ‘Nostalgia Kit’ with maps, vintage postcards, era news clippings and a SIM card to remain connected to the moment. Free day for you to get the most appreciation of staying at this stunning Thai Villa … Meals: ‐/‐ Accommodation: Chakrabongse Royal Villa, http://www.chakrabongsevillas.com/ About the Accommodations Chakrabongse Royal Villa is set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the heart of Old Bangkok. Within this tranquil location, visitors escape the hustle of modern‐day Bangkok, while being intimately close to premier attractions. The Villas were built in 1908 by His Royal Highness Prince Chakrabongse and the home was used for royal ceremonies along the river. It’s been a vestige of the kingdom for generations and a stay here is an affirming and exclusive experience. Day 2: The Old City – Yaowarat (Chinatown) (10:00‐14:00) & Rattanakosin Island (18:00‐23:00) Now home to over 10 million, in 1910 Bangkok was a city of just 600,000 residents, with 200,000 of those being traders from China. These immigrants settled along the banks of the city’s primary river, the Chao Phraya, and played an important role in shaping the city we now know. Fear of foreign influence in Siam made assimilation very difficult for these early Bangkok merchants. With a revolution in China on the brink and an Absolute Monarch in power in Siam, the early 1900s were a tumultuous period in the kingdom. This morning trace the routes of Chinese influence and explore one of the world’s most vibrant Chinatowns by foot with an expert host, sampling Chinese delicacies along the way. Early evening, meet your host in the lobby and then a boat takes us up‐river to the city’s venerable fresh market. From the vantage point of Memorial Bridge you’ll witness traders supplying produce as they’ve done for generations. Our walking journey explores the development of Bangkok’s canal system and the illuminated landmarks in Rattanakosin Island. Salute the evening with drinks at a riverside balcony overlooking Wat Arun. Meals: B, L, D Accommodations: Chakrabongse Royal Villa, Thai Villa Day 3: Floating Market and Ancient Sites We’ll get an early start this morning and head an hour west to Samut Songkram to visit Tha Kha Floating Market. The market is named after a long water grass native to the area and retains a distinctive Thai charm seldom found at the more famous floating markets closer to Bangkok. Visit the Mangrove Forest Conservation Centre where we’ll boat through a mangrove forest out to the Gulf of Thailand. As Bangkok has grown it has pitted riverside communities in a challenge to maintain balance in local ecosystems. If the weather allows, you’ll have a chance to see the fireflies at the night time. Pickup: 08:00 Meals: B, L, D Accommodations: Amphawa Resort and Spa, http://www.baanamphawa.com About the Accommodations This ‘Ruan Thai’ is designed with a series of teakwood pavilions, exuding traditional Thai architectural elegance. Deluxe Rooms feature separate living and sleeping areas, and Pool Villas also feature a Jacuzzi and private ‘plunge’ pool. A spa also offers a sensual escape into modernity. The resort backs onto a wide stretch of the Mae Khlong River. Day 4: Railways, Amphawa Floating Market, Fly to Myanmar Today, visit Thailand’s railway track market ‘Talad Rom Hoob’, see how the train station doubles as a market and watch locals scamper to fold up umbrellas and stalls when trains pass through following by one of real floating market “Amphawa” before heading back to Bangkok to catch the flight to Yangon. Flight Details: Bangkok ‐ Yangon Meals: B Act 2: Myanmar Myanmar (Burma) ‐ a land of legends, mystery and beauty. From the Himalayas in the far north to gorgeous beaches in the south, ancient temples, enchanting lakes and amazing people, you’ll be swept away with the sincere and genuine beauty that is Myanmar. Modern amenities in major centers are light years beyond life in the countryside. The contrast is staggering and residents’ perseverance amazing. A journey through this nation is sure to take you places you never thought you’d see and ponder the resolve of the human spirit. Enjoy an experience in one of the world’s last unexplored corners in style. Special attention has been paid to patronize hotels, drivers and operators who are not owned by the military junta. Your trip funds are going into the hands of hard working, Myanmar citizens and entrepreneurs. Note: To provide the most flexibility some lunches and dinners are not included and are best paid for as you go, affording you lots of choices each day. Welcome to Myanmar! Upon your arrival a host will be waiting for you, welcome you to Myanmar and transfer you to your home away from home. Depending on mood, your host will give you a nice introduction walking experience and help you make dinner arrangements. The commercial capital city Yangon is the biggest city in Myanmar with a population of 5 million. Its tree‐lined wide avenues, shady green parks, and beautiful lakes give Yangon a reputation as of one of the most charming cities in Asia. After check‐in you’ll be hosted at Shewedagon Pagoda, the country’s holiest site and enjoy sunset at this impressive monument. Meals: B, L (on plane from Bangkok) Accommodations: Savoy Hotel, http://www.savoy‐myanmar.com/ About the Accommodations The Savoy Hotel is a five star colonial boutique, committed to a personalized and attentive service. Ideally located in the picturesque area of Yangon, overlooking the Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar's "twinkling wonder" and the nearby People's Park make gives you the most convenience. Rooms are decorated with the charm of "the old days", traditional Myanmar antiques, teak furniture and spacious bathrooms. Nicely overshadowed by tall old trees, the pool with its lounge area makes the Savoy Hotel a silent oasis in the middle of the buzzling city. Day 5: Yangon Today you’ll depart on a full adventure in one of Asia's most charming capital cities. Start with a visit to the Kalaywa Tawya Monastery where over 1,300 monks and novices reside. You'll be able to witness them gathering to partake in the midday meal, which is their last of the day. Then visit the old colonial part of downtown, Chaukhtatgyi Temple which houses the biggest reclining Buddha image in Southeast Asia, and National Museum with collections of priceless artifacts and cultural heritage to gain an understanding of the history, culture, ethnicities, arts, crafts and lifestyle of the country and its people. In the evening, walk Chinatown then head to the city’s nicest restaurant for dinner, Le Planteur. Meals: B, D from Bangkok Accommodations: Savoy Hotel Day 6: Yangon ‐ Bagan This morning you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bagan. Upon arrival you’ll be escorted to your hotel in the heart of Bagan's Archeological Zone. Here, thousands of ruined pagodas dot the desert‐like plain. Most were constructed between the 10th and 12th centuries when the Burma Empire was among the most prosperous in the region. We’ll take you to the most interesting temples, explaining their significance along the way. Your host will take you to enjoy sunset atop one of our favorite temples. Marvel at the thousands of stupas dotting the landscape as the sky changes colors. Flight Details: Yangon ‐ Bagan Meals: B, D Accommodation: Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel, http://www.thiripyitsaya‐resort.com/index.html About the Accommodations Situated on the banks of the Irrawaddy, Myanmar's river of history and legend, the resort sprawls over 24 acres of landscaped gardens, which is home to mature tropical trees and flowering plants, as well as native birds and a number of small tame animals. Thiripyitsaya is considered to be Bagan’s foremost hotel. Day 7: Beautiful Bagan Today you’ll have the choice of how you’d like to explore: by bike, horse cart or air conditioned car. The choice is yours. Your host will chat with you, assess your interests and plan a day that most‐suits you. From more incredible temples, to laquerware villages and other artisans, there’re lots of choices to keep you busy and amazed. Enjoy sunset tonight from the deck of a small, private boat as you journey along the famed Irrawaddy River. We’ll have some cool beverages on offer as well. What a magical day. Meals: B Accommodation: Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel Day 8: Bagan – Mandalay After breakfast we’ll send you to the airport for a very short flight to Mandalay. The second largest city in Myanmar, Mandalay represents a Buddhist city of conservative culture and traditional art. It was the final capital (1860–1885) of the last independent Burmese Kingdom before annexation by the British in 1885. On the road to Mandalay (how could we resist the cheeky word play?) wander through Paleik, an unspoiled site that’s home to hundreds of temples and pagodas. We’ll also stroll U‐Bein Bridge on Taungthaman Lake, a half‐mile long teak span that’s one of the longest teak bridges in the world. We’ll also visit the Golden Palace Monastery, famous for its intricate carvings, the only original building from Mandalay Palace that survived the bombings of WWII. Watch sunset from the top of a nearby hill which affods splendid views. Flight Details: Bagan ‐ Mandalay Meals: B Accommodations: Hotel Red Canal, http://www.hotelredcanal.com/ About the Accommodations Conveniently located under the lush tropical greenery and calming water features, amidst the hustle and bustle of Myanmar's cultural city, make Hotel Red Canal a dream sanctuary. Many consider this intimate retreat Mandalasy’s best property. Beautifully designed rooms feature high ceilings and luscious teak wood floors. Day 9: Mandalay – Heho –Inle Lake This morning you’ll be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Heho, the gateway to the Southern Shan State. Heho is one hour drive away from Inle Lake, along the way you’ll pass scenic countryside and watch life move along at a sleepy pace. Spend the day traveling on Inle Lake by private boat, visiting small villages, ancient pagodas and see the famous leg‐rowers, who expertly navigate their fishing boats. Flight Details: Mandalay ‐ Heho Meals: B, L Accommodations: Inle Lake View Resort, http://www.inlelakeview.com/about‐the‐resort.htm About the Accommodations This is the one and only deluxe boutique hotel of international standard on the shores of Inle Lake, built on 24 acres of lush land of trees and flowers, ideally located in a picturesque area overlooking the Inle Lake. Day 10: Inle ‐ Indein Today we navigate villages, temples and markets by foot, seeing locals plying their wares and mingling with one another. We’ll hit a couple key temples, stroll through a bamboo forest, and head back out on the lake for a canoe trip. You’ll absolutely fall in love with Inle’s colorful mix of people and relaxed pace. Meals: B, L Accommodations: Inle Lake View Resort Day 11: Inle ‐ Kalaw In the morning a two‐hour drive takes you to the hill station of Kalaw, a former British hill station situated nearly 5,000 feet above the sea level. The cool and misty climate is perfect for growing ‘English’ vegetables and fruits like lettuce and strawberries. The local market here is especially colorful and there are numerous Indians and Gurkas living here so you might enjoy a meal of warm chapatis and dahl for lunch. Right in the centre of Kalaw, just west of the market is Aung Chan Thar Zedi, a glittery stupa (Buddhist ceremonial tower), covered in gold‐ and silver‐colored glass mosaics. We’ll also explore some caves and other interesting nooks and crannies around town. Meals: B, L Accommodations: Amara Resort Hotel, http://www.amaragroup.net/mountain/mountain‐en/ About the Accommodations The colonial residence, originally built in 1909 and restored in 2002 in tradition and style, is surrounded by a cottage garden with ancient trees and brightly colored flowers. Privacy and tranquility await you in this fantastic place with a view over Kalaw and the Shan Mountains. Day 12: Kalaw – Shan Hills Trekking to Shan, Danu, Pao Tribal Villages We’ll rely on foot‐power today, trekking through small villages in the surrounding Shan hills. We’ll walk for 5‐6 hours (leisurely pace) visiting the Shan, Danu and Pa‐O tribes. The first village is Lui Byin (Danu), then Shar Pin (Danu) where you'll enjoy lunch. Our final village is a Pao one before making our way back to Kalaw. While not an overly difficult hiking, during certain times of the year temperatures can reach the high 30s and also dip to single digits due to elevation. Meals: B, L Accommodations: Amara Resort Hotel Day 13: Kalaw ‐ Heho ‐ Yangon An early morning drive and flight brings you back to Yangon where you’ll explore colonial downtown, the National Museum with collections of priceless artefacts and cultural heritage to get a better understanding of the history, culture of the country and its people. The day ends with a visit to Karaweik Royal Barge then take dinner at one our favorite restaurants. Flight Details: Heho ‐ Yangon Meals: B, D Accommodations: Savoy Hotel ACT 3: Into the heart of Lanna Day 14: Back to Thailand Enjoy a leisurely morning, hit a final market or two, then fly from Yangon to Bangkok and connect to a second flight which takes you north to the kingdom’s unofficial northern capital, Chiang Mai. Your host will transfer you to one of our favorite hotels and you can enjoy the evening as you wish. Flight Details: Yangon – Bangkok, Bangkok – Chiang Mai Meals: B, L Accommodation: Rachmankha Chiang Mai, http://www.rachamankha.com About the accommodations A true boutique hotel, the 24‐room Rachamankha is an inspired property designed in the style of a Lanna temple, where aromatic frangipani trees line Sino‐Thai style courtyards which reveal exquisite antiques. Designed by an established Thai architect and interior designer, the rooms feature solid wooden doors, four‐poster beds, bamboo jalousies, and woven‐reed mats. Day 15: Chiang Mai – In and About Today your guide will take you to explore the city including the mountain temple of Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. There are dozens of possible landmarks to choose, but the aforementioned are considered the must‐sees. An afternoon stop is worthwhile at Wat Ton Kwen, the last ‘wat’ (temple) still in traditional layout from the Lanna era. Then, for a journey into Chiang Mai’s unique architecture we can walk through the Wat Ket neighbourhood to take in the vernacular architecture along Charoen Rat Road, including the old tobacco monopoly regional headquarters and Sino‐Anglo shop houses. Flexible traveling and a well‐organized ground team means you can tick off many or few of the highlights. We can arrange for you to visit one of Chiang Mai’s famous umbrella making villages or galleries and antique shops – your wish is our command! Meals: B, L Accommodation: Rachmankha Chiang Mai Days 16‐18: To the Golden Triangle After breakfast you’ll be transported (4 hours) to another world at the stunning Four Seasons Tented Camp. Often listed by Travel + Leisure as the World’s #1 Resort, Four Seasons Tented Camp is an almost surreal esacpe into the glorious sprit of early 20th Century explorers of the Golden Triangle. Your virtually all‐
inclusive stay is meticulously organized and memorable. Meals: B, L, D Accommodations: Four Seasons Tented Camp, http://www.fourseasons.com/goldentriangle/ About the accommodations One of the world’s most talked about resorts, Four Seasons Tented Camp offers a luxurious, all‐inclusive adventure package in the storied venue of the Golden Triangle. Activities include jungle trekking, elephant mahout training, Thai cooking, Mekong River trips, etc. Tents echo the spirit of early explorers while providing the modern comforts and amenities you’d expect at a signature Four Seasons property. The next few days allow you to unwind – or crank up the adventure – as you wish. Day 19: Bring on Bangkok A mid‐day Four Seasons shuttle will take you to Chiang Rai airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, a Novotel Suvarnabhumi representative with meet you at the arrival gate and transfer you to the hotel for your final night in SE Asia. Flight Details: Chiang Rai ‐ Bangkok Accommodation: Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport http://www.accorhotels.com/accorhotels/fichehotel/gb/nov/6183/fiche_hotel.shtml About the accommodations The Novotel Suvarnabhumi is a short walk (or use the complimentary shuttle service) from Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Rooms and suites feature slick, contemporary design, an outdoor pool and luxurious spa with steam and sauna. If you’re leaving early, there simply is no better place to stay. Day 20: On, On Say goodbye to the Land of Smiles and catch your flight home. It’s been an honor to host you yet again! Meals: B Price: about $600US/pp/day Includes: 19 nights accommodation, all transfers, meals as indicated, drinks/snacks, water and executive care while touring, all activities as mentioned, hosts, all admission fees, Adventure Kit, executive care and access to our 24‐hour concierge service. The Smiling Albino Service Difference We understand implicitly that a perfect adventure is much more than nice hotels, great meals and hassle‐
free logistics. For a travel experience to be perfect, all pieces must work together like a symphony. It is the fine details which our guests appreciate most, like cold face towels after a hike, electrolyte beverages for your day cycling, and wine uncorked when the moment is right. From local maps to bottled water and colourful anecdotes on the areas we visit, a Smiling Albino adventure is a thorough, intimately hosted experience. We look forward to hosting you! The Team at Smiling Albino Smiling Albino ‐ Bangkok, Thailand info@smilingalbino.com ‐ www.smilingalbino.com Ph:662‐718‐9561, 1‐877‐THAI‐WAY / Fx: 662‐718‐9562 "This time…why not see a different part of the world, differently?"