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Thailand

The Best of Thailand: An Exploration of the Culture and Kingdom

Program No. 22813RJ
Delight in the beauty of Thailand as you enjoy gentle hikes, walks, canoe rides and boat excursions through its cultural and natural wonders.

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At a Glance

In the Kingdom of Thailand, quiet walks along tea plantations reveal acres of oolong, while gentle hikes in the jungle offer a chance to learn about exotic animals. But there’s so much more to discover! Take in the riot of colors and spices on an expert-led discovery of busy marketplaces, swim in the turquoise waters of the coast or learn about phosphorescence and fireflies during an evening canoe ride on Phang Nga Bay. Create your own Thai cuisine during hands-on cooking classes, and meet monks who have devoted their lives to Buddhist traditions. The best of Thailand awaits!
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to 3 miles (up to 2 hours) a day over varied terrain.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Help to feed and bathe pachyderms as you learn about conservation efforts at a local elephant sanctuary.
  • Spend a day exploring the idyllic Phang Nga Bay by boat, and enjoy an evening canoe ride under the stars.
  • Savor the unique flavors of Thai cuisine as you participate in a Thai culinary adventure.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Anthony Zola
Anthony is a senior researcher at the Mekong Environment and Research Institute in Thailand. He earned a BA in international affairs from George Washington University, a MA in economics from Syracuse University, and a certificate in French civilization from the Sorbonne. Coming to Thailand as a Peace Corps volunteer in 1970-72, he has since lived mainly in Thailand and Laos. He has been active in agribusiness and economic development consulting. His work includes auditing social safeguards and livelihood restoration at infrastructure development projects in Laos.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Anthony Zola
Anthony Zola View biography
Anthony is a senior researcher at the Mekong Environment and Research Institute in Thailand. He earned a BA in international affairs from George Washington University, a MA in economics from Syracuse University, and a certificate in French civilization from the Sorbonne. Coming to Thailand as a Peace Corps volunteer in 1970-72, he has since lived mainly in Thailand and Laos. He has been active in agribusiness and economic development consulting. His work includes auditing social safeguards and livelihood restoration at infrastructure development projects in Laos.
Profile Image of Anusorn Sribunma
Anusorn Sribunma View biography
Anusorn “Chai” Sribunma has been traveling since he was a child. He studied journalism and mass communication and has a master’s degree in archeology and anthropology of Thailand. His fascination with this area led to his desire to enter the tourism industry, allowing him to share his passion for his country and introduce Thailand to foreign visitors. He has been leading groups since 2008 and has also worked as a part-time teacher. Anusorn means “reminder,” but he goes by his nickname Chai, which means “win.”
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
30 Meals
12 Breakfasts
9 Lunches
9 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Low Salt, Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Nov 01, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024
  • Nov 01, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024
  • Oct 11, 2024 - Oct 25, 2024 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Nov 01, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Jan 10, 2025 - Jan 24, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Jan 24, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Feb 21, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
  • Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025 (Chiang Mai to Phuket)
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.
4 nights
Chiang Mai 50100
The centrally-located Dusit D2 is just off the the famous Chang Klan Road in downtown Chiang Mai. Located in a quiet side street, it is a short work to bustling night markets and fascinating food stalls.
2 nights
Chiang Rai
Surrounded by verdant forests and nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Otherworldly ruins of antiquity offer glimpses of the beauty and magnificence of the 800-year old Lanna civilization that time forgot, but whose identity is still apparent in the fabric of local life. Katiliya Mountain Resort and Spa is an all-suite luxury resort providing guests with superb services and facilities in a stunning natural setting. In addition to spacious, well-appointed suites, guests enjoy a variety of deluxe facilities: unsurpassed dining and beverage venues; large outdoor pool with cushioned, reclining lounge chairs; extra large Jacuzzi with both heated, and ambient temperature, sections; library room with books and computers; DVD library for in-room viewing; complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property; child care facilities and kid's pool at The Jumbo Club; and the full service Katiliya Adventure Club which provides direct bookings for a wide range of excursions and activities. At Katiliya, you can experience the heights of comfort and opulence—as well as the renowned hospitality of the North—against a unique backdrop of wilderness, adventure and culture.
2 nights
Bangkok
The luxurious Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is located on the eastern bank of the city’s legendary Chao Phraya River. The riverside property sits on an expansive 3.5 acre plot with an impressive 900 feet of exclusive river frontage, offering magnificent panoramic views of the river and the Bangkok city skyline. Enjoy Thai-deco inspired guest rooms, four outstanding restaurants, wellness spa, outdoor pool and modern lobby lounge. Asiatique, the region’s largest night bazaar, is just a leisurely five minutes away but guests may also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Tuk-Tuk shuttle service. Also, guests enjoy easy access to SkyTrain and Chao Phraya Express River Boat.
4 nights
Phuket
Dewa Phuket Resort is located on beautiful Nai Yang beach, part of Sirinath National Park.





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