Sawasdee and welcome to Bangkok! A city of ceaseless motion, here gilded temple spires and glass skyscrapers rise sky-high, tuk-tuks weave through streets scented with aromatic street food and the Chao Phraya River – Bangkok’s ‘River of Kings’ – carries a constant flow of longtail boats past sprawling palaces and neon-lit bars.
After touchdown at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), you’ll be met by a driver at the Arrival Hall and transferred to your five-star hotel in the heart of the city, Banyan Tree Bangkok.
Signature Accommodation: Banyan Tree Bangkok
Suspended between lively Bangkok and the endless sky, the 61-story Banyan Tree Bangkok is an elevated world all its own. As the city’s only five-star all-suite hotel, it boasts some of the city’s largest rooms, each with separate living areas and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame views of the Chao Phraya River and the metropolis beyond.
Former helipad turned sky-high dining destination, onsite rooftop restaurant Vertigo serves up expertly grilled meat with a side of 360-degree city views, while Moon Bar pours cocktails and fine wines. The award-winning Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok is a sanctuary of rejuvenation spread over three floors – an ideal post-workout reward after a Muay Thai session with the hotel’s trainer – while the pool on the 21st floor is the ultimate sunset-watching spot.
Ascend to the 61st floor this evening and toast to Bangkok’s shimmering skyline with a complimentary welcome drink at Moon Bar. Watch the city come alive with neon lights and tuk-tuks buzzing below, experiencing Bangkok from a different perspective.
After breakfast, it’s time to discover Bangkok your way – choose one of the two included optional experiences below.
Alternatively, make your own adventure: browse the design-forward boutiques and art galleries of repurposed WWII-era storage facility Warehouse 30, stroll the leafy grounds of Lumpini Park (located within walking distance of your hotel) or explore Jim Thompson House’s ornate Asian art collection. If relaxation is more your pace, unwind with a luxurious treatment at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok (additional charge).
Bangkok sightseeing
Rise early to begin your Bangkok immersion at Wat Pho, home to the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha statue. Stretching 46 metres and sheathed in radiant gold leaf, the statue’s serene expression belies its immense scale, while mother-of-pearl inlays on its soles depict 108 auspicious symbols of Buddhist teachings.
From here, step into the regal heart of old Siam at the Grand Palace, an opulent maze of gilded spires, intricate murals and resplendent throne halls once home to Thai monarchs. Within its sacred walls lies Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where the country’s most revered Buddha statue, carved from a single piece of jade, is enshrined in a shimmering golden pavilion.
After lunch at Chef David Lloyd’s ultra-chic sala rattanakosin – matched with views of the surrounding Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) complex – set out on a journey through Bangkok’s historic waterways aboard a traditional longtail boat. Glide past the wooden stilt houses and hidden temples of Thonburi’s klongs (canals), which gained it the nickname ‘Venice of the East’. The day concludes at the iconic Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. A towering 76-metre Khmer-style spire rises above the river, its surface encrusted with delicate shards of Chinese porcelain that glimmer in the changing light.
Ayutthaya Historical Park
The day begins with an early departure from Bangkok after breakfast at your hotel.
Journey back in time to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam and a flourishing hub of trade and culture until its fall in 1767. The first stop is the serene Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a royal retreat where manicured gardens and European-style pavilions evoke the grandeur of Versailles. Originally built in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong, the palace lay abandoned for nearly a century before being revived by King Mongkut and his successors, blending Thai, Chinese and European influences into an eclectic landscape that still serves the Thai royal family today.
Continuing to Ayutthaya Historical Park, step into a city frozen in time, where weathered stone chedis and towering prangs bear silent witness to its former splendour. Walk the sacred grounds of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, once the royal temple of the Ayutthayan kings, and stand before the Buddha head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree at Wat Mahathat. Time permitting, visit Wat Chai Wattanaram, a masterpiece of Khmer-inspired architecture decorated by lotus-bud towers and intricate bas-reliefs.
Lunch is served at Suriyan Chandra, a Michelin-recognised riverside restaurant housed in a 130-year-old former mill. Delicate, flower-shaped cho muang (roal flower) dumplings and crisp golden toong thong (money bag) parcels are followed by fragrant Thai delicacies such as fried snakehead fish with herbs and deep-fried shrimp glazed in tamarind sauce.
Signature Highlight: Welcome Dinner at nahm
This evening, join Diana, Khanh and your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner to remember at nahm (one Michelin star). Tucked inside COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, nahm is celebrated for its uncompromising commitment to Thai tradition. Originally founded by Australian chef David Thompson in 2010, it quickly became one of Bangkok’s most revered dining destinations, known for reviving centuries-old recipes once served in the royal courts. Now helmed by Thai-American chef Pim Techamuanvivit, the restaurant continues to honour its roots. Dishes may include a tom yum gung soup with prawn, mushrooms and chilli jam, charred squid with salted egg and wild cardamom and the turmeric-laced blue swimmer crab curry, gang pubai cha plu.
Welcome dinner at nahm with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
The day kicks off early with a visit to the unique Mae Klong Railway Market, located about 80 kilometres southwest of Bangkok. As the name suggests, the market is famous for its unusual setting – trains pass directly through the heart of the market, making it an enthralling spectacle for visitors. As the train approaches, a distinctive bell rings, signalling tourists to move aside and vendors to swiftly retract their awnings and shift their goods to avoid damage. Once it’s passed, the vendors quickly return their stalls to their original spots as if the disruption had never occurred. Be sure to bring a camera, there’s ample opportunity to capture the delicate balance between commerce and transportation in one of Thailand’s most iconic markets.
Your journey continues with a scenic speedboat trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Known for its vibrant colours, fragrant aromas and lively atmosphere, the market is a true sensory delight. You’ll board a traditional long-tail boat, cruising through tranquil canals flanked by riverside villages and fruit orchards until you reach the market, a whirlwind of paddling boats selling everything from fresh produce to local snacks.
Signature Highlight: Lunch at Natura Cafe
After returning to Bangkok, enjoy a late lunch at Natura Cafe, set among the foliage of the century-old Poomjai Garden. With a focus on farm-to-table dining, the cafe serves a selection of organic meals, from vibrant salads to hearty plant-based options bursting with seasonal produce. Housed within one of Bangkok’s oldest orchards, the cafe feels worlds away from city life.
Signature Highlight: Tuk-Tuk Street Food Tour
This evening, travel by tuk-tuk through some of Bangkok’s most legendary culinary districts. Hop from the street stalls of the historical centre to lesser-known local gems for a true taste of the city, sampling dishes representing the distinct regional flavours of Thailand. The journey begins at Thipsamai Padthai, a legendary eatery that has been serving Thailand’s most famous noodle dish since 1939. Board your thrilling tuk-tuk and zip through the streets of Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown) as you take in all the vibrant colours, lights and sounds.
Sample a crispy, golden pa tong ko, a beloved Chinese doughnut best enjoyed with condensed milk or pandan custard. Get the quintessential Chinese experience at retro-style diner Chop Chop Cook Shop and feast on succulent roast duck, caramelised barbecue pork and steaming bowls of noodle soup. Make sure to leave room for Nai Ek Roll Noodle, where their signature ‘guay chub’ – silky rolled rice noodles in a peppery broth – has made this humble spot a local institution for over 50 years. Along the way, taste handcrafted fishballs at Yoo Fishball, savour the rich flavours of Auan Phochana’s braised dishes and the irresistible crunch of freshly made coconut pancakes.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 3 hours
Lunch at Natura Cafe with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
Tuk-Tuk Street Food Tour with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to Bangkok as you’re transferred to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) for an approximately 60-minute flight to Khon Kaen Airport (KKC). Situated within the fertile plains of Isan, Khon Kaen is a rising star in Thailand’s culinary world. Its tropical micro-seasons, agricultural abundance and biodiversity have sparked a new wave of culinary innovation. The achievement earned Khon Kaen a mention in the 2023 Michelin Guide, cementing the city’s position as Thailand’s newest – and most exciting – culinary hotspots. Isan’s cuisine is a thrilling celebration of fiery, aromatic flavours like som tum (green papaya salad), larb (spicy minced meat salad) and sticky rice.
Signature Accommodation: Ad Lib Khon Kaen
Where innovation meets an unmistakable sense of place in Thailand’s northeast, Ad Lib Khon Kaen is a bold fusion of modern creativity and Isan soul. Ascend to the infinity pool for dazzling views of Khon Kaen, where relaxing days turn to social nights in a space designed for occasions. Dining is a journey of local discovery – Seasons 27 puts a global spin on Isan’s freshest harvests with indoor and outdoor spots for your gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The exceptional Food by Fire pays homage to the region’s mastery of the open flame, honouring its dynamic gastronomy through technique, produce and experimentation. As evening falls, Kaenkaew – the hotel’s rooftop live music house – electrifies with boundary-pushing performances and delicious cocktails. This eco-conscious retreat is powered by 900MWh of solar energy each year, integrating renewable resources to honour the region’s deep-rooted connection to nature.
Signature Highlight: Dinner at Food by Fire
Your first taste of Khon Kaen is at Food by Fire, a fitting introduction to Isan’s traditional knowledge of cooking with fire and fermentation. A celebration of heritage and techniques honed over generations, the restaurant’s always-changing degustation menu tells the story of Isan’s landscape and its timeless art of cooking on an open flame – a concept that has earned it much buzz in recent months. Inside, an open kitchen allows you to observe the chefs preparing your meal over the flames, with captivating artworks complementing the dining experience. Outside boasts incredible views from an open-air rooftop alfresco area – one of the best viewing spots in the city for a unique perspective of Khon Kaen.
After dinner, head to KaenKaew Live House on the 28th floor, a live Thai music venue featuring performances unbound by genre.
For those seeking to extend their night, find a distinctly Isan cultural experience at Tawan Daeng (‘Red Sun’ in the Isan dialect; additional charge). This large event space features live E-San (Isan) music, with soulful melodies and rhythms played on traditional instruments. It’s a captivating experience for both locals and visitors alike.
Dinner at Food by Fire with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
Save your appetite this morning – you’ll need it at your first stop of the day: the Michelin-listed Baan Heng. This humble eatery opened in 1957, born from a family-owned souvenir and grocery store which sold goods like sausage, pork floss and pork jerky. Now, the quaint restaurant serves Thai-Chinese style breakfast foods like baked rice with pork sausage.
Signature Highlight: Tasting at Godfather Coffee
Move on to the showstopping Godfather Coffee – named after the critically acclaimed 1972 film – for a tasting of what is considered one of Khon Kaen’s best brews (and Khanh’s favourite stop of your tour). With your pick of in-house roasts from a classic ‘Gangster Blend’ to the perfect espresso shot poured over ice cream – there’s bound to be an offer you can’t refuse.
Signature Highlight: Lunch at Krua Supanniga by Khunyai Somsie
Tucked beneath the golden blooms of Supanniga trees in a quiet Khon Kaen garden, this Michelin-listed restaurant is a sanctuary of Eastern Thai cuisine passed down through generations. The aroma of fresh herbs and simmering broths fills the air as Chef Noi, who learned her craft in the Laorauvirodge family kitchen, prepares dishes just as Grandma Somsie once did.
Beginning her culinary journey in Bangkok over 30 years ago as a house chef for the family, Chef Noi mastered a century-old repertoire of recipes that now shape the restaurant’s menu. Every ingredient is handpicked from the morning markets, ensuring that each bite is as fresh as it is flavourful – the menu celebrates the bold yet delicate flavours of Trat, a lesser-known but deeply cherished branch of Thai gastronomy.
After lunch, the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish – perhaps you might like to cool off from the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool. As the sun begins to set, join your group at Non Na Café for a sundowner, set in a sea of verdant rice paddies. Sip and admire the scenery.
Signature Highlight: Dinner at Kaen
Dinner is served at Kaen restaurant, a contemporary restaurant where the bold and spirited flavours of Isan cuisine meet the finesse of fine dining. A playful yet meticulous reinvention of local flavours from delicious brown sticky rice to slow-stewed Massaman curry, Chefs Paisarn Chiwinsiriwat and Jib-Kanyarat Thanomsaeng fuse their global experience with hometown pride. During your meal, a chef will personally join you to speak about the region’s vibrant produce, the artistry behind each dish and the exciting evolution of Khon Kaen’s culinary scene.
Keen to enjoy Khon Kaen’s electrifying nightlife? Optionally finish the day at Ton Tann market, a nighttime spot favoured by locals with the sounds of live music in the air and brimming with food stalls, clothing, home decor and local handcrafts. Afterward, the local bars within walking distance of your hotel provide the perfect opportunity to get a taste of Khon Kaen’s playful nightlife, with venues like RUSTY Social Club, Hidden Town Cocktail Bar, The Gentle speakeasy bar and Brooklyn Bar all being places to close out the evening.
Tasting at Godfather Coffee with Khanh Ong
Lunch at Krua Supanniga by Khunyai Somsie with Diana Chan
Dinner at Kaen with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
Wake early to a beautiful breakfast at the hotel, before being transferred to Mekin Farm, a Michelin-recommended permaculture farm just 45 minutes from Khon Kaen.
Signature Highlight: Cooking Class at Mekin Farm
A testament to sustainable living, owner Pu-Chongrak has cultivated the farm into a thriving oasis. You’ll find fruit trees heavy with ripening mangoes, fragrant herbs growing alongside vegetable patches and free-roaming ducks and chickens which aid in its closed-loop ecosystem. Pu’s philosophy is refreshingly simple – cook with what the land provides. The ever-changing menu reflects the freshest ingredients available, featuring dishes like a golden, crispy-edged duck egg omelette and delicate Nile tilapia, freshly steamed and paired with a fiery dipping sauce. Pick ingredients straight from the organic garden and prepare them alongside produce sourced from surrounding communities, embracing the farm’s ethos of hyper-local, seasonal cooking. Enjoy the fruits of your labour in an open-air pavilion for lunch.
Late this afternoon, transfer to Khon Kaen Airport (KKC) for your included flight to Phuket International Airport (HKT). On arrival, check into your accommodation, the Veranda Resort Phuket, Autograph Collection, or optionally, choose to go straight from the airport to tour Phuket Old Town, renowned for its striking Sino-Portuguese architecture that lines Thalang, Dibuk and Krabi Roads. These well-preserved buildings showcase the island’s rich colonial history, a result of European influence dating back to the 16th century, when both the Portuguese and British sought to capitalise on Phuket’s tin wealth. Weave through the thrumming stalls of Phuket’s Sunday food markets, where you’ll find authentic Thai snacks aplenty (surcharges apply), from fragrant skewers to wok-fried seafood and pastel-hued coconut pancakes.
Signature Accommodation: Veranda Resort Phuket, Autograph Collection
Set against the backdrop of Phuket’s stunning Ao Yon Bay, Veranda Resort Phuket, Autograph Collection is a tranquil haven where sleek, modern design meets warm Thai hospitality.
Featuring a beautifully designed and expansive outdoor pool that seemingly melts into the bay, the hotel makes the perfect base to explore Phuket’s countless culinary gems. Indulge in authentic Thai fare at the resort’s signature restaurant, The Parlour, or enjoy sundowners at relaxed oceanside spot Bar Botan.
Cooking class at Mekin Farm with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
With ample free time this morning, after breakfast you can take a moment to breathe and enjoy the resort’s excellent facilities.
Signature Highlight: Blue Elephant Cooking School
This afternoon, embark on a culinary adventure with your guide as you head to the renowned Blue Elephant Cooking School for an exclusive class. Your journey begins at Phuket’s vibrant morning market, where you’ll discover the secrets to selecting the freshest and most aromatic Thai ingredients, guided by your expert instructor.
Back at the Blue Elephant, a master Thai chef will walk you through traditional cooking techniques, demonstrating how to craft iconic dishes that showcase the essence of Thai cuisine. After hands-on learning, indulge in a delightful late lunch at the restaurant, savouring the meal you’ve crafted alongside an array of additional mouthwatering Thai specialties.
Back at your hotel, the rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Blue Elephant Cooking School with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
Take the time this morning to slow down and relax, before heading out this afternoon to Phuket’s Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, one of Thailand’s premier artisanal rum producers. Founded in 2012, Chalong Bay is renowned for its use of locally grown sugarcane from southern Thailand, combined with traditional French techniques to create high-quality rum. During your cocktail workshop, a professional mixologist will guide you through the process of crafting three cocktails, incorporating native ingredients that highlight the unique flavours of Thailand.
You’ll then tour the distillery to witness the rum production process from fermentation to distillation and learn about the innovation behind one of the country’s most celebrated rums. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with Thailand’s growing craft spirits industry, which has gained international recognition in recent years for its quality and sustainable practices.
Signature Experience: Sunset Drink at Baba Nest Rooftop Bar
Before sunset, ascend to the ultra-sleek Baba Nest rooftop bar, an exclusive venue characterised by its infinity pool that wraps around the bar overlooking Phuket’s surrounding islands and the glistening Andaman Sea. Watch as the sun casts its vivid colours on the water’s reflection and enjoy the view with a complimentary drink in hand. Choose from an array of high-end cocktails stirred by excellent mixologists, including a ‘Blue Andaman’, a take on a Long Island iced tea with blue curacao, a ‘Baba Tom Yum’ with vodka, lime, lemongrass and chilli, and an ‘Orange Creamsicle’ with sake, orange, brown sugar and coconut milk.
Signature Highlight: Farewell Dinner at Bucha Gallery & Restaurant
On your final evening in Thailand, sit down for the perfect meal to sum up your whirlwind adventure with three hours of free-flow drinks so you can toast to the occasion. Run by Chef Wina, who learned the art of home cooking from her mother Kae Ying in Nakhon Si Thammarat, the restaurant serves authentic southern Thai dishes with a personal touch.
The venue, though unassuming from the outside, surprises guests with an elegant interior adorned with antiques, paintings and statues that reflect the country’s deep cultural roots. A true feast for the senses, its menu boasts beautifully presented dishes that often feature edible flowers, the perfect meal to share exquisite flavours and celebrate Thailand’s nuanced cuisine.
Farewell dinner at Bucha Gallery & Restaurant with Diana Chan and Khanh Ong
Bid goodbye to your fellow travellers as your once-in-a-lifetime Thai culinary journey comes to an end. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to Phuket International Airport (HKT) for your included flight home.
