Southeast Asia

Beginning in Thailand’s energetic capital of Bangkok, a special early morning visit to Wat Pho allows you the opportunity to hear the sounds of a Buddhist chanting ritual—a deeply moving and spiritual experience. And, since no visit to Bangkok would be complete without a visit to a local market, special arrangements have been made so that your time there will be in the company of a local Thai chef. Together, select the ingredients to be used during your personal cooking lesson at the Blue Elephant Cooking School. At the Museum of Floral Culture, take part in a private floral arranging workshop.

Next, travel to the Chiang Rai province in the mountainous area of Northern Thailand, where a visit has been arranged to the hill tribe village of Hloya. Your host and guide for this one-of-a-kind experience, Yohan, is an internationally-educated member of the tribe himself. Continue to a meeting with the local Akha community, where you can witness firsthand the traditions of a way of life that is rapidly changing.

Your journey concludes in Chiang Mai, where you’ll visit the Naenna Studio to meet Patricia Cheesman, a noted expert in antique Thai and Lao textiles, pottery, and contemporary design. In the village of Hang Dong, spend the afternoon with a Thai family and help prepare and share that evening’s meal together. Enjoy a memorable visit to an elephant sanctuary where you will learn about these magnificent animals as well as assist in their care and feeding.