Days 1-2 Bangkok
Meet our fellow travellers over our first Thai dinner in Bangkok . Thegleaming spires of the Grand Palace are magnificent in the morning sun - don't miss the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. No visit to this city is complete without cruising the 'khlong' waterways to observe canal life, passing the boathouse where the Royal Barges are housed along the way. On the evening of day 2, we board the comfortable overnight train bound for Chiang Mai.

Days 3-4 Chiang Mai
Discover some of the secrets of Thai cuisine by joining a cookery course in this northern city. We will learn about the main ingredients used in Thai cuisine, how they are used and what alternatives you can substitute if you can't get them at home. Then sit down Thai style at khantoke tables to feast on the results of our lessons. If cooking is not your forte and you are feeling energetic, explore the Chiang Mai surrounds by bike, pausing at your leisure to explore gilded Buddhist temples, temple ruins and vibrant local markets.

Day 5 Elephant Conservation Centre
The privilege of getting up close and personal with Asian elephants is not to be missed on a tour through the Elephant Conservation Centre. We have the opportunity to take a ride on the back of these majestic animals, an experience which many find to be a highlight of their visit to this enchanting country. Head into the picturesque hilly countryside to sit back and relax and enjoy barbeque and a H'mong hilltribe cultural show.

Day 6 Sukhothai
The city of Sukhothai , literally the 'Dawn of Happiness', was the original capital of Thailand 's first kingdom and is considered representative of 'the Golden Age' of Thai civilisation. Explore the remains of the ancient royal realm, now one of Thailand 's World Heritage sites and marvel at the evocative religious art and architecture of the classic Sukhothai era.

Days 7-8 Kanchanaburi
A short flight returns us to Bangkok , from where we travel on to Kanchanaburi. Here, we gain an insight into the lives of allied POWs during the war through a sobering trip to the Jeath War Museum and the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'. We also board the 'Death Railway' at Hellfire Pass for a ride on its historic tracks that run alongside the Kwai Noi River - the scenic surrounds are magnificent.

Days 9-10 Bangkok
Only a short drive away and we are back in the 'City of Angels '. There remains ample time for you to visit any number of sights, such as Jim Thompson's house, complete with antiques and a wonderful silk gift shop. While the Baiyoke Sky Tower and its external observation deck at the 78th floor offers spectacular views of the capital and its surrounds. We finish up the adventure with an atmospheric evening cruise and final night's dinner on the mighty Chao Phraya River .