Novermber 3-12 2006
Date	Day	Location
Nov 2	Thursday	Depart USA
Nov 3	Friday	Arrive Bangkok, Thailand
Nov 4	Saturday	Bangkok
Nov 5	Sunday	Bangkok; Sukhothai
Nov 6	Monday	Sukhothai; Chang Mai
Nov 7	Tuesday	Chang Mai
Nov 8	Wednesday	Chang Mai; Golden Triangle
Nov 9	Thursday	Golden Triangle
Nov 10	Friday	Golden Triangle; Bangkok
Nov 11	Saturday	Bangkok
Nov 12	Sunday	Flights home
Itinerary subject to change

Overview
RSVP welcomes you to its first ever Land Tour of magical Thailand. This 10-day/ 9-night program offers a comprehensive overview of the incredible diversity that this land has to offer. From the excitement of Bangkok to the tranquility of the Golden Triangle – the sights and sounds of this beautiful country will charm you. We have chosen these dates so that you can experience the special celebration of Loy Krathong in Sukhothai – one of the most beautiful and romantic annual festivals. According to tradition, this practice originated in Sukhothai, so it is only fitting that one of the most elaborate celebrations should take place here.

For those of you who would like even more of Southeast Asia – you have a great choice of a pre tour to Angkor Wat – one of the very best UNESCO World Heritage sites, or 3 days in the Island paradise of Phuket. Whether you join us for 10, 13, or 17 days – we are sure that your time with RSVP in Southeast Asia will be unforgettable.

Venue
Throughout the tour you will be staying in deluxe hotel accommodations, including twin-bedded rooms with private bath or shower. Double beds can be requested but are not always available.

Activities

Day 1 - Depart the U.S., Europe

Day 2 - Arrive Bangkok, Thailand
On arrival at Bangkok's new Suvarnabhumi International Airport, meet your guide, who will be waiting with an "RSVP Vacations" sign. Transfer to hotel.

Day 3 - Highlights of the City of Angeles
After breakfast, leave on an excursion to see some of the highlights of the city, passing through the narrow streets of Chinatown and past the colorful fresh flower market, Pak Klong Talad, to the historical roots of Bangkok – Rattanakosin Island. Continue to the magnificent Royal Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew , a Royal Temple within the Palace grounds, dating back to the early origins of the capital in 1782AD by King Rama I, founder of the reigning Chakri Dynasty. The main chapel houses the most revered religious icon in the country, the magnificent Emerald Buddha, cloaked in seasonal costumes of woven gold and precious stones. Additions, renovations, and restorations throughout the Palace have resulted in the incorporation of more than two centuries of craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity, reflecting the very essence of Thai cultural identity. A guided tour of the grounds points out several historic buildings, including the Coronation Hall, the Funeral Hall, the Royal Guesthouse, and even the house occupied temporarily by Anna Leonowens, the English school teacher depicted (with considerable artistic license) in the 1951 Rodgers & Hammerstein Broadway musical, “The King & I,” starring Yul Brynner, and more recently the Jodie Foster film, “Anna & The King” (1999). From a pier near the Grand Palace, cross the river to Supatra River House Restaurant for a delicious Thai lunch. The restaurant was originally the riverside residence of the lady who founded the Chao Phraya Express Boat Company – the public river taxi and ferry service – more than 30 years ago. She eventually became one of the country’s most respected business leaders and an early champion of women’s rights. Her company (now run by one of her daughters) transports thousands of daily commuters along the river using a fleet of over 70 boats, and the restaurant offers great views of one of the busiest sections of the Chao Phraya River while enjoying excellent Thai cuisine. Throughout history, the waterways of Thailand have played a major role in commerce and defense, providing a convenient means of transportation before roads were built, as well as a focal point for holiday celebrations. In its early days, Bangkok was known as the “Venice of the East,” thanks to an extensive network of klongs (canals) linking the Chao Phraya River with inland communities and villages. From the restaurant pier, board a “long-tail” boat to explore some of these canals through what are now the suburbs of the city. Houses on stilts, schools, temples, and shops line the banks, traders in tiny boats bring their wares to their customers, and the postal service and even a bank provide “floating offices.” Kodak Moment: Neighborhood children splashing and romping in the water, offering big smiles and friendly waves to foreign visitors.

See one of the most impressive monuments along the river, Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn , and the Royal Barge Museum for a look at the ornate ceremonial boats used (now only rarely) by Thai Kings during the Royal Kathin Ceremony (where new saffron robes are presented to monks at a Royal temple). Among them, the new Narai Song Suban Barge, christened five years ago on the occasion of the 72nd birthday of His Majesty, King Bhumiphol Adulaydej (Rama IX). Perhaps the most dramatic Royal Barge is known as Suphannahongse, built in 1912, which appears to be a rather fierce-looking golden swan. When underway, over fifty brilliantly-costumed Royal Thai Navy oarsmen make her “fly” over the water with paddles covered in gold, accompanied by chants and plaintive sounds of the ancient boat songs. It is said that the craftsman who built the barge out of a single massive teak log threw away his tools upon its completion, vowing never to repeat his artistic achievement.
Return to the hotel, afternoon free.

This evening, you're invited to Balcony Pub , voted “Best Gay Bar” by Bangkok Metro magazine, for a complimentary “welcome!” drink. Balcony's Silom Soi 4 location is a perfect starting point for visiting other adjacent nightspots – including classy Sphinx, long-time favorite Telephone, & the new Roxy, a mixed cabaret/show bar – as well as Bangkok's energetic gay discos, DJ Station and Freeman, and the colorful, chaotic Patpong Night Market. (B,L,–)

Day 4 - Sukhothai World Heritage & Loy Krathong Festival
Check out and return to Bangkok Int’l. Airport Domestic Terminal for the short flight to Sukhothai. Bangkok Airways PG602 BKK-THS 12:30PM-1:50PM

In the year 1238AD, two local princes joined forces to drive the Khmers out of Sukhothai, a major frontier outpost of the Khmer Empire, thus becoming the first capital of an independent Siamese Kingdom. In 1278AD, King Ramkamhaeng ascended the throne in a reign which lasted forty years. His major accomplishments included establishing political relations with China, adapting the Khmer alphabet into what is now the Thai language, and the adoption of Buddhism as the predominant religion. His paternal reign was marked by peace and prosperity (known as the “ Dawn of Happiness”), and he was eventually declared Siam’s first “Great King.” Buddha images cast during the Sukhothai period are some of Thailand’s finest cultural treasures, emanating a sense of calm and serenity – a reflection of the times. A total of eight kings ruled Sukhothai, but a gradual decline of the kingdom characterized the reigns of the last two, and by 1365AD, the city had become a vassal state of Ayutthaya, a young and rising power to the south. Visit the Historical Park & National Museum to see the impressive ruins and artifacts of the old city, and then join the local population in a special celebration of Loy Krathong – one of the most beautiful and romantic annual festivals. According to tradition, this practice originated in Sukhothai, so it is only fitting that one of the most elaborate celebrations should take place here. Some say it was designed to show gratitude to the River Goddess, while others believe it pays homage to the Lord Buddha’s footprint, but in any case, on the evening of the full moon of the twelfth lunar month, people throughout the Kingdom will flock to the rivers (or any convenient body of water) to make a wish and float a “ krathong,” a banana leaf “boat” containing a candle, a stick of incense, a coin, and flowers, into the darkness. As a symbol of atonement, your sins and transgressions of the past year drift silently away! Lovers float a krathong together, and if they are meant for each other, the candle will remain lit – if it blows out….it’s time to find someone else! In other areas, particularly in the north, a variation known as “ Yi Peng” is seen – homemade hot air “balloons” made of paper and powered by flaming candles are lofted into the night sky, sometimes in great numbers and reaching spectacular heights.

We think you’ll enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner beginning at 6:00PM on the grounds of Wat Mahathat in the midst of the Historical Park, along with many local residents dressed in their finest Thai silk clothes. After dinner, make a wish and float your own krathong on one of the ancient canals. Then, beginning at 8:00PM, watch an impressive Light & Sound Show set among the ancient ruins. The show typically features a reenactment of the history of Sukhothai, with King Ramkamhaeng taking care of the people, defending the nation as a great warrior, and promoting religion and culture – all in a truly spectacular setting. It’s done entirely in Thai language, but they sometimes have headsets available to provide an English translation (small fee and deposit required, not included). (B,–,D)

Day 5 - Phitsanulok – Chiang Mai
After breakfast this morning, explore the provincial capital of Phitsanulok – the “town that teak built.” Situated on the boundary of Thailand’s central plains and the mountains of the north, Phitsanulok has long been an important hub of commerce, communication, and transportation, and was the center for the timber trade before commercial logging was banned in the Kingdom. Interesting local attractions: a foundry for Buddha images, a fascinating private Folk Museum (check out the device used by farmers to castrate bulls…..ouch!), and Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat , built in 1357AD, containing one of the most beautiful and renowned Buddha images in the Kingdom, Phra Buddha Chinnaraj. Lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the afternoon train for Chiang Mai. Leave the central plains behind as the train climbs into the mountains, through the longest tunnel in Thailand, emerging into Doi Khuntan National Park. Train #9 – 2nd Class Air Con – departs Phitsanulok 1:55PM, arrives Chiang Mai 7:45PM

Once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, the city of Chiang Mai is over seven centuries old, and is surrounded by massive walls, five gates, and a moat. The northern region features distinctive cuisine, unique art and architecture, and a charming “laid back” lifestyle. Outside the city, rugged mountains covered with dense forests and jungle provide ample habitat for elephants, wild orchids, and remote hill tribe villages – a dramatic contrast to the flat central plains.

On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Balance of the evening free. Though not as audacious as Bangkok, gay nightlife thrives in Chiang Mai, and anyone interested may join in a hosted “pub crawl” to some of the most popular venues. (B,L,–)

Day 6 - Chiang Mai
This morning, an excursion to Wat Doi Suthep , a spectacular temple perched on the side of the mountain overlooking Chiang Mai and the Ping River Valley . Climb the impressive 300-step naga staircase (or cheat and use the funicular tram for a donation of a couple of baht!). Your guide will relate the fascinating tale of how the temple site was selected, and the superhuman effort that was involved in building the road leading up to it. A resident monk will give you his blessing, then ring the temple bells three times for good luck! Return to town, stopping at the Tribal Museum for an introduction to the unique culture and lifestyles of the hilltribes – ethnic minority groups inhabiting the highlands along the border. Continue on a brief orientation tour, including major landmarks and temples within the old city walls, before having lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a delicious northern Thai specialty – khao soy – a savory chicken curry soup with noodles. Balance of the afternoon free to explore on your own.

This evening, we think you’ll enjoy a delightful Thai dinner on the open-air terrace of The Antique House Restaurant on the banks of the Ping River, followed by a visit to the world-famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – a bargain-hunter’s dream come true. Chiang Mai is the handicraft capital of the Kingdom, and tucked away among the stalls selling inexpensive souvenirs are some fine examples of traditional Thai craftsmanship. Don’t forget – it’s expected that you will bargain with the shopkeeper – though always with a smile for best results! (B,L,D)

Day 7 - Chiang Mai – Golden Triangle
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and meet your guide in the hotel lobby. Head northward through increasingly hilly terrain to scenic Chiang Dao Valley. The mountains you’ll see around you are actually the foothills of the Himalayas. Stop at Chiang Dao Elephant Camp for an “up close and personal” demonstration of the strength, agility, and intelligence of these massive creatures so often thought of as the national symbol of Thailand, followed by an unforgettable hour-long “safari” on elephant back through the forest and along the river (have plenty of film ready for your camera!). Leave the camp and continue northward to Chiang Dao Caves , one of the largest underground complexes in Asia, and a dramatic setting for a Buddhist shrine. Following lunch at a local restaurant, board a long-tail boat for an exciting 2.5 hour ride down the scenic Kok River to Chiang Rai, stopping at remote hilltribe villages along the way. Continue by road to your hotel in the heart of the infamous Golden Triangle – where the borders of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. (B,L,–)

Day 8 - Golden Triangle
Depart from the hotel, passing through many small villages and Mae Sai (the northernmost point of Thailand, an official border crossing to Myanmar's Shan State) on the way to Doi Tung Mountain, the beautiful Mae Fah Luang Botanical Gardens, and the revered late Princess Mother’s fascinating Royal Villa. The villa, built of local materials in the design of a Swiss chalet, overlooks an area where, in the not-too-distant past, opiumladen pack mule caravans once traversed steep mountain trails. Serving as an inspirational force well into her 90’s, she worked tirelessly with local hilltribe villagers to re-forest the mountains (once decimated by slash-and burn agriculture) and grow cash crops as an alternative to opium poppies. Her private quarters have been left just as they were when she passed away a few years ago, illustrating the simple life she lived while earning immense respect and the love of the entire nation. You’ll see her portrait everywhere in the north. A walking tour of the interior is possible, providing members of the Royal Family are not in residence. Wat Doi Tung , a temple at the summit of the mountain (2,000 meters above sea level), contains the oldest chedi in the Lanna region (constructed in 911AD), and the twin pagodas are believed to enshrine the collarbone of the Buddha. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Return via the ancient Lanna capital of Chiangsaen on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, and the Golden Triangle scenic overlook at Baan Sop Ruak. Last stop of the day will be to visit the newly-opened Hall of Opium , an excellent state-of-the-art museum focused on the 5,000 year history of the drug and its profound effects on society – another part of the Princess Mother’s enduring legacy through the Mae Fah Luang Foundation.

Return to the hotel, with balance of the day at leisure. (B,L,–)

Day 9 - Chiang Rai – Bangkok
Morning free.
Check out and return to Chiang Rai Airport for the return flight to Bangkok.

Thai Airways TG133 CEI-BKK 12:35PM-1:50PM

Transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Shopping opportunities abound, and an appointment with one of the city’s best custom tailors is easily arranged, if desired. Tonight, enjoy one of Thailand’s legendary and amazing transvestite shows – the famous Calypso Cabaret –with balance of the evening free. (B,–,–)

Day 10 - Bangkok

Jim Thompson, a name synonymous with the finest Thai silk, was an American intelligence agent who settled in Thailand at the conclusion of World War II. An architect by training and subsequently a renowned collector of Asian art and antiques, his residential estate consists of several traditional Thai wooden houses brought down the river by boat from central Thailand and reassembled along a klong in the heart of the city. Originally a part owner of the famed Oriental Hotel, Mr. Thompson rubbed shoulders with noteworthy authors, statesmen, and dignitaries who visited the Kingdom, hosting legendary dinner parties on the grounds of his compound. Earlier, you saw some of these beautiful and increasingly rare wooden houses along the canals – today you’ll see a splendid example of what they look like on the inside. Thai silk weaving was, at the time, a fragmented cottage industry, producing silk primarily for everyday use within the country. He was captivated by the colorful, shimmering fabric, and brought some samples to the editor of Vogue magazine in New York. They were an immediate hit with the fashion trade, and Thompson returned to Thailand to organize the silk-weaving villagers and launch the Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company, with a shop on Suriwong Road. The final chapter of the story remains an intriguing mystery. While vacationing with friends at their cottage in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in 1967, Thompson left the house while the others were taking an afternoon nap (leaving his cigarettes and some medicine he was taking behind), and simply vanished. Despite a massive and lengthy international manhunt, no trace of his whereabouts – or evidence of his demise – were ever found. Rumors and speculation about his disappearance run rampant to this day. Perhaps he got lost in the dense jungle and fell into a hidden ravine, or was attacked and eaten by a tiger, or more sinister possibilities such as being kidnapped by rival silk merchants or his past as a spy catching up with him. His house has been left much as it was at the time, now a museum and showcase for his precious artifacts and silk. Look across the klong, and you might see members of the predominantly Muslim silk-weaving community of Baan Krua working at their looms, as they have for many decades. Several fascinating biographies have been written (available at the shop on the grounds) – great reading during your trip! Following a guided tour of the compound, the balance of the day is free for additional sightseeing or “retail therapy” around the city. Feel free to discuss your interests and desires with your guide, who will be happy to offer suggestions and assistance. This evening, a farewell dinner cruise aboard an antique rice barge is one of the nicest ways we know of to end your stay – the air is fresh and cool along the river, and many of the historic buildings, temples, and monuments are gloriously illuminated in the night sky. An elaborate set menu of Thai cuisine including fresh seafood is served. (B,–,D)

Day 11 - Bangkok – Home
Check out and transfer back to Bangkok Int’l. Airport for your departure flight, arriving home the same day. (B,–,–)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner - Indicates meals included in the program.