Thailand

Tranquil Treasures

November 10th - 18th, 2024

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Thailand, where every moment is a sensory delight. Picture yourself gliding down the Chao Phraya River on a luxury dinner cruise, savoring the exquisite flavors of Thai cuisine as the city’s iconic landmarks pass by. Stroll through vibrant markets, visit tranquil temples, and connect with the warm spirit of the locals. This journey offers a harmonious blend of cultural exploration and peaceful relaxation, set against the stunning backdrops of Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

  • This 9-day adventure will take you from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil landscapes of Chiang Mai. You'll explore the Grand Palace, the vibrant Maeklong Railway Market, and the serene Wat Arun, all while indulging in authentic Thai cuisine. The experience culminates with the magical Loy Krathong festival, where you'll create and release floating lanterns on the river, making a wish under the full moon. Whether you're wandering through ancient temples or enjoying a traditional Khantoke dinner, this trip is designed to awaken your senses and nourish your soul.

The Accommodations

Throughout your stay in Thailand, you’ll experience the perfect blend of luxury and authentic Thai hospitality. Begin your journey at Lancaster Bangkok, nestled in the vibrant Makkasan district, where spacious deluxe rooms offer enchanting city views. This sanctuary in the city provides easy access to the Airport Rail Link and underground station, making it ideal for both business and leisure. Then, transition to the serene Centara Riverside Hotel in Chiang Mai, where you’ll wake up to breathtaking views of the Ping River and Doi Suthep mountain. With some of the largest rooms in Chiang Mai, this hotel is perfectly situated just a short drive from the city’s lively
Night Bazaar and other cultural highlights.

Day One

✈️ ARRIVAL & RIVER SERENITY

Check-in is at 3:00pm

Arrive in Bangkok and let the city’s energy welcome you with open arms. In the evening, embark on a luxurious Welcome Dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll witness the city’s iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. Bask in the tranquil atmosphere as you enjoy a sumptuous Thai buffet under the stars and meet your fellow Lesbifriends.

  • After checking in, take a leisurely walk around the vibrant streets of Bangkok, where the mix of street food vendors and modern boutiques offers a unique urban experience. The river cruise in the evening will provide breathtaking views of Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace, all while you indulge in a sumptuous Thai buffet under the stars.

    Optional Activity: Enjoy a relaxing spa session at your hotel to rejuvenate after your journey.

Day Two

🏰 EXPLORATION & CANALS

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Bangkok with a full-day city tour. Start with the opulent Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then wind down with a peaceful canal tour by long-tail boat.

  • Start your day at a bustling flower market, where the air is filled with the fragrance of fresh blooms, and the vibrant colors provide a feast for the senses. After exploring the Grand Palace, you’ll glide through Bangkok’s historic canals, passing by traditional Thai houses and lush greenery, offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s dynamic pace.

    Optional Activity: Visit the Jim Thompson House Museum, a serene oasis in the heart of Bangkok, showcasing art and antiques in a traditional Thai-style house.

Day Three

🛍️ MARKETS & CULTURE

Discover the unique charm of the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors expertly dodge the oncoming train. Then, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to experience a lively atmosphere filled with vibrant colors and local flavors.

  • Witness the thrilling spectacle as the train passes inches away from the market stalls at Maeklong. At Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the hustle and bustle of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs will energize your day, providing endless opportunities for cultural discovery.


    Optional Activity: Explore the nearby Amphawa Floating Market in the afternoon, where you can enjoy a boat tour and shop for local crafts and snacks in a more relaxed setting.

Day Four

🌴 LEISURE & RELAXATION

Enjoy a day of leisure in Bangkok, with the freedom to explore the city at your own pace or relax at your hotel. Whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, or simply unwinding, this day is yours to enjoy however you please.

  • Bangkok offers a plethora of options for those looking to shop, dine, or explore. Visit world-class shopping centers like Siam Paragon or discover the artistic streets of Talad Noi. For those seeking relaxation, indulge in a traditional Thai massage or enjoy the hotel’s spa facilities, designed to rejuvenate your body and soul.

    Optional Activities:

    • Day tour to Talad Noi Neighbourhood, Wat Traimit and Chatuchak Market

    • Private Night Food Tour by TukTuk

Day Five

✈️ CULTURAL SHIFT

We fly to Chiang Mai and transition from the vibrant hustle of Bangkok to the serene charm of northern Thailand. The day ends with a traditional Khantoke dinner, where you’ll be immersed in Lanna culture.

  • After a short flight, arrive in Chiang Mai, known for its serene atmosphere and deep cultural roots. As you settle into your new surroundings, prepare for a Khantoke dinner—a feast of northern Thai delicacies served on low tables, accompanied by traditional performances that offer a window into the region’s history and customs.


    Optional Activity: After dinner, explore Chiang Mai’s bustling Night Bazaar, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and enjoy the lively evening atmosphere.

Day Six

🎨 ART & EDUCATION

Spend the day connecting with the local community by visiting a school and participating in traditional Thai crafts. Learn about the educational system and enjoy hands-on activities that showcase the creativity of Thai artisans.

  • Your day begins with a visit to a local school, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Thai students. Participate in traditional crafts like umbrella painting or pottery, guided by skilled artisans who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for their art.

    Optional Activity: Visit the Bo Sang Handicraft Village, where you can watch artisans at work creating the famous Thai umbrellas and other traditional crafts.

Day Seven

🌕 TRADITION & LANTERNS

Experience the daily life of a Lanna family, followed by an enchanting evening of lantern-making and riverside dining. The Loy Krathong festival will be a highlight, with floating lanterns illuminating the night sky.

  • Begin your day with a visit to a Lanna home, where you’ll learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of northern Thai families. In the evening, craft your own floating lantern and join the Loy Krathong festival, a breathtaking event where thousands of lanterns illuminate the sky and river, symbolizing new beginnings and hope for the future.

    Optional Activity: Start the day with an alms-giving ceremony at a local temple, where you can offer food to monks and participate in a spiritual Thai tradition.

Day Eight

🌄 FREE EXPLORATION

A day at your own pace to explore more of Chiang Mai’s cultural and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to temples, markets, or scenic views, this day offers a chance to delve deeper into what interests you most.

  • Optional Activites

    • Full day with Worarot Market, Lanna Folklife Museum & Authentic Hatha Yoga class

    • Half-Day Yoga, Meditation, and Thai Cultural Immersion

Day Nine

👋🏽 SAPPY FAREWELL TO NEW LESBIFRIENDS

Check-out is 11:00am

As your journey comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and new friendships forged along the way. After heartfelt farewells to your fellow travelers, depart from Chiang Mai International Airport with the joy of new connections and lasting memories.

What’s Included✨

  • Daily Breakfast

  • Welcome and Farewell Dinners

  • Private Ground Transportation to Activities and Excursions on the Itinerary

  • Luxury dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River

  • Visits to the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Po

  • Sightseeing

  • Lesbifriends Swag Bag

  • Travel Guide

  • Airport Drop Off at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

  • On-ground team to ensure you have an amazing time!

What’s Not Included

  • International Flight

    Your Flight from your Home country to Nicaragua is not included. Check-in is on November 10th, 2024 at 3 PM, and Check-Out is on November 18th, 2024 at 11 AM. Please plan your arrival and departure accordingly, and feel free to reach out with any questions regarding your flight arrangements.

  • Travel Insurance

    Mandatory travel insurance is not included, however Basic coverage can be added on to your trip package or we can provide you with a quote for a different policy. Just add either when checking out.

  • Passport Fees and Vaccines

    Your current passport must be valid for more than 6 months from the trip date and you must be up to date on any vaccines required by the country

  • Meals not Mentioned

    You are responsible for some lunches and dinners

  • Personal extras/add-ons

    Additional tours and excursions not included in the itinerary

  • Tips and gratuities

    You are responsible for tips and gratuities to accommodation staff, on all meals (even ones included in the itinerary), to drivers, tour guides, etc.

Pricing

Payment Plans Available - All Listed Prices Are Per Person

Please review the booking terms and conditions and frequently asked questions section before booking a package.

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking.

Single Occupancy

$3,895+

Deposit: $200
Available until September 10, 2024

1 BED ONLY YOU IN THE ROOM.

Double Occupancy

$2995+

Deposit: $200
Available until September 10, 2024

2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)

- If you don't come with someone, you will be paired with a roommate

- If you come with someone, please include whether you prefer 1 double bed or 2 single beds under the "Anything else we should know about you?" section when you register.

Disclaimer

THIS TRIP ISN'T FOR EVERYONE

Understand that Thailand is a Asian country, and standards are not the same as the USA. 

  IT IS FOR YOU IF: 

  • You are open-minded

  • You enjoy eating, walking, and off-the-beaten-path ideas

  • You love to have a great time and are open to meeting others and accept the different personalities you will encounter

 THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU IF:  

  • You have a tendency to bring first world expectations with you everywhere

  • You have a tendency to be negative or create a challenging atmosphere for those around you

  • You're not into trying new things or stepping outside of your comfort zone

  • You don’t like indigenous Thai food; that is what we’ll be eating every day

  • You have very specific and particular travel preferences and tend to criticize everything around you

  • You can’t easily walk up stairs; if you find walking tough, then this trip isn’t suited to you

  • You are looking for luxury; Thai standards are not the same as it is in the USA, however, if you keep an open mind, you will have a great time!

Important Information

Flights

We recommend you book your flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bankock, arrival time should be as close to check-in as possible on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

Please share your flight itinerary with us as soon as you purchase your tickets so we can start coordinating ground transportation. 

Entry Requirements

Passport: Six months of remaining validity recommended.

Return Ticket: While not always asked, it is recommended to have a return or onward ticket to show proof of your departure from Mexico.

Prior to Your Departure

Check if you need to update your passport, your expiration date needs to be more than 6 months from the date of the trip.
Sign up for State Department/Embassy alerts.  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 

Money/Currency

The official currency in Thailand is Thai Baht (THB) and the symbol is ฿.. Most establishments accept credit/debit cards and do include bank fees and are subject to the current conversion rate which does not vary much. Please check with your bank ahead of time so there are no surprises.  It is recommended to bring some pesos along with you because withdrawing cash has a high fee associated with it. 

Travel Insurance

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Lesbifriends Travel requires you to have travel insurance for any trip you take with us. Your premium is related to your trip cost, so you don’t have to worry about being over-insured. We want to make your travel experience seamless, so sign up and we will get a travel insurance policy for you or we can provide you with a no obligation quote. If you opt not to go with our preferred travel insurance provider, you are required to get your own and proof of insurance may be requested before the trip.

Payments and Payment Plans

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking. 

All payments to Lesbifriends Travel are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is because Lesbifriends Travel has contractual agreements with hotels, airlines, and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds. This way we can keep our package prices low and allow you to make monthly payments on your vacation.

When you sign up for a trip, you are automatically signed up for monthly payments and your confirmation email will clearly note your due dates and amount. We suggest you put this payment plan on your personal calendar.

A $75 late fee will be applied to all payments made after the 3-day grace period. Your trip is subject to cancellation after two missed payments.

  • If you are traveling alone and do not want to spend the extra money for a single occupancy room, we are happy to match you with a like-minded traveler to be your roommate on this trip. We understand that the extra money spent in getting your own room takes away from the money available for you to splurge while on vacation.

    For that reason, we extend each traveler the option of having us pair you with a suitable roommate for no additional cost. Roommates are paired based on room selection and a potential roommate questionnaire if there are several solo travelers. Before the trip, you will be introduced to your roommate, with plenty of time for you to get to know each other before we reach our destination.

  • Do you know someone who is interested in joining our trip but has not been to a Lesbifriend event or trip? Here is your chance to save a little money while bringing them on a trip of a lifetime!

    For every traveler that you refer to our trip, you will receive up to a $150 ($25 cash, $50 current trip credit, or $75 future domestic trip credit, or $150 future international trip credit) referral bonus once that person pays in full. There is no limit to the number of people you can refer; the only condition is that anyone you refer has not already signed up with Lesbifriends.

    Be sure to tell your friend to enter your name on the registration form under “Who Referred You.”