Bangkok & Beach Escape with Phuket

Located on the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River with the cultural and historical hub of Bangkok at its doorsteps, the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok offers a premium choice in Bangkok accommodation by blending spacious yet luxurious contemporary rooms and suites with warm and friendly Thai hospitality. The hotel is ideal for leisure or business travellers. There were 396 spacious studio style rooms and suites.

Today, look beyond the crowded streets of the capital and discover a more local side of Bangkok. Take advantage of the city's network of public transportation, seeing the main sites but also getting a closer look at the traditions and lifestyles of the Thai people.

The first leg of today's adventure is on the Skytrain (BTS) and/or Underground (MRT) system, depending on your hotel location. The Skytrain is an elevated train line, which is busy in the morning with business people and school kids who avoid the traffic of the streets for a faster, air-conditioned commute. On arrival at BTS National Stadium Station, take a short walk to Jim Thompson House. Enjoy an insightful tour of the compound's tranquil gardens and traditional buildings, which showcases the history of the famous and mysterious American silk merchant.

Then board a 'bus boat' through the city's canals. Rarely used by tourists, this ride provides an up-close look at the ways of life of the local people who live alongside the canals. Sailing to the terminal station, you can basically see the transformation from rich to poor as you cruise along to another neighborhood. On arrival at the terminal station, hop aboard a tuk-tuk (Thailand's famous three-wheeled vehicles) used by locals throughout the country. Zip through quieter city streets to Soi Ban Batra. Visit a family-run workshop that produces monks' alms bowls. Witness the artisans at work and learn about the daily lives of the Buddhist monks who wake early to collect alms offerings from the city's residents.

Next board your second tuk-tuk of the day to visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Spend some time exploring these two remarkable sites at a time of day which should be less crowded than the morning. Learn about the country's regal history and the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of its people. After this use Bangkok's extensive public transport network to work your way back to the hotel with the help of our local friendly guide.

Bangkok is a city that truly comes to life after dark. Spend an evening exploring the vibrant streets and tranquil temples with a local guide, getting a different perspective of the capital.

You'll be met in the lobby of your hotel by your guide and will start the evening with a BTS Skytrain or tuk-tuk ride to the central pier. From here, continue onwards by longtail boat sailing up the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun. See all the buildings and temples lit up and see passing river cruises with lots of lights. Disembark at Wat Arun pier, spending time there before crossing the ferry to a local pier. Walk through the market down to Riva Arun Hotel to enjoy a refreshing cocktail. Enjoy dinner at a great local restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. With the majestic Wat Arun glittering in the distance, you'll enjoy a delicious traditional Thai meal. Following dinner, take a stroll to the temple grounds of Wat Pho to soak up the beauty of its glittering chedi at night.

Then hop on a tuk-tuk and traverse through the city's historic quarter for a visit to Pak Klong Talad. One of the country's largest fresh markets, the site is busy 24-hours a day with wholesale vendors and local shoppers. Explore the stalls where orchids, flowers, vegetables and other items spill over the crowded stalls.

This unforgettable evening tour ends with a transfer back to your hotel.

Escape to a heavenly corner of earth at the Vijitt Resort Phuket where the pace of life is slow and the scenery is simply breathtaking. Situated on a tranquil beach away from the bustling tourist crowds, this luxury all-villa Phuket resort offers a rejuvenating retreat that exudes Thai charm. The exquisite location of the Rawai hotel was handpicked for its outstanding natural beauty offering wide open spaces with tall swaying palms and lush green lawns that gently slope towards the Andaman Sea.

Take a closer look at Phuket's rich cultural heritage on this unique tour.

You'll be met at your hotel and start with a visit to the island's historic quarters, where a delightful mix of old and new buildings can be found. See Phuket's oldest Chinese shrine, learning about the Chinese migrants who came to the island in the 19th century to work in the tin mines.

Continue past Sino-Portuguese buildings which attest to the island's past as a key stop on the Asian trading routes. There is also a chance to visit a colourful fruit market where locally-grown tropical fruits are sold.

Following this insightful walking tour, return to the vehicle and drive to the summit of Rang Hill. Enjoy sweeping views of the town, seeing the heritage buildings from a different point of view. A refreshing cocktail and light snack will be served at this scenic location.

The tour comes to a close with dinner at a great local restaurant. Afterwards, you'll be transferred back to your hotel.

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.

Today, enjoy a full day in Phang Nga Bay with a side trip for snorkeling at Koh Hong Krabi. You'll be met at your hotel and transferred to Phuket's pier where a longtail motorboat is waiting. Climb aboard and cast off onto the emerald green seas of the Andaman coast.

The boat will cross the Bay to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, two islands divided by a wide channel. You'll make stops in small secluded bays to swim in the warm waters of Phang Nga Bay. Back on board, cruise onwards to Koh Hong Krabi. Grab a mask and hop overboard to swim and snorkel in the calm waters. Enjoy the underwater wonderland, teeming with tropical fish.

Stop at midday for a picnic lunch on the open seas, enjoying a tasty meal while surrounded by unforgettable scenery.

The afternoon features more fabulous opportunities for swimming or simply relaxing in the sun. You'll be returned to your hotel in Phuket early this evening, feeling fresh and rejuvenated from your day at sea.

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.