Explore the captivating ancient temples of Bagan, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Bangkok and Manila, and unwind in the breathtaking beaches of Palawan and Boracay. Discover the rich history, unique traditions, and stunning natural beauty that each country has to offer. From the bustling streets of Yangon to the serene landscapes of Chiang Mai and the stunning islands of El Nido, this expertly crafted tour ensures a seamless and immersive experience. Indulge in local cuisines, visit historic landmarks, and create unforgettable memories in these enchanting destinations.
We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Sirin is the BEST!
My recent trip to Chiang Mai was nothing short of magical, and our tour guide played a huge part in making it so memorable. From the moment we met, Sirin welcomed us with warm hospitality and an infectious passion for sharing the beauty, history, and culture of northern Thailand. More
Jenny Tse, Oct 2024
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Excellent Trip Planning by Alisa Liu at Asia Highlights
Alisa did a wonderful job! She was very detail oriented, extremely responsive and answered my questions very promptly. She incorporated all of the places we wanted to visit and was able to book hotels, airline tickets and special event tickets (to the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival which was sold out when I tried booking on my own.) Alisa was great to work with and I recommend that others use her for their trip planning. More
Effie, Sep 2024
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Excellent experience in Bangkok
Ying was our guide in Bangkok. She was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. She knew exactly how to move us through crowds quickly so that we could see all we wanted to say and made good recommendations for other things we were interested in. I would not hesitate to recommend Ying or anyone that helped us at Asia highlights More
Dr. Meshagae Hunte-Brown, Aug 2024
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Tour Highlights
Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Explore a Diverse Archaeological Site in Central Myanmar
Enjoy a Beautiful Hot Air Balloon Flight in Bagan
Walk into the magnificent Grand Palace and Listen to monk's chanting in Wat Pho.
Experience Maeklong Railway Market at its busiest and interact with passing locals.
Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration
The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you.
Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Yangon. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.
Dala and Twantay Biking Adventure near Yangon: Start your trip at Nan Thida Ferry Terminal and cross the Yangon River by ferry to Dala Township. Explore Dala village, visit a recycle souvenir shop, and bike to Twantay. Along the way, discover hidden streets, charming lakes, and picturesque countryside. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Twantay and continue biking through scenic areas, including farms and pottery workshops. Explore Twantay Market and cross Twantay Canal. Enjoy a boat ride back to Yangon, witnessing a stunning sunset. This full-day, moderate-to-hard difficulty adventure covers 60 km in total.
Begin your exploration of Bagan, a diverse archaeological site in central Myanmar. The main attraction is the Bagan Archaeological Zone, a vast area with numerous religious sites sprawled across a large plain. Enjoy the freedom to explore this mesmerizing landscape on a bicycle, cart, or even from a hot air balloon.
Visit Shwezigon Paya, one of the oldest temples in the region, holds immense significance as it houses a precious Buddha tooth replica from Sri Lanka. Marvel at the circular, gold leaf-gilded stupa, which stands 160 feet wide and tall. Surrounding the stupa are smaller temples and shrines, creating a mystical ambiance. Interestingly, it is believed that the pagoda's shadow never falls outside the compound walls, regardless of the time of day.
Explore Htilominlo Pahto, a majestic structure named after King Htilominlo, also known as Zeya Theinkha and Nadaungmyar. This temple towers at an impressive height of 46 meters and displays architectural similarities to the Sulamani temple. However, Htilominlo offers a unique verticality experience, particularly within its lower ambulatory.
Witness the enchanting sunset over the temples of Bagan, as your knowledgeable tour guide takes you to the highest point in the Archaeological Zone. Capture breathtaking photographs and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere as the sun paints the sky with vibrant colors.
Uncover the artistic splendor of Ananda Temple, built in 1091 AD by King Kyaansittha. This temple marks the transition between the Early Bagan and Middle period with its distinct architectural style. Marvel at its cruciform shape and ascend several terraces leading to the pagoda at the top, crowned by an exquisite umbrella known as hti. The hti is a significant ornament found atop almost all pagodas in Myanmar.
Start your day by being picked up by the professional hot air balloon staff who will transfer you to the flight's starting point. Over a simple breakfast and fresh coffee, meet your experienced British pilot who will provide a briefing on safety measures, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey.
Watch in awe as the pilot and crew inflate the balloon, an exciting process that takes approximately 15 minutes. At around 6:30 am, just before sunrise, board the balloon and prepare for an incredible 45-minute flight over the mesmerizing historical area of Bagan. As you ascend, marvel at the panoramic view of temples, stupas, and breathtaking sights that this ancient city has to offer. The flight route varies each day depending on the wind, guaranteeing a unique and awe-inspiring experience.
Upon completion of the flight, the pilot will skillfully guide the balloon to a safe landing site, where the attentive crew awaits your arrival. Celebrate your safe return with a bottle of chilled sparkling wine, savoring this momentous occasion. To commemorate your adventure, receive a flight certificate as a token of your remarkable experience.
Your tour guide will transfer you to Mandalay Airport for the charming Bangkok and Chiang Rai flight. Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, your private guide and driver will greet and transfer you to the hotel.
Embark on this scenic journey, which takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete. Traverse through lush forests, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of nature. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning waterfalls and rivers, allowing you to connect with the serene ambiance of the surroundings.
As you navigate the trail, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the local village and witness the agricultural clear areas, gaining insights into the way of life in the region. It's important to approach these areas with respect and practice responsible tourism.
Begin your journey at Wat Rong Khun, located 15 kilometers southwest of Chiang Rai town. This iconic "White Temple" is renowned throughout Thailand for its unique blend of contemporary art and Buddhist traditions. Spend approximately one hour exploring its mesmerizing architecture and intricate details, capturing stunning photographs along the way.
Next, venture to the Baandam Museum, commonly known as the Black House. While it may be more of a museum than a traditional temple, it remains a popular destination in Chiang Rai. Witness the intriguing collection of art and sculptures, each with its own story to tell.
Continue your temple exploration with a visit to Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple. Although smaller in scale compared to the White Temple and Black House, its beauty knows no bounds. Admire the striking blue exterior adorned with gold accents. Inside the main hall, a captivating sitting statue of a White Buddha awaits, surrounded by contemporary Buddhist art in a modern style. Despite being relatively undiscovered by tourists, it is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque sites in Chiang Rai.
Your adventure begins as your knowledgeable guide picks you up from your hotel and accompanies you to Pak Klong Talad, the largest flower market in Thailand. Explore the bustling market, sampling delicious local snacks and fruits while witnessing the creation of intricate flower garlands. Experience the traditional Thai practice of decorating lotus flowers before continuing your stroll through the market, marveling at the vibrant array of vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
Hop on a tuk-tuk and set off to visit Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest and most revered temples. Discover its renowned 45-meter (14-foot) reclining Buddha and explore the original school of traditional Thai massage. At 9:00 am, witness a mesmerizing monk chanting session, immersing yourself in the serenity of this spiritual practice.
Next, embark on a visit to the majestic Grand Palace, where you'll encounter the exalted Emerald Buddha, crafted from jade or jasper. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the palace's historical significance.
Embark on a captivating long-tail boat ride along the Thonburi canal, immersing yourself in the colorful tapestry of local life. Catch a glimpse of Wat Arun, a majestic temple once dedicated to King Rama II, and take in its awe-inspiring beauty from the outside or explore its enchanting interior if time permits.
Your guide will then whisk you away on an exhilarating Tuk Tuk ride to Chinatown, where you'll witness the vibrant energy of Old Bangkok. Stroll along Yaowarat Road, lined with shops selling an array of items, including exquisite gold jewelry. Delve into the bustling Talad Kao Market, a haven for fresh food, dry fruits, and Chinese herbs.
Conclude your adventure at your choice of MBK, a renowned shopping mall for tourists, the weekend market (open only on weekends), or return to your hotel. Reflect on the memories made during your enriching exploration of Bangkok's essence.
Begin your journey in the early morning, as you board a comfortable car and travel approximately two hours to reach the Maeklong Railway Market. Witness the market's extraordinary charm as a railway track runs right through its center. Vendors display their diverse array of traditional Thai products, sometimes even placing them directly on the tracks.
Stay alert as a warning bell signals the impending arrival of a train. In a captivating display of coordination, vendors swiftly pull back their awnings and belongings to ensure safety. Capture this remarkable moment on video or through photographs, joining tourists and locals alike in awe. As soon as the train passes, the market resumes its bustling activity as if nothing happened.
After immersing yourself in the fascinating Maeklong Railway Market, continue your adventure to the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Be transported to a bygone era as you witness the age-old tradition of buying and selling goods from vendors aboard their boats along picturesque canals. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural spectacle, embracing the sights, sounds, and flavors of Thailand.
Depart from Bangkok and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive covering 130km to reach Kanchanaburi. Your first stop is the interactive Thailand-Burma Railway Center Museum. Immerse yourself in the gripping history of the railway and gain insights into the experiences of prisoners and the aftermath of its completion.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Don Rak War Cemetery, the solemn resting place of 6,982 Allied POWs who sacrificed their lives during the construction of the Death Railway. Pay your respects to these brave individuals while reflecting on the sacrifices made during this dark chapter of history.
Next, marvel at the world-famous Bridge over the River Kwai. This iconic structure, spanning the River Kwai Yai, was initially destroyed during Allied bombing raids in World War II. However, it was later reconstructed by the Japanese as an act of war reparations. Take a moment to appreciate the significance of this historical landmark.
Afterwards, embark on a 1-1.5 hour drive before boarding a long-tailed boat on the River Kwai. Cruise towards The Float House River Kwai, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the surroundings. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride upstream to visit an ethnic Mon Tribal Village and temple, providing a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and way of life.
Discover the mesmerizing Erawan Falls, a captivating series of waterfalls known for their emerald green ponds. With seven major tiers and several smaller cascades, the falls offer a scenic spectacle. Trails and footbridges make it easy to explore up to the sixth tier, while the final tier offers a slightly more challenging ascent. The trail from the starting point to the top tier covers around 1.5 kilometers.
The crystal-clear ponds invite you to take a refreshing swim, making this attraction perfect for families with children. Enjoy leisurely forest trekking, partake in water activities, and take in the sights of wild monkeys in their natural habitat.
For an extraordinary overnight experience, stay at The Floathouse River Kwai in a Floating Villa. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the river, surrounded by serene beauty as you relax and rejuvenate.
Join us for the incredible Elephants World Half-Day program, perfect for famiuly travelers seeking an unforgettable encounter with majestic elephants. Get started at 9:30 AM with an introduction and safety briefing. Then, indulge in the joy of feeding the elephants with fruits and vegetables, while observing them in their natural river habitat. Take part in preparing their meals, engage in a mud bath session, and join them for a refreshing river bath. A delightful buffet lunch awaits before you conclude the day with memorable moments of observing the elephants in their element.
Your tour guide will transfer you to Bangkok Airport for the charming Manila flight. Upon arrival in Manila, your private guide and driver will greet and transfer you to the hotel in Cebu.
Located in Barangay Matutinao, Badian, Kawasan Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Cebu. This scenic gem is nestled in the inviting municipality of Badian, situated in the southwestern part of the province.
Prepare to be enchanted by the three magnificent falls that await you. The first set of falls boasts an impressive height of over 40 meters, creating a majestic cascade of water. The second set offers a wider area with a height of 20 meters, providing a picturesque backdrop for unwinding and discovering nature's wonders.
Your tour guide will transfer you to Cebu Airport for the charming Palawan flight. Upon arrival in Palawan, your private guide and driver will greet and transfer you to the hotel in Puerto Princesa City.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a scenic 2-hour drive to Sabang, known for its natural beauty. From there, continue your adventure aboard a motorized outrigger boat, cruising to St. Paul's Bay. Take in the breathtaking sight of limestone and marble cliffs that form a magnificent backdrop to the bay's surroundings.
Discover the wonders of the underground river, a captivating experience aboard paddled canoes. Marvel at the awe-inspiring cathedral-like caverns that stretch up to 8 kilometers beneath the limestone cliffs. As you navigate through this natural masterpiece, be immersed in the eerie atmosphere created by the stalagmites rising from the water. The haunting cries of bats residing in the caves add to the enchantment of this unique excursion.
El Nido is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque limestone cliffs. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant marine life, and lush green jungles that make this destination a dreamlike retreat.
Indulge in a variety of activities, from island hopping and snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs to exploring hidden lagoons and relaxing on idyllic sandy beaches. El Nido offers an array of stunning sights, including the enchanting Big Lagoon and the awe-inspiring Small Lagoon.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
- Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-cx-33
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