Day 1:

Arrive in Thailand's capital of Bangkok, pulsating with life and distinctly modern while retaining its Eastern flavor.

DAY 2:

In the morning, visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; then explore the adjoining Grand Palace, a complex of halls, statues and gardens. Your afternoon is at leisure.

DAY 3:

Today, sightsee along the busy banks of the river and on Bangkok's famous klongs (canals) that crisscross the city, followed by a visit to the flower market. After enjoying a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant, take a leisurely bike ride along the river.

DAY 4:

Fly to charming Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand, close to the Myanmar border.

DAY 5:

Trek on elephant back through thick forests to a Pa Dawn hill tribe village, including a visit to the local schoolhouse. Then take a private cruise on the Pai River to spend the afternoon with the children of a remote village.

DAY 6:

After a morning visit to Mae Hong Son's lively market, fly to Chiang Mai, where the afternoon is at leisure. This evening, stroll Chiang Mai's famous Night Market.

DAY 7:

Travel by rickshaw through Chiang Mai, visiting Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep. Take an artisan textile dyeing class with Patricia Cheesman, an expert on Thai textiles and crafts.

DAY 8:

Visit an elephant training camp to receive training from a skilled mahout. Learn simple commands that will enable you to communicate with these gentle giants. Spend the morning riding, bathing and even painting with them.

DAY 9:

Fly to charming Luang Prabang, once the royal capital of the Kingdom of Laos. Visit Phoussy Hill at sunset for a breathtaking view of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAY 10:

Take part in a food offering to the local Buddhist monks. Sightseeing today includes visits to the Pak Ou Caves, Thankting and Thamphoum, as well as Wat Longkhome and Ban Xanghai. Witness a traditional welcome baci ceremony, the time-honored custom by which the Laotians impart the blessing of the spirits on their guests. Also, visit a local school to share a lesson in English.

DAY 11:

Visit the Royal Palace Museum and local market before flying to Bangkok.

DAY 12:

Transfer to the airport to board your homebound flight.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner