From idyllic, unspoilt beaches with turquoise seas and pure, white sands to bustling cities sporting exotic markets and a vibrant, colourful nightlife, it is easy to see why Thailand has become one of the most popular destinations for the adventurous and young at heart.

A holiday in Chiang Mai is an essential element of any visit to Thailand. This ancient city, with a cooler climate and greener aspect than frenetic Bangkok, is set in the foothills of the Himalayas, and is known for its elephant-back safaris, magnificent temples and famed Night Market. This popular tourist destination also has plenty of other attractions to enchant visitors, from orchid farms to puppet shows.

The most exotic country in Asia, Thailand has a unique character that is a blend of tradition with contemporary living. Begin in bustling Bangkok, a city of contrasts and home to the breathtaking Grand Palace. Continue on to Chiang Mai, situated on the Pong River, it combines the very best of Thai history with stunning tropical scenery. And finally Chiang Rai, the perfect centre for exploring the stunningly scenic surroundings.

Day 1 FLIGHT TO BANGKOK

Depart Ireland for Bangkok. During the flight enjoy the in-flight service including meals, bar service and the latest feature films.

Day 2 BANGKOK

Morning arrival in Bangkok, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 3 BANGKOK

This morning we visit the Damneon Saduak Floating Market and continue to the Rose Garden in the afternoon. After lunch you will have time to wander round the gardens and the recreated Thai village, and take in a cultural show. The show gives you an idea of many aspects of the Thai way of life. After the show, there is a short demonstration of elephants at work, before we return to Bangkok for overnight.

Day 4 BANGKOK

Today we travel to Kanchanaburi province, to the west of Bangkok, sights include the bridge over the River Kwai and the allied war cemeteries. Perhaps the most spectacular part of the tour is the hours train ride along the death railway itself up to the end of the line at Nam Tok, close to the Burmese border. Lunch is taken in the River Kawi village. In the afternoon return back to Bangkok for overnight.

Day 5 BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI

After breakfast transfer to the airport for yourflight to CHiang Mai where on arrival you will be met and brought to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure. Overnight at your hotel in Chiang Mai

Day 6 CHIANG MAI

This morning you will have a City and Temples tour, including two of the most famous temples in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep on a hill overlooking the city & Wat Suan Dok. The afternoon will be at your leisure to explore the city. In the evening enjoy a traditional Northern Khantoke dinner which is followed by a show. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 7 CHIANG MAI

After breakfast, we will visit the Mae Sa Elephant Camp, the busiest of all the Elephant camps in Chang Mai. There is time for an optional elephant ride. On the way back from the camp, we visit and Orchid Farm to see Thailand's most exquisite blooms and its Siamese cattery. The afternoon will be at your leisure. Overnight in Chang Mai

Day 8 CHIANG MAI

Enjoy a full day of exploration in Chang Mai or get some last minute sightseeing or shopping. Overnight in Chang Mai. Day 9 FLIGHT HOME

Some time for some last minute shopping before transfer to the airport for your flight home via Bangkok.

Day 10 ARRIVE HOME