Trip Overview

Join AdventureWomen for ten delightful days of cultural discovery in Southeast Asia’s Thailand and Laos as you boat among local vendors at a floating market, explore elaborate temples honoring Buddha, ride a tuk-tuk, and lounge on the beach on a Thai island.

Centuries ago, the people of Thailand and Laos harnessed the forces of nature to create a verdant, harmonious, and deeply spiritual paradise. Travel with AdventureWomen well off the beaten path in Southeast Asia to live as the locals do, discovering the region’s most spectacular sites, iconic temples, and wonderfully welcoming people of these two countries.

Thailand and Laos

Meet your AdventureWomen Thai guide and the women with whom you’ll be journeying in Bangkok, a city in Thailand where rivers have traditionally served as highways and shopping “centers.” Over the next day, you’ll journey out to discover Bangkok’s wonders! Cruise by water to reach the illuminated, highly ornate Wat Arun, or “Temple of Dawn”, its radiant towers sparkling with embedded colored glass, and travel by river the traditional way to learn about the ethnic communities clustered along the riverbanks.

After Bangkok, travel to Laos, where you will explore historic Luang Prabang, Vat Mai, and Vat Xieng Thong by tuk-tuk with your expert Laotian guide. Explore Kuang Si Falls, one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Southeast Asia. Take part in a Laotian Baci spiritual ceremony, and participate in Tak Bat. This traditional Laotian ritual provides alms to Buddhist monks and novices. Finally, meet one of the two women who founded the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center.

Return to Thailand and reunite with your Thai guide to visit more temples, shop in galleries of traditional Thai artisans, and visit the Elephant Nature Park, a globally recognized elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. You will get to help prepare the elephants’ food! Speaking of food, enjoy a traditional dinner where an array of authentic Lanna cuisine – the flavors of northern Thailand will be showcased.

Meet Patricia, whose life has been predominantly dedicated to Laos and northern Thailand, where she has immersed herself in the intricate art of textiles. Her expertise spans from mastering the pre-curing of naturally occurring dyes to embracing traditional weaving patterns unique to each ethnic group residing in the neighboring villages. There, you can engage in a three-hour immersive workshop with a hands-on traditional dyeing class.

Next, venture into the White Market, a vibrant community bursting with culinary delights, and diverse shopping options.

Hike to Wat Phu Lat, visit the Chiang Mai’s artist community – metal craftsmen, painters, ceramic artists, weavers, and even gelato creators, all in the same space!

Wake up early to fly to Phuket, hop on a longtail boat to snorkel and kayak through the off-the-beaten-path islands.

At your farewell celebration, join your guides for a Krathong Ceremony, where you float a leaf basket holding a candle while offering prayers. Reflect on how sharing this cultural experience in Thailand and Laos with the other Adventure Women on your trip made this adventure truly spectacular.

Main Attractions

  • Explore Thailand and Laos by kayak, long-tail boat, and tuk-tuk
  • Meet local Laotian artisans and entrepreneurs at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center
  • Spend the day caring for elephants at the Elephant Nature Park
  • Explore the city of Luang Prabang, Laos in tuk-tuk ride, and participate in spiritual ceremonies
  • Snorkel and kayak among remote islands in the Andaman Sea near Phuket, Thailand

What You'll See and Do

  • Anthropology
  • Architecture
  • Canoe and Boat Travel
  • Cooking Class
  • Cultural Exploration
  • Cultural Performances
  • Historical Sites
  • Local Delicacies
  • National Parks
  • Natural History
  • Sightseeing
  • Snorkeling
  • Spa Element
  • Swimming
  • Walking
  • Women-To-Women Exchanges

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand

Welcome to colorful, exotic, and endlessly fascinating Thailand! Your adventure gives you the chance to explore distinct Thai regions and experience the lifestyle and traditions unique to each. From the cultural delights of Bangkok to remote hillside villages, and from the natural wonders of Chiang Mai to the palm-fanned tropical beaches of Phuket, Thailand promises to engage everyone’s imagination.

Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) before 12:00 PM.

There will be one group transfer provided from the airport around 12:00 PM. The exact transfer time will be determined closer to departure. AdventureWomen can arrange additional airport transfers for an additional fee. Taxis from the airport are metered and also quite simple to navigate if you prefer to make your own way to the hotel.

Have lunch on your own today either at or near your hotel before meeting your group at 2:00 PM in the hotel lobby.

Take the sky train and a local ferry across the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). This stupa-shaped temple spire is decorated with colored glass and Chinese porcelain. Enjoy sunset at the temple. Take a ferry and taxi back to the hotel.

Have a welcome drink at the hotel before heading out for your welcome dinner where you can connect with your fellow travelers. Share stories and discover the unique reasons each woman in your group is excited to explore Thailand and Laos!

Dinner

Overnight: Pranakorn Heritage Hotel

Day 2

Bangkok to Luang Prabang, Laos

This morning, drive to the airport and board a flight to Luang Prabang. Bid farewell to your Thai guide at the airport, knowing you’ll reunite in Chiang Mai in a few days.

Enjoy lunch at the Bourang Restaurant in Luang Prabang.

Embark on a tuk-tuk ride to explore the city. Witness the Royal Palace, housing the revered “Prabang” sacred golden statue, from which the town takes its name. Explore Vat Mai, a former royal temple, and visit the Heuan Chan Heritage House to gain insight into Lao traditional architecture and culture, offering a glimpse into the way families lived in long houses until around 1960. Conclude your exploration with a visit to Vat Xieng Thong, Laos’ most iconic temple, adorned with golden paint and mosaic glass embedded with mirrors.

Cap off the day with a group dinner in the evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Maydou

Day 3

Luang Prabang, Laos

Immerse yourself in a hands-on culinary adventure, crafting your own lunch featuring traditional Laotian cuisine.

Embark on a 45-minute drive from your hotel to Kuang Si Falls, a breathtaking natural attraction near Luang Prabang. Make a stop in a rural village along the way. Kuang Si Falls stands as one of Southeast Asia’s most picturesque waterfalls.

Lao people believe that the 32 organs making up the body each have a protective soul, called khuan, that can often wander away from oneself. The Baci ceremony recalls these spirits back to the body to strengthen one’s bonds, and to bring peace, good luck, and prosperity. When the ceremony is over, you will tie cotton bracelets on each other’s wrists, which symbolically binds the souls back to the body. You’ll participate in this ceremony at a local home with a family and a master of ceremony.

Savor dinner at your leisure this evening, with a plethora of choices to explore. Don’t miss the opportunity to peruse the local night market for additional culinary delights.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Maydou

Day 4

Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Embark on a morning journey departing from the hotel at around 5:30 AM, exploring Luang Prabang on foot. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of orange-clad, barefoot monks gathering alms—a timeless daily ceremony dating back a thousand years. Continue the exploration by tuk-tuk to the local market, gaining insights into how locals procure their fresh food. Have breakfast at around 8:30 AMwhen you are back at the hotel.

Meet one of the founders of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center. Learn to distinguish crafts from various ethnic groups, discern between factory-produced and handmade pieces, and understand the challenges faced by women in Laos today.

Take a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai in the morning. Upon arrival, be greeted by your guide from Bangkok and head to a late lunch to savor Cao Soi, a renowned Thai dish featuring a rich and nutty curry—a local favorite.

Embark on a stroll through the village near your hotel, visiting the Ganesh shrine before reaching Kalm Village. Explore boutiques showcasing batik and other traditional handcrafted goods, along with the community artist exhibition space. Continue your walk to the Chedi Luang temple. Conclude the day by relaxing at the hotel before dinner.

Indulge in dinner at a restaurant near the hotel, capping off a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Aksara Heritage Hotel

Day 5

Chiang Mai

Dedicate an entire day to the Elephant Nature Park, located approximately an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. Engage in various activities such as preparing food, observing, and learning about Asian elephants. Enjoy a simple lunch and spend the afternoon forming connections with these gentle giants.

In the evening, enjoy have a traditional dinner tonight where you’ll be served many dishes family-style. These typical Lanna, or northern Thai dishes could include roasted green chili dip, fresh vegetables, and thicker nutty curries.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Aksara Heritage Hotel

Day 6

Chiang Mai

Immerse yourself in a three-hour traditional dyeing workshop at Studio Naenna, founded in 1988 by Patricia Cheesman, a distinguished textile expert. Patricia, having dedicated the majority of her life to the study and refinement of textile art in Laos and northern Thailand, is a master of the craft. From pre-curing natural dyes to mastering traditional weaving techniques of various ethnic groups in neighboring villages, Patricia’s expertise is unparalleled. In this immersive workshop, participants will have the unique opportunity to craft their own indigo tie-dye piece, a cherished tradition in northern Thailand.

After a short 20-minute drive, venture into the White Market located at Neiman One. This vibrant community offers a plethora of culinary delights, cultural experiences, diverse shopping options, and a range of services. The White Market serves as a showcase for the creative talents of Chiang Mai’s local designers, featuring a wide array of items including clothing, jewelry, and more.

Indulge in dinner at Ginger Farm, a farm-to-table concept nestled in the heart of the White Market within the Neiman One Plaza. Experience a culinary journey surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of this unique market.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Aksara Heritage Hotel

Day 7

Chiang Mai

Embark on a leisurely hike through a section of Doi Suthep National Park, aptly named the “mountain of the open heart,” leading to the jungle wat of Phu Lat. The hike, approximately an hour and a half long with minimal elevation gain, takes you along a stream through gardens where statues, flowers, and jungle elements intertwine. Closed-toed shoes are recommended for this exploration.

Discover the emerging talents of a new generation of artists in Chiang Mai’s artist community. Explore a unique collection of shops, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring diverse artisans such as metal craftsmen, painters, ceramic artists, weavers, and even gelato creators – all within the same creative hub. After this visit, return to the hotel with a scenic 30-minute drive.

Enjoy lunch and the afternoon at your leisure. Consider indulging in a massage at the hotel or exploring the Hmong market, where various ethnic groups procure materials for crafting their traditional attire.

The evening’s dining experience is yours to decide.

(Optional) If you’re interested, there’s a renowned craft market at the South Gate of the Moat, commonly referred to as the Saturday Market. It is particularly famous for its silver jewelry. If you wish to attend, our guide can assist in arranging transportation, whether it be a tuk-tuk or taxi.

Breakfast, Lunch 

Overnight: Aksara Heritage Hotel

Day 8

Chiang Mai to Phuket

Get up early this morning for your flight to Phuket, stopping in Bangkok on the way. When you arrive, drive to the pier and take in the view of the turquoise ocean. Pack your bathing suit in your daypack so you have it handy!

Hop on a longtail boat and stop to have lunch and change into bathing suits. Snorkel through the off-the-beaten-path Lao Lading and Phakbia islands.

Return to the hotel for a bit before heading to a local restaurant for dinner with the group.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Thavorn Beach Village Resort

Day 9

Phuket

Take a 1-hour longtail boat ride to Hong Island, where you will enjoy some time snorkeling along the coast. Then set-out on kayak to explore Koh Bon before enjoying a picnic lunch on the beach. Start your journey back to the hotel in the longtail boat at the end of the day.

Have a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends complete with a Krathong ceremony with a floating leaf basket of a candle and prayers. Reminisce over all of the memories you have made and celebrate the end of an amazing journey through this truly spectacular country.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Thavorn Beach Village Resort

Day 10

Depart Phuket

Say goodbye to your new AdventureWomen friends as you transfer to the airport after breakfast. You may depart Phuket, Thailand (HKT) any time after 12 PM (do not book your flight home to depart until after 12 PM). There will be one group transfer to the airport at 9 AM.

If you have flights that depart very late, and you would like to book a day room in Phuket town, let us know and we can help with those arrangements.

Breakfast 

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Traveling to Thailand and Laos



Arrival and Departure Information

January 12, 2025 Departure:

Arrive: Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) on January 12, 2025 before 12:00PM.

Depart: Depart Phuket, Thailand (HKT) on January 21, 2025 after 12:00PM.

November 9, 2025 Departure:

Arrive: Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) on November 9, 2025 before 12:00PM.

Depart: Depart Phuket, Thailand (HKT) on November 18, 2025 after 12:00PM.

On arrival day, there will be one group transfer provided from the airport around 12:00pm. On departure day, there will be one group transfer to the airport in the morning, after breakfast. The exact transfer times will be determined closer to departure. AdventureWomen can arrange additional airport transfers for an additional fee. Taxis are metered and also quite simple to navigate if you prefer to make your own way to and from the hotel.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for $165-$200 (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip. 

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

 

Activity Level

We rate this trip as Active. Our Active adventures get you on your feet. You should be in good physical condition and be prepared to hike for up to five hours, multiple days in a row, on uneven surfaces with some steep ascents and descents. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic, as they may have recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the destination as well as your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the pages about Thailand and Laos.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800.

You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

January 12, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date: October 14, 2024

November 9, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date: August 11, 2025

If you’re curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Gratuities for drivers, hotel staff, boat staff, and waitstaff

Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Thailand
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for guides

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Accommodations

Pranakorn Heritage Hotel

Welcome to this brand-new hotel, where luxury meets modernity in the heart of bustling Bangkok! Nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape, this property offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The inviting outdoor pool area serves as an oasis, providing a tranquil retreat where you can unwind and soak up the tropical ambiance. Conveniently located near the renowned Khaosan Road, Pranakorn Heritage Hotel places the guests at the epicenter of Bangkok's cultural and entertainment offerings. Numerous restaurants are within walking distance. For those seeking relaxation and socialization, this hotel features a stylish bar/lounge where you can unwind with signature cocktails and mingle with your fellow travelers.

Amenities: soap, shampoo, hair dryer, tea/coffee, mini fridge, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi.

Maydou

Villa Maydou is at the heart of the historic center of Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It sits nearby of the Pagoda “Wat Meuna” and near the Nam Khan river old bridge. The hotel is composed of five beautifully appointed and comfortable Lao traditional houses within a large tropical garden which includes a salt pool. Two of the houses are registered in the UNESCO World Heritage Program after having been restored under the authority of “La Maison du Patrimoine,” the UNESCO program responsible for the preservation of the traditional architecture of Luang Prabang.

Amenities: soap, shampoo, hair dryer, Wi-Fi

Aksara Heritage Hotel

Located in the heart of historical Chiang Mai, the Aksara Heritage Hotel is a charming and peaceful property surrounded by ancient temples. Take a dip in the saltwater pool or enjoy a drink from the poolside bar.

Amenities: soap, shampoo, hair dryer, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi

Thavorn Beach Village Resort

Overlooking the Andaman Sea, the Thavorn Beach Village Resort offers private beach bungalows nestled amidst lush tropical greenery.

Amenities: soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, air conditioning, Wi-Fi

 

 

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686