Thailand for Teenagers

Thailand is a land of adventure and is a great place to take teenagers with lots to keep them busy and some fascinating culture and history. This itinerary takes you up north to activity packed and cultural Chiang Mai and then down south to the idyllic but happening island of Koh Samui.

1. Days 1-3: Bangkok

   Your adventure begins in Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, full of vibrant markets, captivating history and culture, and some great shopping opportunities. This is the perfect place to start any trip, and we thoroughly recommend going with your private guide to two of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. In the morning you can listen to the chanting of monks before entering the temple to wonder at the vast 45m (147ft) reclining Buddha, before heading over to the palace to explore throne rooms and museums crammed with priceless artefacts. Your guide will be able to explain the very special relationship Thai people have with their Royal Family and shed some light on some important cultural elements you will encounter on the rest of your trip.

   Accommodation: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort (2 nights)

2. Days 3-5: Chiang Mai

   An hour’s flight from Bangkok is Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second city. Quieter and with more obvious Thai culture than the very international capital families will love the chance to explore on foot, exploring trendy boutiques, intriguing stalls at the Night Bazaar and lively eateries. With your knowledgeable guide take a half day tour around the most important temples of the city and stroll around the silver craft neighbourhood to watch some local artisans at work. Chiang Mai is perfect for teens with plenty of activities to keep them busy, so you may also be interested in cycle tours of the nearby countryside, a visit to the elephant park to meet some rescued elephants or take an exciting tuk tuk tour through the streets at night to sample delicious local street food. Adventurous families could also enjoy white water rafting, or bamboo rafting as a gentler alternative. Cooking classes, zip lining, trekking and more is all available.

   Accommodation: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort (2 nights)

3. Days 5-10: Koh Samui

   After soaking up the culture and excitement of the north, it’s time to head to the beach to relax. From Chiang Mai you can fly directly to Koh Samui, an island off the eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand.  Koh Samui is an idyllic island retreat and whilst you can easily escape the touristy areas they are also easily accessible for days out. We recommend staying at the Belmond Napasai, a luxurious yet relaxed resort with plenty of activities and facilities to enjoy. The watersports are excellent, with kayaking, hobie-cat sailing and windsurfing available. There are also snorkelling and diving trips, or if you prefer to stay on dry land, cooking and Thai boxing classes.

   Accommodation: Belmond Napasai (5 nights)

• Chiang Mai City Temples

  This half day tour takes in Chiang Mai's best known and most impressive temples. Accompanied by your own English-speaking guide, learn more about the history of Chiang Mai and northern Thai culture and craftsmanship.

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• Grand Palace & Wat Pho in Style

  Spend half a day exploring two of Bangkok's most iconic sites; the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Accompanied by your own English-speaking guide, you will learn more about Buddhism in Thailand as well as the country's much loved Royal Family.

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Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Samui