Bangkok, Thailand - Far East Cruises

Journey south along the ‘Thai Riviera’ to Nong Nooch, one of the areas most popular resorts.

Situated in parkland featuring a tranquil lake, Nong Nuch is a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. The privately-owned Nong Nuch Village and Gardens occupies some 600 acres of landscaped park. The gardens are renowned for traditional Thai performances and folkloric shows as well as a wide-range of orchid species, palm, cycad, cacti and bonsai. Take a look at the countless flowers and plants from all corners of the world, (the number of orchids on display is dependent on the season).

At the village theatre, you will be entertained by a Thai show, featuring folk dances from various regions of Thailand, Thai boxing or sword fighting. There is also an elephant show for you to enjoy.

Relax in this charming setting and take in the entertaining displays of local Thai traditions and culture at beautiful Nong Nuch, before an opportunity to do some shopping at a reputable store.

Note: You will be guided for part of the tour and given some free time to wander the gardens. To enjoy this tour to the full there is walking involved, including steps. Animals are usually housed in residences to roam freely, however please be aware that when tourists arrive, for safety reasons, they are chained. The Village has been established for 20 years and works with the Thai Government and WWF. They recently won a gold medal from their display at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Please note the village is a popular attraction and can get very busy.

An ideal option for those who want to see the sights of Bangkok, with a little less walking.

Enjoy a panoramic city sightseeing drive of Bangkok, including the Jessadabordin Ground, where you will see a beautiful, Thai styled, open pavilion. You will also be able to view the Golden Stupa Mountain Temple, the Radchanadda Temple, the Old Fort and City Wall.

Enjoy a drive past the Monument of Democracy, Sunday Ground, the Grand Palace, the City Pillar, Ministry of Defence and the Reclining Buddha Temple, before visiting the Suthat Temple.

The Suthat Temple is noted for its impressive murals, intricately designed doors and a 26 foot tall Buddha image. View the Giant Red Swing, some 49 foot high, which men used to catch bags of gold with their teeth during a Hindu ceremony.

Stop for photographs at the beautiful Marble Temple, drive by the Chitlada Palace, home to the much-loved King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit, and enjoy some shopping at a local store.

An international and Thai style buffet luncheon will be served at a leading hotel.

Note: This tour is mainly panoramic driving with visits to Suthat and Marble Temples only. There will be walking at both Temples and some steps. Photograph stops will be made where possible. The journey time to Bangkok is approximately 2½ hours. Shoulders, knees and ankles must be covered. Women are not permitted to wear trousers or shorts, but should wear a full length skirt or sarong. Men must wear full length trousers and tops with sleeves must be worn by all. Open-toed or open-heeled shoes are not permitted. You will be refused entry if you are not appropriately dressed.

Take this inspirational tour to the Sanctuary of Truth, before continuing to the resort area of Pattaya for shopping.

During the drive from Laem Chabang, you will pass by tapioca plantations and local villages. Spend time exploring The Sanctuary of Truth, situated just outside the town of Pattaya. This gigantic wooden construction is approximately 344 feet high, and covers an area of more than 21,520 square feet.

The building was constructed according to ancient Thai ingenuity and every square inch is covered with wooden carvings. The purpose of these decorations is to use art and culture as the reflection of the Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge and Eastern Philosophy. Within the complex, you will begin to understand ancient life, human responsibility, basic thought, cycle of living, life relationship with the universe and the common goal of life toward Utopia.

From the sanctuary, you will travel by coach to the main modern shopping area of Pattaya, for some time at leisure and shopping before your return journey.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking over rough ground at the Sanctuary of Truth. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended. Due to their ‘never-ending’ building philosophy, a hard hat must be worn when visiting the sanctuary.

A world away from Bangkok, get a feel for the ‘real’ Thailand as you journey north to see local markets and fishing villages.

The largest local produce market in Chonburi is the Nong Mon Market. Stroll along the road, lined with more than a 100 stalls selling dried seafood, desserts, fruits and preserved food. Famous products of the area are desserts including Khao Larm (sweet sticky rice in bamboo), Khanom Chak (sweet coconut wrapped in palm leaf), and Khanom Mo Kaeng (Thai egg custard).

After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Ang Sila, a seaside-fishing town, known for its granite products. Locals are proficient in making implements from granite, and have passed on their craftsmanship from generation to generation, here the marble carvers showcase their most renowned products, pestles and mortar. Continue the tour for a stop for photographs at the very beautiful Chinese Shrine or Nacha Sa Thai Chue Shrine.

Finally, journey to Pattaya where you will have the chance to shop for souvenirs at the modern mall of Pattaya after a brief sightseeing driving tour of the area.

Note: This tour involves approximately one hour of walking on mainly flat, even ground. The ground at the fishing village may be uneven. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Local currency may be required to make purchases in the markets.

Visit these magnificent animals in the safe haven of the Pairaj Elephant Village in Pattaya.

The Elephant Village was opened in 1974 as a sanctuary for former working elephants. Through reasons of injury or ill health, the elephants can no longer be used as a part of the backbone of heavy work in the jungles of Thailand and, because of their diminishing habitat, it is no longer possible to return them to the wild. The sanctuary provides them with a safe haven, enabling them to enjoy their retirement.

As well as meeting the animals, you will be shown demonstrations of elephant training techniques, bathing and round-up methods. You will also see a traditional Glong Sabad Chai ceremony which dates back to when elephants were employed in the battlefields of Thailand, India and other South East Asian countries.

Not only will you be getting a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and working practices of elephants in rural Thailand, you will also be making an active contribution to the welfare of these magnificent animals. The village is a non-profit making organisation and after deducting operating costs, the proceeds go directly towards the care of the animals.

After your elephant experience, there will be an opportunity for some shopping at a reputable local store in Pattaya.

Note: There is approximately 45 minutes total walking during this tour. Walking at the Elephant Village is mainly over rough ground. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended.

Explore the beauty of Thailand’s main attractions in the comfort of a private vehicle.

The journey to Bangkok lasts around two hours and on arrival your first stop will be the open-air pavilion of Jessadabordin Ground. It is here the city mayor presents his city key to many important people. Take in photo opportunities of the old city fort, ancient city wall, Golden Mountain temple, Radchanadda Temple and the Champs Elysee of Thailand.

Continue through the old town of Bangkok, to reach a highlight of Bangkok city in the shape of the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace.

A Thai lunch will be served at a local restaurant before enjoying a boat ride along the river taking you to the Royal Barge Museum. The Museum houses several wonderful old royal barges used on only important occasions. The final stop of the tour will be a chance to do some shopping to pick up some souvenirs.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking in total at the stops combined. A strict dress code applies at the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace. This includes no shorts, sleeveless shirts and skirts need to be ankle length. Shoes must be taken off before entering to the temple’s hall. The Palace grounds may be closed at short notice due to royal functions. To book a vehicle with capacity for two passengers please book tour LC1701 and to book a minivan for up to nine please book tour LC1702.

Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of guests in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide, driver and selected itineraries are offered on a 9 hour basis. No deviations to duration, venues included, departure or return time can be made.

This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s onboard account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrances, luncheon, toilet facilities, photography and video fees are included for the venues incorporated in this tour itinerary.

The vibrant city of Bangkok bustles with activity and is brimming with fascinating sights waiting to be discovered.

Take a coach journey into Bangkok, where you will arrive at the centrally located Asia Hotel. With a sky train station accessible from the second floor and shopping centres just a stone’s throw away, it is very convenient for you to plan any activity for the day. Enjoy your time as you please and explore at your own pace. This excursion is non-guided and exclusive of refreshments, luncheon and entrance fees.

Recently, Bangkok has changed into a modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It offers not only the cosmopolitan amenities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. The city is dotted with over 400 glittering Buddhist temples, magnificent palaces, numerous shopping centres and areas where traditional lifestyles still exist.

At the time specified by your escort, your coach will depart from the designated pick-up point for the return drive to Laem Chabang.

Note: The drive between Laem Chabang and Bangkok is approximately 2½ hours, subject to traffic conditions. Maps will be provided. Thai Baht are recommended as it is not always possible to pay with US$.

Enjoy a guided tour of Bangkok in the morning, followed by an afternoon of shopping and luncheon at leisure.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, one of the first incredible sights on your tour will be the wonderful Emerald Buddha Temple. Housed inside the Wat Pra Keo, this is one of Buddhism’s most magnificent monasteries and probably the most famous place in Thailand.

You will have time to explore the Grand Palace and experience the grandeur of an ancient Siamese court. Beautifully situated, the Palace grounds encompass several major buildings, all topped by glittering spires and soaring finials.

Afterwards, enjoy free time exploring the ‘City of Angels’ on your own. You will be dropped off at the MBK Shopping Arcade that offers local brand apparel, electronics, music, and a food court. The main attractions are various large modern shopping centres and the ‘skytrain’ network, which can take you to almost all the important spots within the city.

Note: This excursion includes entrance fees to the Temple and Palace but is exclusive of luncheon and any other entrance fees. Photography is permitted within the Palace grounds, but not in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Please wear tops with sleeves and full-length trousers or skirts. Shoulders, knees and ankles must be covered. Open-toed or open-heeled shoes are not permitted. The Palace grounds may be closed at short notice. Journey time to Bangkok is approximately 2½ hours. Thai Baht is recommended as it is not always possible to pay with US$.

An opportunity to discover the incredible sights of Indochina incorporating Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

DAY 1 - BANGKOK
Take a highlights tour of the fascinating city of Bangkok. Witness the bustle of Chinatown en route to the Emerald Buddha Temple. Explore the grounds of the Grand Palace, which encompasses several major buildings, all topped by glittering spires and soaring finials. During your tour, luncheon will be offered at a city hotel. Take a panoramic drive around Bangkok and enjoy a short stop for souvenir shopping, before transferring to the airport for your flight to Siam Reap. On arrival in Cambodia, you will be met by your local guide and check into the Sohka Angkor Resort Hotel where you will have dinner and enjoy a wonderful Apsara dance show at hotel’s poolside.

DAY 2 – ANCIENT CITY OF ANGKOR
After an early breakfast, visit the enchanting ancient city of Angkor. See the Ta Prohm Temple, used during the filming of ‘Tomb Raider’, these fascinating ruins are covered with twisted fig trees which add to the atmosphere of this sacred temple. Venture on to the South Gate at Angkor Thom and explore the forested centre of this once great city. You will also see the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Leper King, Terrace of the 12 Elephants, the Baphuon and the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, you will briefly return to your hotel to check out before proceeding to another venue for luncheon. The highlight of your day will be the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat. A stunning blend of spirituality and symmetry, Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the most breathtaking of all Angkor monuments. In the evening, you will leave Cambodia and take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. You will be met by your new guide and check into the Renaissance Hotel where dinner will be served.

DAY 3 – HO CHI MINH CITY
Breakfast will be served before a tour of Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh. Visit the National History Museum, which includes an unusual water puppetry performance. This unique art form was once staged as entertainment for the Kings and Emperors. A brief stop will be made at a lacquer factory to see traditional local craftsmanship before proceeding to Notre Dame Cathedral, which dates back to the 19th century. Visit the former Presidents Palace, now known as Reunification Hall, where Liberation forces marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Enjoy luncheon, accompanied by traditional music at one of the city’s leading hotels, before continuing your sightseeing tour. You will have the opportunity for a photograph at City Hall; this wedding cake style building is said to be the most picturesque in the city. Enjoy free time for shopping and refreshments at the Rex Hotel before taking the two hour drive to the ship in Phu My.

 Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = LC1800A, Single = LC1801A). Prices shown on your overland excursions record are per person, not per room. This tour departs Laem Chabang 12th February and returns in Phu My 14th February. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates prior to booking this overland. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts, lengthy days, and airport delays. No refunds will be given for any unused portion. Flight times and further details will be advised on board and hotels listed are subject to change.

The fare includes: transport by coach and economy class flights, sightseeing, meals and hotel accommodation as stated. Visa’s for Cambodia and Vietnam are included. Two glasses of house wine, local beer soft drinks, tea and coffee are included with meals.
The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as refreshments, phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, doctor’s fees, visits and any medication and prescriptions. Wine is not included during lunch in Bangkok, only one beer or soft drink. Those wishing to order alternative beverages during the overland will be charged separately. Guests should check visa requirements for Thailand prior to travelling.
What to pack: please bring two passport photographs for visa documentation. Please remember your passport and any medication. Passports must have 2 blank pages. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg.
Thailand: photography is permitted within the Palace grounds, but not in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. All visitors must adhere to the dress code:- no sleeveless, tight, or see-through shirts/blouses, even if a jacket is worn over them. No shorts, short skirts, culottes or leggings. Trousers must cover calves. No open-toed or open-heeled shoes. Shoes must be removed when entering the Temple.
Cambodia: light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection against the sun and mosquitoes are recommended. US dollars in small denominations are widely accepted. Appropriate attire covering shoulders, arms and legs is required when visiting places of worship including Angkor temples (shawls and long shorts are not permitted). You may also be requested to remove your shoes (socks are recommended). Please refrain from raising your voice as this is considered ill-mannered.

Explore the beauty of Thailand’s main attractions in the comfort of a private vehicle.

The journey to Bangkok lasts around two hours and on arrival your first stop will be the open-air pavilion of Jessadabordin Ground. It is here the city mayor presents his city key to many important people. Take in photo opportunities of the old city fort, ancient city wall, Golden Mountain temple, Radchanadda Temple and the Champs Elysee of Thailand.

Continue through the old town of Bangkok, to reach a highlight of Bangkok city in the shape of the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace.

A Thai lunch will be served at a local restaurant before enjoying a boat ride along the river taking you to the Royal Barge Museum. The Museum houses several wonderful old royal barges used on only important occasions. The final stop of the tour will be a chance to do some shopping to pick up some souvenirs.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking in total at the stops combined. A strict dress code applies at the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace. This includes no shorts, sleeveless shirts and skirts need to be ankle length. Shoes must be taken off before entering to the temple’s hall. The Palace grounds may be closed at short notice due to royal functions. To book a vehicle with capacity for two passengers please book tour LC1701 and to book a minivan for up to nine please book tour LC1702.

Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of guests in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide, driver and selected itineraries are offered on a 9 hour basis. No deviations to duration, venues included, departure or return time can be made.

This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s onboard account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrances, luncheon, toilet facilities, photography and video fees are included for the venues incorporated in this tour itinerary.

An opportunity to discover the incredible sights of Indochina incorporating Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

DAY 1 - BANGKOK
Take a highlights tour of the fascinating city of Bangkok. Witness the bustle of Chinatown en route to the Emerald Buddha Temple. Explore the grounds of the Grand Palace, which encompasses several major buildings, all topped by glittering spires and soaring finials. During your tour, luncheon will be offered at a city hotel. Take a panoramic drive around Bangkok and enjoy a short stop for souvenir shopping, before transferring to the airport for your flight to Siam Reap. On arrival in Cambodia, you will be met by your local guide and check into the Sohka Angkor Resort Hotel where you will have dinner and enjoy a wonderful Apsara dance show at hotel’s poolside.

DAY 2 – ANCIENT CITY OF ANGKOR
After an early breakfast, visit the enchanting ancient city of Angkor. See the Ta Prohm Temple, used during the filming of ‘Tomb Raider’, these fascinating ruins are covered with twisted fig trees which add to the atmosphere of this sacred temple. Venture on to the South Gate at Angkor Thom and explore the forested centre of this once great city. You will also see the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Leper King, Terrace of the 12 Elephants, the Baphuon and the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, you will briefly return to your hotel to check out before proceeding to another venue for luncheon. The highlight of your day will be the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat. A stunning blend of spirituality and symmetry, Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the most breathtaking of all Angkor monuments. In the evening, you will leave Cambodia and take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. You will be met by your new guide and check into the Renaissance Hotel where dinner will be served.

DAY 3 – HO CHI MINH CITY
Breakfast will be served before a tour of Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh. Visit the National History Museum, which includes an unusual water puppetry performance. This unique art form was once staged as entertainment for the Kings and Emperors. A brief stop will be made at a lacquer factory to see traditional local craftsmanship before proceeding to Notre Dame Cathedral, which dates back to the 19th century. Visit the former Presidents Palace, now known as Reunification Hall, where Liberation forces marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Enjoy luncheon, accompanied by traditional music at one of the city’s leading hotels, before continuing your sightseeing tour. You will have the opportunity for a photograph at City Hall; this wedding cake style building is said to be the most picturesque in the city. Enjoy free time for shopping and refreshments at the Rex Hotel before taking the two hour drive to the ship in Phu My.

 Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = LC1800A, Single = LC1801A). Prices shown on your overland excursions record are per person, not per room. This tour departs Laem Chabang 12th February and returns in Phu My 14th February. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates prior to booking this overland. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts, lengthy days, and airport delays. No refunds will be given for any unused portion. Flight times and further details will be advised on board and hotels listed are subject to change.

The fare includes: transport by coach and economy class flights, sightseeing, meals and hotel accommodation as stated. Visa’s for Cambodia and Vietnam are included. Two glasses of house wine, local beer soft drinks, tea and coffee are included with meals.
The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as refreshments, phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, doctor’s fees, visits and any medication and prescriptions. Wine is not included during lunch in Bangkok, only one beer or soft drink. Those wishing to order alternative beverages during the overland will be charged separately. Guests should check visa requirements for Thailand prior to travelling.
What to pack: please bring two passport photographs for visa documentation. Please remember your passport and any medication. Passports must have 2 blank pages. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg.
Thailand: photography is permitted within the Palace grounds, but not in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. All visitors must adhere to the dress code:- no sleeveless, tight, or see-through shirts/blouses, even if a jacket is worn over them. No shorts, short skirts, culottes or leggings. Trousers must cover calves. No open-toed or open-heeled shoes. Shoes must be removed when entering the Temple.
Cambodia: light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection against the sun and mosquitoes are recommended. US dollars in small denominations are widely accepted. Appropriate attire covering shoulders, arms and legs is required when visiting places of worship including Angkor temples (shawls and long shorts are not permitted). You may also be requested to remove your shoes (socks are recommended). Please refrain from raising your voice as this is considered ill-mannered.

See all the highlights of the fabled city during this fast paced tour of Bangkok. An experience not to be missed.

Be dazzled by the immense size of the 5½ ton, solid-gold Golden Buddha image, housed in the Wat Trimitr. Drive through the bustle of Chinatown and a colourful local flower market, before the Emerald Buddha Temple comes into view. Housed in the Wat Pra Keo, this is one of Buddhism’s most magnificent monasteries.

Explore the grounds of the Grand Palace and experience the grandeur of an ancient Siamese court where kings and queens resided hundreds of years ago. Beautifully situated, the Palace grounds encompass several major buildings, all topped by glittering spires and soaring finials.

An international and Thai buffet luncheon will be served at a leading hotel. Last, but not least, enjoy a chance to shop for those all-important souvenirs, before returning to Laem Chabang.

Note: There is approximately two hours of walking during this tour, including many steps at the temples. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Photography is permitted within the Palace grounds, but not in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Shoulders, knees and ankles must be covered. Women are not permitted to wear trousers or shorts, but should wear a full length skirt or sarong. Men must wear full length trousers and tops with sleeves must be worn by all. Open-toed or open-heeled shoes are not permitted. You will be refused entry if you are not appropriately dressed. The Palace grounds may be closed at short notice. Journey time to Bangkok is approximately 2½ hours. Thai Baht is recommended as it is not always possible to pay with US$.

This tour presents an exclusive chance to discover the incredible Sea Turtle Conservation Centre at the Thai Royal Navy Base.

The Thai Royal Navy has played an important role in the protection of sea turtles since 1950 in their avoidance of training in certain areas during the sea turtle nesting season. As a result, they have helped a great deal with the conservation of the hatchery areas and the creation of the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre in Sattahip in 1992. Located on the beachside inside the Thai Royal Navy and under the responsibility of the Air & Coastal Defence Command (ACDC) Unit, this area has become popular among the locals and visitors alike.

The Centre’s programme includes hatching turtles’ eggs and nurturing them in a protected area before returning them to the sea. Inside the Centre, there is also an information area explaining their conservation programme and the protection of the marine turtle species as well as an aquarium showing various types of sea animals. The centre has been able to nurture and release more than 20,000 turtles every year.

A stop will be made for a light snack and refreshments at a local hotel during the tour and you’ll have an opportunity to do some shopping for souvenirs at a local reputable store in Pattaya City.

Note: Early booking is recommended as places require to be reserved in advance due to Thai Naval protocol. A donation to the Centre is included in the price of the tour.