UAE City & Best of Thailand

This is an exciting and varied itinerary through Thailand and the UAE. We’ll transport you from the bustling streets of Bangkok and the cultural treasures of Chiang Mai to the serene beaches of Thailand’s coast, and finally to the modern glitz of the UAE. This itinerary also includes an optional desert extension in the UAE.

Get a Quote

From bustling Bangkok and cultural Chiang Mai to the serene beaches of Thailand and finally to the modern glitz of the UAE.

3 Nights – Bangkok
3 Nights – Chiang Mai
7 Nights – Thai beach
3 Nights – UAE city

Optional extension: UAE desert (2 Nights)

✈️ UK to Bangkok (3 nights): Arriving in Bangkok, you’ll be instantly immersed in a city that offers an unmistakable chaotic charm. Despite its towering skyscrapers and modern buildings, Bangkok has kept true to its traditional roots, with many iconic cultural sights to be discovered. A visit to the Grand Palace is an absolute must, where you’ll see incredible architecture and the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Nearby, Wat Pho is home to a huge gold-plated Reclining Buddha statue. For some of the best views of the city, head to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), with its iconic spire overlooking the Chao Phraya River. The city’s famous Chatuchak Weekend Market is an essential stop, with over 8,000 stalls selling everything from antiques to local foods and clothes. If you’re looking for a more tranquil shopping experience, visit the floating markets along the riverbanks, with Damnoen Saduak being one of the most popular, where you can buy fresh fruit, flowers, and handicrafts from local vendors in their boats.

✈️ Bangkok to Chiang Mai (3 nights): After exploring Bangkok, you’ll fly to the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, it provides a calmer contrast to the frenetic pace of Bangkok. With over 300 temples to explore, you’ll need to make sure you pack some good walking shoes! Some of the most famous temples include Wat Phra Singh, famous for its Lanna-style architecture, and Wat Chedi Luang. The street food here is some of the best in the country and wandering through the night markets is an experience in itself. Sample local favourites such as khao soi, a creamy, spicy northern-style curry noodle dish topped with crispy noodles. For a bucket-list experience, visit the Elephant Nature Park, an ethical elephant sanctuary just outside the city, which has set the standard for elephant tourism in the country. Here, you can learn about the care, rehabilitation, and conservation of these incredible creatures and the people who look after them. A visit to Doi Suthep, a golden temple perched high on Mount Doi Suthep, is another must. It’s one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand, and once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic view of Chiang Mai and the lush hills, rice paddies, and countryside that surround the city.

✈️ Chiang Mai to Thai Beach (7 nights): From Chiang Mai, you’ll fly to your chosen Thai beach destination for the following week of relaxation and idyllic beach time. Phuket and Khao Lak are two of the easiest options to reach from Chiang Mai, with direct flights available to Phuket – but of course, the choice is yours. Phuket offers a lively scene, with beautiful beaches such as Patong, Karon, and Kamala, as well as plenty of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. You can also explore nearby islands, including the iconic Phi Phi and the tranquil Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, where you’ll experience a slower pace of life, secluded beaches, and stunning views. As an alternative to Phuket, you may want to consider the more relaxed vibe of Khao Lak, located just north of Phuket. With its peaceful, long beaches and proximity to the Similan Islands, it’s perfect for diving and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

✈️ Thai Beach to UAE City (3 nights): After a relaxing week by the beach, you’ll fly to the UAE for an exciting end to your trip. Whether you choose Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or another of the emirates, you’ll be sure to experience a captivating contrast to Thailand. In Abu Dhabi, visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s art collection. For a more relaxed feel, stroll along the Corniche with views of the sea. In Dubai, experience the towering Burj Khalifa and the glittering Dubai Mall. For something a little different, head out on a Desert Safari with dune bashing and camel rides. Alternatively, explore one of the lesser-known emirates such as Fujairah, with its beautiful beaches and mountains, or Ras Al Khaimah, offering outdoor adventures and scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

🚗 Optional Desert Extension (2 nights): If you want to immerse yourself further in the UAE’s unique desert landscape, you could consider a 2-night extension before you fly home. Heading inland, you’ll stay at a luxury desert resort, where you can experience the views of endless sand dunes, the thrill of camel rides, and stargazing in the clear desert skies, surrounded by pure peace and tranquillity. A great way to soak in the true essence of the UAE.

✈️ Dubai to UK: After enjoying some of the main highlights of Thailand and the UAE, it’s time to fly home from Dubai back to the UK.