Trip Overview

This seven-day adventure is a whirlwind immersion into the vibrant heart of Southeast Asia, designed to engage all the senses. Students will journey from the bustling capital of Thailand to the ancient temples of Cambodia, experiencing a incredible contrast of modern energy and timeless tradition. This trip goes beyond tourism, offering moments of genuine connection with local communities and a profound respect for the region’s complex history and resilient spirit. It’s a compact yet deeply rich itinerary that showcases the warmth, colour, and captivating energy of this part of the world.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Bangkok
We’ll meet you at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and provide a transfer to your hotel. After everyone checks in, we’ll have a brief orientation. The evening is free to recover from the journey, though our guide will be on hand to recommend a spot for our first taste of authentic Thai cuisine. Note that the specific activities upon arrival may be adjusted based on the group’s flight timing to ensure a smooth and comfortable start.

Day 2: Floating Markets & Bangkok’s Buzz
After breakfast, we experience a classic Thai scene: a floating market. We’ll witness the vibrant commerce of vendors selling fruit and local dishes from their boats. Later, we’ll visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where students can learn about conservation efforts and feed these magnificent animals. The day continues with a crocodile show, a visit to a unique train market, and the modern Icon Siam mall. We’ll cap the day with a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, seeing Bangkok’s glittering temples and skyline from the water.

Day 3: Tropical Gardens & Pattaya Beach
We’ll travel to Pattaya to explore the renowned Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden. Here, we’ll wander through stunning themed gardens, watch a cultural show, and enjoy a live elephant demonstration. After lunch, we’ll visit the iconic Buddha Mountain and a precious gems showroom to learn about a local craft. The afternoon includes time to relax and enjoy the famous Pattaya Beach before we return to Bangkok for the night.

Day 4: Royal Grandeur & Journey to Siem Reap
We’ll spend our morning in Bangkok paying respects at its most sacred sites: the Grand Palace, the Wat Pho temple with its enormous Reclining Buddha, and the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun). After lunch, we begin our journey to Cambodia, travelling to Siem Reap. We’ll arrive in time to experience a breathtaking sunset from a top of a mountain temple, followed by dinner and check-in at our hotel.

Day 5: Sunrise at Angkor Wat & Rural Life
This is an unforgettable day. We’ll wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, an iconic and spiritual experience. After breakfast, we’ll explore the mysterious faces of the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom and the jungle-enveloped ruins of Ta Prohm. After lunch with a local family, we’ll take a boat trip to the floating village of Kampong Khleang to see a different way of life on the water, before catching a flight to Phnom Penh for the evening.

Day 6: History & Healing in Phnom Penh
Today is a sobering but important day of remembrance. We’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek to learn about Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge. This powerful experience is handled with sensitivity and respect. The afternoon offers a shift in tone with a boat riding tour on the Mekong River and time to explore a vibrant night market, witnessing the country’s resilience and move towards the future.

Day 7: Departure from Sihanoukville
After a final breakfast together, we will transfer to the airport for your international departure. Please note that the schedule on this final day will be tailored to your specific flight times to ensure a smooth and timely arrival at the airport.

Cost Included

The trip price covers six nights in 4–5 star hotels, all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, a dedicated travel guide throughout, comprehensive travel insurance, all domestic flight tickets within the itinerary (Siem Reap to Phnom Penh), all ground transportation including private coaches and boats, and entrance fees to all museums, temples, and sites listed.

Cost Excluded

The price does not include international airfare to/from Southeast Asia, personal expenses (e.g., shopping, additional snacks, souvenirs), or any optional activities such as aquarium visits or hot air balloon rides.

Additional Program Elements

Educational Value: This trip is profoundly educational, covering themes of ancient history, religious studies, environmental conservation, modern political history, and economic development. It provides a deep, multifaceted understanding of Southeast Asian cultures.

Safety & Logistics: This is a fast-paced, multi-country itinerary. We use private, vetted transportation and reputable hotels. Our local guides are experts in navigating the logistics and providing cultural context. The day visiting the Khmer Rouge historical sites is conducted with the utmost respect and care for student well-being.

Group Requirements: A minimum of 10 participants is required. The best time to visit for weather is during the dry season, from November to February.

Note: This is a detailed and packed itinerary. The order of activities may be shifted based on flight schedules, weather, and site availability to ensure the best possible experience. The final, confirmed day-by-day schedule will be provided upon booking.