AAVE's Summer Adventure in Thailand

DAY 1:
Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand. Trip Leaders meet you at the airport when you arrive. We will then be transported to our hotel where we will get to know each other and learn what to expect in the days ahead. Our daily routine, safety, jobs and safety rules and all trip logistics are explained and the process of growing together as a group begins.

DAYS 2-4:
Our first adventure is on the Kwai River where we board a long-tail boat for a trip through the canals of Bangkok. We also visit Wat Po, home of the magnificent reclining Buddha. We then travel by bus to Kanchanaburi, location of the infamous "The Bridge On the River Kwai". In the afternoon we take a samlor (bicycle rickshaw) tour to see the sights of Kanchanaburi. Day 3 we board a large bamboo raft house for cruising along the Kwai River. Stops are made to explore caves, temples and there is plenty of time for soaking up some sun. Our final day on the river will be spent in kayaks. That evening we will enjoy delicious Thai cuisine and relax.

DAY 5:
We hop on public buses with the locals to Ayutthaya, one of the ancient Thai capitals. In Ayutthaya we take a guided tour to explore the picturesque ruins and temples. Thai people are famous for colorful markets where they sell beautifully hand crafted ceramics and silks, we spend the afternoon here before boarding the train. Tonight we climb aboard a sleeper train headed north to Chang Mai. Each of us will have plenty of room to get a good night's rest.

DAYS 6-7:
Destination Chiang Mai! Arriving early in the morning, we have two full days to enjoy this happening city. We will begin these action packed days with a visit to the hill top temple of Doi Suthep and participate in a hands-on cooking lesson to learn how to make yummy Thai food. The next day we head out on bikes to explore the city's famous temples and surrounding countryside. In the evening we will have the chance to see a entertaining night market with an array of handicrafts.

DAYS 8-9:
The adventure continues as we head into the depths of Thailand's jungles. Our travels through the lush limestone mountains will take your breath away. Upon arrival at our base camp in the Mae Hong Son region we will drop off our luggage at the Jungle Lodge and head out for a spectacular hike. This pristine region is filled with caves that contain rivers and waterfalls amongst an abundance of greenery.

DAYS 10-12:
Get ready for the most memorable experience, a hill tribe trek! We will walk through remote countryside, stay in hill tribe villages and ride elephants along the way. We sleep in traditional bamboo huts and help prepare our own meals. On the final day we travel down river on simple bamboo rafts and pass through unique villages each community differing slightly in dress, language and religion making for a fascinating journey.

DAYS 13-15:
We say goodbye to the jungle and head back to Bangkok. We will take a short journey to Pai, a peaceful town where we will explore local waterfalls and hot springs. Day 14 we make the winding journey back to Chiang Mai and take a short flight back to Bangkok. The following morning we get cleaned up to go to the Grand Palace to experience the majesty of Bangkok's royal temple. In the afternoon we will have time to do some shopping before we head to the train station for the overnight trip to Chumpon.

DAYS 16-17:
From the mountains to the beach, our next adventure takes us to the small island of Koh Tao, famous for spectacular coral reefs, clear blue water and white sand beaches. What better way to explore the reefs than snorkeling! Get ready to see colorful fish and a variety of marine life. In the evenings we sample some local seafood and enjoy the fresh tropical air.

DAYS 18-20:
Island hoping, we move onto nearby Koh Samui. This island has a great holiday atmosphere, long stretches of beautiful beaches and striking granite outcroppings. We do some more swimming and exploring of the area. The next day we spend sea kayaking amongst the island of Ang Thong Marine Park. Day 20 we head back to the mainland and take a train back to Bangkok.

DAY 21:
Our last night together in Thailand, we pack up our gear and celebrate our successes. We share our memories and challenges and say our good-byes. All great things must come to an end. Early on the last day we go to the airport, confident, tan and strong after your most incredible summer of adventure, fun and friends.

Price Includes:
One CPR and First Aid Certified AAVE leader and one local Thai guide; all ground costs, all ground transportation including airport pickup and drop-off; all camping and camping gear (except sleeping bags, sleep mats and mess kits); all activities and gear listed in the above itinerary; all meals; local gratuities to wait-staff and all hotels or hostels.

Price Doesn't Include:
Flights to/from Bangkok, Thailand; optional gratuities, extra snacks and souvenirs.

This itinerary is a sample outline of the program highlights. It is not a precise description. Changes made before or during the trip will only be made in the interest of safety or a more successful trip. This diverse itinerary is our framework for a summer of exhilaration and adventure. Get your mind and body set. Activities are planned using years of experience with your highest expectations in mind.

We appreciate the importance of this decision and want you to be as informed as possible! Please phone 800 222 3595 or email us with questions, to receive 2007 references or to make a reservation.

We look forward to having you join us!