Prices

£2,525.00 Adult from

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13 Day – Essence of Thailand and Malaysia Tour

Welcome to the 13 Day Essence of Thailand and Malaysia Tour. An immersive adventure through the vibrant cities of Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. The royal retreat of Hua Hin. The island charm of Penang, and the lush tea-country of the Cameron Highlands. This Thailand and Malaysia experience captures the heart and soul of Southeast Asia. Dancing temple lights, fragrant floating markets, colourful street art and vast plantations rolling into misty dawn.

Whether you’re drawn to the golden spires of Bangkok’s temples or the seaside night markets of Hua Hin. The colonial-era streets of Penang or the modern skyline of Kuala Lumpur. This tour delivers. Designed for travellers who want to see two countries in a single seamless itinerary, you’ll get to explore rich cultures, diverse landscapes and unforgettable moments.

12 Nights

Accommodation

18 Meals

12 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
3 Dinners

Transport

Luxury air conditioned coach
with WiFi*

Prices

£2,525.00 Adult from

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Tour Highlights

Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chinatown, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha
Cruise through the lively Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Discover Phra Nakhon Khiri Palace and Tham Khao Luang Cave in Phetchaburi
Fly from Bangkok to Penang for seamless travel between countries
Visit Penang’s Snake Temple, Khoo Kongsi Clan House, and colourful Georgetown street art
Explore the Cameron Highlands, including a tea plantation, butterfly farm, and strawberry fields
Admire the Ubudiah Mosque in Kuala Kangsar
See Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers, King’s Palace, and Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
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Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand and the vibrant, bustling city of Bangkok, where ancient temples stand beside towering modern skyscrapers and neon-lit streets hum with energy. From floating markets and fragrant street food stalls to grand palaces and calm monks quietly walking the streets, this city is a captivating blend of old and new. After checking into Galleria 10 Hotel Bangkok, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers to discuss the journey ahead. As the sun sets, enjoy your first authentic Thai dinner, savouring flavours and spices that hint at the culinary delights to come.

Hotel: Galleria 10 Hotel Bangkok
Meals: Dinner

Bangkok, Thailand

Day 2 - Bangkok Sightseeing

Today you’ll immerse yourself in Bangkok’s cultural and spiritual treasures. Start your day at Wat Pho, home to the iconic Reclining Buddha, Thailand’s largest. Continue to the Grand Palace, a former royal residence, where intricate architecture and dazzling decorations will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the jewel of the palace complex. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy an optional boat ride along Bangkok’s klongs, passing traditional stilted homes, local markets, and peaceful riverside life that seems worlds away from the city streets. The afternoon offers optional experiences, from exploring the Jim Thompson House with its fascinating silk history to wandering the nearby streets to catch glimpses of everyday Bangkok life.

Hotel: Galleria 10 Hotel Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Choice Experiences: Wat Pho, Jim Thompson House

Bangkok, Thailand

Day 3 - Bangkok Free Day

Today is yours to explore Bangkok at your own pace. If you’re looking for history and culture, join an optional full-day excursion to Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital for over 400 years. Begin at the elegant Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a royal retreat blending European and Chinese architectural styles, before wandering through historic ruins in the ‘Ancient City’. Explore temples such as Wat Maha That, Wat Na Phra Mane, and Wat Lokayasutharam, each with its own story of Thailand’s rich past. Board a river cruise at Wat Ching Lom Pier for lunch as you glide past sights like the Royal Grand Palace and Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River. Prefer to explore independently? Bangkok offers luxury malls, traditional markets, relaxing Thai massages, and quiet walks in Lumpini Park, giving you endless ways to experience the city.

Hotel: Galleria 10 Hotel Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Ayutthaya with Lunch Cruise, Bangkok Cycling Discovery

Bangkok, Thailand

Day 4 - Bangkok – Damnoen Saduak – Hua Hin

Start your morning at the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where a colourful array of boats brimming with fresh produce, handicrafts, and local treats crowd the canals. Stroll through the market, enjoy a boat ride, and soak in the lively atmosphere created by locals and travellers alike. Afterwards, continue to the coastal town of Hua Hin, a former royal retreat that now balances beachside relaxation with charming city streets. The afternoon is yours to unwind by the shore, explore the local markets, or enjoy a peaceful evening in this inviting seaside town.

Hotel: Loligo Resort Hua Hin
Meals: Breakfast

Saduak, Thailand

Day 5 - Hua Hin Sightseeing

Hua Hin’s royal heritage and natural beauty await today. Begin at Phra Nakhon Khiri Palace, perched 100 metres above the city on Khao Wang Hill, offering sweeping views of the forested hills, city, and sea. Built as a summer palace by King Rama IV, the site combines royal architecture with a love of astronomy and nature. After a local lunch, explore the Khao Luang Cave, home to over 150 Buddha statues and intricate stalactites, where the tranquil atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the hustle of Bangkok. Spend your evening strolling through Hua Hin’s night market, sampling street food, browsing handicrafts, and enjoying the town’s vibrant evening energy.

Hotel: Loligo Resort Hua Hin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Khao Luang Cave

Day 6 - Hua Hin Free Day

Enjoy a full day in Hua Hin to explore at your own pace or join an optional excursion to the Baan Sillapin Artist Village and Monsoon Valley Vineyards. Nestled in the hills of Hin Lek Fai, the artist village is a creative hub with galleries, studios, and local artists at work, showcasing the town’s vibrant arts scene. Continue to Monsoon Valley Vineyards for a tour of the property and a wine tasting accompanied by a tapas-style lunch. For those preferring a slower pace, relax on the golden beaches, wander through local shops, or enjoy the peaceful streets of Hua Hin town.

Hotel: Loligo Resort Hua Hin
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experience: Artist Village and Vineyard Visit

Hua Hin, Thailand

Day 7 - Hua Hin – Bangkok – Penang

It’s time to cross into Malaysia! Travel back to Bangkok for your flight to Penang, an island rich in heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. After settling in at Cititel Penang, meet your Malaysian Travel Director and get acquainted with the city’s vibrant culture, from its colonial streets to bustling markets. Spend the rest of the day exploring your surroundings or relaxing at the hotel.

Hotel: Cititel Penang
Meals: Breakfast

Penang, Malaysia

Day 8 - Penang Sightseeing

Discover Penang’s rich cultural tapestry, starting with the Batik Handicraft Centre, where skilled artisans create vibrant designs by hand. Travel through rural villages and rice fields before visiting the legendary Snake Temple, home to pit vipers coiled across the grounds. Optional visits include Kek Lok Si Temple, Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple, and a funicular ride to Penang Hill, offering panoramic views of the island. Finish your day with a rickshaw tour of George Town, exploring colonial-era streets and vibrant murals, followed by a delicious local dinner.

Hotel: Cititel Penang
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Choice Experiences: Kek Lok Si Temple & Penang Hill, Penang Countryside Cycling Tour

Penang, Malaysia

Day 9 - Penang – Kuala Kangsar – Cameron Highlands

Begin with a sightseeing tour of Penang, including St. George’s Church, the Goddess of Mercy Temple, and the famous George Town street art. Visit the ornate Khoo Kongsi Clan House and the stilted homes of Clan Jetty, then travel to Kuala Kangsar for lunch and a stop at the magnificent Ubudiah Mosque. Continue into the cool hills of the Cameron Highlands, where rolling tea plantations and refreshing mountain air set the scene for your overnight stay.

Hotel: Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Malaysia

Day 10 - Cameron Highlands Sightseeing

Wake up to breathtaking highland views and explore Malaysia’s largest tea plantation, learning the process of tea production and enjoying a fresh cup. Visit a Butterfly Farm, a strawberry farm, and a bustling local market, experiencing the region’s natural beauty and local flavours. Optional visits in Tanah Rata offer a chance for lunch surrounded by highland scenery, or you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings at your hotel.

Hotel: Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands
Meals: Breakfast

Malaysia

Day 11 - Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur

Travel from the hills to the energetic capital of Kuala Lumpur, where skyscrapers tower over historic streets. Explore the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, taking in sweeping city views from the Skybridge and observation deck. Enjoy a guided city tour, visiting the King’s Palace, Royal Selangor Club, and the historic Sultan Abdul Samad Building. In the evening, consider an optional tour of Chinatown by Night, complete with local dining and market exploration.

Hotel: Santa Grand Signature
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experience: Chinatown by Night

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Day 12 - Kuala Lumpur Free Day

Spend your last full day in Kuala Lumpur at leisure. Shop in trendy Bangsar or Publika, explore Central Market or Chinatown, or join an optional trip to Malacca, a UNESCO-listed city with colonial architecture and historic temples such as Stadthuys and Cheng Hoon Teng. Sample traditional Peranakan cuisine before returning to Kuala Lumpur for a farewell evening. Optional dinner experiences round off the day in style.

Hotel: Santa Grand Signature
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Historical Malacca with Lunch, Discover Little India, Farewell Dinner

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Day 13 - Depart Kuala Lumpur

Your 13-day journey comes to a close. Depart Kuala Lumpur with unforgettable memories of vibrant cities, golden temples, lush tea plantations, and some of the most delicious meals of your life.

Meals: Breakfast

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

What’s Included:

Expert Travel Director & Professional Driver: Benefit from experienced guidance throughout your journey.
Quality Accommodation: Stay in hand-picked, trusted hotels chosen for your comfort.
Delicious Meals: Enjoy many included meals, including daily breakfasts.
City Orientation Tours: Get acquainted with each new destination through insightful tours.
Audio Headsets: Enhance your included sightseeing with personal audio commentary.
Comfortable Transport: Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi (available in most countries).
Choice Experiences: Access a wide variety of optional activities to tailor your trip.

Not included in the price:

Flights: International airfare is separate but can be added when you book your trip. Some tours will have included internal flights.
Extra Hotel Nights: Pre or post-tour accommodation isn’t included, but you can arrange these when booking.
Choice Experiences: These optional activities can be booked and paid for while you’re on your tour.
Airport Transfers: These can be arranged when you book your trip.

Departures:

This tour departs on Sundays from January to December. Contact us for live availability and more details.

Pricing:

The price displayed on our trip page is for a twin room, when two people are sharing. To check the solo price for a trip please contact us.

Please note the price shown is a ‘from price’ and it will vary throughout the year. Some times of the year will be more expensive. All prices are subject to availability.

Luggage:

Each guest is permitted one suitcase. This suitcase should not exceed 23kg (50lbs) in weight and its dimensions must be no larger than 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30” x 18” x 10”).

For your carry-on or hand luggage, you are allowed one piece per person. This must not exceed 30cm x 28cm x 14cm (12”x11”x6”) to ensure it fits comfortably under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.

We highly recommend testing the weight of your baggage before your trip. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it yourself for short distances.

Please remember that airline baggage allowances can differ, so it’s essential to check with your specific carrier for their exact rules before you travel.

FAQs

Your Tour Experience

Accommodation: You’ll stay in quality 3 & 4-star hotels, all pre-booked. Hotels listed in itineraries can change, but alternatives will be of similar standard and location.
Travel Group: You’ll travel with a diverse group of fellow tourists, accompanied by your dedicated Driver and Travel Director.
Travel Director: Your expert guide who manages logistics, offers local insights, and helps book optional “Choice Experiences.”
Driver: Ensures comfortable and safe travel on private, air-conditioned coaches.
Choice Experiences: These are optional activities you pay for during your trip, allowing you flexibility to customise your itinerary and budget as you go.
Free Time: Tours are designed to include plenty of free time for you to explore independently or enjoy optional activities.

Optional Activities (“Choice Experiences”)

Booking “Choice Experiences”: Your Travel Director will provide details and facilitate bookings for optional “Choice Experiences” once you are on the tour. You can choose to participate in as many or as few as you like.
Payment for “Choice Experiences”: Payment for these optional activities is made directly to your Travel Director while on tour, providing flexibility.

Tour Pace & Activities

Pace of Travel: Our tours are designed to be efficient, ensuring you see many sights each day. You’ll move at a steady pace to make the most of your time.
Time on the Coach: Travel time between destinations varies. We schedule comfort stops approximately every 2-3 hours and incorporate scenic drives and points of interest into the journey.
Physical Activity: While trips are designed to be accessible, most do involve walking, often on uneven surfaces, uphill, or using stairs. You should be able to walk unassisted for up to 30 minutes comfortably. More strenuous activities are noted in the itinerary. Consider if the trip suits your mobility level

Important Considerations

Trip Price Adjustments: Prices are subject to change due to cost fluctuations or exchange rates, but no surcharges will be applied to the land-only price once the final balance is paid, except for certain government-imposed charges or fuel increases. No changes within 20 days of departure.
Minimum Numbers: Some trips require a minimum number of participants. If not met, the trip may be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 30 days’ notice.
Hotel Changes: Hotels are subject to change, but a comparable alternative will be provided.

What is a “Definite Departure”?

A “Definite Departure” means your trip is guaranteed to run! This status is given to tour dates that have already met the minimum number of bookings required. While we can’t share exact numbers, the system regularly updates these dates as they become definite.

What if my chosen date isn’t definite yet?

You’re welcome to book a departure date that isn’t yet marked as definite. In the unlikely event that your chosen date doesn’t reach the minimum number of guests, we’ll offer you the best alternative dates for your trip or a full refund of any payments you’ve made. We’ll always contact you if there are any changes to your departure, whether it’s definite or not.

Documentation & Entry Requirements

Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Visas & Permits: You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas and permits for the countries you’ll visit or transit through. Check embassy or consulate requirements well in advance, as these vary by nationality and can take time. Multiple-entry visas may be needed if you enter a country more than once.
Identification: Always carry proper identification, as passports will be required at border crossings. Your Travel Director will assist, but be prepared to open luggage and answer simple questions from border officials.

Booking & Payments

Deposits & Final Payments: You can book with a non-refundable deposit (amount varies by tour level, typically £100 or £200 for land tours). The full balance is generally due 60-90 days before departure, depending on your tour.

Changes & Cancellations

Changes: Contact us to make changes. An amendment fee (£50 per passenger) plus any airline fees will apply.
Cancellations: Notify us to cancel. Cancellation penalties apply, and in some cases, no refund may be possible. Certain fees are non-refundable.

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Our Most Popular Essentials

Hotels

Theatre

Out of London Attractions

London Attractions

Sports Tickets

Music Concerts

Christmas Tours

New Years Eve

There are so many and we cater for everyone so it may be a case of a leisurely Out of London trip to Stonehenge or you may want the buzz and excitement of a theatre tour of London – all the glitz and glamour is there. Out of London, we offer all sorts of adventures: Roman Baths, Shakespeare country, the Royal Pavilion, Brighton – you name it. Same with London – we don’t just do the round London tours – we can take you to Kew Gardens or we can take you on an expedition on the roof of the O2 Dome to the platform at the top offering spectacular views.

So we offer Out of London, Around London, Theatre and Hotels and then there are the spectacular Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day tours – what a way to celebrate the fun season.