Summer On the East Coast
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Summer On the East Coast
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Summer On the East Coast

Summer On The East Coast

A journey along the East Coast of Thailand with some good old-fashioned island-hopping is an excellent option if you are travelling from the UK in the summer months. This side of the country has a different rainy season to the west coast and stays dry from around February through to August (the dry season on the west runs from November to May).

The proposed itinerary includes visits to some lesser-known gems that are often overlooked by tourists, such as Songkhla Lake and the coastal areas near Chumphon. These off-the-beaten-track locations are intertwined with more popular Thai islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan or Koh Tao. The itinerary is designed to provide ample time for community-based tourism, immersing in the local culture and indulging in activities like snorkelling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.

Highlights include:

  • Cycling through mangrove forests in Bangkok and sampling delicious homegrown food from an organic garden
  • Bird watching at Thailand’s largest lake
  • Relaxing on pristine tropical islands and snorkelling in crystal clear oceans

This is a sample itinerary which we will tailor to suit you. Prices are dependent on destination, flights & dates but ETG holidays always include the following:

  • International flights (if required)
  • Guides, drivers & their tips
  • Accommodation
  • Specified meals & snacks
  • Your immersive experiences
  • Internal & regional transfers

Get in touch with us for your bespoke proposal
or see more on our ETG Pricing Guide

Call for a bespoke proposal 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

DAY 1: DEPART FROM THE UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Bangkok.

DAYS 2-4: BANGKOK

Upon arrival in Bangkok, your guide and driver will be ready to meet you for the transfer to your hotel.

During your time in Bangkok, take a guided walking tour, navigating through a labyrinth of side streets and shophouses. Hop onto a tuk-tuk to explore Bangkok’s ancient temples and vibrant markets. A boat journey through small canals will lead you to a restaurant, where a delectable lunch sourced from the on-site organic garden awaits, followed by a hands-on dessert workshop.

There will also be time for a cycling adventure in Bangkok’s ‘Green Lung.' In stark contrast to the city’s concrete metropolis, this mangrove forest features elevated walkways perfect for cycling. Along the way, you will discover interesting stop-offs, breathe in the fresh air, and have an opportunity to interact with the local community.

Days 5-6: Transfer to Phatthalung via Trang/Hat Yai

Take a short domestic flight from Bangkok to Trang or Hat Yai in southern Thailand. Transfer to Phatthalung, an off-the-beaten-track destination situated by the largest lake in Thailand. Check into your boutique hotel overlooking the lake and immerse yourself in nature. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the stilted fishing platforms. Explore Thale Noi on a boat trip to discover the Waterfowl Reserve, home to over 180 species of resident and migratory birds. Optionally, experience local life at a community lodge, engaging in activities such as crafting fishing nets, exploring the fishing village, and enjoying dinner with a host family.

Day 7: Phatthalung to Surat Thani

Today, you depart Phatthalung and travel to Surat Thani where you’ll catch the boat across to the idyllic island of Koh Samui for the first leg of your island-hopping adventure. 

Check into your beach hotel on the island.

Days 8-12: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao

Explore the beautiful beaches and clear blue oceans of the Gulf of Thailand, starting with a 3–4-night stay on Koh Samui, one of Thailand’s most popular destinations. Explore the vibrant island, including nearby quieter islands like Koh Tan or Koh Madsum, known for their rich underwater life.

From Samui, you can transfer to Koh Tao or Koh Phangan by boat. If time permits you could opt to stay on all three islands.

Staying on Koh Tao and Koh Phangan offers a delightful contrast to the bustling Samui. Although famous for its full moon parties, Koh Phangan has many quieter areas to explore. Koh Tao is particularly renowned for its excellent snorkelling and diving.

Days 13 & 14: Chumphon

Take a boat from Koh Tao (or Phangan) back to the mainland to the quiet province of Chumphon. Although the coastline of Chumphon is full of beautiful beaches, the area is relatively untouched by overseas tourism and has a friendly, local atmosphere.

Enjoy a leisurely day at The Nest Beach Resort. Relax on the beach or at the sea-view swimming pool, soak up the sun, and explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

Day 15: Train back to Bangkok

Board a day train back to Bangkok. Traversing the countryside, the scenic ride reveals a diverse and immersive snapshot of Thailand’s natural beauty. Relax and reflect on your adventure as the scenery rolls past your window.

Spend a final night in the big city before heading home.

Day 16: Fly home

Depart Bangkok for your flight back to the UK

Speak to an expert 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

Get in touch

Every holiday we create is unique. One of our team can talk you through your options...

Hotels & Villas
featured above

Riva Surya

Riva Surya, Bangkok

Ideally located right on the Chao Phraya River, this is a great value hotel, a hidden gem in the heart of Bangkok.

Sala Choengmon

Sala Choengmon, Koh Samui Island

Sala Choengmon is a high-end, intimate boutique resort on the sleepy southern tip of Koh Samui.

Santhiya Koh Phangan

Santhiya Koh Phangan, Koh Phangan

Santhiya Koh Phangan resort has been built into the side of a hill extending down to the bay.

Sripakpra Resort

Sripakpra Resort, Phatthalung

A stilted resort sitting over Songkhla Lake. Rooms are light, modern and overlook the water, with lovely facilities and excursions on offer.

The Nest Private Beach Resort

The Nest Private Beach Resort, Chumphon

Peaceful, hidden beach retreat surrounded by lush forest on the south-east coast.

Experiences & Activities
featured above

Bangkok's Hidden Garden

Bangkok's Hidden Garden, Bangkok

Support a fantastic little project while enjoying a delicious lunch in a lovely garden setting.

Bang Kra Cycle Tour

Bang Kra Cycle Tour, Bangkok

A leisurely cycle ride through a quiet corner of the city. Cross canals and mangrove forests passing golden temples and traditional houses.

Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve

Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve, Phatthalung

A scenic trip to Thale Noi lake is a birdwatcher's offering the chance to see some of the 180 species of resident and migratory birds amongst the stilted fishing platforms and lotus flowers.

~
Every ETG journey is unique.
Let us inspire you
~

Your next adventure starts with a conversation...

020 7924 7133

1-888-577-8452

Start Planning

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