Classic Thailand - West Coast

Further north, the old capital Ayutthaya offers temple ruins which look out of place among busy streets and street-food stalls. Chiang Mai introduces mountains and a quieter pace, crowned by the hilltop Doi Suthep temple. The tour finishes with several days on islands – Ko Lanta, Ko Ngai and the Trang Islands – where limestone karsts rise sharp from the sea and snorkelling boats thread between them, while you have time to lie on beaches that are often deserted, at least in the quieter hours.

Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to a night on the sleeper train. The emphasis throughout is on local experiences rather than polished luxury, with a knowledgeable CEO on hand to keep things running smoothly and suggest options for meals and optional excursions.

These are the places the trip visits, in order. G Adventures publishes the day-by-day itinerary on its own site.