Thailand · 11 - 18 November 2024
2024 Thailand Lantern Festival Tour: Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Thailand's Yi Peng festival, where thousands of floating lanterns light up the night sky!
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Overview
Yi Peng is a cultural festival in northern Thailand, celebrated in Chiang Mai. Lanterns made from paper and bamboo are lit and released into the sky at night, symbolizing the release of worries and negativity. Experience the magic of Yi Peng and witness the transformation of the night sky.
Highlights
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
Our Main Event is in Chiang Mai, with VIP-section seating and food selections.
Muay Thai Boxing
Get in the ring (or at least around it) to catch one of Thailand's most popular sporting events.
5-Star Luxury Hotels
Pamper yourself at some of Thailand's best luxury resort hotels. You deserve it!
Elephant Sanctuary
Come out to the Northern Thai countryside to make a few new enormous friends!
Bangkok Street Food
It's no secret that Bangkok boasts the world's best street food, with an incredible variety and quality.
The Reclining Buddha
Discover Bangkok's Wat Pho, where you'll encounter Thailand's most iconic tourist attraction.
A Market that Floats?
Discover an unforgettable shopping experience at Bangkok's Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Hosts
Mike Henderson
Hello, fellow travelers! My name is Mike Henderson, and I am the founder and CEO of B.A.G. Travel. I have been a group travel consultant for over 20 years and have visited more than 35 countries. I am passionate about providing exciting travel experiences that can change people's lives. With my background in urban planning, I love to help my clients immerse themselves in the culture of the places they visit.
B.A.G. Travel has been featured in several popular publications, such as: AFAR, Travel Weekly, Vacationer Magazine, and New World Report. We take pride in being a global "adventure designer" and helping our clients create unforgettable memories!
Oak Mahavan
Hello everyone! My name is Oak Mahavan, and I am a Travel Consultant and Influencer. I love sharing stories and learning from others. My family originally hails from Chiangmai, Thailand, where my grandmother was one of the pioneers of the Northern Thailand Tourism Agency in the 1970s. As a young boy, my grandmother's influence sparked my curiosity, and she took me on the Concord Jet, Northern Thai wedding tours, and elephant camps. Our family helped shape the Northern Thai traveling industry by introducing elephant camps, Khan Toke dinners (the Northern Thai version of a Luau cultural dinner show), and academic bird-watching tours.
I have traveled to 40+ countries and backpacked in Asia for over three months. I am passionate about learning about myself through traveling and sharing my experiences with others. With my background in the Thai hospitality industry, experiential marketing, and customer-centric management, I aim to create unforgettable experiences that last a lifetime!
Schedule
Join us for eight days in the "Land of Smiles" during one of their most festive times of the year.
Previous
Next
Bangkok
Monday, November 11
"Sawasdee!" Welcome to Thailand.
🔸Arrival in Bangkok: "Meet & Greet" transfer from Bangkok International Airport (BKK) to hotel.
🔹Hotel: Arrive for check in at the brand-new, 5-star, luxury hotel resort: Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok (or similar).
Not Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Bangkok
Tuesday, November 12
Grand Day Tour
🔹Grand Palace: Wat Arun, Emerald Buddha, and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
🔹Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at MICHELIN star winning restaurant: Methavalai Sorndaeng (or similar).
🔹Cruise: Chao Phraya River dinner cruise
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Bangkok
Wednesday, November 13
Experience the Best Thai Markets!
🔹Maeklong Railway Market: get run-over with excitement at one of Thailand's most unusual markets - right in the middle of a train rail route! Don't forget to tuck your caboose in as the train passes by....🚆🤭
🔹Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Float while you shop! Visit the largest and most famous floating market in Thailand. Lunch provided.
🔹Asiatique + Muay Thai: That evening, we will head to the enormous Asiatique Riverfront mall/lifestyle center for dinner* + a Muay Thai boxing match.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Not Included
(*Dinner not included in price).
Bangkok ➪ Chiang Mai
Thursday, November 14
Chiang Mai, "Rose of the North"
🔹Departure from Bangkok: Hotel check out, airport transfer to Bangkok airport (BKK or DMK), flight to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
🔹Arrival in Chiang Mai: "Meet & Greet" transfer from the Airport to our resort hotel.
🔹Hotel: Arrive for check in at the 5-star, luxury Shangri-La Chiang Mai (or similar).
🔹FREE DAY to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace.
Included
Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Chiang Mai
Friday, November 15
Light Up the Sky at Yi Peng!
🔹Tour: In the morning, we head to the hills to visit the incredibly photogenic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Lunch included.
🔹MAIN EVENT: This evening, we will head out of the city to participate in the Yi Peng Lantern Festival - one of the world's most magical "bucket list" experiences! VIP seating, with a traditional Lana cultural dinner included.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Chiang Mai
Saturday, November 16
Elephants, Shows, and Parades
🔹Elephant Care Experience: In the morning, we will experience a very specialized and educational trip with elephants at an accredited, eco-responsible elephant sanctuary/care center. Be sure to bring a towel and extra clothes...you will get hosed! A Thai picnic lunch and complementary photos are included.
🔹Dinner + Show: Enjoy a Thai dinner and cultural show.
🔹Parade: After dinner, we will walk over to Tha Phae Gate to witness the incredibly colorful Loy Kratong Parade.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Photos of your experience
Chiang Mai
Sunday, November 17
Chill in Chiang Mai
🔹FREE DAY: to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace.
Included
Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Chiang Mai
Monday, November 18
"La Gorn (Goodbye)," Thailand!
🔹Departure: from Chiang Mai: Hotel check out, airport transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) for your flight home.
Included
Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
What's included
What's Included
All transfers and transportation if traveling with the group are private, deluxe, air-conditioned coaches and English-speaking guide.
5-STAR resort hotel accomodations
Hotel Porterage
Local taxes on accommodation and sightseeing tours, based on current rates
Arrival Meet and Greet Guide
Meals as listed on the itinerary
Guided Tours and Admissions per the itinerary
Comprehensive travel itinerary and documents electronicially, via TripIt
What's Not Included
Gratuities to Restaurant Staff and Hotel Porters
Visas and Transfers + their handling fees
Meals that are not listed in the itinerary
Tip and Gratuity Increase in local tax rates
Early room check-in; late room check-out
Hotel/Report Incidental and Damages Charges
Personal items
Tips for the Tour Guides and Drivers – suggested amount is $6.00 (USD) a day for each guide and $3.00 (USD) a day for each driver.
Miscellaneous fees, i.e., individual transfers; passports, extra hotel charges (mini bar, spa, gym, etc.); airline seat selection, laundry, meals not listed in the itinerary, beverages at meals, and baggage fees
Travel Protection - strongly recommended for any trip. You may request a quote upon check-out.
International Airfare (offered as an option for purchase)
Gallery
Trip Tips
Check your Passport! 👀🛂
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the departure date.
Request our Flight Quote
Let us handle the headache for you. Say goodbye to the stress and frustration of flight research and hello to a hassle-free travel experience. ✈️
Purchase our Travel Protection
Travel Protection is strongly recommended for ANY trip. Add "Travel Protection Quote" to your checkout cart and receive a confirmation email with link to our comprehensive plans by our partner: IMG.
Choose the Bangkok "Midnight Street Food Tour"
Hungry for some Thai cuisine? Bangkok is the world's street food capital!
Need a Passport Expedite? Ask us for one.
Let us handle that nightmare. Just add "Passport Expedite" to your cart and look for confirmation email instructions.
Review Our Full Terms & Conditions
https://www.bagtravel.net/terms-and-conditions/ for our full list of exclusions + code of conduct.
Add Ons
Travel Protection Free Quote - Special Rate!
Receive an exclusive rate quote from our Partner: IMG - A global leader in travel protection plans.
Free
Round Trip International Airfare Quote to Thailand
Receive a quote for airfare from Los Angeles, London, Atlanta, or New York to Thailand by June 1, 2024. Airfare payment link will be submitted if quote is accepted....
Read More
FROM$25.00/pp
Hong Kong + Angkor Wat Adventure (Cambodia)! Post-Trip Tour - Double Occupancy
November 18-23: Explore the most incredible modern and ancient cities during one, magical pre-trip! (Price for 2 travelers min./max.) - ***See the Trip FAQ section for more details.*** Hotel Indigo Hong Kong Island or similar....
Read More
FROM$1,650.00/pp
Hong Kong + Angkor Wat Adventure (Cambodia)! Post-Trip Tour - Single Occupancy
November 18-23: Explore the most incredible modern and ancient cities during one, magical pre-trip! (1 traveler-only price) - ***See the Trip FAQ section for more details.*** Hotel Indigo Hong Kong Island or similar....
Read More
FROM$2,400.00/pp
Bangkok Midnight Street Food Tour
Take a late-night culinary journey with us through the street food capital of the world: Bangkok! (Per person price)
FROM$80.00/pp
Passport Expedite Service (U.S. citizens only)
Need a Passport expedite before the trip? Get a quote from one of our partners.
Free
Get a FREE travel guide: "Japan Travel for First Timers"
Are you ready to visit the Land of the Rising Sun?
Free
You'll Be Staying Here
Shangri-La Chiang Mai
5-star luxury, right in the heart of Old Chiang Mai!
Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok
Brand new 5-star, luxury resort & spa close to Bangkok's most popular attractions.
Related Blog Posts
Are you curious about visiting Thailand? We've got tips!
Four Must-See Festivals in Thailand
Thailand is a land of vibrant culture and progressive thinking, and to truly immerse yourself in it, there are four festivals you can't afford to miss. Be sure to mark these on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience!
Thailand Travel for First-Timers
Discover how to make the most of your first visit to the Land of Smiles with this comprehensive Thailand guide. Let us help you plan your dream vacation from stunning beaches to vibrant cities.
Thailand for Foodies: Where to Eat in the Land of Smiles
Calling all foodies! You won't want to miss out on "Thailand for Foodies" - the ultimate guide to Thai cuisine. Discover the must-knows about Thai food and take your taste buds on a journey they will remember. Join us as we explore the delicious flavors and exotic ingredients that make Thai cuisine so unique. Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure like no other!
FAQs
POST-TRIP OPTION: What does the "Hong Kong + Angkor Wat Adventure" include?
Dates: November 18-23, 2024
Cities: Hong Kong + Siem Reap, Cambodia
Inclusions:
Hong Kong
- Arrival "Meet & Greet" w/hotel transfer on Nov. 18, 2024
- Accommodation: 2 nights accommodation at JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La (or similar)
- Tour 1: Night Market
- Tour 2: City Tour, Lantau Island, Tian Tan Buddha (sitting Buddha), and Po Lin Monastery
- Airfare from HKG: Economy International Flight from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Siem Reap, Cambodia (REP) and REP to Hong Kong (HKG). Email us to request Business or First Class.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Arrival "Meet & Greet" w/hotel transfer
- Accommodation: 3 nights 5-STAR accommodation at Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa (or similar).
- Tour 1: Angkor + Angkor Thom Tours with English speaking guide
- Dinner: with Apsara Show including 1hr free flow drinks (Chilled Juices, Soft Drinks, Mineral Water, Angkor Beers, House Wine (Red and White)
- Tour 2: Banteay Srei + Ta Prohm tour English speaking guide
- Departure to Siem Reap Airport for our hotel resort.
- Airfare to Bangkok: Economy International Flight from Siem Reap (REP) to Bangkok (BKK) on Nov. 11, 2024. Email us to request Business or First Class.
***Your core tour begins in Bangkok.***
Inclusions: Refer to our core tour exclusions section and our full Terms & Conditions.
Do you provide International Flights to Thailand and the pre-trip option locations?
Select "Flight Quote" and add to your cart before check-out. Flight quotes for all attendees will be submitted by June 1, 2024.
Do you offer Payment Plans?
We offer a monthly, interest-free plan and a "Travel-Now-Pay-Later" payment plan. Both require initial deposit(s).
"Travel Now, Pay Later" is offered by our partner: Uplift (subject to credit approval).
Do you offer Travel Insurance?
We offer a special rate through our partners to provide you some of the most comprehensive travel protection options available.
What if I prefer my own Travel Insurance?
B.A.G. Travel and our partners offers some of the most comprehensive Travel Protection products and best rates in the business...
However - if you decline our Travel Protection offer, you MUST complete and submit the "Travel Insurance Waiver Form" at least 30 days before departure. You can find our Travel Insurance Waiver Form HERE.
How do I keep track of the itinerary while on the trip?
As a convenient service for our valued clients, B.A.G. Travel uses TripIt to track the land-portion itinerary and WhatsApp for group communication. You can also include your own flight information if you wish.
It is important to note that you are responsible for reviewing the itinerary, being aware of our daily schedule + chat communications, and being prompt for group activities and transfers.
To make things easier, you can find the answer to the common question: "What’s next?" in your TripIt app and/or our WhatsApp Group text chat.
TripIt is a free service, but we highly recommend TripIt Pro, which provides live flight updates, seating availability charts, destination alerts, and many other helpful features. Pro even comes with a free 30-day trial, that you can use for this trip or others.
WhatsApp is used for group communication, any significant changes to the itinerary will be shared through the Group Leader via Group Chat.
What are your Cancellation Terms?
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions: Your purchase of any portion of this trip acts as your full acknowledgement and agreement to these terms.
Purchase Travel Protection: Life happens! In case you need to cancel, have the piece-of-mind that comes with being covered by Travel Protection. You can request a quote from B.A.G. Travel upon initial cart checkout or up-to 30 days before departure.
Cancellation: Please be aware that our travel bookings are non-refundable and cancelled bookings will incur charges. These charges can be up to 100% of the cost of the booking, regardless of whether travel has commenced. Where we incur any liability for a cancellation fee or charge for any booking which you cancel, you agree to indemnify us for the amount of that fee or charge. All cancellations must be in writing to B.A.G. Travel, LLC prior to departure date.