Private Culinary Tour Through Thailand

A Taste of Thailand

Bangkok — Chiang Mai — Phuket

Duration

12 Days / 11 Nights

Interest

Food & Fun

Places Where You'll Stay

A Journey Shaped by Flavor & Place

Unveil Thailand through a culinary lens on a privately guided journey where food is the gateway to culture, tradition, and place. Designed for travelers who want to taste Thailand as deeply as they explore it, this itinerary weaves together regional flavors, hands-on cooking, and everyday food rituals—revealing the country’s character without rushing through its sights.

Thailand’s culinary diversity comes alive in markets, kitchens, and along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, where ingredients and technique tell the story as clearly as any landmark. Guided tastings introduce the balance that defines Thai cooking—heat, acid, sweetness, and spice—while a market-to-table class at the famed Blue Elephant Cooking School brings it to life, from selecting herbs and aromatics to mastering essential methods. Evenings open the door to the city’s food scene, where street stalls and local favorites anchor tradition.

Northern flavors add a deeper layer, shaped by farmland, herbs, and slow-simmered comfort. In Chiang Mai, immersive experiences in countryside kitchens and traditional homes highlight Lanna cooking, where curries, relishes, and seasonal ingredients reflect generations of regional identity. Time in local markets and night bazaars deepens the connection, revealing how food shapes daily life.

Cuisine shifts toward the sea in Phuket. Visits to fishing communities and seaside markets bring you closer to the source, followed by fresh seafood enjoyed at Rawai Beach, where the day’s catch defines the table. With time to unwind at a beachfront retreat, the pace slows naturally, letting flavors linger with the Andaman as your backdrop.

Thoughtfully paced and privately guided throughout, Taste of Thailand is a culinary journey first—layered with culture, shaped by place, and designed for travelers who believe the best way to understand a country is at the table.

What Makes This Tour Unique

Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya
Thailand Through Its Flavors: Experience the country through street food, home kitchens, markets, and regional dishes—using cuisine as the lens for culture and place.
Thai Cooking School
Hands-On Culinary Access: Cook alongside local families, learn classic techniques at respected cooking schools, and explore markets where daily life and flavor intersect.
Phuket's Seafood Culture
Regional Food Traditions: From Bangkok’s layered street cuisine to Chiang Mai’s Lanna specialties and Phuket’s seafood culture, each region reveals a distinct culinary identity.
Beach Escape
Coastal Cuisine Finale: End by the Andaman Sea, where fishing communities and seaside markets shape meals centered on the day’s freshest catch.

Why Choose This Tour

  • For Food-First Travelers – Ideal for those who want cuisine to be the main storyline of the trip, with culture revealed through everyday meals, markets, and regional traditions.
  • For Travelers Who Want Depth With Select Sightseeing – Designed for those who want meaningful cultural moments alongside the food lens—temple visits, neighborhood walks, and time to absorb each place beyond the table.
  • For Hands-On Learners – Best for travelers who prefer participation over observation—learning by doing, asking questions, and spending real time in kitchens and food communities.
  • For Slow, Sensory Pace Seekers – A strong fit for travelers who want unhurried days, private guidance, and time to let experiences—and flavors—linger.

TOUR INCLUDES:

  • All in-country air & ground transportation 
  • 11 nights deluxe hotel accommodations 
  • Hotel breakfasts daily and various meals per itinerary 
  • Two Fun-filled Thai Cooking Lessons 
  • Airport transfers on arrival & departure in each city by private guide & chauffeur
  • Private touring by expert guides & private vehicles (with several shared excursions where otherwise noted)
  • Carefree travel with 24/7 Support 

TOUR ITINERARY:

Day 1- 4 Bangkok – The City of Temples, Traditions & Nightlife

Your introduction to Thailand begins in Bangkok, a city where gilded palaces and sacred temples stand alongside bustling markets and vibrant nightlife. With your private guide, you’ll uncover the capital’s most iconic landmarks by day and its street-food soul by night, then slip beyond the city into the timeless rhythms of the countryside.

Day 1 (Welcome to the Land of Smiles): Arrive in Thailand’s dazzling capital, where you’ll be greeted by your private guide and transferred in comfort to your luxury hotel. Settle in for a three-night stay, where refined hospitality ensures every detail is tended to with care.

Day 2 (Temples by Day, Flavors by Night): This morning, your guide reveals Bangkok’s most revered sites—wander the jeweled halls of the Grand Palace, see the Emerald Buddha, admire the Golden Buddha at Wat Traimit, and marvel at Wat Pho’s Reclining Buddha. The afternoon is yours to indulge, whether shopping, sipping a riverside cocktail, or enjoying a spa ritual.

This evening, sail the Chao Phraya aboard the Manohra Cruise, a restored teak rice barge, savoring refined Thai cuisine as illuminated temples and palaces drift by in a romantic evening setting. (B,D)

Day 3 (Floating & Train Markets by Day, Foodies Adventure by Night): Escape the bustle on an exclusive journey to the countryside. Drift by private boat through Damnoen Saduak’s canals, where colorful boats brim with fruit, flowers, and spices. Continue to the famed Train Market, where stalls fold and unfold in sync with the passing train. Return to Bangkok with the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the city at your own pace.

This evening, board a tuk tuk for an exciting night foodie tour—sample local favorites such as Khao Man Gai, Pad Thai, and Guay Tiew Kua Gai, explore the Flower Market, and pause at a quiet temple before returning to your hotel. (B,D)

Day 4 (Culinary Class at Blue Elephant ): This morning, delight in a world-class culinary experience at the renowned Blue Elephant Cooking School. Begin with a guided stroll through Bang Rak’s bustling morning market, where vibrant stalls brim with fragrant herbs, exotic spices, and the freshest local produce. With your Blue Elephant chef as mentor, enjoy a hands-on lesson in the art of Thai gastronomy, preparing a four-course feast that balances tradition with flavor. Savor your own creations for lunch before returning to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to enjoy and explore the city. (B,L)

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) illuminated at night in Bangkok, Thailand, with its towering central prang and glowing spires reflecting along the Chao Phraya River.

Discover More of Bangkok

Rising on the banks of the Chao Phraya, Bangkok is a city where tradition and modernity entwine — dazzling, vibrant, and alive with contrast...

Where you will stay

Enhance your Bangkok Experience with add-ons

Traditional Muay Thai fighters practicing a kicking technique, showcasing Thailand’s national martial art with classic attire and disciplined combat form.

Watch a Muay Thai Fight

Riverside floating bungalows in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, featuring thatched-roof lodges, wooden decks, and tranquil river views surrounded by lush jungle scenery.

Add a side trip to River Kwai

Ancient temple ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand, featuring towering prang-style structures built from weathered brick and stone, glowing in warm evening light.

Explore the Ancient City of Ayutthaya

Day 5–7: Chiang Mai – Heart of Northern Heritage

Chiang Mai, the heart of Northern heritage, blends culture, nature, and soulful encounters. Explore sacred mountaintop temples, share unforgettable moments with elephants in an ethical sanctuary, and immerse yourself in the flavors of Thai cuisine with a countryside cooking class. Stay in a charming boutique retreat, wander colorful bazaars, or opt for an adventure—Chiang Mai offers a balance of depth, discovery, and charm.

Day 5 (From City to Mountain): A short 1.5-hour flight takes you to the charming city of Chiang Mai. On arrival, you’ll explore local temples, markets, and quiet neighborhoods before ascending Doi Suthep Mountain. At nearly 5,000 feet, this revered hilltop shrine offers panoramic views and remains one of Northern Thailand’s most important pilgrimage sites. Check in to your boutique hotel for three nights of comfort and discovery. (B)

Day 6 (Elephant Sanctuary Experience): A once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend the day at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, where rescued elephants roam freely in a safe, ethical environment. Learn about their care, feed them, and walk beside them through the forest before enjoying a traditional Thai lunch. Return to your resort by around 3pm. 

Freshen up with some poolside relaxation before setting out on a night foodie tour of Chiang Mai. Begin at the legendary Warorot Market, alive with local flavors and bustling energy, then venture beyond the city to savor the quintessential northern dish, Khao Soi. End with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant night market before returning to your hotel. (B,L,D) **Elephant program  on join/shared basis.**

Day 7 (Thai Culinary Fun & Hospitality): Today, choose your own Northern Thai epicurean adventure: 

Option 1 – Cooking@Home: Begin your morning at a lively country market, mingling with local vendors and glimpsing daily life as baskets overflow with fragrant herbs, fiery chilies, and tropical produce. Continue to a serene family-style cooking school nestled amid emerald rice fields, where time seems to slow. Under the guidance of your chef, prepare a menu of authentic Thai dishes, then savor your creations in a peaceful countryside setting. (B,L) **Shared program**

Option 2 – Lanna Home Cooking:Morning at leisure. This afternoon, a short drive takes you into suburban Chiang Mai, where you’ll be welcomed into the home of a Lanna family, whose traditions trace back to the ancient Lanna Kingdom. Share stories with your hosts as they guide you through their herb garden and family kitchen, then learn to prepare a regional dinner infused with heritage and hospitality. End the evening enjoying your creations together on a terrace overlooking the village. (B,D) **Semi-private program**

Wat Phra Singh temple complex in Chiang Mai, Thailand at night, featuring golden stupas, ornate Lanna architecture, and reflections shimmering in a tranquil water feature.

Discover More of Chiang Mai

Cradled by mist-shrouded mountains in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where heritage and tranquility converge — soulful, spiritual, and steeped in tradition...

Where you will stay

Enhance your Chiang Mai Experience with add-ons

White Temple, Chiang Rai - one of Northern Thailand's must-sees

See the famous White Temple of Chiang Rai

Buddhist monk kneeling in prayer inside a traditional Thai temple, facing a golden altar adorned with ornate carvings and floral offerings.

Engage in a Monk Chat or Blessing Ceremony

Traditional lakeside pavilion along the Mae Ping River in northern Thailand, reflected in calm water and framed by forested hills and hillside village homes.

Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the Ping River

Day 8 – 11: Phuket – Island Paradise & Coastal Wonders

No Thailand journey is complete without time on its legendary shores. In Phuket, white-sand beaches and azure seas set the stage for your finale—whether sailing across Phang Nga Bay, exploring limestone grottos, or simply unwinding at your luxury resort as the sun sets over the Andaman.

Day 8 (Head for the Beach): Fly south to Phuket, Thailand’s island jewel. Upon arrival, your private transfer brings you to your luxury beachfront resort, where palm-fringed pools and the Andaman Sea set the tone for three nights of indulgence. (B)

Day 9 (From Pulled Thai Tea to Fresh Seafood): Today’s epicurean adventure begins with a drive to Phuket Old Town famed for its lively markets and colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Take a stroll around town and savor southern flavors along charming Thalang Road—try fresh roti and watch the theatrical “pulled” preparation of Cha Chak Thai iced milk tea. Afterwards, head to Rawai Beach, famed for its seafood market and fishing village charm. Here, pick your own catch—lobster, crab, or fish—then watch as local chefs transform it into a feast of authentic coastal flavors, enjoyed in a rustic waterfront setting by the sea. Return to your resort with the balance of the afternoon free to relax at leisure. (B)

Day 10 (Islands of the Andaman): Choose your perfect day on the water:

  • Phi Phi Islands by Speed Catamaran – Cruise across clear seas to Maya Bay, framed by towering limestone cliffs, and snorkel coral gardens before a sunset stop at Maiton Island. (B,L)

  • Phang Nga Bay by Sea Kayak – Paddle through tidal caves and hidden lagoons, swim in turquoise coves, and craft your own Loy Krathong before dinner onboard. (B,L,D)

  • Phang Nga Bay by Luxury Catamaran – Visit James Bond Island in refined style, with day beds, a full bar, and sunset dining as your catamaran glides through Hong Island’s sea caves. (B,L,D)

Day 11 (Leisure in Paradise): The day is yours to indulge as you wish. Lounge on Phuket’s golden beaches, unwind at your resort spa, or explore vibrant markets and hidden coves at leisure. (B)

Ko Tapu (James Bond Island) limestone karst rising from turquoise waters in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand, surrounded by tropical seascape and distant islands.

Discover More of Phuket

Washed by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is an island where tropical beauty meets vibrant culture — radiant, spirited, and endlessly alluring...

Enhance your Phuket Experience with add-ons

Crystal-clear snorkeling waters around the Similan Islands, Thailand, with vibrant coral reefs visible beneath the surface and tropical islands in the distance.

Scuba Dive in the Similan Islands

Limestone karst cliffs rising above emerald-green waters in Khao Sok National Park, southern Thailand, surrounded by dense rainforest and dramatic mountain scenery.

Explore the jungles of Khao Sok

Secluded tropical beach in Koh Phangan, Thailand with a wooden swing hanging from a tree over white sand, overlooking clear turquoise water and forested shoreline.

Add more beach time in Krabi or Koh Yao Yai

Long-tail boats lined up along the sandy shore of Phi Phi Islands, Thailand, with turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and a bright tropical sky.

Extend your trip in Phi Phi Islands

Day 12 (Farewell Thailand): Your private transfer brings you to the airport, where your guide ensures a seamless departure for your flight—concluding a journey of comfort, discovery, and refined experiences. (B)

PRICE CHART:

2026 Tour Price (Prices good thru December 20th, 2026)

Hotel

Twin Sharing
LSHS

As listed above

5,145

5,995

Tour requires minimum of 2 passengers to operate

    • Prices are per person, based on double occupancy
    • Price includes all entrance fees, domestic air taxes, hotel taxes & service charges
    • Price excludes transpacific airfares, personal expenses, beverages, gratuities to guides, drivers & bell persons
    • Blackout dates, holiday Surcharges and/or compulsory Gala dinners at hotels apply Dec. 20-Jan. 10
    • Please contact our office for assistance with International Airfares. Our travel specialists will help identify the best flights/airfares for your trip. 
    • All flights, hotels and land services are subject to availability at time of reservation
“Each Day Was a Worry Free Treasure Chest”
Six week 6 country trip to Asia that was absolutely perfect in every way. Each day was a worry free treasure chest of travel filled with enjoyment, adventure, beauty, great guides and no stress.
Lisa Gunderson - Google Review November 2024
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"Explorient was absolutely incredible and thorough with our Southeast Asia tour! We had the best time and it was definitely an experience of a lifetime. Definitely recommend!"
Delores & Sebelle Bell
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Our Asia adventure to Tokyo, Kyoto, Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong over 3 weeks was perfect. We picked this agency for their "can do" attitude when other well known agencies would only sell prefabricated tour packages.
Cheryl & Mel Levy - Googe Review - October 2024
“Thailand was Amazing! We had a Wonderful Time!”
Thailand was amazing! We had a wonderful time. The Santhiya Resort provided the perfect ending to our stay in Thailand. Thanks again for putting together such a fantastic vacation!
Albert Young, February 2025
"Thank You Explorient, You Are Truly The BEST!"
To summarize our experience with Explorient Travel Services Inc one word, it’s simply WOW! We had a 22-day custom excursion to seven different countries in Asia. He was on top of every aspect of the trip. This was top-notch!
Mike Haviland - Google Review - July 2025
“Tour Guides Were Wonderful!”
”We had a wonderful time throughout the entire trip, thanks so much for putting together a thoughtful and varied itinerary! I wouldn't change anything about it!
Sean C. - Google Review - December 2024

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