Peru Through Spiritual Eyes
November 4-13, 2023
You Are Invited…
Experience an amazing, life-transforming pilgrimage with renowned spiritual leader, teacher, author, and Life Mastery coach, Howard Caesar. Join Howard and other like-minded travelers as we bond together for an inner and outer journey to the beautiful, fascinating, and spiritually stimulating country of Thailand.
“Visiting Thailand has been on my bucket list for years. I’ve known this is a place that contains gifts that feed the soul. I’m drawn to lead a group of others in absorbing the consciousness of this unique culture, beauty, people, and deep spirituality. The itinerary we have planned has me overwhelmingly excited about experiencing amazing temples, pagodas, palaces, floating markets, cruising The River of Kings, scenic countryside, and much more… balanced with the right amount of 5 Star Resort leisure. I’m looking forward to joining other delightful people in creating many wonderful life-long memories.”
–Howard
The Details
November 4-13, 2023
Some highlights of our adventure include:
- Bangkok City
- Outstanding Gastronomy everywhere
- Ancient canals on Long Tail Boats
- Floating Markets
- Tuk Tuk street eating night
- Grand Palace
- Buddhist monk chanting
- Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
- Diverse Art Scene
- Meditation class at a temple
- Temples: Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat
- Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand
- City and country sites– up to Doi Suthep mountain
- What Phra That Doi Suthep
- Elephants up close in Rescue center
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Night Market
- Thai Cooking Class or Lush nature hike and bamboo rafting- your choice
Meet your Tour LEADER
Howard Caesar
“ I’ve discovered early on in my travels that a pilgrimage to a spiritual land is a profoundly powerful experience. It is heart-opening and soul-expanding. It offers gifts of insight and awareness that you could not have anticipated prior to going. You return as a new person. With 40,000 temples and 95% of the country practicing Buddhism, inner peace is a way of life in Thailand. The teachings of Buddha are profoundly helpful to humanity and complimentary to those of Jesus Christ. I’ve always had great respect for the teachings of Buddha and the spiritual contributions they make to freedom of consciousness and the unity of humanity.”
Howard has been empowering people spiritually for the past four decades as an inspirational speaker, counselor, and teacher of universal spiritual/psychological principles. A Best-Selling Author on the topic of Oneness, he is also a certified Life Mastery Coach and Consultant. He has traveled the world for decades leading groups and pilgrimages that contribute to a person’s personal growth and transformation. Some of his many travels have involved meeting with world leaders and have included 3 separate week-long meetings with the Dalai Lama. Howard is married, has 3 children, and believes all the people of the world are his family.
“I hope you are called to join me to on this spiritual adventure to Thailand!”
The Itinerary
Day 1 (Nov 4): ARRIVE BANGKOK/ORIENTATION/WELCOME DINNER
Upon arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, you will be greeted and escorted to a VIP line or zone area, where you are fast-tracked through immigration and customs, and escorted to your home for the next 6 days, the 5 Star Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. Find yourself smiling in this lush tropical garden and riverside setting, world-class dining, entertainment, and extensive spa.
The day is yours to relax in your Deluxe River View room. Take a dip in the pool, wander the beautiful grounds of the resort, and consider pampering yourself with an optional a 2-hour Thai Massage to refresh your body and mind after your travels.
Later this evening we will gather for a brief orientation with Howard and take a short walk together to enjoy a delicious Welcome Dinner. Enjoy the food, the view, and the atmosphere, the opportunity to mingle with Howard & Diane, and meet all your fellow pilgrims.
Overnight at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Dinner included)
Day 2 (Nov 5): ART AND CULTURE TOUR ON LONGTAIL BOAT ON RIVER CHAO PHRAYA/TEMPLE OF DAWN/TUK TUK EVENING TOUR
Take a lazy morning and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast and your resort.
Early this afternoon we board a long-tail boat and catch a glimpse of Bangkok’s cultural side as we experience an artisan community, Baan Silapin, a 100-year-old house that has been renovated and now serves as a gallery and central gathering point for local artists. Wander through the eclectic works of art where ancient traditions meet the modern art scene. Chat with the artists as we meander through the district.
Return to the boat late this afternoon and make a stop at Wat Arun, the ‘Temple of Dawn,’ one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, then glide back towards your hotel.
Later this evening we will hop on Bangkok’s iconic 3-wheel Tuk Tuk, for a night adventure ride to visit the best local eateries. Bangkok is claimed to be the city that never stops eating. Bangkokians usually find themselves eating out at night, especially traditional street food. We’ll make various stops at local places where even the smells will delight your taste buds. Try the local favorite Northern Thai-Isan Food, the best kept-secret Guay Tiew Gai guaranteed with a Michelin star for 2 consecutive years, or one of the best Pad Thai in town popular for both locals and foreigners alike! Between bites, take in the city’s old town landmarks. At the end of the evening, we’ll be dropped off at our hotel by Tuk Tuk.
Overnight in Bangkok at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Breakfast and Dinner included)
DAY 3 (Nov 6): TRADITIONAL THAILAND/RAILWAY & FLOATING MARKETS
Experience a more traditional side of Thailand with a fascinating excursion to the capital’s outskirts. Drive out of Bangkok, watching the city’s towering high rises and busy streets fade into the distance. Enjoy the suburbs and farmlands until we arrive in the Samut Songkhram province, we’ll venture to a rural railway market, where vendors set up stalls along the train tracks. One of the most unique Bangkok markets to visit, watch as they quickly pack up as trains arrive and then unload and continue their business once the trains have departed.
We will continue through the countryside to a floating market; take advantage of great photo opportunities and a unique chance to experience this traditional style of marketplace. See boats laden with fresh fruit, traditional snacks and other items being sold on the canals. Imagine a time, not too long ago, when residents would paddle up to these floating stalls to buy their daily wares.
For a closer look, hop aboard a paddle boat and explore the labyrinth of canals. Pass by houses and small villages set upon the water’s edge and see the ways of life of the people in this part of rural Thailand. When we return to the floating market for lunch, enjoy people watching while dining on delicious local dishes. Glide through the remarkable waterways by long-tail boat onto to the King Rama II Memorial Park. Explore the ornate Thai-style pavilions of the park and learn about the former, beloved King.
After this insightful day in the Thai countryside, return to Bangkok full of fabulous memories.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight in Bangkok at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Breakfast & Lunch included)
Day 4 (Nov 7): BANGKOK- WAT PRO/BUDDHIST CHANTING/ GRAND PALACE
Today, we will go behind the scenes for a closer look at Buddhist culture. Start the morning with a trip to Wat Pho, arguably Bangkok’s most enchanting temple. Arrive just as the resident monks gather for their morning chants. Witness this deeply spiritual ritual and gain a better sense of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.
Then take a walk around Wat Pho and see the vast collection of religious treasures on display. Admire the famed reclining Buddha image, which stretches nearly 150 feet in length! Learn about the symbolism of the Buddha’s intricate footprint and witness devotees making offerings to this iconic image.
Nearby, we will visit the Grand Palace, which has served as the seat of Thailand’s revered Royal family for more than two centuries. Take a walk around the vast grounds, stopping in to explore the various temples, throne halls and museums within the compound. Admire the Emerald Buddha, the most honored Buddhist image in Thailand, and hear about its mysterious origins.
Your afternoon is free. Take in some shopping or a spa treatment, indulge in a dip in the pool, or perhaps journal on your balcony. This is your time to do you!
Overnight in Bangkok at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Breakfast is included.)
DAY 5 (Nov 8): BANGKOK – AYUTTHAYA EXCURSION/SUMMER PALACE
Explore Thailand’s ancient capital and cultural heartlands by land and boat with this absorbing day trip to Ayutthaya. The day begins with a drive from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. The drive will bring you through Bangkok’s sprawling suburbs and into the verdant countryside and lush paddy fields.
Wend your way through the temple-studded landscape, stopping to visit the venerated Wat Yai Chaimongkol and the largest monument, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. See Wat Mahathat and snap a photo of its iconic Buddha image surrounded by a tree.
Even though a short distance from the busy modern capital of Bangkok, Ayutthaya retains a sleepy, laid-back atmosphere. Get a taste of the city’s rhythms with a walk through the market and the Muslim Quarter which offers the opportunity to sample an unusual local delicacy, candy floss roti.
Sit down for a rest and a lunch of delicious local Thai dishes at midday. Then continue exploring with a leisurely one hour long-tail boat ride down the ‘River of Kings’. Then take the cable car across the river for aerial views of the waterway and continue by golf car to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. Built in the 1600s as the summer residence for the Royal Family, Bang Pa-In is an impressive collection of gardens and majestic mansions. Although rarely used these days, the palace retains its royal elegance and offers a great opportunity to learn about the Kingdom’s history and culture.
Following this insightful day trip to Ayutthaya, return to Bangkok.
Overnight in Bangkok at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
DAY 6 (Nov 9): BANGKOK – MEDITATION PRACTICE AT WAT MAHATHAT/WAT TRIMIT – GOLDEN BUDDHA
Your morning is free at leisure.
Forge a closer connection with the Buddhist culture with a meditation course at Wat Mahathat. We will begin the afternoon with a transfer to Wat Mahathat, one of Bangkok’s most important meditation centers and its first Buddhist university. Upon arrival, meet with one of the monks who will introduce the day’s activities and explain his own personal experience with meditation.
With the assistance of the female devotees, learn the techniques of meditation. The course is based on the Buddha’s four foundations of mindfulness: mindfulness of body, feelings, mind and dharma. Afterwards, take some time to practice alongside the locals.
Feeling calm and centered, and with a better understanding of Buddhist meditation practices, continue to Wat Trimit, the Golden Buddha in China Town.
Our final evening in Bangkok will be celebrated on the Grand Pearl, Thailand’s leading upscale river cruise. This prestigious yacht-like cruise vessel departs in the early evening. We’ll indulge in a superb Asian dinner while the cruise slowly drifts along the river up to two hours. While dining on a luxury style river cruise, we will imprint our memories with this scenic river life by night.
Overnight Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
(Breakfast & Dinner included)
DAY 7 (Nov 10): BANGKOK/CHIANG MAI
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport and fly to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.
This afternoon, explore the old and modern sides of Chiang Mai. Once inside the old city walls, be captivated by the mix of eclectic markets, traditional houses, and modern edifices. See locals on their way to or from the pagodas and take note of the small spirit shrines tucked alongside family homes. Then continue away from town and take a winding, uphill drive to Doi Suthep Mountain. Climb up the staircase of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, admiring the intricate Naga carvings along the way. Upon reaching the top, explore the 14th-century pagoda where local devotees come to pay homage and pray. Wander around the towering, gilded stupa and take a moment to enjoy the views of Chiang Mai in the distance.
Return down the mountain and continue along the spiritual trail to Wat Jed Yod. See how the architectural styles of Laos, India, China, and Lanna are blended together in this 14th- century temple. Get up close to the seven spires to see the incredible carvings of celestial beings and other ornate decorations.
This insightful and spiritual Chiang Mai temple tour ends with a transfer back to the beautiful Shangri-la Hotel, conveniently located within the bustling center of this culturally rich city. After a day of sightseeing, head to the Pool Bar for a quiet drink. Time stands still as you watch the sun set, a fiery ball of red dipping down into the mountains.
Overnight in Chiang Mai at Shangri-La Chiang Mai
(Breakfast included)
DAY 8 (Nov 11): CHIANG MAI – HALF DAY WITH THE ELEPHANTS/ROYAL FLORA BOTANIC GARDENS
Enjoy a half-day morning visit to Elephant Nature Park, a rescue and rehabilitation center for elephants, as well as many other rescued animals.
Your visit starts with a picturesque drive through rural countryside to Elephant Nature Park. On the way you will learn about the rescued and orphaned elephants and their individual stories. At the park you will have the opportunity to spend time with the various herds. Many of these elephants have left behind a traumatic past and for the first time are able to form relationships with other elephants and rediscover their elephant nature.
Guests will have the chance to observe elephants as well as other rescued animals living free of fear amongst the natural surroundings of the sanctuary.
Afternoon, visit Royal Park Ratchaphruk southwest of Chiang Mai, in Mae Hia sub-district Nestled in a lush mountain landscape. It is not only the garden itself with its many plant and flower species that creates this picturesque setting, but also its unique and delicate artwork and architecture which enriches the minds of its visitors with its seductive natural beauty.
Perhaps explore the huge night bizarre tonight after dinner.
Overnight in Chiang Mai at Shangri-La Chiang Mai.
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
DAY 9 (Nov 12): CHIANG MAI –Thai Cooking Class OR Waterfall hike & Bamboo River Rafting
OPTIONS:
#1) Thai Cooking Class
Uncover the secrets behind famous Thai dishes at a home cooking school. Travel south of the city center to a traditional Sala (open air) house to meet a local chef. After a short introduction on the day’s activities, head out to a nearby fresh market to collect your ingredients.
The chef will introduce the ingredients, exotic herbs and spices and their use, and explain Thailand’s food culture.
Armed with new knowledge of Thai cuisine and its ingredients, start cooking! Chop vegetables, create spicy sauces and fry up sizzling plates. Throughout the course, the chef will share their personal story and offer tips and hints for preparing these same dishes in your own kitchen.
When everything is ready, sit down and enjoy the delicious fresh dishes. Savor the delicate flavors of home-cooked Thai cuisine, enjoying the results of the day’s activities. Return to the hotel with a full belly and a better understanding of Chiang Mai’s foodie culture.
OR
#2) Hilltribe Trek & Bamboo Rafting
Start the day as we head north of Chiang Mai city. On the outskirts of Chiang Mai, the first stop will be a visit to the local Mae Malai market, well-known for the various hill tribe vendors who flock here to buy and sell their food products. Be taken on a guided tour of the market and learn about the interesting variety of exotic vegetables and fruits unique to the area.
Afterwards, travel further to the remote village of Baan Thong Youa. This is the start of the morning trek. Hike through lush nature while getting an insight of the jungle from the guide. Trek through different cultural hill tribes living in the area as we head further into the jungle. Soak up the fresh air and stunning views along the way. Learn all about the hill tribes who used to be famous for their opium trade, and how they’ve changed their trade to make handicrafts, farming, and coffee plantations. Listen to firsthand stories about the past and the present while interacting with the locals.
Have a local lunch along the way in a lovely natural setting.
After a 2.5-hour trek, arrive at a village called Baang Phong Ngan, a village inhabited by the Lahu Hill tribe. Talk to some of the villagers and observe their daily tasks. Then, hope on a traditional bamboo raft and float down the magical and beautiful river. Cruise down the river while being paddled by a local boatsman. With some luck, get to see some bathing buffalos on the way. The level of the water determines the rafting time, but it usually takes around 1.5 hours. After arriving at the end point, you’ll transfer back to Chiang Mai city.
Tonight, once again, we’ll celebrate with a Farewell Dinner at a popular restaurant. We’ll enjoy this special evening in a truly Northern-style setting at a traditional Khantoke Dinner is one of the must-do-and-enjoy dining experiences in Chiang Mai. Your meal will be served on special, low, circular tables called Toke, presenting various delicious Northern Thai dishes.
Our bonds have grown deeper through this journey, and we won’t want to say goodbye! However, we will rise early tomorrow to share one more deeply moving experience together.
Overnight at Chiang Mai Shangri-La
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
DAY 10 (Nov 13): CHIANG MAI – BANGKOK / DEPART
This morning we’ll enjoy one more scrumptious breakfast before our guide takes us to the airport. Those going home will be flying to Bangkok to connect with their homeward bound flights, and those who are joining the 4 night beach extension will fly to Phuket. It will not be easy to say good-bye to Chiang Mai and its deep traditions. You will bask in the glow of this unique experience for a long time to come.
As you return home, the holidays will be right around the corner – perhaps you will have completed your gift shopping in Thailand, given all the amazing prices and unique handicrafts there!
(Breakfast is included)
0R OPT TO STAY ON FOR A FEW DAYS TO RELAX & ENJOY THE BEACH EXTENSION WITH HOWARD
DAY 10 (Nov 13) CHIANG MAI – PHUKET
Enjoy some free time in Chiang Mai, then fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket and check in to your hotel, the beautiful 5-star Amari Phuket Resort. Located on a secluded part of Patong Beach, your own private paradise awaits, overlooking an inviting turquoise sea. After plenty of rest, delicious food, lapping waves and exotic drinks, it’s good to know there’s great shopping nearby.
Get acquainted with your new surroundings and enjoy a nice walk on the beach. This evening is on your own. Rest up because tomorrow will be a gorgeous, full day on the water.
Overnight at Amari Phuket Resort.
(Breakfast is included)
DAY 11 (Nov 14): FULL DAY PHI PHI + BAMBOO ISLAND TOUR BY SPEEDBOAT
The Phi Phi Islands are one of the world’s wonders: an archipelago of lush, tropical isles set in a turquoise sea. Explore this top snorkeling spot with its spectacular underwater scenery and white-sand beaches made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach. Take a 1-hour speedboat ride to Phi Phi Island. Admire the magnificent view of the Andaman Sea en route to Nui Bay, then stop to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and discover well-preserved coral gardens. Cruise to Bamboo Island for a sumptuous buffet lunch at an island hotel, followed by more time for relaxing and swimming on the white-sand beach. Next, sail to Koh Phi Phi Don and visit Monkey Bay, named after the wild macaques, that inhabit the sands and trees. Afterward, head to famous Maya Bay, . Take a dip in Piley Lagoon, surrounded by impressive cliffs. Upon your return to the marina, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Phuket at Amari Phuket.
(Breakfast & Lunch included)
DAY 12 & 13 (Nov 15 & 16)- PHUKET – Both days at leisure to explore
Phuket is known for its stunning beaches and yummy restaurants. Howard will suggest another opportunity to get together as a group for some fun. Meanwhile, In your downtime, stroll through the town and the shops with your new friends, or just have one more Thai massage and chill out. Take all that you have experienced and your gratitude for this incredible adventure and integrate your thoughts and spirit while you unwind and relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Soak in the joy!
Overnight in Phuket at Amari Phuket
(Breakfast included)
DAY 14 (Nov 17): DEPART PHUKET (B)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel with free time today until your flight to Bangkok. Your tour of Thailand’s breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine, and ancient ruins comes to an end as you board your flight with the group, and once in Bangkok, connect to your homeward flight.
(Breakfast is included)
Spiritual Thailand Adventure with Howard Caesar is calling…
$1599 Single Supplement
$1399 PHUKET BEACH Extension
(Includes all Tips for guides, drivers, etc. Note: No more Admin Fees)
Option One
Pay In Full
$6497
Option Two
$997 Deposit
8 Monthly Auto Payments of $687.50
(add $175 per payment for Phuket Beach Extension)
Option Three
$997 Deposit
3 Payments of $1834
(add $467 per payment for Phuket Beach Extension)
Have Questions? Let’s Connect.
Creating a one-of-a-kind experience is always our goal. If you have any special needs, or have questions about accommodations, the itinerary, or cultivating a trip just for you, please reach out to the Transformational Tours & Retreats team.
Sandy Babin, Managing Director