Silversea Luxury Cruises À BANGKOK (Laem Chabang)

After an early breakfast, depart the ship for the 2,5-hour journey to Bangkok. Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing drive of the city followed by a viist of Bangkok's most splendid attraction, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and a river cruise to Wat Arun.

Grand Palace

During this 90-minute visit, listen and look in awe as the guide points out the major highlights.

Although King Bhumibol lives today in the Chitlada Palace in the northern part of the city, the Grand Palace is still used for certain ceremonial occasions. The grounds encompass over 100 buildings, representing 200 years of history and architectural experimentation. Most of the architecture, royal or sacred, can be classified as old Bangkok style - all of it simply overwhelming. The wat (temple) structures are colourful, comprising gilded stupas, polished orange and green tiled roofs, mosaic-encrusted pillars and rich marble pediments. Fabulous murals line the walls of the palace complex and glittering temple spires provide endless photo opportunities.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Also known as Wat Phra Kaew, this temple adjoins the Grand Palace on common ground. It was consecrated in 1782 and houses the most important image, the 23-inch (58-cm) high Emerald Buddha. The jade statue, enshrined in a glass case standing above the worshippers, is clothed with a different robe for each of the three seasons - hot, rainy and cool. The mystical figure and its legendary spiritual power draw pilgrims from all over.

Returning, head to Supatra River House for lunch.

Arriving at the River City boat landing, board a private boat for a cruise on the Chao Phraya River and through some of the canals. Watch the fascinating activities along the busy waterway. Stop along the way at the following locations (Take caution getting in and out of the boat.):

Wat Arun

At the 'Temple of Dawn', Wat Arun, the boat pauses to allow you a closer look at this magnificent temple, which is among Bangkok's most recognised landmarks. While the temple is best seen from the river, its curious decorations and statues of mythical figures are well worth a visit.

Royal Barge Museum

Leaving Wat Arun, resume your cruise through the klongs (canals) and head toward the Dockyard, home to the ceremonial royal barges. Once a year, the king would proceed down the river to Wat Arun in a flotilla of royal barges. Today, these elaborately decorated boats are preserved in this specially constructed museum and are a rare treat to visit.

Following your cruise, re-join the coach and start the journey back to Laem Chabang.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking with many steps to climb. Guests must be able to manoeuvre in and out of the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. A strict dress code is enforced for visitors to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. No tank tops, leggings, shorts of any kind, skirts above the knee, sandals or flip-flops are allowed. Men must wear socks. Video and still cameras are only permitted on the palace grounds, not inside buildings. Shoes must be removed when entering the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha. This tour departs from the pier and ends at the pier in Laem Chabang. The drive to/from Laem Chabang and bangkok is approximately 2,5hours.

Experience some of the local lifestyles, traditions and holy sites of Thailand during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Laem Chabang, Ang Sila Fishing Village, Granite Carving Demonstration

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to for an hour to Ang Sila, a seaside fishing village known for its granite products. The fishermen here are not only skilled at fishing, but also making implements and crafts from granite, and have passed on their craftsmanship from generation-to-generation. Upon arrival, observe a carving demonstration to learn how their most renowned products, including pestles and mortars, are made.

Naja Chinese Shrine

Next, re-board your coach and continue on for a visit to the Naja Chinese Shrine, a beautiful attraction adorned with Chinese architecture. Here, local residence and visitors come to honour the Chinese Gods, especially the celestial God named Naja.

Nong Mon Market

Following your visit, re-board your coach and head to the Nong Mon Market, a local market with more than 100 stalls selling dried seafood, desserts, fruit and preserved foods. Popular local delicacies include khao lam (sweet sticky rice in bamboo) and khanom chak (sweet coconut wrapped in palm leaf). Following some free time to stroll about the market, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (about 0.8 kilometres), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 50 steps at the Naja Chinese Shrine. Walking at the Nong Mon Market is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the temple; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Disposable sanitary masks are provided whilst observing villagers produce granite products. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.

This full-day excursion offers a visit to one of Thailand's most majestic historical sites, included on UNESCO's World Heritage list since 1991. Begin your outing with a 2.5-3 hours drive north to Ayutthaya, considered one of Thailand's major attractions. Then, enjoy visiting the following highlights:

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

En route to Ayutthaya wall, make a visit at the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. The palace comprises a collection of buildings of various ages and various architectural styles surrounded by a lake. Built in the 17^th century and left unoccupied when Bangkok became the capital, the palace gained importance again in 1851 when King Mongkut restored it and resumed residence there. Enjoy a visit and marvel at the richly decorated turn-of-the-century European aristocratic style, interspersed with whimsical Thai touches.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Continue drive to the ruined city of Ayutthaya was once the ancient capital of Siam for four centuries and in its heyday was said to be more beautiful than either London or Paris. Located on a 2.5-mile (four kilometre) island at the confluence of three rivers, Ayutthaya was once encircled by a seven-mile (11-kilometre) wall. After the destruction of the city by the Burmese in 1767, a new dynasty was established and the capital was moved to Thonburi. Today, much of the ancient fabled city is contained within a Historical Park, where archaeological studies are still carried out.

While many of the buildings are in ruins, those drawn to relics of the past still find a visit to the remaining temple compounds and numerous structures awe-inspiring and a memorable experience. Begin the historical park tour with a noteworthy visit at the spectacular Wat Chai Wattanram, reminiscent of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy lunch at the Krungsri River Hotel (or similar).

Wat Na Phra Meru

Another good example of typical Ayutthaya-style temple, it was not destroyed by the Burmese. Constructed during the late 14th- and early 15th-centuries, the name suggests it was a royal cremation site. Of special note are the Buddha images - one fully decorated in regal attire and the other of black stone.

Following your visit, re-join your coach for the trip back to Laem Chabang and the ship.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking, for approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), with about 50 steps to climb. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Anticipate hot and humid weather. Wear comfortable shoes and light-weight clothing; however, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted and guests must dress modestly. Shoes must be removed to enter the buildings visited. We suggest you wear slip-on shoes and bring a pair of socks for comfort. Order of sites may vary and traffic can affect the tour duration. The drive between the Laem Chabang pier and Ayutthaya is approximately 2.5-3 hours in each direction.

Spend a full-day experiencing the spectacular beauty, mystique and culture of Thailand at your leisure during this picturesque, self-guided excursion to Bangkok.

Laem Chabang, Scenic Drive, Bangkok, Central World Plaza

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Bangkok, with a comfort stop en route. Upon arrival, your drop-off point is at the Central World Plaza, which provides easy access to taxis, the Skytrain, and many shopping complexes and restaurants within walking distance.

Independent Sightseeing, Shopping and Lunch at Your Own Expense, Chao Phraya River Cruise

Whilst in Bangkok, enjoy approximately five hours of free time for independent sightseeing, shopping and lunch at your own expense. Your guide assists with your plans, including shopping information and opening hours of attractions. And to escape Bangkok's legendary traffic, take a leisurely cruise on the Chao Phraya River. If shopping is on your agenda, discover everything from precious gems to silk and antiques.

Popular Landmarks, Markets and Temples

Bangkok has a wealth of popular historic and modern landmarks to explore. Sites to be seen may include the Golden Buddha Temple, Chinatown, the Old City, Flower Market, Grand Palace, Marble Temple, Grand Palace with its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple, home of the Emerald Buddha, the Wat Pho Temple with its enormous reclining Buddha, Wat Arun Temple and Jim Thompson's House and Museum, among others. At the pre-designated departure time, return to your coach at the Central World Plaza drop-off point and commence the approximately 2.5-hour drive back to the pier, with a comfort stop made en route.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Walking in Bangkok is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and Thai Baht and credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the temples; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The driving distance between the pier and Bangkok is approximately 2.5 hours in each direction. Please listen carefully to the guide's instructions about your return departure from Bangkok. It is recommended that you return to the drop-off point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the scenic beauty, waterways and traditions of Bangkok during this panoramic, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Laem Chabang, Bangkok, Pak Klong Talad Flower Market

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Bangkok, with a comfort stop en route. Upon arrival, your first stop is at the Pak Klong Talad Flower Market, where you can stroll amongst the colourful display of the country's exotic flowers.

Chao Phraya River and Canals by Boat, Temple of Dawn

Next, embark a private boat for a panoramic, approximately one-hour cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and through some of its more peaceful canals. Here, observe the busy river traffic, as well as the traditional lifestyles of the local people living and working along the water. Along the way, view the spectacular Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).

Downtown Bangkok, Central World Plaza, Free Time, Sightseeing, Lunch on Your Own

Following your cruise, re-board your coach and head to downtown Bangkok for approximately four hours of free time at your leisure for independent shopping, sightseeing and lunch at your own expense. Your drop-off point is at the Central World Plaza, which provides easy access to taxis, the Skytrain, and many shopping complexes and restaurants within walking distance. Your tour guide assists with your plans, including shopping information and opening hours of attractions. At the pre-designated departure time, return to your coach at the Central World Plaza drop-off point and commence the approximately 2.5-hour drive back to the pier, with a comfort stop made en route.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (about 250 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. Walking in Bangkok is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and Thai Baht and credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the temples; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The driving distance between the pier and Bangkok is approximately 2.5 hours in each direction. Please listen carefully to the guide's instructions about your return departure from Bangkok. It is recommended that you return to the drop-off point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover the largest wood-carved structure in Thailand and enjoy breath-taking vistas over Pattaya Bay during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Laem Chabang, Sanctuary of Truth

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Sanctuary of Truth (Wooden Pavilion), a mystical building constructed according to ancient Thai specifications, and the largest wood-carved structure in Thailand. Designed as a pagoda-shaped pavilion, the building is over 340 feet (about 103.6 metres) in height, and is a fusion of religion, culture and art. Originally crafted entirely from Thailand's native teak, parts of it have been replaced by the more durable redwood to withstand the ravages of the salt air.

Guided Tour, Wooden Sculptures, Inner-Chapel

Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the Sanctuary of Truth. The entire building is covered with intricate and detailed wooden sculptures, reflecting the Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge and Eastern Philosophy. Inside, the cavernous inner-chapel reveals scenes from Chinese, Hindu and Buddhist traditions, with samples of animism and geomancy thrown into the mix.

Pattaya Beach Road, Phra Tumnak Hill, Pattaya Viewpoint, Pattaya Bay Vistas

Next, re-board your coach and continue driving along the Pattaya Beach Road to Phra Tumnak Hill, which is located between Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach. A stop is made to walk up to the Pattaya Viewpoint. From here, the place from which all classic photos of Pattaya Bay are taken, enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas overlooking the bay. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.56 miles (about 0.9 kilometres), at times over uneven surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, and 40 steps at both the Sanctuary of Truth and Pattaya Viewpoint; a lift is available at the Sanctuary of Truth. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Sanctuary of Truth; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover the renowned landmarks and temples of Bangkok during an unforgettable, full-day sightseeing excursion to this beautiful, bustling city.

Laem Chabang, Golden Buddha Temple, Huge Buddha Image

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Bangkok, with a comfort stop en route. Upon arrival, your first stop is at Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha Temple) built by three Chinese comrades around 150 years ago. It was restored in 1937, and granted the new name of Wat Trimitwitthayaram. The main attraction in the temple is the incredible Golden Buddha Image. Weighing in at approximately 5.5 tons (about five metric tons) and standing over ten feet (about three metres) in height, this massive statue dates back to the 700-year-old Sukhothai period.

Old City, Chinatown, Flower Market, Grand Palace, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Marble Temple

Next, re-board your coach and continue on for a sightseeing drive through Bangkok's Old City. Along the way, pass by Chinatown, the Flower Market, Grand Palace, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, and more. Afterward, a visit is made to Wat Benchamabopit (the Marble Temple), built of Italian marble with unique European ecclesiastic details. The Marble Temple is adorned by stained-glass windows housing a Sukhothai-style Buddha statue, and a superb cloister-collection of bronze Buddha images.

Downtown Bangkok, Central World Plaza, Free Time, Sightseeing, Lunch on Your Own

Leaving the Marble Temple, proceed to downtown Bangkok for approximately four hours of free time at your leisure for independent shopping, sightseeing and lunch at your own expense. Your drop-off point is at the Central World Plaza, which provides easy access to taxis, the Skytrain, and many shopping complexes and restaurants within walking distance. Your tour guide assists with your plans, including shopping information and opening hours of attractions. At the pre-designated departure time, return to your coach at the Central World Plaza drop-off point and commence the approximately 2.5-hour drive back to the pier, with a comfort stop made en route.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the Marble Temple, and 100 steps at the Golden Buddha Temple. Walking in Bangkok is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and Thai Baht and credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the temples; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The driving distance between the pier and Bangkok is approximately 2.5 hours in each direction. Please listen carefully to the guide's instructions about your return departure from Bangkok. It is recommended that you return to the drop-off point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the award-winning manicured gardens, and take in Thai cultural and traditional performances, during this relaxing, half-day sightseeing excursion to the famous Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.

Laem Chabang, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Abundant Plant and Flower Gardens

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, the largest botanical garden in Southeast Asia. The vast gardens are set amidst approximately 600 acres (about 243 hectares) that originally was utilised as a plantation to grow local fruits. The area was then turned into a garden for the conservation of certain plant and flower species, and later opened to visitors. They have won multiple awards at London's world-famous Chelsea Flower Show.

Thai Cultural and Traditional Performances, Elephant Show

In addition to the abundant flowers and plants, see a varied program of beautiful, contemporary Thai cultural and traditional performances. Included are sword-fighting, Muay Thai boxing, a Thai wedding ceremony, traditional Thai dance, and a captivating elephant show demonstrating their unexpected talents, including sports and dancing in the field.

Sightseeing Tram

After the show, board a panoramic sightseeing tram for an overview of the various gardens, with photo stops along the route. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 656 yards (about 600 metres), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and board/de-board the tram, and stairs in the auditorium. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore a pair of revered sites honouring the Lord Buddha during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Laem Chabang, Wat Yannasangwararam Complex, Gardens, Large Lake, Pavilion, Buddha Relics

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Wat Yannasangwararam, a temple under H.M. the King Rama IX's patronage. Set in a huge area spanning approximately 145 acres (about 58.6 hectares), the complex houses several buildings of diverse architectural styles, along with well-tended gardens and a large lake that make the complex a peaceful, relaxing and inviting setting. The temple is renowned for its modern design, and built in a very different style than most Thai temples. A pavilion called 'mondop', or 'mandapa', contains a replica of a footprint of the Buddha. Inside a large white chedi (Buddhist stupa), a number of relics from the Buddha and his followers are kept.

Khao Chi Chan, Giant Lord Buddha Image, Marble Mountains

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to the nearby Khao Chi Chan. This famous landmark features a giant sculptural image of Lord Buddha erected on a giant cliff. It was built 1995 as an initiative by the Supreme Patriarch, who felt it was a shame to let these marble mountains be destroyed. Consequently, he ordered the giant Buddha image be created on the cliff that was already cut in half. It was also built to honour H.M. the King Rama IX, on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.56 miles (about 0.9 kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and ten steps at Wat Yannasangwararam. This tour suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the temple; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot.

Venture into one of the most isolated countries in the world, aptly referred to as the 'Last Shangri-La', and discover the extraordinary Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan at the 'Roof of the World'. Bhutan is truly an unspoiled preserve with a cultural heritage that has largely remained intact due to its isolation from the rest of the world until the early 1960s. Stay in Thimphu, the capital of the tiny Himalayan kingdom, with a two-night stay at the luxurious Amankora Resort. The climb to the Tiger's Nest completes your adventure.

03MIDLMC-B The Dragon Kingdom - Bhutan

Departure: March 25, 2019 from Bangkok

Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights

Re-join ship: March 28, 2019 in Ho Chi Minh

Reserve: A minimum of 90 days prior to sailing

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis, and the programme price is subject to change. Payment-in-full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. Booking made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason within 90 days of sailing, and are recommended to guests 18 years or age and older. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Please Note: Guests need to bring two passport photos with them. Thimpu is at an elevation of 7,656 ft (2,334 m), therefore guests should be prepared for the effects that may result from the altitude.

IMPORTANT: Silversea will contact you 4-6 weeks prior to departing to Bhutan to complete the necessary paperwork for the group visa required for your participation.

Located in the Himalayas between China and India, visitors find not only stunning natural scenery but also unique architecture that, by law, must conform to traditional design. Historically and culturally the mountain kingdom is linked with Tibet, but politically and economically the country today is drawn much closer to India. The nation is a bastion of Vajrayana Buddhism, which influences all aspects of life in the kingdom.

Bhutan has been a monarchy since 1907, and in April of 2007, King Jigme Singye Wangchuk abdicated in favour of his son, Jigme Khesa Namgyal Wangchuck. This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure focuses on two areas:

THIMPHU

The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and many monks, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style.

PARO

The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum and the country's only airport. Mount Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form Pa Chhu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing the bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Tourism in this landlocked country is still relatively slow and regulated by the government in an effort to sustain the current culture and traditions. There are some rules that need to be remembered: When visiting temples, hats and shoes must be removed; modest dress is required for visits to sacred sites, and smoking in public is a fineable offence. The outlined programme may require adjustments due to local conditions beyond Silversea's control. We invite you to join us on this adventure!

DAY ONE - Bangkok / Paro / Thimphu

A very early start (approximately 4:00AM) is necessary to begin your fascinating trip to The Dragon Kingdom, Bhutan. Your guide awaits pierside to transfer you to Bangkok's airport for your Druk Air flight to Paro, Bhutan's only international airport. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours.The flight to Paro in itself will be a thrilling experience as it passes over the green wall of hills known as the gateways into Bhutan and then gradually ascends into the Himalayas.

Upon arrival at Paro airport, proceed through the necessary final visa formalities where your visa stamp is issued. All foreign nationals require a visa for Bhutan and Silversea will apply for this visa several weeks before your departure. Once completed, you are met by your Amankora guide and begin the 1.5 hour scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital of the tiny Himalayan kingdom. Check-in and enjoy lunch at the luxury Amankora Resort.

This afternoon there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich culture this kingdom has to offer. Your first stop is the Chorten Memorial; a beautiful stupa built in the memory of Bhutans third King "The father of Bhutan" which serves both as a memorial to the late king and a monument to peace.

From here, move on to the Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums. Both of these museums opened in 2001 and provide a fascinating insight into Bhutanese material culture and way of life. Though the country has modernized in recent decades, most citizens continue to rely upon the traditional medicines of their ancestors. You will visit the Institute of Traditional Medicines where today's practitioners are trained to uphold this rich tradition.

Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations - Amankora Resort, Thimphu

DAY TWO - Thimphu / Paro

Following breakfast, check-out of the hotel and start the day with a visit of Trashichhodong, an impressive fortress/monastery which houses the Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King and various government offices.

Then, depart Thimpu and start your travel to Paro. Along the way stop for a visit of the Pangri Zampa, a monastic training school for astrologers. If time permits, make another stop at Tachugang and take a short walk to the riverside bridge to see the prayer flags. Check-in at the Amankora Resort and enjoy lunch.

This afternoon, try your hand at Bhutan's national sport, archery. Each village has its own archery range and high spirited competitions are regularly held. Dinner is served this evening at the hotel followed by a traditional cultural performance.

Overnight accommodations - Amankora Resort, Paru

DAY THREE - Paro

This morning will begin with a hike up to view one of Bhutan's most revered monuments, the Taktshang Goemba, more commonly referred to as the 'Tiger's Nest'. Please ensure you have a hearty breakfast.

The Monastery is built on a 3,000-foot (914-metre) cliff and is the country's most famous and sacred site. The monastery clings to a huge granite cliff and was devastated in a fire in 1998. The government took immediate steps to restore the complex to its original structure. The climb to the viewpoint will take you past small settlements and through pine forests. The four to five hour return trek offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery and its surrounds, high above the valley floor. (Horses or mules will be provided to take guests up to the viewpoint and thereafter guests need to walk to the monastery, another 45-60 minute walk up and down steps.)

Return to the hotel for lunch. Time permitting, your afternoon in Paro will include a visit to the Kyichu Lahkhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan or time for browsing among the shops in town. If you prefer, just enjoy the ambience that only the Amankora can offer. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Overnight accommodation is at the hotel, the Amankora Resort - Paro

DAY FOUR - Paro / Bangkok / Ho Chi Minh

This morning you bid farewell to Bhutan. Your driver takes you to the Paro International Airport for your flight to Bangkok. The total travel time is approximately 3,50 hours to Bangkok. Upon arrival at Bangkok Airport, you will be met at the arrival gate by our airport representative who will assist you to pass the formalities then check in for flight to Ho Chi Minh. The flight from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh is approx. 1 hr and 45 minutes. Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh in the evening, you will be transferred to the ship

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking and climbing of many steps at most sites. The hike to the Tiger's Nest is about 5 hours in total and is taken at a slow pace. Altitude sickness may be a problem for guests suffering from palpitations, shortness of breath or severe headaches. This programme is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable shoes and dressing in layers is recommended. Due to a wide range of temperature (approx. 27-29c during the day/18c at night / 80-84F days, 65F nights) and climate conditions, it is recommended to bring appropriate clothing for protection against the changing conditions. Shorts, hats, sleeveless blouses are not permitted to wear in the monasteries. Dress code throughout the trip is modest casual with sturdy walking shoes. It is recommended to leave jewellery and valuables on board. The order of the itinerary may be amended due to flight schedule changes or other unforeseen factors. In case of flight changes, the tour sequence may be reversed or amended. Remember to bring your camera. There are baggage restrictions as follows: hand baggage gross weight is limited to 5 kg (11 lb.) and size is limited to 23*36*56 cm. One checked bag must be less than 20 kg (44 pounds). Guests must be aware that Bhutan's infrastructure is still very limited and touring in the country requires some 'roughing it'. As travel within the Kingdom needs to be flexible, your understanding and a sense of adventure is necessary. This description is a general overview of the programme only and changes may be made if local conditions require. Guests need to bring two passport photos with them.

Programme Includes:

- One-night stay at Amankora Resort - Thimphu

- Two-night stay at Amankora Resort - Paro

- Three breakfasts, three lunches, three dinners (lunches and dinners in restaurants include choice of two glasses of local beer, house wine, soft drinks, water)

- Flights (Economy Class) - Bangkok / Paro and Paro / Bangkok / Ho Chi Minh. At an additional charge, an upgrade to First or Business Class may be requested, subject to availability. Requests must be submitted at the time of booking this programme. Each flight is quoted separately and is non-refundable once confirmed.

- Visa for Bhutan

- All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, charges incurred by the airlines for excess or overweight luggage, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation and/or medical insurance and other personal items.

All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. Onboard Spending Credit may not be applied to the purchase of this programme. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason, within 90 days of sailing and are recommended to guests 18 years of age and older. This description is a general overview of this programme. Our local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if local situations, including holidays, changes made by airlines, government/citizens' activities, and weather, require. The programme described in this brochure is provided by independent contractors. Silversea acts solely as ticketing agent. Silversea shall have no obligation or liability of any kind to guests for the business practices, acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground-tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Silversea Cruises. Silversea's liability does not extend beyond the vessel.

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.

Grande Hotel is for those who want to begin or prolong their Silversea holiday - luxury accommodations, exclusive service and impeccable attention to detail in style. Grande Hotel guests appreciate the finer things in life. These properties have been chosen not only for their prime location but for their outstanding service and their exceptional quality.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel groups that are frequently featured in our program include Shangri-La, Four Seasons, Peninsula or Fairmont to name just a few.