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MEKHALA
Journey on
the River of Kings
| For centuries, The River of Kings has
been the lifeblood of Thailand, carrying with it the history and culture
of this proud nation. Flowing down from the fertile central
plains for almost 400 kilometres, this birthplace of Thai civilization
connects the ancient Siamese capital Ayuthaya with the modern capital
Bangkok, where it remains an essential artery in the region's economic
life.
 Beautifully
crafted, Mekhala is a collection of three restored rice barges that
provide the setting for daily journeys between Bangkok and Ayuthaya,
retracing the paths of former royal processions. Their journey is a
fascinating insight into how life on the river has changed over this
time.
The magic of this voyage is its
unhurried pace that captures the subtle colours and moods of life on the
river over a 24-hour period. A couple of hours into the journey, the
bustle of the city is replaced by the tranquillity of the countryside.
Along densely wooded river banks, tin and timber homes nestle in the
hyacinth-clogged shallows housing families whose lives are still bound
by the ancient waterway. |
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Mekhala
Package Options
- 2 Days Bangkok - Ayuthaya - Program Down (Bus/Boat) - Daily
departure at 8:00 a.m.
- 2 Days Bangkok - Ayuthaya - Program Up (Boat/Bus) -
Daily departure at 3:00 p.m.
Itinerary:
Day 1
- Depart from Bangkok mid-afternoon gliding gracefully north. At dusk, the
Mekhala docks for an overnight stay at the peaceful Kai Tia Temple. After a
superb candlelit dinner on deck, spend a relaxed evening under the stars.
Day 2
- An optional wake-up call at 06.00 in time for a traditional offering of alms
to the Buddhist monks is followed by a sumptuous yet leisurely breakfast en
route. Late morning disembark at Bang-Pa-In for a guided tour of the Summer
Palace, one of the finest examples of Thai architecture.
Then all aboard for an exhilarating long-tail boat ride to the ancient city of
Ayuthaya. Feast upon an exquisite Thai lunch at a riverside restaurant and then
take a trip back in time on a guided tour of the city's spectacular ancient
ruins. Return to Bangkok and the twenty-first century by air-conditioned
mini-bus.
Journey from Ayuthaya to Bangkok
Alternatively you may leave your Bangkok hotel at 8:00 by air-conditioned
transfer and travel by road to Ayuthaya to join the Mekhala in the afternoon,
returning to Bangkok at about 1100 the next morning.
Mekhala Boats
Twenty meters long and constructed from huge teak planks, the
hundred year-old work horses have been transformed into elegant floating hotels.
With capacities of 6, 6 and 9 immaculately appointed, air-conditioned double bed
cabins with private western style bathrooms. In addition they feature:
· Modern safety equipment and lifejackets
· Thai style designs with western comforts
· A deck for sunbathing or lounging
· Audio entertainment, a library, a host of indoor games and a telephone
· A fully-stocked bar
Access
The Mekhala is stationed at The Maenam Riverside
Hotel, nearby Sathorn Road in Bangkok, return transfer from Ayuthaya is
included. For trips starting in Ayuthaya, pick ups are either from the airport
or hotels in Bangkok by private vehicle.
| Price
valid until 31st October 2006 |
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SINGLE |
DOUBLE |
CHILD |
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PRICE PER PERSON |
01
Nov 05 – 30 Apr 06 |
13 180
Baht |
10 870
Baht |
5 460 Baht |
| 01
May 06 – 31 Oct 06 |
10 990
Baht |
8 770 Baht |
4 390 Baht |
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The above tour prices do not apply for French Market.
Minimum 2 persons traveling together for double
room.
Child Rate:
- Child under 12 years shares a double room with 2 adults
(2 adults + 1 child).
- Infant (less than 2 years old) = free of charge
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PRICES
INCLUDE:
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Meal plan as mentioned in double berth
air-conditioned cabin
Water, tea and coffee during meals only
Water, tea and coffee during the cruise
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Entrance
fees and guide in Ayuthaya and Bang-Pa-In
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PRICES EXCLUDE:
Transfer
in Bangkok from hotel to Mekhala pier or vice-versa: THB 610 /
person
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