
Thailand is one of the world’s most dynamic culinary destinations—where street vendors and Michelin-starred kitchens exist side by side, and centuries-old traditions continue to shape one of the most vibrant food cultures on earth.
This 10-day culinary immersion invites a small group of chefs, hospitality professionals, and passionate food travelers to explore the flavors of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket alongside Chef Matt Dailey of PLAYTE Kitchen.
The journey balances market exploration, hands-on cooking experiences, and exceptional dining with moments of rest in some of Thailand’s most beautiful settings. From night markets and neighborhood kitchens to refined dining rooms and regional specialties, this experience offers rare access to the ingredients, techniques, and stories that define Thai cuisine.



BANGKOK - JAN 27 - 30
The Energy of Thailand’s Culinary Capital
Our journey begins in Bangkok, a city where some of the world’s most exciting food lives on the street. Explore historic neighborhoods like Talad Noi, visit iconic temples including Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, and experience Bangkok’s extraordinary dining culture—from legendary street vendors to innovative contemporary restaurants.
Culinary Highlights
Stay: Riverside Resort in Bangkok (5 Stars)
CHIANG MAI - JAN 31 - FEB 3
Northern Thai Tradition
In northern Thailand, the pace slows and the cuisine shifts. Influenced by nearby Myanmar and China, Chiang Mai’s food culture is known for its aromatic herbs, layered curries, and iconic noodle dishes. Explore artisan villages, visit mountain temples, and experience the region’s agricultural landscape through visits to local farms.
Culinary Highlights
Ethical Encounter
Spend a morning at an Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, learning about conservation while interacting respectfully with these remarkable animals.
Stay: Shangri-La Chiang Mai (5 Stars)
PHUKET - FEB 4 - 7
Southern Thai Flavors on the Andaman Coast
Our final chapter unfolds along the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Phuket’s cuisine reflects centuries of cultural exchange between Thai, Chinese, and Malay traditions. A guided chef’s tour through Old Town Phuket, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, reveals the hidden snacks, markets, and stories that define the island’s food culture.
Culinary Highlights
Stay: Amatara Phuket (5 Stars)
DEPARTURE - FEB 8
January 27th - February 8th, 2027
• 11 nights in luxury accommodations
• Daily breakfast
• 9 curated dinners and 3 cooking classes
• Guided culinary tours and cultural experiences
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary visit
• All internal flights within Thailand
• Private transportation throughout
• English-speaking local guides
• Gratuities for meals and guides
Not Included
• International airfare
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses (telephone, gifts, etc.)
• Anything not specifically listed in the itinerary
$8,390 per person (double occupancy)
$2,200 solo supplement
Optional extensions available upon request.
Chef Matt Dailey discovered Thailand during a two-month culinary sabbatical in 2018—an experience that deeply influenced his cooking and approach to food.
Immersed in Bangkok’s night markets and Thailand’s regional kitchens, he developed a lasting appreciation for the cuisine’s balance of bold flavor, precision, and tradition.
Today Matt is CEO and co-owner of PLAYTE Kitchen in Napa Valley, where he shares global culinary traditions through hands-on cooking education. This journey is an opportunity to experience Thailand through the perspective of a chef who continues to draw inspiration from its culinary culture.

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