Flavors & Cultures of Thailand With Chef Matt Daily
Immersion into Thailand's Richness
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The wonders of Thailand
A Journey of Flavors & Cultures with Chef Matt Dailey
January 23-February 3, 2026
Welcome to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the heart of Thailand—where every bite tells a story, every temple whispers history, and every sunset paints a new memory. Over the course of 12 dazzling days, you’ll explore the best of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui through the lens of Thailand’s world-renowned cuisine and rich cultural heritage.
From sizzling street-side woks and Michelin-starred dishes to immersive market tours and hands-on cooking classes, this journey is a celebration of taste and tradition. You’ll glide through floating markets, meet gentle giants at an ethical elephant sanctuary, wander centuries-old temples, and unwind at some of Thailand’s most exquisite 5-star accommodations.
This immersive experience is led by Chef Matt Dailey, whose culinary journey began in Indianapolis, Indiana. After earning a degree in Culinary Arts Management from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, Matt built a remarkable career that included serving as Executive Chef of New Openings for Maggiano's Little Italy. But it was a two-month sabbatical through Thailand in 2018 that truly transformed his culinary path. Immersed in the vibrant street food culture, bustling night markets, and regional cooking traditions, Matt rediscovered his passion for the balance and boldness of Thai cuisine. Today, as CEO and co-owner of PLAYTE Kitchen in Napa, CA, Matt brings his deep appreciation for Thai flavors and food philosophy into approachable, hands-on culinary education.
Whether you're tasting fiery papaya salad in a night bazaar, mastering green curry in a local kitchen, or enjoying fresh seafood with your toes in the sand—this trip blends flavor, elegance, and adventure into one unforgettable experience.
Join Chef Matt Dailey for a culinary and cultural odyssey designed for curious minds, adventurous palates, and souls ready to be inspired.
Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
- Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your 5* luxury hotel
- Evening: Welcome dinner featuring a Thai tasting menu at a rooftop restaurant with river views
Day 2: Bangkok Food & Culture
- Morning visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho
- Lunch at Jay Fai Raan, the iconic Michelin-starred street food restaurant
- Afternoon: Visit the flower market and Chinatown
- Dinner exploring local food stalls
Day 3: Thai Market Tour & Cooking Class
- Morning: Cooking with Poo – Begin with a local market tour followed by a fun and comprehensive cooking class learning to cook traditional Thai dishes
- Afternoon at leisure
- Dinner at a rooftop fine dining restaurant
Day 4: Floating Markets & Night Food Tour
- Early morning visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
- Afternoon spa treatment or shopping
- Evening: Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by tuk tuk – taste a variety of Thai street dishes with a guide
Day 5: Flight to Chiang Mai
- Transfer and flight to Chiang Mai
- Check in to our 5* luxury retreat
- Explore the Old City and temples with a private tour guide
- Dinner at a renowned farm-to-table restaurant at the chef’s table
Day 6: Cooking Class & Cultural Exploration
- Traditional Thai cooking class at Baan Hongnual Cookery School.
- Visit Chiang Mai Gate Market
- Evening visit to Night Bazaar
Day 7: Elephant Sanctuary Experience
- Half-day visit to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary to learn about elephant care and rehabilitation
- Afternoon at leisure.
- Dinner at a riverside restaurant featuring Northern specialties
Day 8: Flight to Phuket
- Morning flight to Phuket
- Check in to our stunning beachfront resort
- Relax on the beach
- Sunset dinner at Suay Restaurant – contemporary Thai cuisine
Day 9: Street Food & Island Excursion
- Morning street food tour in Old Phuket Town
- Afternoon visit to Big Buddha and Wat Chalong
- Dinner on your own
Day 10: Phang Nga Bay Exploration
- Full-day boa tour to Phang Nga Bay with seafood lunch at a floating fishing village
- Return to hotel and relax
- Dinner at a local family Thai restaurant
Day 11: Flight to Koh Samui
- Transfer and flight to Koh Samui
- Check in to Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort where part of White Lotus was filmed
- Enjoy beach time
- Dinner at The Boudoir – romantic French-Thai fusion cuisine
Day 12: Culinary Farewell in Koh Samui
- Morning island tour with market visit
- Cooking class focused on southern Thai flavors
- Afternoon at leisure.
- Farewell dinner in Fisherman’s Village with fresh seafood and sunset views
Day 13: Departure
- Private transfer to Koh Samui Airport
Inclusions:
- 12 nights in 5-star accommodations
- Daily breakfast
- 9 curated dinners and 3 cooking classes
- All internal flights and private transfers
- Guided food tours and cultural excursions
- Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
- English-speaking guides
- Gratuities for meals and local guides
Optional extensions available upon request.
12 all-inclusive days experiencing the wonders of Thailand $7990 per person double occupancy $1600 solo supplement for private room
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