Medical Study Tour to Thailand

This tour offers a fascinating journey through Thailand’s history, culture, landscapes and healthcare systems, exploring the relationship between traditional practices, modern medicine and Thai society.

Begin in Bangkok, a vibrant capital renowned for its aromatic street food, floating markets and the colourful rooftops of the Grand Palace. Discover a more relaxed side of the city with a visit to Wat Pho, home to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Continue to Chiang Rai, a former royal capital known for its striking temples and the gateway to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. Once notorious for its opium trade, the region has a violent history.

Drive, via Khun Chae National Park, to Chiang Mai a city in the mountainous north that is rich in beautiful and historic Buddhist Wats. The tour concludes in Phuket, a picturesque coastal destination known for its 19th-century shophouses and charming Sino-Portuguese architecture. Discover the spectacular Andaman coastline on a speedboat excursion to the Phi Phi Islands.

The professional visits included in the tour will position medicine in Thailand within its unique social and economic contexts. Engage with healthcare professionals to explore medical education, community-based healthcare and rehabilitation practices.

Price (sharing a room)

per person

Price (room to yourself)

per person

Reference:

THA1027-1

At a glance

What you need to know

Type of tour

Professional

Profession

Medicine

Nights

Countries

Tour grade

Moderate

Remaining places

Dates and places

Itinerary at a glance

Bangkok

Sunday

October

Arrive and check in to the hotel, then enjoy a local dinner at Cabbages & Condoms, a unique restaurant combining authentic Thai cuisine with a mission to promote family planning.

Bangkok

Monday

October

Discover Bangkok’s historic heart with a canal boat ride, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho’s Reclining Buddha. Visit a traditional Thai massage school, explore silk heritage at Jim Thompson House, and discover a historic silk-weaving community. End the day with a welcome dinner.

Bangkok

Tuesday

October

Travel to Ratchaburi Province by train and experience Mae Klong Railway Market, where vendors swiftly clear their stalls as the train passes through. Continue to the lively Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where colourful boats offer fresh produce, and local snacks along bustling canals. There will be a professional visit in the afternoon followed by time at leisure.

Bangkok / Chang Rai

Wednesday

October

Fly to Chang Rai and discover the artistic treasures, from the frosted White Temple and vibrant Blue Temple to the Black House Museum. Continue to the hotel and check in before dinner.

Chang Rai

Thursday

October

Travel through the scenic landscapes surrounding Chiang Rai on a traditional long-tail boat along the Kok River, passing riverside communities, lush farmland and natural hot springs along the way. Visit Mae Fah Luang University Medical Center Hospital to learn about healthcare delivery in Northern Thailand, including medical education, public health and community healthcare challenges.

Chang Rai

Friday

October

Visit Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Botanical Gardens, followed by Mae Fah Luang Community Hospital to learn about healthcare for remote communities. Explore Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost border town, before visiting the Golden Triangle and House of Opium. Discover Chiang Saen’s ancient Lanna heritage and enjoy panoramic Mekong River views from Pha Ngao Skywalk.

Chang Rai / Chang Mai

Saturday

October

Drive through Khun Chae National Park, a protected biodiversity zone home to diverse wildlife and bird species. Enjoy lunch in the park before visiting the giant Ficus tree near the park headquarters, spanning over 1,600 square metres. Continue to Chiang Mai and check in at your hotel.

Chang Mai

Sunday

October

Begin with a walking tour from the Three Kings Monument, discovering Chiang Mai’s history and King Mengrai’s legacy. Visit Wat Phra Singh and the 600-year-old Wat Chedi Luang before exploring Warorot Market, the city’s largest local market, for a taste of local life, food and traditional products.

Chang Mai

Monday

November

After breakfast, visit Doi Suthep, one of Chiang Mai’s most revered landmarks, offering stunning views over the city. Continue to Wat Suan Dok, a historic temple before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. There will be a professional visit in the afternoon.

Chang Mai

Tuesday

November

Visit either a community rehabilitation centre or the Industrial Rehabilitation Centre for professional insights into rehabilitation practices. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Chiang Mai.

Chang Mai / Phuket

Wednesday

November

Arrive in Phuket and transfer to your beachfront hotel. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the island’s laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Phuket

Thursday

November

Explore Phuket Old Town on a walking tour, visiting the Shrine of the Serene Light, Amulet Market, historic Memory at On On Hotel, Soi Rommanee, Thalang Road and Mongkol Nimit Temple. Enjoy time at leisure before embarking on a culinary journey through the flavours of Southern Thailand.

Phuket

Friday

November

Embark on a full-day speedboat adventure to the Phi Phi Islands from Boat Lagoon Pier. Explore Monkey Beach, snorkel around Phi Phi Don and enjoy a picnic lunch on Bamboo Island. Discover Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon and iconic Maya Bay, with further opportunities to swim and snorkel. End the day at Koh Khai with sunset views before returning to Phuket.

Phuket

Saturday

November

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or extend your stay in Phuket.

What to expect

Tour highlights

Iconic Landmarks and Sacred Sites

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai

Explore Thailand’s historic cities, a treasure trove of intricate palaces and shimmering temples.

Local Culture and Cuisine

Phuket

Explore vibrant local markets, including the enchanting floating markets, and embark on a culinary journey through the rich flavours of Southern Thailand in Phuket.