Cultural & Mission Trip – Thailand 2025

Under the Auspices of H.G. Bishop David
Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York & New England

Unforgettable Thailand:
Adventure, Mission, and Celebration

When: December 21, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Double Occupancy Price: $2,900 per person
Single Room Supplement: +$800


  • Private speedboat to Phi Phi Islands
  • Hands-on elephant bathing and jungle ride
  • Four nights serving at Sangkhlaburi Orphanage
  • Floating river cabin retreat
  • Bangkok heritage tours: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and more
  • Optional visit to Tiger Kingdom (additional fee)
  • Optional New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise (additional fee)
  • Daily cultural and natural adventures

Tour Package Includes:

  • All airport transfers and land transportation in a private air-conditioned van or bus
  • Entry tickets for all sightseeing as per the itinerary
  • Private speedboat to Phi Phi Islands
  • Domestic flight from Phuket to Bangkok
  • Accommodation for 12 nights as per the itinerary
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Tips and gratuities for drivers, guides, and hotel staff

Not Included:

  • International flights to/from Thailand
  • Entry fee to Tiger Kingdom (Day 3)
  • Optional activities (e.g., New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise)
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, laundry, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Anything else not mentioned above
  • Single Room Supplement $800

Checks should be payable to:
“St. Peter & St. Andrew Church / Father Andrew Awad”
Attention: Father Andrew Awad
138 Evergreen Hill Road
Fairfield, CT 06824

Or through Venmo: @Abouna

Or Zelle to 203-455-7447

Limited spaces – First come, first serve.

H.G. Bishop David will honor us during the trip.

To reserve or for more information, please call or text:
Father Andrew – 203-455-7447

Thailand Trip Itinerary

December 21, 2025 – January 2, 2026


Sunday, December 21, 2025
Arrival in Phuket & Night Market Exploration

Arrive in Phuket and check into your hotel. In the evening, explore the vibrant Phuket night markets, where you can enjoy local street food, shop for handmade goods, and experience the colorful Thai culture in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.

Monday, December 22, 2025
Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling & Relaxation

Embark on a full-day boat trip to the famous Phi Phi Islands. Discover the crystal-clear waters, snorkel among tropical fish and coral reefs, and unwind on white sandy beaches. This day is dedicated to experiencing the natural beauty of Thailand’s southern coast.

Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Swim at Pool/Beach & Visit Tiger Kingdom

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your resort pool or nearby beach. In the afternoon, visit the Tiger Kingdom where you can observe or interact with tigers under professional supervision. This unique experience offers both excitement and a chance to learn about wildlife conservation efforts.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Flight to Bangkok & Journey to Sangkhlaburi (Orphanage Night 1)

Take a morning flight to Bangkok followed by a scenic drive to the peaceful town of Sangkhlaburi. Upon arrival, check in at the local orphanage, where you will begin a heartfelt and meaningful service experience. Spend your first evening connecting with the children and staff.

Thursday, December 25, 2025
Christmas Reception & Caroling (Orphanage Night 2)

Celebrate Christmas with the orphanage community. Participate in a joyful reception that includes caroling, games, gift-giving, and shared meals. This day focuses on sharing love and joy with the children through fellowship and celebration.

Friday, December 26, 2025
Sangkhlaburi Exploration & Leisure (Orphanage Night 3)

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Sangkhlaburi, including the famous wooden Mon Bridge, local temples, and village life. Enjoy some leisure time in the peaceful environment and continue building relationships with the children at the orphanage.

Saturday, December 27, 2025
Day Trip to Three Pagodas Pass (Orphanage Night 4)

Take a day trip to the historic Three Pagodas Pass near the Thailand-Myanmar border. Discover ancient pagodas, learn about the region’s historical significance during World War II, and take in the scenic mountain views. Return to the orphanage for your final night with the children.

Sunday, December 28, 2025
Depart Orphanage & Drive to Floating Cabin Retreat – Raft Ride

Say farewell to the orphanage and begin your journey to a serene floating cabin retreat. Enjoy a scenic raft ride as you arrive at your unique lodging on the river. The rest of the day is for rest, reflection, and taking in the peaceful surroundings.

Monday, December 29, 2025
Elephant Bathing & Jungle Ride at Floating Cabins

Spend the day engaging with nature. Participate in a hands-on elephant bathing experience and enjoy a gentle jungle ride. Learn about elephant care and their role in Thai culture, followed by free time to relax at the floating retreat.

Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Return to Bangkok (Bangkok Night 1)

Check out from the floating cabins and return to Bangkok by road. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in the city. You may explore local eateries or unwind after the travel day.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Bangkok Heritage & Cultural Landmarks (Bangkok Night 2)

Visit some of Bangkok’s most iconic cultural sites such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. Learn about Thailand’s royal and religious heritage through guided tours. Spend the evening enjoying local cuisine or preparing for the New Year festivities.

Thursday, January 1, 2026
Chatuchak Market & New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise (Bangkok Night 3)

Explore Chatuchak Market, one of the largest weekend markets in the world, featuring thousands of stalls with everything from crafts to fashion. In the evening, celebrate the New Year with a special dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, enjoying traditional music, food, and fireworks.

Friday, January 2, 2026
Departure from Bangkok

Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Depart with lasting memories of cultural discovery, community service, and unforgettable natural beauty.


Recommended Group Flight Itinerary

How to Book Your Flight

When searching for flights, select “Multi-City” or “Multi-Destination” on your travel booking site. This is essential because we will be flying into one city and departing from another.

  • Arrival Airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT)
  • Departure Airport: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

This allows you to fly into Phuket and leave from Bangkok, matching the flow of the trip.


 


Travel Coordination Notes

  • You must arrive in Phuket (HKT) by Sunday morning, December 21, to join the group at the hotel.
  • You must depart from Bangkok (BKK) on or after Friday, January 2.

If you would like to arrive earlier or extend your stay, you are welcome to do so. This will be at your own cost and must be arranged independently. However, all participants are expected to meet at the group hotel in Phuket on the first day of the trip to begin the journey together.

To ensure we travel as one group, airport pickup will only be provided for those arriving on the recommended group flight or on a different flight that lands at the same time. There will be no individual pickups outside of the group’s arrival window. Please coordinate your flight schedule accordingly.


For assistance or questions, please contact Father Andrew at 203-455-7447.

Coptic Travel Thailand 2025