Travel Deeply. Celebrate Beautifully.
Hosted Journeys in Thailand & Japan

Cultural Connections Asia creates immersive, scholar-led experiences blending cultural depth with refined hospitality and meaningful human connection across Asia.

New Year's Eve at Grand Hyatt Erawan
Sushi at RokuRoku restaurant in Tokyo
Image of War Arun in Bangkok
Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand
image capturing the vibrancy of a craft brewery's music night
Cultural Connections Asia — Thailand & Japan Hosted Journeys
CCA
Cultural Connections Asia
Hosted Journeys • Luxury • Culture

Travel deeply. Celebrate beautifully.
Personally hosted journeys in Thailand & Japan

Your brochures, brought to life on one mobile-ready page. Browse full details, view photos from both tours, and download the updated PDFs.

Our Vision

Cultural Connections Asia redefines luxury travel as depth, meaning, and connection. Every itinerary blends culture, comfort, and learning, guided by long-time Asia resident and scholar David Wright.

David Wright — founder & host
David Wright — Founder & Host
Tranquil water temple
Itsukushima Shrine — the “floating torii gate” of Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Prefecture (Japan)
Historic wall — Japan
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep — Chiang Mai’s sacred mountain temple, glittering with golden chedi and panoramic views of the city.

A Kingdom’s Celebration — New Year’s in Thailand

Bangkok & Pattaya • Club-level luxury at Grand Hyatt Bangkok and Andaz Pattaya. Rooftop gala, coastal finale, spa rituals, curated dining, and optional golf — hosted by David Wright.

Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok — CCA guests arrive at one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, where timeless elegance meets modern Thai hospitality.
Grand Hyatt pool
Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok — tranquil mornings by the pool for CCA guests, surrounded by tropical calm in the heart of the city.
Buddha detail
Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok — the iconic lobby staircase, a blend of Thai grandeur and timeless European design.
Bangkok skyline rooftop
Blue Elephant Cooking School — a CCA guest celebrates completion of the Thai culinary class taught by the Thai royal family's private chef.
Thai foot massage lounge
Bangkok — CCA guests enjoy a rejuvenating Thai foot massage, a daily ritual of wellness woven into the hosted journey experience.)
Osaka Castle at dusk
Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok — CCA guests unwind in the exclusive Club Lounge, enjoying skyline views, crafted cocktails, and the warm camaraderie that defines every hosted journey.
Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok — CCA guests ring in the New Year at the rooftop gala, celebrating under the lights of Bangkok with fine dining, champagne, and joyful connection.
Andaz Pattaya exterior
Andaz Pattaya — an aerial view of the tranquil lagoon pool, where CCA guests enjoy mornings of serenity before the coastal festivities begin.
Itineraries — 10-Day & 14-Day (daily outline)

10-Day Celebration

  • Bangkok arrival • Welcome rooftop dinner
  • Wellness spa & cultural landmarks
  • Artisanal experiences & city perspectives
  • New Year’s Eve gala & countdown
  • Transfer to coast • Island day cruise
  • Beach leisure • Optional golf • Farewell dinner

14-Day Grand Celebration

  • Expanded Bangkok immersion + signature dining
  • Optional hospital wellness check in Bangkok
  • Nightlife tasting: rooftops & live music
  • NYE gala & fireworks vantage
  • Pattaya/Jomtien coastal retreat • Island excursion
  • Optional golf/spa • Farewell host dinner
What’s Included
  • Premium accommodations (club level where noted)
  • Private airport transfer on arrival
  • Daily breakfast + hosted dinners (incl. NYE gala)
  • Curated cultural activities & island excursion
  • Optional wellness check at leading Bangkok hospital
  • Personal hosting by David Wright throughout
Pricing Overview (from master plan)
JourneyFrom (USD)Notes
10-Day Thailand Celebration$9,500Bangkok + Pattaya coastal retreat
14-Day Thailand Celebration$12,500Expanded Bangkok immersion
14-Day + Tokyo Overture$14,950Optional Tokyo add-on

A Scholar’s Japan — Curated Year-Round Journeys

Tokyo • Kyoto • Osaka • Kobe — art, temples & gardens, artisan workshops, culinary encounters, and reflective salons. Choose 3–14 day routes; each is personally hosted and paced for depth and delight.

Scholarly group — Japan
CCA guests in traditional kimono enjoy a private rickshaw ride through the vibrant streets of Asakusa, discovering the charm of old Edo beneath the shadow of Tokyo Skytree.
Water temple scene — Japan
Osaka — CCA guest and founder, David Wright, visit the iconic Osaka Castle, taking in panoramic views and the living history of Japan’s warrior past.
Historic wall — Kyoto/Osaka
CA founder and host David Wright leads guests through Dotonbori, Osaka’s lively entertainment district, capturing the joy and camaraderie that define each hosted journey.
Host portrait — David Wright
Tokyo, Japan — The journey begins. CCA founder and host David Wright welcomes guests aboard the Shinkansen, setting off together on a cultural adventure filled with discovery, connection, and meaning.
Temple reflection
Tokyo, Japan — CCA founder and host David Wright shares an elegant sushi experience with local friends, blending refined Japanese hospitality with the warmth and connection that define every Cultural Connections Asia journey.
Itinerary Options (3 / 5 / 7 / 10 / 12 / 14 days)
ProgramFocusSample Highlights
3 Days — Tokyo AccentCity tasteMeiji Shrine, Omotesandō walk, wagashi class, Ginza counter
5 Days — Tokyo ImmersionCraft & cultureEdo kiriko, Sumo morning practice, evening salon
7 Days — Tokyo MasteryDepthOpen-Air Museum, onsen & kaiseki, aesthetics talk
10 Days — Golden Route DiscoveryTokyo + KyotoGardens, teahouses, temples, culinary explorations
12 Days — Golden Route Grand+ OsakaArtisans, Dōtonbori, mixed modern/classic dining
14 Days — Scholarly ExpeditionFull arcDeep Kyoto, day retreats, private tastings
Inclusions & Hosting
  • Hand-picked hotels per city (Andaz, Park Hyatt, St. Regis, La Suite, etc.)
  • Daily breakfast; select tastings and hosted meals
  • Curated cultural appointments (workshops, gardens, salons)
  • On-trip support and hosting by David Wright
Pricing Overview

Pricing varies by length, season, and hotel tier. Request a proposal for your dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the travel requirements for Thailand?

A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your return date is required. Most Western citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days; please verify your country’s rules before travel. No specific vaccinations are mandatory, but we recommend consulting your doctor on routine and recommended immunizations. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised.

What is the typical group size?

Each hosted journey is limited to 4-8 discerning guests to preserve intimacy, flexibility, and a highly personalized experience.

What is included and excluded in the package price?

Included: Luxury accommodations as specified, daily breakfast, four to six signature dinners, all hosted activities and curated excursions, private airport transfers, and the New Year’s Eve Gala.

Excluded: International airfare, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, additional meals or beverages, and gratuities.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. Our partner restaurants and venues are experienced in accommodating most requests so your dining remains exceptional and safe.

What health considerations should I be aware of?

The Grand Celebration includes an optional wellness check at a leading Bangkok hospital. We recommend consulting your physician prior to travel. Travel insurance is recommended to cover unforeseen medical needs or trip interruptions.

How do I book and what is the payment schedule?

A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 USD per guest secures your reservation. Final payment is due by November 30, 2025. Guests paying in full by November 15, 2025 receive a 5% discount on the total journey price.

What is the cancellation policy?

The initial $1,000 deposit is non-refundable. Cancellations made 90+ days prior to departure: full refund less deposit. 60–89 days: 50% refund less deposit. Less than 60 days: no refund. We strongly encourage comprehensive travel insurance.

Do you have any practical travel tips?

Local currency: Thai Baht. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Wi-Fi is readily available at hotels. Standard phone/computer chargers usually work; check if you need an adapter for other devices like hair dryers.

Guest Reflections

Our trip to Japan was so incredible that we booked another before even finishing…

“Our trip to Japan was so incredible that we booked another before even finishing the first! David’s guidance and warmth made all the difference. Every moment felt curated with purpose and care.” — J. & M. Miller (Texas)

Initially, I was hesitant about joining, but David’s genuine hospitality quickly put me at ease…

“Initially, I was hesitant about joining, but David’s genuine hospitality quickly put me at ease. He was patient, kind, and deeply knowledgeable — I left Thailand seeing the country in a completely new light.” — K. Chen (Boston)

I’ve been all over the world… the New Year’s rooftop party was a highlight — joyful, intimate, and unforgettable…

“I’ve been all over the world and seen a lot, but this small-group setting made it easy to connect. The New Year’s rooftop party was a highlight — joyful, intimate, and unforgettable.” — D. Rodriguez (Miami)

At first, I thought including a wellness check was unusual…

“At first, I thought including a wellness check was unusual, but after visiting Bumrungrad Hospital, I was amazed by how professional yet personal the experience felt. I left feeling both healthy and inspired.” — E. Green (Denver)

Thank you to Cultural Connections Asia… Best of Japan 14-day tour…

“Thank you to Cultural Connections Asia, and our wonderful host, David Wright, for an amazing journey on the ‘Best of Japan’ 14-day tour! David’s curated insights and expertise made the itinerary an excellent blend of fascinating places and sites! The hotel accommodations were always very comfortable and some were exceptional!” — Anonymous Guest (Japan Tour)

Thanks to David, I met local Thai people and fellow Japanese travelers…

“Thanks to David, I met local Thai people and fellow Japanese travelers. The restaurant choices were excellent, and his kindness made the experience special.” — Y. K. (Japan)

It was both relaxed and elegant — daily massages, warm service, and true peace of mind…

“It was both relaxed and elegant — daily massages, warm service, and true peace of mind thanks to David and his staff.” — K. T. (Osaka)

The New Year’s Eve party at the Grand Hyatt was unforgettable…

“The New Year’s Eve party at the Grand Hyatt was unforgettable. The sense of community made it truly special.” — R. S. (London)

Every hotel and transfer was seamless… Thailand felt like a second home…

“Every hotel and transfer was seamless. David’s personal recommendations helped me discover parts of Thailand that felt instantly familiar — like a second home.” — F. M. (Singapore)

Reserve Your Journey

Tell us about your group, preferred dates, and interests. We’ll design a personally hosted journey that fits your pace and style.

Request a Private Consultation

24/7 guest support

Moments from our journeys

[background image] image of temple at sunrise
[background image] image of refreshed place setting (for a fine dining restaurant)
subject: image of food truck festival
yoga studio entrance
image of farmer's market