Embark at nine with your private guide and driver. First stop is the The Prasart Museum, a lush garden oasis cultivated by Khun Prasart, housing his astonishing collection of buildings, art, and antiques from every period of Thai history (including the humbly-named "Prasart Era").

Spend the rest of the day exploring Muang Boran, a humongous (200 acre!)  theme park on a piece of land shaped like Thailand. An ongoing hobby of its owner, the largest importer of Mercedes Benz, Muang Boran is notable for its comprehensive spectrum of regional architecture and artistry, from the seriously historic to the deliriously camp. If you do not have time for an extended tour of Thailand you can see the entire country in one afternoon. Not really, of course. But you will be able to visit miniaturized and full-sized replicas of major architectural landmarks from throughout the Kindom. You may also get to view his private army of shirtless craftsmen carving gigantic wood sculptures for his other ongoing obsession--a  surreal shrine perched on a peninsula just north of Pattaya.

And if you have not had enough kitch for the day, stop at the nearby crocodile farm.

Day Tour price: US$159 ($29 per additional guest)

NOTE: This tour is not available on Mondays. Side trip includes personal guide; private car and driver; admissions. Not included: meals and gratuities. Please buy lunch for your guide.