Thailand 15-Day Trip

$3,400 – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?

If you would like a single room throughout the tour, you can purchase the “single supplement”. The single supplement fee for this trip is $650. If you would like your own room, you can purchase the additional supplement at check-out. We have made the single supplement fee as affordable as possible so that those traveling solo are not discouraged from traveling with us because of a costly single supplement fee.

If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like to be paired with someone on the trip to avoid paying the single supplement, we can arrange this for you. If there is no other traveler with whom to pair you, you WILL have to pay the single supplement. Pairing with another person of the same gender comes on a first-come, first-served basis. At the time of booking, there will be a questionnaire pertaining to this. Please complete it accurately so that we can try our best to accommodate your preferences.

IMPORTANT: If we cannot find a roommate for you, you will need to purchase the single supplement. Roommates will always be the same gender. We try our best to pair roommates based on preferences (i.e. non-smokers, no snoring, night owls, early birds, etc.), but this is not always possible. If you are a light sleeper, sensitive to certain smells, etc., we recommend purchasing the single supplement. We will put you in contact with your roommate after booking. If you wish to have your own room at any point during the trip, you will need to purchase the single supplement pro rata. This will also be subject to availability.

What is included :

  • 14 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
  • 3 domestic flights
  • Ground transportation
  • Ferry/speed boat transfers
  • Activities as noted in itinerary
  • 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners

What is not included :

  • Optional activities
  •  Some meals
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
  • International airport pick-up & drop-off
  • International flight
  • Insurance

  1. Each group consists of 4 – 14 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.

    A small group number also means that tour group members will receive more personal treatment from the guide who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.

  2. Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. The minimum age on our trips is 18. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.

    We like to think of our trips as get-togethers at amazing destinations. Past travelers have told us that the group dynamic and the friends they made were highlights of the trip.

    Check out the pictures from our last trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.

  3. While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and the guide can recommend and/or help arrange any activity that might interest you. Most of the activities can be arranged with little to no notice. Optional activities are not included in the trip cost and will be paid at your own expense.

  4. The official currency of Thailand is the baht (THB).

    Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.

  5. We strongly recommend that you use ATMs while in Thailand as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to pull money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip.  It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

    You can find ATMs at almost all bank branches as well as at most large supermarkets, some petrol stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices.

    It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Thailand. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.

    Your guide will be with you for the duration of the trip and he/she will point you in the right direction for ATM withdrawals as well as banks to exchange money.

  6. Credit and debit cards aren’t widely used outside of the cities in Thailand. However, in high-end establishments and hotels, you shouldn’t have a problem paying with your card, though American Express and Discover aren’t commonly accepted. Generally speaking, cash is best to use in Thailand for street food, local restaurants, markets, etc.

  7. Based on past travelers’ feedback, an estimated amount to bring for spending is between $400 – 700 USD. WE HIGHLY ADVISE BRINGING OR HAVING ACCESS TO MORE MONEY THAN YOU EXPECT TO SPEND IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.

    As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for a few lunches and dinners and any optional activity you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.

  8. Thailand does not have a strong tipping culture. In restaurants, taxis, and personal services, all tips are at your discretion. If you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is appreciated.

    Tipping your tour guide: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip anywhere from $5 – $15 a day. 

    For more information about tipping your guide, please see our blog on tipping your tour guide.

  9. When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Thailand, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below :

    Welcome to Thailand! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day. 

    You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.

  10. All hotels we will be staying at will offer free Wifi except for in Khao Sok National Park. Most restaurants and other public places will offer Wifi as well.

    In the jungle, there is only Wifi in the hotel lobby and cell phone service is very limited.

    There is NO Wifi or cell phone signal at the floating lakehouse hotel. The electricity runs on a generator and is only offered while you’re sleeping at night. This is your chance to enjoy one of the most natural, peaceful places in the world and disconnect from modern life.

  11. Most of you do not need an adapter if coming from the USA or Canada. However, Thailand operates on 220V so you’ll need a converter if your devices operate on 110V.

    Thai outlets can fit both the US plugs and the round-pin Euro plugs which look like this:

    Image result for north american outlet

    Image result for outlets in portugal

  12. Thailand has warm weather year-round with variations in terms of water level and humidity with a peak of rain during monsoon season. Monsoon season varies depending of the area you are traveling to within the country but it is generally between August and November. Pack lightweight clothing in general and bring your rain gear between July and November for occasional rains.

  13. In Thailand, anything goes. When visiting temples, women need to have their knees and shoulders covered. To make things easier, you can just bring a scarf to cover your shoulders.

    Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:

    • Sunglasses/hat
    • Rain jacket
    • Flip flops and comfortable walking shoes
    • Water shoes (for tubing and jungle)
    • Small, across-the-shoulder day bag or small backpack
    • Flashlight/Head torch (for the jungle and floating lake house)
    • Prescription medication and over-the-counter medicine (if needed)
    • Sunscreen
    • Mosquito repellent
    • Travel hairdryer (some hotels have, but some do not)
    • Ear plugs (for boat transfers)

  14. Almost all of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a fee, if needed. Also, there are many laundry facilities outside the hotels offering very cheap laundry services. 1 kilogram of laundry usually costs approximately 1 USD. It is best to pack less and do laundry during your trip… This way you have more room for souvenirs!

  15. Yes, we can. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the tour although options might be limited.

  16. The water in Thailand is safe for brushing your teeth, but it is not recommended for drinking. The bottled water in Thailand is very affordably priced at around $0.10 USD per bottle, but please remember to recycle!

    Thailand has a very serious plastic waste problem, but unfortunately, there are not many water refill stations. Most of the hotels at which we stay have two free glass water bottles that are placed in your room each day. These can be used to refill your personal water bottles, so you can bring a water bottle and refill it with water from the glass bottles in your room. This is a small role we can play in the solution to the plastic epidemic that plagues Thailand.

    Another thing you can do to help the environment is to put purchased items in your day pack/backpack rather than using the plastic bag that the store provides you. Small things can add up to make a big difference!

  17. Thailand is a very safe country and most people who get their things stolen or had something bad happen to them is because they acted irresponsibly (usually drugs and alcohol were involved). Your biggest worry is sunburn so make sure to lather up each day.

  18. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to Thailand to see any recommended vaccinations.

    If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.

  19. Yes, we offer private tours to Thailand for groups of 4 or more people. The itinerary can be tailored to your needs. You will enjoy a personalized experience with our guides and your friends and family.

    Please contact us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.

Flights

Your arrival and departure city is Bangkok (BKK) or (DMK).

Please do not book any flights until you receive a confirmation from us. You will receive a confirmation email within 24 – 48 hours of booking.

Visa

In Thailand, citizens of most western countries DO NOT need a visa if arriving by air and staying 30 days or less. This includes the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland.

Entry into Thailand allows for 30 days without a visa. If you plan on staying in Thailand before or after the trip, please be aware that after 30 days, you will need to either leave the country or go to the nearest immigration office for a visa extension.

As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

PEAK Season: December and January – A bit cooler than the other months and not as much humidity. Monsoon season has ended, so there is usually little to no rain. Although the weather is nice, the crowds are the biggest during this time period.

SHOULDER Season: November, February, and March – Shoulder season is right before and after peak season and is a great time to experience Thailand as there is good weather, but fewer crowds. Monsoon season has ended, so there is usually little to no rain.

LOW Season: April to early October – Hot both day and night along with frequent short, intense showers or storms, usually in the late afternoon or evening lasting for about 15-20 minutes. The upside to traveling in Thailand during this season is that it is far less crowded.

From floating lake houses to 5-star hotels, the accommodation on the trip has been a highlight for many of our past travelers.

*Please note that we do not offer pre-/post-tour extra nights. When the trip is confirmed, we will let you know the name of the hotel so you can book any extra nights on your own.

Bangkok

Hidden from the bustle of the city behind a curtain of banyan tree branches lies this urban oasis. There is an inviting saltwater infinity pool as well as a 5-star breakfast that should not be missed!

Railay Beach

The beautiful colonial-style hotel has extra large rooms and is furnished with special features like outdoor showers and oversized sunken bathtubs. This hotel also offers a swim-up pool bar and a wonderful breakfast.

Khao Sok National Park

These treehouse bungalows are cocooned among the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world.  This hotel is an eco-friendly accommodation surrounded by rainforest and an array of wildlife. Large limestone cliffs surround the property and there’s a river on-site for swimming, kayaking, and our favorite… tubing!

Each bungalow is fan-cooled (no air-conditioning) but our past travelers have not complained as it can get quite chilly in the rainforest at night. All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms with hot showers along with a mosquito net above the bed.

Floating Lake House

Cheow Lan Lake is one of the most striking places on earth. Towering limestone cliffs surround the hotel in this remote area of the park and the rooms offer large wooden decks to immerse yourself in nature. Get ready for a sky full of stars as there is little light pollution making for amazing star gazing. The lake’s fresh water is perfect for swimming and kayaking along with unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.

Note: There is NO Wifi or cell phone signal at this hotel. The electricity runs on a generator and is only offered while you’re sleeping at night. This is your chance to enjoy one of the most natural, peaceful places in the world and disconnect from modern life.

Chiang Mai

This boutique hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a garden, and a terrace in Chiang Mai. It is conveniently located 8 minutes from Wat Bupparam and surrounded by many shops and restaurants.

We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We recommend Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical, and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.

Trip insurance get a quote travelex

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N