Thailand 15-Day Trip

$5,200 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

A down payment of half the trip cost is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.

Payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees at the time of booking. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account which does not incur any processing fees.

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

If you would like a single room throughout the trip, you can purchase the “single supplement”. The single supplement fee for this trip is $875. If you would like your own room, the additional supplement can be purchased 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.

If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like us to pair you with someone to avoid paying the single supplement, we will try to arrange this for you. 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 by the final payment due date at the very latest. 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
  • Private, air-conditioned ground transportation
  • Speed boat/ferry transfers
  • Activities as noted on the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
  • Local trip leader throughout

What is not included :

  • Visas (if needed)
  • Insurance
  • International flights
  • International airport pick-up & drop-off
  • Some lunches & dinners
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Optional activities
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenirs

  1. Smile policy
    We welcome all kinds of travelers and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.

    No complainers
    Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things don’t go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime!

    Thailand is not like home
    Expect things to be different than what you’re used to back home and remember that it’s all a part of traveling and experiencing new places! For example, water pressure, bed and pillow firmness, and room temperature may be different than what you’re used to back home. Also, Wifi may be spotty, slow, or even unavailable in certain remote areas.

    Trip leader
    Your trip leader will help you have an unforgettable experience and can answer questions & offer suggestions. He/She will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your trip leader who will be with you every day throughout the entire trip.

    Semi-independent trip
    Our trips are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your trip leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities. Additionally, you’re free to arrive before or depart after the trip but pre-/post-tour plans, accommodation, transport, etc. are yours to arrange. We do not offer assistance with any plans outside of the trip dates.

  2. This trip requires a low level of physical fitness. If you’re not feeling up for an activity, you’re welcome to explore on your own.

    Some hotels do not have elevators so you’ll need to be able to walk up and down at least 2 – 3 or more flights of stairs with varying degrees of steepness with your luggage and unassisted. Most hotels will have porters or staff to help you with luggage but it is customary to tip anyone who helps you with your luggage.

    To participate in this trip you should be able to:

    • Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day unassisted, up and down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces, with and without an incline, and on rough terrain.
    • Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4 hours unassisted, walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
    • Carry your luggage from the taxi/van to the hotel and your room.
    • Get in and out of a van and boat without assistance.

  3. Each group consists of 7 – 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 means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip leader 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.

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

    The minimum age on our trips is 18.

    Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples. 

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

  5. While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and the trip leader can recommend activities that might interest you. Optional activities are not included in the trip cost and are paid at your own expense.

  6. Airport pick-up is not included in this trip. The arrival airport is Bangkok (BKK or DMK). It takes about 30 – 45 minutes by car to get there from the airport.

    Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport pick-up with a transport company such as Welcome Pickups or one that you find on travel sites such as TripAdvisor. If you take a taxi, see our blog about getting from the Bangkok airport to the hotel for more details.

    Airport drop-off is also not included on this trip. The departure airport is Bangkok (BKK or DMK). The hotel can help you arrange a taxi to the airport.

  7. Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 30 days in Thailand. You may be required to show proof of exit from Thailand in the form of a departure flight.

    If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate about your visa requirements.

    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 their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

  8. 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.

  9. We strongly recommend using ATMs while in Thailand as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw some money 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.

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

    Your trip leader can point you in the right direction of an ATM or exchange office during the trip.

  10. Credit and debit cards are not widely used outside of the cities in Thailand. However, you can usually pay by card in high-end establishments such as expensive shops, restaurants, and hotels. Note that American Express and Discover aren’t commonly accepted. Anywhere else, it’s advisable to carry cash in case you come across a retailer that cannot take card payments.

  11. 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 someone who carries your luggage is standard practice. A suggested amount to tip luggage porters is around $1 ~ 2 USD (approximately 40 ~ 80 THB).

    Tipping your trip leader: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip around 100 ~ 160 USD/EUR at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.

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

  12. We recommend having access to anywhere between 400 ~ 700 USD/EUR either in cash or by credit/debit card. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.

    As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for 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.

  13. When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about whether or not it will work as well as data and call roaming prices. When you land, 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.

    Be prepared to ‘disconnect’ at the floating lakehouse hotel as there is no service due to its remote location. You will not have any internet access for one day.

  14. Most hotels you will stay at in Thailand offer free Wifi as will some restaurants and other public places. Please keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty if not absent in more remote areas.

    In rural areas such as the treehouse resort, the Wifi can be spotty, weak, or completely absent. Be prepared to ‘disconnect’ when traveling one night to the floating hotel as there is no Wifi or any service due to its extremely remote location.

  15. In Thailand, the most common plug is a dual plug that fits European and US pin plugs (see picture below). Thailand operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Converters might be necessary for your electronic devices.

  16. Thailand has warm weather year-round with variations in terms of water level and humidity with a peak of rain during the monsoon season. Monsoon season varies depending on 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 for occasional rains.

  17. In Thailand, it is warm to hot almost all year round so it’s best to pack summer clothes. When visiting temples, women need to make sure to have their knees and shoulders covered. We recommend bringing a scarf to cover your shoulders.

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

    • Lightweight clothing that dry quickly
    • Sunglasses
    • Hat
    • Flashlight/headlamp
    • Umbrella (for shade & rain)
    • Bathing suit
    • Comfortable walking shoes (with good ankle support)
    • Water shoes (for canoeing, and jungle)
    • Scarf/light clothing covering knees & shoulders (for women at temples)
    • Light jacket/cardigan (for cooler nights)
    • Rain jacket
    • Flip flops/sandals
    • Sunscreen (biodegradable if possible)
    • Shampoo/conditioner/soap*
    • Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag for the day
    • Diarrhea medicine
    • Constipation medicine
    • Motion sickness medicine
    • First aid kit (travel size) 
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Prescription medication (if needed)
    • Snacks for the road (Cliff bars, nuts, etc.)
    • An extra duffle bag (for souvenirs if you are an avid shopper)
    • Overnight bag (for  1 night at the floating lakehouse hotel)
    • Adapters/converters (if needed)
    • Mosquito repellent (DEET strength)
    • Mask (for dusty tuk tuk rides)
    • Washcloth (for shower)
    • Wet wipes/Napkins (no toilet paper in some public bathrooms)
    • Hairdryer if needed (some hotels will have but not all)
    • Ear plugs (for boat transfers)

    *All hotels will have small toiletries kits but if you want extra shampoo, conditioner, or soap, you can bring your own.

  18. Almost all of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a very small fee if needed. It is best to give laundry to the hotel staff in the morning and it is usually ready by the evening.

    PRO TIP: You can also do your laundry at a local business where 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!

  19. Most will agree that the drinking water in Thailand is safe for brushing your teeth but is not recommended for drinking. Drinking only bottled water is recommended. Bottled water is easily found and can be purchased for a fee.

    You can purchase bottled water but to alleviate the plastic waste epidemic, we recommend a reusable filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl.

    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.

  20. Thailand is generally a safe country in terms of violent and non-violent crime. The most common crime that occurs is petty crime such as taxi/tuk-tuk rip-offs. As with most travel destinations, it is important to choose carefully before getting into any taxi and to negotiate the price before leaving.

    As with any destination, it is always a good idea to avoid flashy or expensive-looking jewelry and to avoid putting anything in your back pockets when traveling around touristy areas or larger towns and cities.

    The US State Department offers general travel information about Thailand. See below for more information:

    US State Department Travel to Thailand

  21. Hotels and restaurants throughout Thailand offer a wide variety of foods. 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 trip although options might be limited.

  22. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website for Thailand before traveling 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.

  23. We offer private trips to Thailand depending on the size of the group and availability.

    Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.

Flights

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

*Please do not book any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your booking within 24 – 48 hours of booking the trip.

Visa

Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 30 days in Thailand. You may be required to show proof of exit from Thailand in the form of a departure flight.

If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel.

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 their country 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. Because the weather is nice, the crowds are the biggest during this period.

SHOULDER Season: November, February, and March – Shoulder season 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, and 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 less crowded.

From floating lake houses to 5-star hotels, the accommodations on the trip have been a highlight for many of our past travelers. All of the places you will stay at have been hand-selected by us for their central location, impeccable service, uniqueness, and/or quality.

We do not offer pre-/post-tour extra nights. When the trip is confirmed, we will let you know the name of the hotels 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 and 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

Tucked away in the heart of Khao Sok National Park, this serene resort is surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs and vibrant rainforest. It offers charming bungalows equipped with modern amenities, all while prioritizing sustainability in everything they do.

Cheow Lan Lake - 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. Away from the light pollution of the city, a sky full of stars provides amazing star gazing as you drift off to sleep. The lake’s fresh water is perfect for taking a dip after a hot day and kayaking with unforgettable sunrises and sunsets in the backdrop.

NOTE: There is NO Wifi or cell phone signal at this hotel. The electricity runs on a generator and is only available 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

Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, this boutique hotel offers beautiful Lanna charm. Surrounded by lush greenery, this hotel’s rooms offer balconies with views of a verdant courtyard, an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai. There is also a relaxing pool to cool off in. The hotel offers easy access to Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, vibrant night markets, and cultural landmarks as well.

Chiang Mai Treehouse

These treehouse bungalows are nestled in a gorgeous teakwood forest with a river running through it. This is an eco-friendly hotel surrounded by beautiful nature and an array of wildlife.

Each bungalow is fan-cooled (no air-conditioning) but past travelers have not had any issues as the forest cools down significantly at night. All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms and hot water along with plug-in mosquito repellent.

Bangkok

Situated along the scenic Chao Phraya River, this boutique hotel offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Bangkok with elegant rooms and a riverside pool. Guests can enjoy delicious cuisine at the riverfront restaurant or relax while taking in the stunning views. Located close to iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and lively Khao San Road, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring the city’s vibrant energy.

 

*Hotels are subject to change.

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