Bangkok to Singapore: Jungle Hikes & Island Nights - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Which countries does this tour visit?

  This tour explores Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for young travelers aged 18 to 39 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size for this tour can range from 1 to 18 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation varies and includes simple hotels (twin-share or triple-sharing), a homestay, a basic lodge, a sleeper train, and a pod hotel.

• What are the rooming arrangements like for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?

  An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What are some of the key experiences included in this tour?

  Key experiences include a meal at the Khao Thep Pitak Community-Owned Farm, exploring Bangkok, a 'Big Night Out' in Koh Samui, a homestay at Chenderoh Lake, and a visit to Ang Thong National Marine Park. A street food crawl and all transport between destinations are also included.

• Are there optional activities available on this tour?

  Yes, there are many optional activities available at various locations, such as visiting Wat Pho and the Grand Palace in Bangkok, tubing in Khao Sok, a cooking class or boat tour in Ko Samui, exploring Penang Hill or temples in George Town, a rainforest expedition in Cameron Highlands, visiting Batu Caves or Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, a Melaka boat tour, and a Boat Quay Harbour tour in Singapore. These typically incur additional costs.

• Will there be a tour leader accompanying the group?

  Yes, all group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who handles logistics, provides information, suggests local venues, and introduces the group to local contacts. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• What currencies will I need during the tour and what are the best ways to carry money?

  You will need Thai Baht, Malaysian Ringgit, and Singaporean Dollar. It is recommended to carry debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard) and some USD cash for emergencies. Traveler's cheques are not recommended as a primary source of funds.

• What is the customary practice for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping service providers like waiters (around 10%), local guides ($1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day), and the CEO ($20-25 USD per person per week as a guideline) is customary and appreciated in Asia, though not compulsory.

• What are the dress code expectations during the tour?

  Conservative dress is generally appropriate. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders is recommended, especially in predominantly Muslim areas. Singlets and tank tops are not suitable in many areas. Topless/nude bathing is not appropriate and is in fact illegal.

• What health precautions should I consider before the tour?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations. Carrying a first-aid kit and hand sanitizers is recommended. CEOs are not permitted to administer drugs.

• Is an emergency fund recommended?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there any specific cultural considerations to be aware of during the tour, such as Ramadan?

  Yes, if the tour falls during Ramadan, increased cultural sensitivity is required, including wearing modest clothing and avoiding eating/drinking/smoking in public during fasting hours. Services may have some limitations. This tour may combine with other tours, meaning staff and some travelers might join or leave the group at different points. Also, Ang Thong National Park is closed annually during monsoon season (typically mid-October to mid-December) and an alternative activity would be provided if this occurs.

• Is there any specific warning regarding purchases in Bangkok?

  It is strongly advised not to buy gems in Bangkok unless you are knowledgeable about them, as there is a risk of scams and difficulty reselling them.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This tour offers a chance to explore Bangkok's bustling markets, visit Penang's charming Chinese shop houses, witness the beautiful green vistas of the Cameron Highlands, delve into the multicultural vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur, and experience three diverse countries in just two weeks.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation varies and includes simple hotels (twin-share and triple-sharing), homestays, basic lodges, sleeper trains, and pod hotels. Please note that some nights may involve multi-share rooms (4-6 group members), and most accommodations will have shared bathroom facilities. Rooming requests cannot be taken for multi-share hostels.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price. For specific combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights might be included; please confirm with your booking agent for details.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the tour cost unless explicitly stated otherwise. We require your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  You are responsible for consulting your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) are prohibited from administering medication. In Asia, pharmacies often stock Western drugs, but bring the full drug name for prescription purchases.

• Is a departure tax required?

  No, departure tax is included in all international and domestic tickets in Thailand.

• Who will be leading the group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who facilitates your travels, offers suggestions, recommends local eateries, and introduces you to local contacts. Local guides may also be used for specialized knowledge.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 18 travellers, with an average group size of 10.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  We recommend having access to an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used in unforeseen circumstances outside of our control (e.g., a natural disaster).

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by individual based on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Please consider your own preferences when budgeting for your trip.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  The minimum age requirement for this trip is 18 years.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization supported by us, dedicated to transforming travel into positive impact. They help local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, empowering women and youth, and protecting the environment. 100% of your donations go directly to Planeterra projects.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at some hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for handwashing if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality. For Thailand, most nationalities do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less but must complete the Thailand E-Arrival form online at least 3 days before arrival. For Malaysia, all foreign nationals must complete and submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within 3 days before arrival.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Please visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and information to ensure comfort throughout your trip.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Exploitation of prostitutes is against our travel philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel group members who violate these rules.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is customary in Asia (approx. 10% for waiters). For local guides and drivers, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is recommended. A tip of $20-25 USD per person per week is appreciated for your CEO if you are satisfied with their service.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include: Wat Po Visit, Grand Palace Visit, Klong Riverboat Tour, Thai Massage in Bangkok; Tubing in Khao Sok; Cooking Class, Ko Samui Boat Tour, Water Skiing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Koh Samui Island Tour in Ko Samui; Indian Street Visit, Penang Hill Visit, Clan Jetties Excursion, Kek Lok Si Temple Visit, Khoo Kongsi Visit, Penang Peranakan Museum Visit in George Town; Rainforest Expedition in Cameron Highlands; Islamic Arts Museum, Petronas Towers Visit, Orang Asli Museum Visit, Menara KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur; Batu Caves Visit in Gombak; Melaka Boat Tour in Melaka; and Boat Quay Harbour Tour in Singapore.

• Can I book a private room?

  If you book the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all overnight stops.

• What currency should I use and how should I carry money?

  You will use Thai Baht, Malaysian Ringgit, and Singaporean Dollar. Debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa/Mastercard) are recommended. Carry some USD cash for emergencies. Be aware that notes older than 2003 or with blemishes may not be accepted.

• Do I need to complete a medical questionnaire?

  Yes, travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility for the trip.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner. Generally, meals are not included where there are diverse dining options, allowing you maximum flexibility.

• What should I know about arrival problems?

  If you experience problems upon arrival (e.g., flight delays, missed transfers), contact your starting point hotel or the provided emergency contact numbers. If a pre-booked airport transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes, take a taxi to your hotel and seek a refund from your travel agent.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum medical coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex, so no single supplement is charged for group trips.

• What is the policy regarding Ramadan and national park closures?

  During Ramadan (approx. Feb 28-Mar 29, 2025, and Feb 17-Mar 19, 2026), there may be some service limitations, but tours generally operate effectively. Increased cultural sensitivity (modest dress, avoiding public eating/drinking/smoking) is important. Ang Thong National Park is closed annually during monsoon season (typically mid-Oct to mid-Dec); an alternative activity like a Lake Cheow Lan excursion will be provided if this occurs.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  Dress standards are conservative throughout Asia. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers your knees and shoulders is recommended and appropriate for the hot climate. Singlets and tank tops are often unsuitable. Topless and nude bathing or sunbathing is not appropriate and is illegal.