Classic Thailand - West Coast - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this Classic Thailand tour?

  This tour offers a variety of experiences, including climbing the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfalls, exploring ancient ruins in Ayutthaya, trekking through rainforest trails in Ko Ngai, relaxing on deserted beaches, and seeing stunning limestone karsts in Ao Nang.

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

  A variety of hotels and guest houses are used, which may differ from what you are accustomed to. In some remote areas, accommodations might be simple local guest houses with small rooms and potentially shared toilet and shower facilities. The trip includes 11 nights in hotels, 1 night in a rafthouse, and 1 night on a sleeper train. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What types of transportation will be used on this trip?

  Transportation includes train, air-conditioned bus/minivan, walking, plane, longtail boat, and ferry. During local public holidays like New Year's and Songkran, alternative transport may be arranged for some train journeys due to high demand.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights may be included; please check with your booking agent for details. Baggage allowances and restrictions vary by airline, so it is recommended to contact your airline for the most up-to-date information and consider checking in online.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 12 breakfasts and 2 dinners. When meals are not included, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest local eating venues.

• What is the maximum group size and who will be leading the tour?

  The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 12 travellers. All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who helps with logistics, provides information, and recommends activities. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge where beneficial.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, is required. It is strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities.

• Are there any health considerations or medical forms required before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required for Thailand; consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Travellers must have an average level of fitness and mobility, able to walk unaided, climb stairs, step on/off boats, and carry their own luggage. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition must complete a medical questionnaire signed by their physician to ensure they can comfortably complete the trip. CEOs are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip regarding illegal drugs or exploitation?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as possession or use contravenes laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to the philosophy of respectful travel. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex workers.

• How should I dress to respect local customs in Thailand?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. Pack loose, lightweight, long clothing to stay cool in the hot and humid climate. When visiting villages, temples, mosques, or other holy sites in predominately Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, dress respectfully by avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank-tops. Long pants or sarongs are appropriate for temples.

• What safety and security information should I be aware of for this trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your group leader may amend or cancel parts of the itinerary for safety concerns. While CEOs accompany included activities, optional activities are at your own discretion, and good judgment should be used. Cities can have risks at night, so stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities carry inherent dangers; only participate when accompanied by a guide. Swimming and snorkeling are at your own risk.

• How should I manage currency, credit cards, and emergency funds while on this tour?

  The local currency is Thai Baht. Debit cards are the best way to carry money, withdrawing cash from ATMs (Visa and Mastercard networks are widely accepted). It's advisable to carry both a Visa and Mastercard. Bring some USD cash for emergencies or when ATMs are not accessible; ensure notes are new and in good condition (post-2003, no tears/blemishes). Credit cards are accepted at some upscale restaurants and larger stores. You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund.

• What happens if I encounter problems upon arrival in Thailand or need emergency assistance?

  Upon arrival, if you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to your starting hotel and seek a refund from your travel agent. For flight schedule changes within 48 hours, call the emergency contact number to advise. If you need to contact us in a dire situation, first call the local representative or local office. Emergency contact numbers are: From outside Thailand +66 92 338 9222, From within Thailand 092 338 9222. For Bangkok Airport Transfer complications, call +66 86 321 0729 or +66 82 450 2777 (from within Thailand 086 321 0729 or 082 450 2777).

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include: In Chiang Mai: Half-Day Chiang Mai Cycling Tour (1500THB), Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market, and Northern Thai Cooking Class. In Ko Lanta: Ko Rok Day Trip. In Ao Nang: Snorkeling, Kayaking, or a Phi Phi Island Tour By Speed Boat (1800THB per person).

• What is the policy for solo travellers regarding accommodation and single supplements?

  Solo travellers do not have to pay more as group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travellers 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, except for the overnight sleeper train on Night 5.

• Is tipping customary in Thailand and what are the guidelines?

  Tipping service providers like waiters at approximately 10% is customary and expected (though not compulsory), showing satisfaction with the service. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For your CEO, $20-25 USD per person per week is a guideline. Amounts are entirely personal preference.

• When and where can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. There will also be times when you may need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• Are there any weight restrictions for luggage on internal flights?

  Yes, there may be a weight restriction for internal flights on this tour. Each passenger is typically allowed one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20 kg (44lbs). Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply and are the responsibility of the passengers.

• What are the Thailand entry requirements?

  Effective May 1, 2025, all travellers entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand E-Arrival form at least 3 days before arrival. If you have purchased the Thailand Entry Package, you will need to arrive no later than 18:00 hours to be eligible. On day 4, you may be transferred for a second PCR test and need to remain in your hotel room on day 5 while awaiting negative results.

• What's explicitly included in the tour price?

  Included are your Welcome Moment (Meet Your CEO and Group), Wat Pho visit, Klong riverboat tour, Erawan Falls and Bridge on the River Kwai visit (Kanchanaburi), Thai-Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery visit, Temple ruins tour (Ayutthaya), Doi Suthep temple visit (Chiang Mai), Internal Flights, Beach dinner (Ko Lanta), Half-day snorkeling boat trip through the Trang Islands (Ko Ngai), free time on spectacular beaches, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Are there any warnings regarding purchasing gems in Bangkok?

  Please do not buy gems in Bangkok unless you are knowledgeable about them. Even if genuine, you should not expect to be able to sell them at home. The tour operator is unable to assist if you fall victim to a gem scam.

• What information is available for LGBTQ+ travellers?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. You are encouraged to visit the LGBTQ+ page on the tour operator's website for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to help ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.