Northern Thailand Adventure - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the physical activity level for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. The trekking days, especially, involve hill work and can be rough, requiring sturdy water shoes for river crossings.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation varies and includes hotels/guesthouses (4 nights), a floating rafthouse (1 night), a sleeper train (1 night), and basic huts (3 nights, multi-share) in hilltribe villages. Please note that hotel styles may differ from what you're used to, and some guesthouses are simple, potentially multi-share with shared facilities. The 'My Own Room' option is not available for the rafthouse, overnight train, or homestays.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there are diverse eating options, allowing you flexibility, and food in Thailand is typically inexpensive.

• Will there be a guide accompanying the group?

  Yes, all group trips are accompanied by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the tour, along with specialist trekking guides for the hilltribe sections. The CEO will provide information, suggestions, recommend local eateries, and introduce you to local friends.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes trains, open pickup trucks, private vehicles, trekking, raft, and walking. During local public holidays, alternative transport may be arranged for train journeys due to limited space.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  In Chiang Mai, optional activities include a Half-Day Chiang Mai Cycling Tour (1500THB per person), a Street Food Walk at the Night Market, and a Northern Thai Cooking Class.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to show evidence of medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss coverage are strongly recommended.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. Exceptions to single rooms apply to the rafthouse, overnight train, and homestays.

• What are the local dress customs I should be aware of?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is expected. We recommend loose, lightweight, long clothing to stay cool. When visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• Is tipping customary in Thailand?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (around 10%) is customary. Tipping drivers and local guides is also appreciated, with recommendations ranging from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For the CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested.

• What currency should I use, and are credit cards accepted?

  The local currency is the Thai Baht. Debit cards are the best way to carry money, allowing withdrawals from ATMs (Visa and Mastercard networks are widely accepted). It's advisable to carry both a Visa and Mastercard. USD cash is recommended for emergencies when ATMs are unavailable. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and larger stores.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Local pharmacies often stock Western drugs, but it's best to bring full drug names.

• What are the main highlights of this Northern Thailand Adventure?

  Highlights include exploring magnificent temples and palaces, sleeping in a floating rafthouse, swimming in the turquoise pools of Erawan Falls, visiting the Bridge on the River Kwai and related historical sites, touring Ayutthaya's temple ruins, seeing Doi Suthep temple in Chiang Mai, a 3-day trek through remote hilltribe villages with local stays, and a visit to Lod Cave with bamboo rafting.

• Are there any seasonal itinerary notes or considerations?

  Between March and April (start date varies), traditional slash and burn farming occurs, which may lead to alternate trekking routes to avoid smoky areas. Also, please note that there may be times when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate in hilltribe villages; your CEO and guides will advise you.