Thailand Island Hopping – East Coast - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this Thailand Island Hopping tour?

  The main highlights include exploring Thailand's picturesque southern islands, relaxing while sailing the waters of the Gulf of Thailand, snorkeling among colorful marine life, wandering quiet beaches and soaking up the tropical scenery, and taking a boat cruise through Ang Thong National Park.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation for the tour will be in hotels for 7 nights.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers.

• Is there an age restriction for this tour?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• I am a solo traveler; will I have to pay an extra cost or share a room?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without an extra single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What activities are included in the tour?

  The tour includes a full-day snorkeling excursion from Koh Tao with stops at Koh Nang Yuan, Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay, Ao Leuk, and Shark Bay (mask, snorkel, and life jacket provided). It also features an Ang Thong Marine Park Island Hopping Tour with lunch and snorkeling, and free time to explore Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Samui. All internal flights and transportation between destinations are also included.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, on Koh Pha Ngan, you can opt for waterfalls exploration, swimming, yoga and meditation courses, or hiking. On Koh Samui, Stand Up Paddleboarding is an optional activity for an additional $50 USD per person.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes ferries, internal flights, and private vehicles.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides information, offers suggestions for things to do, recommends local eating venues, and introduces you to local friends. Local guides are also used where specific knowledge will enhance the experience.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. It is important to check with your booking agent for any exceptions on combo tours.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Thailand?

  Most nationalities do not need a visa for Thailand for stays of 30 days or less; if required, they may be available upon arrival at Bangkok Airport. A 15-day tourist visa is issued when entering Thailand overland. As of May 1st, 2025, all non-Thai nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days before arrival. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from Thailand.

• What is the recommended amount of spending money and emergency funds?

  Spending money requirements vary by individual for drinks, shopping, and tipping. It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances outside of the tour's control.

• What is the customary practice for tipping in Asia?

  Tipping service providers such as waiters (around 10%) is customary. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. If you feel your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) did an outstanding job, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested.

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

  In Asia, conservative dress is recommended. Pack loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for hot and humid climates. When visiting temples or holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops. In Southern Thailand, topless or nude sunbathing is not allowed, and in some Muslim villages, swimming with a sarong or long t-shirt to cover up is appropriate.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and sex workers on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips and contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to our travel philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.

• Are there any specific safety and security recommendations for the trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend itineraries for safety concerns. During free time, use your own judgment for optional activities. In cities at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should only be participated in when accompanied by a guide.

• Will there be opportunities to do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you wish to do your own laundry.

• Are there any important notes or restrictions for this tour?

  This is a combo trip, meaning staff and some travel companions may have traveled together previously or will continue on another tour. There may be a luggage weight restriction for internal flights (maximum 20 kg checked, 7 kg carry-on). Ang Thong National Park is closed annually during monsoon season (typically mid-October to mid-December), during which an alternative activity, such as a Lake Cheow Lan excursion, will be provided.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip highlights exploring Thailand's picturesque southern islands, relaxing as you sail the waters of the Gulf of Thailand, snorkeling amongst colourful marine life, wandering quiet beaches and soaking up the tropical scenery, and enjoying a boat cruise through Ang Thong National Park.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour includes a Welcome Moment to meet your CEO and group, free time to explore Koh Tao and Koh Pha Ngan, a full-day snorkeling excursion in Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan (with mask and snorkel), free time in Koh Samui, an Ang Thong Marine Park Island Hopping Tour, free time on spectacular beaches, internal flights, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What meals are included on this trip?

  The trip includes 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What type of accommodation is provided?

  Accommodation will be in hotels for all 7 nights.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 participants.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers do not have to pay more for shared accommodation and will be 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.

• Who will be leading the group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO's role is to enhance your travels by providing information, suggestions, local recommendations, and assisting the group. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge where beneficial.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes ferries, planes, and private vehicles.

• Are international flights included in the trip cost?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from Thailand.

• Are local flights included in the trip cost?

  Yes, all local flights within Thailand are included in the cost of your tour. It is important that your passport information is provided at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Thailand?

  Most nationalities do not need a visa for Thailand for stays of 30 days or less. If a visa is needed, they may be available on arrival at Bangkok Airport. For stays longer than 30 days, a tourist visa must be obtained in advance. As of May 1st, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival, registering within 3 days of arrival. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from Thailand.

• Are there any important notes or restrictions I should be aware of?

  This is a combo trip, meaning staff and some travel companions may have traveled together previously or may continue on another tour afterward. There is a baggage weight restriction for internal flights: one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20 kg (44 lbs) and one carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs). Additional charges may apply for excess weight. Ang Thong National Park is closed annually during monsoon season (typically mid-October to mid-December); an alternative activity, such as a Lake Cheow Lan excursion, will be provided if this occurs.

• What optional activities are available?

  In Koh Pha Ngan, optional activities include exploring waterfalls, swimming in lagoons, taking short hikes, or relaxing by the water, as well as yoga and meditation courses. In Ko Samui, Stand Up Paddleboarding is available for an additional 50 USD per person.

• Is tipping customary in Thailand?

  Yes, it is customary in Asia to tip service providers like waiters (approximately 10%). Tipping shows satisfaction and is significant to those assisting you. Recommendations for local guides and drivers range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For the tour operator's CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is appreciated.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler depending on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and additional activities. Please consider your own spending habits when planning your budget.

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

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if unforeseen circumstances (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route.

• Are laundry facilities available?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

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

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. It is recommended to pack loose, lightweight, long clothing that keeps you cool. When visiting temples or holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops. In Southern Thailand, topless or nude sunbathing is not allowed, and in some Muslim villages, passengers should swim using a sarong or a long t-shirt to cover up their swimsuit.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance covering medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD 200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are also strongly recommended.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. While your CEO assists with optional activity options, any activities undertaken in free time are at your own judgment. When exploring cities at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. Swimming and water-based activities are always at your own risk.

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

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

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

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They support community-owned businesses that empower women, grant youth access to employment, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of your donation directly supports these projects.