Thailand small group tour with added comfort

Planet

All travel on this trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which is completed by private vehicle, includes a large container of drinking water. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottle so that they can refill it from this container. More and more Thai hotels are also providing water for guests to refill their own bottles. This reduces the number of single-use plastic water bottles disposed of by our travelers.


We believe that wild animals should be viewed – with no contact or interaction – doing what they do best: living in the wild. We only visit wildlife sanctuaries if the rationale for the sanctuary operation is in the best interests of the animals involved (i.e. only visiting animal sanctuaries and/or rescue centers operating with the highest animal welfare and conservation standards possible). We actively discourage the participation of travelers in any activities that exploit wild or domestic/working animals. While in Chiang Mai, travelers on this trip will visit the Elephant Nature Park, a unique project providing a sanctuary and rescue center for elephants and other animals such as buffalo, dogs, cats and birds. Travelers will learn about the ongoing challenges facing elephants in Thailand from our on-site host, as well as observing rescued elephants living naturally and happily.

People

Our trips maximize the opportunity for travelers to engage meaningfully with local culture and communities. Many experiences on our trips also support traditional cultural practices – whether artisanal, culinary or otherwise. In turn, this helps to sustain and preserve these traditional practices so that future generations may continue to learn, enjoy and benefit from them. Travelers on this trip will visit the village of Kup Kap, in northern Thailand, spending time with members of the Lahu community, learning about their traditions and way of life. They will be welcomed into a community member’s home to learn how the Lahu people grow and produce coffee, with sampling encouraged!


We encourage travelers to act like locals, respecting the traditions and culture of the destination they’re traveling through. In Thai culture, and specifically at religious sites, this means dressing conservatively, with all travelers covering their arms and legs. Our local leaders will be sure to explain when and where it’s respectful to cover up. Travelers have the option to visit a small temple in Bangkok, not commonly visited by tourists, to make merit to the temple’s monks at sunrise. Again, our local Thai leaders will be on hand to guide travelers respectfully through this special experience.