The
thailand
trip
For the love of
THE LAND OF SMILES​
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LEAFY JUNGLES​
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GOLDEN TEMPLES
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SANDY BEACHES
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SIZZLING STREET FOOD​
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WILD NIGHTLIFE
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ELEPHANT ENCOUNTERS​​
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WEEKEND NIGHT MARKETS​
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TROPICAL PARADISE​
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THAILAND
WHAT TO EXPECT
Thailand is lively, eccentric, and rich in tradition—all in one. This unique country has something for every type of traveler, and you’ll get to experience it all in just eight days! From temple-hopping to electrifying nightlife, and indulging in some of the spiciest, most flavorful street food you'll ever taste, we’ve curated an unforgettable group trip for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s.
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In just over a week, you'll connect with nature and the majestic elephants of Chiang Mai, kick back on the postcard-perfect beaches of Koh Lanta, and dive into Bangkok’s world-famous street food scene—renowned as the best on the globe! By the end, you’ll truly get why Thailand is called “The Land of Smiles” :)
And with Thailand being one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Southeast Asia, we’d say it’s hands down one of the top destinations for solo travelers. So, who’s ready to pack their bags and join the adventure?
2025 dates
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​Nov 2 - 9, 2025​
Chiang Mai Lantern Festival trip
Nov 30 - Dec 7, 2025
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Dec 21 - 28, 2025
Runs over Christmas
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​Dec 28 - Jan 4, 2026
New Year's Eve trip 🎉 - likely to sell out
8 days/7 nights
starting at $3,299 USD
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Limited private room upgrades starting from $999 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.
Payment can be broken down into a $500 deposit + 3 additional installments.
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Included
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7 night accommodations in shared rooms (private room upgrade available on request)
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Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
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All internal transfers including flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi, transfer from Krabi to Koh Lanta
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Historical walking tour of Bangkok’s temples and palaces
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Local Thai cuisine cooking class
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Visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary
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Private full-day island hopping boat charter
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FTLO Trip Leader
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*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
not included
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Flights to & from Thailand
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned (budget around $100, depending on consumption habits)
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Incidental expenses
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Departure day transfers from Koh Lanta
day by day
Trip itineraries are subject to change. For more information, check out our FAQs HERE.
Day 1 - Bangkok, Thailand
bangkok bustle
Welcome to Thailand’s electric capital—Bangkok! The moment you step off the plane, the city greets you with a burst of neon lights, buzzing tuk-tuks, and the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling street food. One thing’s for sure: the energy here is contagious. So, shake off the jet lag and get ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime!
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In the afternoon, you’ll meet your new travel crew—your soon-to-be travel family. As you bond over your shared excitement, we’ll head to one of Bangkok’s most iconic rooftop bars, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Then, we’ll indulge in authentic Thai cuisine at a stunning riverside spot along the Chao Phraya, watching the city light up under the stars and setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead!
discover
Day 2 - Bangkok, Thailand
savor the flavor
There’s no better way to experience this incredible city than by hitting the streets and exploring some of Thailand’s oldest and most sacred buildings. Marvel at the majestic structures that showcase the wealth of ancient Thai kings, adorned with stunning architecture and intricate decorations. On this walking tour, you’ll uncover the dichotomy of Bangkok as you transition from the hustle and bustle of city life to the tranquil spiritual side found in serene temples, highlighting the vital role Buddhism plays in Thai culture.
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If you crave bold Asian flavors and a hint of spice, our next stop will be pure paradise! We’ll dive into a locally led Thai cooking class where you’ll roll up your sleeves and whip up classic dishes like Pad Thai and Penang Curry. Whether it’s your first time in Thailand or you're a seasoned traveler, this experience will make you feel like a guest at a friend’s house for dinner.
taste
Day 3 - Bangkok / Chiang Mai, Thailand
heading north
Today, we’re heading to the Thai countryside—Chiang Mai; here we come! Our flight departs in the morning, so grab a refreshing Thai iced coffee at the airport to fuel up for the short flight north. Chiang Mai’s laid-back vibe highlights the diversity of Thailand, offering a peaceful contrast to Bangkok’s hustle, with stunning mountain views and a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to slow down and unwind.
You’ll have some free time to explore before we meet for dinner, where we’ll dive into Northern Thai cuisine—a whole new world compared to the familiar Pad Thai and curries. The restaurant we’ve chosen will give you an authentic taste of the region’s unique flavors. Northern Thai food is savory, with smoky, rich undertones that set it apart. Expect dishes like Khao Soi, a creamy curry noodle soup and Sai Ua, a flavorful, spicy sausage. These dishes are packed with fresh herbs, lemongrass, turmeric, and spices, offering a true taste of Chiang Mai’s vibrant culinary scene.
explore
Day 4 - Chiang Mai, Thailand
one with nature
If there’s one thing you’ll discover today, it’s that elephants are basically giant puppies! Despite their intimidating size, these gentle giants are incredibly intelligent, loyal, and playful. We’re heading into the southern mountains of Chiang Mai to visit an elephant nature reserve—a sanctuary that rescues these magnificent animals from harmful tourism practices and provides them with a safe, loving home.
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Throughout the day, you’ll get up close and personal with the elephants—hiking alongside them, feeding them bananas, and even helping bathe them. Along the way, you’ll learn about the challenges elephants face due to human exploitation and see firsthand how this sanctuary is making a difference through education and care. After a delicious lunch, we’ll get hands-on with traditional elephant medicine and learn how to make herbal vitamin balls before saying goodbye and returning to the hotel.
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To wrap up the day, we’ll head to a bustling night market for dinner—where the hardest decision you’ll make is what to eat first. From sizzling street skewers to fragrant bowls of khao soi, mango sticky rice, and yes, even crispy fried insects for the adventurous, you can snack your way through a maze of flavors.
LEARN
Day 5 - Chiang Mai / Koh Lanta, Thailand
island life
As you’ve probably noticed by now, Thailand’s best spots aren’t just in the cities—they’re hidden in lush mountains and on pristine, untouched islands. So soak in your last moments in Chiang Mai, because by midday, we’re off to one of the country’s best-kept secrets—Koh Lanta!
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Koh Lanta perfectly aligns with our mission to travel with purpose—leaving places better than we found them. It’s one of those hidden gems you won’t believe more people haven’t discovered yet. With turquoise waves and white-gold beaches, get ready for two full days of sun, fun, and relaxation as we wrap up this unforgettable trip.
As we arrive, dinner will be the perfect welcome. There’s nothing like kicking back with a cold beer, fresh seafood straight off the grill, and the sound of waves rolling in. So grab a Chang, dig into some spicy papaya salad, and soak up the island vibes—because tomorrow, we’re diving deeper into Thailand beyond what you see on the surface.
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wander
Day 6 - Koh Lanta, Thailand
under the sea
When in Thailand, it’s allllll about island hopping! Today, we’re heading straight for the beach to board our boat for a full day of snorkeling adventures. The islands we’ll be visiting today feel like your own slice of paradise—nearly deserted, with just a few boats scattered on the horizon.
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It’s a day dedicated to soaking up the sun and exploring some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen. Picture yourself floating in turquoise lagoons, surrounded by powder-white beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The water is so clear and shallow that all you need to do is hop off the boat to be immersed in a world full of tropical fish. You and your crew will swim alongside stunning angelfish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea cucumber—tiny but fascinating creatures that make you feel like you're on a treasure hunt.
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And if you’re a sucker for a sunset, get ready for something magical. The golden light as the sun dips into the ocean will leave you speechless—it's a moment you’ll never forget.
share
Day 7 - Koh Lanta, Thailand
beach bums
Today is a free day to soak in every last drop of the Andaman Sea. Take your time to feel the powder-soft sand beneath your feet and swim in the crystal-clear waters, savoring these final moments in this tropical paradise. We recommend trying some local street food as you explore, but don’t fill up too much—you’ll want to save room for our final farewell dinner tonight.
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It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown by. Between the laughter, the memories, and all the incredible sights, it feels like we’ve experienced a lot together. But here’s the thing: while this trip may be coming to an end, the friendships we’ve made will last far beyond this destination. We just know another adventure is waiting for all of us somewhere down the road (our alumni always seem to find their way back to each other!).
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So here’s to stepping outside our comfort zones, to the new connections we’ve made, and to all the future adventures that are still to come. This was truly a trip for the books!
escape
Day 8 - Koh Lanta, Thailand
never goodbye
Thank you for the endless memories and lifelong friendships, Thailand! By this point in the trip, we’re sure you understand why we say this country has so much to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re heading home, staying in Thailand, or venturing to a nearby Southeast Asian country, one thing is certain: there are countless iconic landmarks waiting to be discovered on this continent!
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Thailand serves as a travel hub for all of Southeast Asia, with daily flights from Bangkok to various destinations, making it easy to hop around! If you let your stomach guide your travels, consider Japan or Vietnam as your next stops. Both countries are known for their iconic dishes and vibrant night markets. Our best advice? Always follow your nose to uncover the best culinary spots in both cities!
FAST FACTS
about Thailand
Thailand is the go-to destination for many solo travelers, and it’s easy to see why! Not only does it offer an affordable escape compared to other tropical paradises, but it also provides a wealth of experiences across the country. While some vacation packages might focus on just one aspect of this incredible place, our Thailand tours are designed to showcase it all.
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From idyllic beaches to historic landmarks like the Grand Palace and the impressive Buddha statue at Wat Pho, the vibrant local culture truly comes alive as night falls. With so much to see, eat, and do, it’s no wonder that tourism plays a crucial role in the country’s economy!
Good to Know
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Thais speak, you guessed it, Thai! One of Asia's tonal languages, it's not exactly easy.
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The currency in Thailand is the Thai baht.
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Tipping is not expected in Thailand.
Trip notes
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While we can’t guarantee private rooms, you should book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.
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All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
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More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found here.
flight information
Fly into Suvarnabhumi
Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
You’ll need to arrive at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) by 1 pm on day 1 to reach your hotel by 3 pm. The cab ride is around 45 minutes to an hour (depending on traffic).
Fly out of Krabi International Airport (KBV)
If you are flying home, you should depart any time after 3 pm from Krabi International Airport (VTSG) on your final day.
Alumni Reviews
LEARN MORE
Interested in learning more about our Thailand trip?
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