Thai Adventure. Up to 29 days from 1,049. Trip Highlights

Transcription

1 Trip Highlights Join our fun-packed Thai Adventure for fantastic group travel around Thailand; get a buddy list before you go and connect with your fellow adventurers! Feel the buzz of Bangkok with serene temple tours, colourful canal rides, and a night out on lively Khao San Road! Get up close to elephants with an idyllic elephant park stay and bask in some breathtaking Thai scenery during a 2-day trek through the northern foothills Visit gorgeous Thai Islands: Volunteer on Koh Samui, sunbathe on Koh Phi Phi, and party on Koh Phangan - seek out a famous Moon party! Join the trip after 15th March 2018 for a fresh new itinerary full of new activities and inclusions! Up to 29 days from 1,049 1/23

2 Trip Overview See the best of Thailand on this action-packed group adventure! Delve into the glittering city streets of Bangkok, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters at an elephant park, trek through the dramatic northern foothills, relax on gorgeous white sand beaches, have a mini-volunteer experience, and plunge into the neon-soaked nightlife of the southern Thai islands! This tour is ideal for first-time travellers and those who want to meet great new people while exploring a beautiful part of Southeast Asia. Please note: Between January 2018 and March 2018 there is a 22-day and 29-day option for this trip. From 15th March 2018 onwards the Thai Adventure has a brand new itinerary with 18-day and 29-day options. Trip Details Thai Adventure Itinerary - Until 14th March 2018 Day 1: Bangkok 2/23

3 Touch down on Thailand s tropical soil and be met by one of our trip guides. Taking your first breaths of Bangkok air, your senses will come alive as you re transported through the boisterous and bustling streets of Thailand s crazy capital city. Your guesthouse is located close to Khao San Road, a buzzing street famed for its popularity with travellers and its position as a starting point for many Thai trekkers. Khao San Road is a lively hub of atmospheric attractions, turning from a quiet Bangkok street in the day, to a carnival of neon and music at night. Loud, proud and well endowed with shops, bars and restaurants, you can find everything you need amongst this explosion of nightlife. Whether you re looking for a market, a club, an internet café, a party or even a late night Boots chemist, Khao San Road will meet your every desire! Don t worry if you re travelling alone you ll soon have met a whole tour group of travelling friends at your accommodation! Your accommodation is located around 5 minutes from the main strip, and is well known for being the cooler end of Khao San. With jazz bars and live Thai music joints on your doorstep, this chilled out hub throws you straight into Thai Adventure living! Day 2: Explore Bangkok s culture & attractions Get to know Bangkok and explore the major tourist attractions and must see-sights on a Bangkok tour. Begin your day in style on a long-tail boat ride, where you ll drift along the waterways of the city, spying temples and markets as you cruise the canals. With riverside views and access to the capital s more secluded architectural wonders, you ll gain a floating perspective on Thai life, seeing saffron robed monks at canal side temples and local women gliding by selling fruit, noodles, and other exotic delicacies. Your destination is the awesome temple of Wat Pho, which is the original location of the traditional Thai massage, where you can see the vast reclining gold Buddha. You ll also visit the Buddhist site of Wat Arun, romantically known as the Temple of the Dawn which shimmers with mother-of-pearl, and also enjoy an optional visit to the stunning Grand Palace, with its breathtaking temples, shining golden statues, and the famous Emerald Buddha. Round off the day with a night out partying on the legendary Khao San Road and you ll have packed in the best of Bangkok! Please note: Entrance fees to the Grand Palace and the surrounding temples are not included in the trip price so you should budget around today for these visits. Day 3: From the buzz of Bangkok to charming Chiang Mai Enjoy a final day in Bangkok to soak up the lively vibe of this Thai capital city. On the evening of day three, you will enjoy the unique experience of an overnight private bus transfer to Chiang Mai. Sit back and relax in style and comfort as your bus whisks you off to the next stage of your Thai Adventure! At some times of the year the bus ride may be replaced with an exciting overnight train journey. 3/23

4 Day 4: Chiang Mai and Cookery Class An early arrival in Chiang Mai means time to check in and relax at your lovely guesthouse. Take a dip in the swimming pool, laze in the sunshine or head out and explore Chiang Mai. In the evening you ll learn how to cook some of Thailand s iconic and delicious dishes in an authentic cookery class. Prepare between 3 and 5 tasty dishes and then tuck in and eat what you ve made! Afterwards, there s still time to head out and hit the glittering nightspots of Chiang Mai. Day 5: Meet the Elephants at an incredible Elephant Home! Travel out of Chiang Mai early this morning for an unforgettable elephant experience! Journey into the stunning Thai countryside and spend a day getting up close to elephants at a nearby elephant home. This incredible elephant home is working hard to be at the forefront of new ways of elephant interaction and moving away from the more traditional elephant trekking activities to create a far more authentic elephant experience. Thai attitudes to elephants are changing for the better, and this elephant home cares for elephants without allowing visitors to ride them. You will be staying in simple huts that are located on the grounds of the elephant home - so you ll be sleeping right next to the elephants! After settling into your hut and sharing a tasty lunch, meet your new elephant neighbours and help feed them before walking them through the surrounding countryside to a nearby river. Here you will bathe the elephants in the cool river waters and then lead them back to the home. Spend the rest of the afternoon marvelling at these powerful animals in the tranquil surroundings of the home, while helping the mahouts maintain the crops and unload the grass and cane feed. You'll also help make vitamin cakes from raw materials that help keep the elephants healthy! As the sun begins to set, relax by your huts and enjoy dinner with your group while watching the herd. Then, stretch out in bed and fall asleep to the soft music of elephant snores! Days 6 & 7: Hill Trek Trekking in the hills of northern Thailand is a must-do experience when visiting this beautiful country. You will spend two days and one night trekking through jungles and mountains, being blown away by the spectacular scenery, and meandering along mountainsides filled with rice fields, rivers and waterfalls. Treat yourself to some of Thailand s most sensational views as you scale the heights of the Thai hills and plunge into lush jungles on this top Thai trekking experience. Day 1 of the trek takes around 4 6 hours but includes lots of stops and rest points, day 2 is around 1 2 hours (including stops). The guides always go at a very comfortable speed and the distances are not too far at all so don t worry if you re not an experienced hiker 4/23

5 This group trek also takes time to enjoy all the beautiful sights along the way. You don t need any special equipment and sturdy trainers or hiking boots are suitable footwear. Your luggage will be looked after for you so you only need to carry a small daypack during the trek. Overnight accommodation is provided in a rustic retreat. Bunk down in your hut for a night under the Thai stars. You ll complete your trekking experience on the afternoon of day 7, after an exciting bamboo rafting adventure! Then, spend a final afternoon and evening in the company of the elephants. Take some time to explore a serene rural village that specialises in making fascinating wooden puzzles and learn about the history of elephants in Thailand. Please note: The bamboo rafting experience is dependent on favourable weather conditions. Days 8 & 9: Chiang Mai After the morning spent at the elephant home. it s time to say goodbye to your elephant friends and head over to Chiang Mai. Arriving in the afternoon you ll have some free time to explore this fantastic city and see why it s known as Thailand s cultural capital. On day 9 you ll visit Doi Suthep, home of the most iconic temple in Chiang Mai at the top of over 300 steps giving great views of the area well worth the climb. In the evening you and the group will be given a guided tour of the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, one of the city's main nighttime attractions. You ll get to see Chiang Mai at her bargaining best as you enjoy after-hours charm in this hectic peddler s paradise. Illuminating the alleys and arcades which cross Chang Klan Road, these legendary stalls and shops are home to many merchants and shopkeepers hawking their goods in a battle of bartering and banter, making Chiang Mai an essential stop-off for any serious shopper! Grab bespoke bargains, jewellery and antiquated rarities at the Night Bazaar, where you can find anything and everything you want for a price. Don't be afraid to barter yourself a range of souvenirs and trinkets, from a tailor-made suit, to exquisite Asian silver jewellery and a range of traditional foods, clothes, handicrafts and accessories. Please note: Any optional activities you choose to do in Chiang Mai are at your own cost and are not included in the price. Your guide can recommend places for you to visit and they can also help you make your travel arrangements. Day 10: Return to Bangkok Hop back on the bus this morning and say goodbye to Northern Thailand as you travel back to the bright lights of Bangkok. You ll arrive in the early evening and return to the same guesthouse near Khao San Road. After time to freshen up, you can head out and hit the town to enjoy Bangkok s legendary nightlife! Day 11: Free day in Bangkok 5/23

6 Make the most of a fun, free day to explore amazing Bangkok. Hop on a boat ride up the river, shop til you drop or just laze by the pool before boarding an overnight bus to the Thai island of Koh Samui. If you wish, your guide can make suggestions of the best things for you to see and do during the day. Rooms will be available until 6pm and you ll be boarding the coach around 8pm this evening. Koh Samui here you come! Day 12: Arrival on Koh Samui Arrive on the idyllic island of Koh Samui and get settled in to your rural village setting. Prepare for 3 days of relaxation, volunteering and adventure! Day 13: Dam! Today you re heading into the forest to take part in a fantastic dam building project on Koh Samui. You will help build small dams with rocks, sand, PVC pipes and cement, which help with the water management of streams in Koh Samui's stunning inland forest areas; one of the island's most amazing locations. You'll be supervised every step of the way, and will help out until round lunchtime, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy the incredible surroundings of Koh Samui. Groups can usually complete a dam in one day giving you the satisfaction that you have made a small but important benefit to the ecology of the island. You can even leave your name scratched into the dam and become a part of Thailand! When you return you ll have the evening free to head out for some drinks with your group and enjoy the incredible island nightlife. Don t worry you have a free day tomorrow to recover! Day 14: Chill on Koh Samui Today is all about taking a step back and relaxing in your gorgeous island surroundings. Wake up late and head down to the beach. Life doesn t get much better than this! Day 15: Angthong National Marine Park Prepare for one of the most beautiful places in the world; Angthong Marine Park is a stunning stretch of forest-covered islands, shimmering turquoise waters, gleaming white beaches, and majestic cave systems. You ll spend the day here kayaking around the islands, cooling off in the sea water and drinking in the unbelievable landscapes. Enjoy your final night on Koh Samui before you jump across to Koh Tao in the morning! Please note that the visit to Angthong Marine Park on day 15 is weather dependent and subject to last minute closures by local authorities. If the day trip is unable to go ahead a snorkelling day trip to the waters around Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao will take place instead. On very rare occasions if there are extreme weather conditions and no boats are able to run then no water based activities will take place on this day. Days 16-20: Chill out on Koh Tao 6/23

7 On day 16 you will hop across from Koh Samui to the neighbouring island of Koh Tao, for a few days of relaxing beach time. Spend the next five days treading softly along creamy white sands, lapped by the gently rolling and rippling Gulf of Thailand, as you relax in the haven of Koh Tao. Staying close to a beautiful beach, you also have all the best bars and restaurants on your doorstep during your stay on the island. The beaches and coastline of Koh Tao hide a vast array of activities, so when you re not slumbering sweetly in your guesthouse you can spend your days in a tranquil haze of diving, snorkelling and downtime on the beach, or get your adrenaline pumping with some rock climbing or abseiling. Snorkelling tours are a popular pastime, as is kayaking and other water sports. Muay Thai boxing training is another popular optional activity and you can take a five-day course teaching you all the tricks of Muay Thai in this exotic tropical location. Or you can just relax and chill out at a yoga lesson or indulge in a spa or a traditional Thai massage for the ultimate in island relaxation. Please note that all optional activities will be at an extra cost. Option to learn to dive (Available for both 22 day and 29 day programmes) Never been diving before? Koh Tao is the place to learn. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of the deep in this dream island destination. Learning to scuba dive and gaining a PADI qualification in Thailand is top of many travellers to-do lists and you couldn't find a more idyllic spot to learn some amazing scuba skills! Koh Tao Island issues more scuba certifications than in any other place around the world and it's not hard to see why. With its shallow bays, crystal clear waters, wide variety of fish, neon reefs and temperatures that feel like blissful bathwater, it really is the perfect place to get your passport to dive around the world! Combining a mixture of scuba theory lessons and 4 awesome open water dives you'll enjoy a whole host of aquatic adventures as you practice your new found skill in the stunning oceans off Koh Tao. Learning to dive is not only fun and a unique way to make firm new friends, it's also a great way to gain a new certified skill which means you can now dive your way around the world! If you would like to get your PADI Open Water certificate then please select the option that includes this course when you book this trip with Gap 360 (extra cost). We can pre-book your course at our dive school and you'll be a water baby in no time! Please click here for important information about the learn to dive course: Diving code of conduct. Please Note: If you suffer from asthma, you will unfortunately not be eligible to scuba dive. The dive option starts on day 17 and runs over 4 days. Participants should bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen and sunglasses. The itinerary for the dive programme is as follows: 7/23

8 Day 17: You will be picked up at and enjoy an orientation and dive videos to get you in the mood to begin your dive training. The dive orientation will end by 7p.m. and you will be dropped off at your hotel. Days 18 & 19: You ll need to be ready to go by 7.45a.m. You ll be collected and taken for some initial training before hopping onto the boat at 10a.m. for your confined water training and one open water dive per day. You ll be back on dry land by 4p.m. and be returned to your hotel around 5p.m. Day 20: An earlier start today sees you collected at 7.15a.m. and you ll go out on the boat to complete open water dives 3 & 4. The boat returns at noon and you will fill out the paperwork to get your PADI certification! A dive video of your group may be shot and if so, you will be invited to watch it in the evening over a drink with your group. PLEASE SPEAK TO A TRAVEL ADVISOR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK THE LEARN TO DIVE ADD-ON. Day 21: 22-day adventure ends/29-day adventure transfers to Koh Phangan 22-day adventure Depart from Koh Tao and return to Bangkok 29-day adventure Head across to the party island of Koh Phangan! If you have chosen the 22-day trip you ll leave Koh Tao today and head back to Bangkok on an inclusive boat and bus transfer. Your guide will give you your boat and bus tickets and you'll travel independently back to Bangkok with your other group members. The bus will drop you back on the Khao San Road in Bangkok where you will spend one final, inclusive night in the same accommodation where you spent your first night on the trip, a few minutes walk from Khao San Road itself. If you booked the 29-day option, you will island-hop to the next idyllic Thai island stop-off, Koh Phangan, arriving this evening. Day 22: Bangkok (22-day adventure only) Now it is time to fly home, or explore onwards through Asia, taking with you amazing memories of your 22-day Thai adventure! Day 22-25: Koh Phangan 8/23

9 Enjoy 4 glorious days with your group and guide on the party island of Koh Phangan. Laze your days away in a haze of sun, sea and sand, making the most of the waters which lap against the ivory shores. Try a spot of scuba diving or snorkelling, sail around the islands, or just soak up some rays with a well deserved cocktail. We use a number of resorts for travellers to stay in, all located on the same beautiful beach. Your guide can help you choose from some exciting optional activities available on this ultimate party island - There s so much to do you ll be spoilt for choice! Optional activities include: Angthong National Park: Full day trip around 2,000THB per person (approx 40) Sea Kayaking: 150THB an hour (approx 3) or 500THB a day (approx 10) Kiteboarding: 1 day introductory courses cost around 4,000THB (Approx 75) Wakeboarding: Courses cost between THB (around 38-75) Thai Cooking classes. Canopy tour: Costs around 800THB (approx 15) Koh Phangan Wipeout course: Costs 500THB (approx 10) for the day (excluding transport) Muay Thai Boxing Yoga courses Trekking: Don't miss the island's 7 stunning waterfalls - trek to them all and tick them off the list! Visit Koh Ma: Snorkel, swim and relax in this idyllic out-of-the-way spot. Please note: All optional activities will be at your own cost. This laid-back paradise island is also famous for hosting the world famous Full Moon, Black Moon and Half Moon parties and we try to plan most of our start dates to coincide with a chance to enjoy one of these events. Either of these party experiences would round off your Thai Adventure in serious style and be a truly unforgettable experience, one you'll be buzzing about for years to come. The Full Moon Party is held at Haad Rin beach on the island of Koh Phangan. People from all over the world come every month for this unforgettable night; expect to see anywhere from 10,000 30,000 people! You will find everything from trance to reggae being played from dusk until the sun rises the next morning. Entry costs approx. 2-3 The Black Moon Party is an amazing beach party experience and is known as one of Koh Phangan s best outdoor parties. The Black Moon Party hosts a night filled with the latest trance music from Thai and International residents, and guest DJs. Entry costs approx The Half Moon Party is the coolest music party on Koh Phangan. Top DJs play fantastic sets and the forest setting creates a buzzing, intimate vibe. This awesome party is the ultimate in offthe-beaten track adventures, quality music and all-night dancing! Entry costs approx /23

10 You will stay in gorgeous accommodation overlooking Baan Tai beach. This beautiful accommodation is just a 20-minute taxi ride from the location of the Full Moon Party and just minutes away from the Black Moon Party and Half Moon Party. You're never far from the action on Koh Phangan! Please note: We try our best to plan our start dates to coincide with a Moon Party but this is not always possible. Attendance is not included as part of the Thai Adventure and due to changing circumstances in Thailand, party dates are subject to change and cancellation at short notice. There is no guarantee that your trip will coincide with a party and Gap 360 cannot take responsibility if your trip dates do not coincide with a Moon Party. Please contact your travel advisor to check whether your trip coincides with a party. Day 26: Transfer to Koh Phi Phi From one side of Thailand to the other! Head across Thailand to the iconic Koh Phi Phi, an island of perfect beaches sparkling blue seas. Arrive mid/late afternoon and settle into your beachside accommodation. Freshen up in the pool, or head straight to the sea and chill out in the gentle waves. Then get dressed up for your first night out in Phi Phi! Day 27-28: Koh Phi Phi The next two days are dedicated to this gorgeous island. Spend your time as you wish, either relaxing on the warm white sands or exploring the island and taking part in the amazing activities that can be found along the coast. Don t miss the spectacular curving shoreline of Maya Bay. Film fans will recognise this stunning location from the Leonardo Di Caprio film The Beach! This is a perfect spot for sun-soaking and relaxation and it is also one of the most popular snorkelling areas in Phi Phi. The coastal cliffs are beautiful below the water and you may find shoals of shimmering glassfish in the natural underwater tunnels that have formed over the years. When night falls the beaches are aglow with vibrant bars and clubs. Head down for a drink by the sea and watch the fire dancers spinning in the sand. Or, for a different experience, why not head over to the famous Reggae Bar and cheer along to its live boxing matches? Day 29: Koh Phi Phi It s time to say goodbye to this incredible Thai Adventure. Check out is at 11am and you can then depart at any time so spend some more time chilling on the beach or head off straight away for more travel adventures. Return airport transfers are not included as part of this trip but are easy to arrange. We recommend you take a short ferry ride across to Phuket and fly home from Phuket Airport. Ferries between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket depart fairly regularly across the day so you can depart when most suits you. Speak to us about your onward travel plans and we can advise you about your best transfer options. 10/23

11 Visit Vietnam Why not combine your Thai Adventure with our brilliant 12-day Vietnam Adventure? For more information on this incredible combo programme please check out our Vietnam & Thailand Adventure. More Adventures Fancy extending your adventure? Why not explore more of Southeast Asia and join our Bali Intro tour? Discover beautiful beaches, lush forests and epic parties - you ll even get up close to some cheeky monkeys in Monkey Forest! Alternatively, why not head down to Australia and earn some cash in the sun! Our Absolute Oz Jobs package sets you up with everything you need to find a great job Down Under! Thai Adventure Itinerary - From 15th March 2018 Choose from two options: Option 1: 18-day Thai Adventure ending on Koh Phangan Option 2: 29-day Thai Adventure ending on Koh Tao Day 1: Bangkok Touch down on Thailand s tropical soil and be met by one of our trip guides. Taking your first breaths of Bangkok air, your senses will come alive as you re transported through the boisterous and bustling streets of Thailand s crazy capital city. Your guesthouse is located close to Khao San Road, a buzzing street famed for its popularity with travellers and its position as a starting point for many Thai trekkers. Khao San Road is a lively hub of atmospheric attractions, turning from a quiet Bangkok street in the day, to a carnival of neon and music at night. Loud, proud and well-endowed with shops, bars and restaurants, you can find everything you need amongst this explosion of nightlife. Whether you re looking for a market, a club, an internet café, a party or even a late-night Boots chemist, Khao San Road will meet your every desire! Don t worry if you re travelling alone you ll soon have met a whole tour group of travelling friends at your accommodation! Your accommodation is located around 5 minutes from the main strip, and is well known for being the cooler end of Khao San. With jazz bars and live Thai music joints on your doorstep, this chilled out hub throws you straight into Thai Adventure living! Day 2: Explore Bangkok s culture & attractions 11/23

12 Get to know Bangkok on two wheels today as you join a bicycle tour of the city. Navigate the narrow city streets and pass by temples, rivers and palaces. This is a fantastic way to feel part of the city and see Thailand s awesome capital up close! Return to the hotel this afternoon and pack up ready for an overnight bus or train journey up to Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand. Day 3: Chiang Mai and Cookery Class An early arrival in Chiang Mai means time to check in and relax at your lovely guesthouse. Take a dip in the swimming pool, laze in the sunshine or head out and explore Chiang Mai. In the evening, you ll learn how to cook some of Thailand s iconic and delicious dishes in an authentic cookery class. Prepare between 3 and 5 tasty dishes and then tuck in and eat what you ve made! Afterwards, there s still time to head out and hit the glittering nightspots of Chiang Mai. Day 4: Meet the Elephants at an incredible Elephant Home! Travel out of Chiang Mai early this morning for an unforgettable elephant experience! Journey into the stunning Thai countryside and spend a day getting up close to elephants at a nearby elephant home. This incredible elephant home is working hard to be at the forefront of new ways of elephant interaction and moving away from the more traditional elephant trekking activities to create a far more authentic elephant experience. Thai attitudes to elephants are changing for the better, and this elephant home cares for elephants without allowing visitors to ride them. You will be staying in simple huts that are located on the grounds of the elephant home - so you ll be sleeping right next to the elephants! After settling into your hut and sharing a tasty lunch, meet your new elephant neighbours and help feed them before walking them through the surrounding countryside to a nearby river. Here you will bathe the elephants in the cool river waters and then lead them back to the home. Spend the rest of the afternoon marvelling at these powerful animals in the tranquil surroundings of the home, while helping the mahouts maintain the crops and unload the grass and cane feed. You'll also help make vitamin cakes from raw materials that help keep the elephants healthy! As the sun begins to set, relax by your huts and enjoy dinner with your group while watching the herd. Then, stretch out in bed and fall asleep to the soft music of elephant snores! Days 5 & 6: Hill Trek 12/23

13 Trekking in the hills of northern Thailand is a must-do experience when visiting this beautiful country. You will spend two days and one night trekking through jungles and mountains, being blown away by the spectacular scenery, and meandering along mountainsides filled with rice fields, rivers and waterfalls. Treat yourself to some of Thailand s most sensational views as you scale the heights of the Thai hills and plunge into lush jungles on this top Thai trekking experience. Day 1 of the trek takes around 4 6 hours but includes lots of stops and rest points, day 2 is around 1 2 hours (including stops). The guides always go at a very comfortable speed and the distances are not too far at all so don t worry if you re not an experienced hiker This group trek also takes time to enjoy all the beautiful sights along the way. You don t need any special equipment and sturdy trainers or hiking boots are suitable footwear. Your luggage will be looked after for you so you only need to carry a small daypack during the trek. Overnight accommodation is provided in a rustic retreat. Bunk down in your hut for a night under the Thai stars. You ll complete your trekking experience on the afternoon of day 6, after an exciting bamboo rafting adventure! Then, spend a final afternoon and evening in the company of the elephants. Please note: The bamboo rafting experience is dependent on favourable weather conditions. Days 7 & 8: Chiang Mai After the morning spent at the elephant home. it s time to say goodbye to your elephant friends and head over to Chiang Mai. Arriving in the afternoon you ll have some free time to explore this fantastic city and see why it s known as Thailand s cultural capital. On day 8 you ll visit Doi Suthep, home of the most iconic temple in Chiang Mai at the top of over 300 steps giving great views of the area well worth the climb. In the evening, you and the group will be given a guided tour of the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, one of the city's main nighttime attractions. You ll get to see Chiang Mai at her bargaining best as you enjoy after-hours charm in this hectic peddler s paradise. Illuminating the alleys and arcades which cross Chang Klan Road, these legendary stalls and shops are home to many merchants and shopkeepers hawking their goods in a battle of bartering and banter, making Chiang Mai an essential stop-off for any serious shopper! Grab bespoke bargains, jewellery and antiquated rarities at the Night Bazaar, where you can find anything and everything you want for a price. Don't be afraid to barter yourself a range of souvenirs and trinkets, from a tailor-made suit, to exquisite Asian silver jewellery and a range of traditional foods, clothes, handicrafts and accessories. Please note: Any optional activities you choose to do in Chiang Mai are at your own cost and are not included in the price. Your guide can recommend places for you to visit and they can also help you make your travel arrangements. Day 9: Return to Bangkok 13/23

14 Say goodbye to Northern Thailand and hop on a short flight down to the bright lights of Bangkok. You ll return to the same guesthouse near Khao San Road. After time to freshen up, you can head out and hit the town to enjoy Bangkok s legendary nightlife! Day 10: Bangkok Guided Tour Get to know Bangkok and explore the major tourist attractions and must see-sights on a Bangkok tour. Begin your day in style on a long-tail boat ride, where you ll drift along the waterways of the city, spying temples and markets as you cruise the canals. With riverside views and access to the capital s more secluded architectural wonders, you ll gain a floating perspective on Thai life, seeing saffron robed monks at canal side temples and local women gliding by selling fruit, noodles, and other exotic delicacies. Your destination is the awesome temple of Wat Pho, which is the original location of the traditional Thai massage, where you can see the vast reclining gold Buddha. You ll also visit the Buddhist site of Wat Arun, romantically known as the Temple of the Dawn which shimmers with mother-of-pearl, and also enjoy an optional visit to the stunning Grand Palace, with its breathtaking temples, shining golden statues, and the famous Emerald Buddha. Round off the day with a night out partying on the legendary Khao San Road and you ll have packed in the best of Bangkok! Tonight, your guide will take you out to some of Bangkok s best kept bar secrets. Enjoy a few drinks and chat the night away with your group. Please note: Entrance fees to the Grand Palace and the surrounding temples are not included in the trip price so you should budget around today for these visits. Day 11: Fly to Krabi, Transfer to Railay Depart Bangkok this morning and transfer down to Krabi, home to Thailand s greatest beaches! Think white sands, soaring cliffs and calm turquoise waters! On arrival at Krabi airport, you ll transfer down to Railay Beach. This exquisite shoreline is off-the-scale gorgeous. A gentle arc of white sand meets lapping blue sea, all framed by lush green trees and dramatic cliff faces. Kick off your time here in style with some sunset drinks on the beach. Life just got really good! Day 12: Caves, Islands and Snorkelling Enjoy a full day in the beautiful surroundings of Railay Beach. Explore the coast from the water with an included boat trip that takes in some of the beautiful caves and islands that can be found in this area. You will also enjoy some snorkelling opportunities in the sparkling sea. Spend the rest of the day stretched out on the beach soaking up the sun. Heaven! Day 13: Transfer to Phi Phi 14/23

15 It s time to leave the Thai mainland behind and discover the country s fantastic islands. First up: Koh Phi Phi. You ll travel across to the island by ferry, and this journey is a fantastic experience in itself. Pass by sleepy islands and small rocks and then keep a look out as Phi Phi materializes on the horizon. You ll want to capture this amazing island on your camera. Once you arrive, you ll settle into your accommodation and get into the island rhythm of life. When night falls the beaches are aglow with vibrant bars and clubs. Head down for a drink by the sea and watch the fire dancers spinning in the sand. Or, for a different experience, why not head over to the famous Reggae Bar and cheer along to its live boxing matches? Day 14: Island Boat Trip A real treat today as you embark on a spectacular island boat trip. Stop off for a spot of snorkeling and then visit legendary Maya Bay. Film fans will recognise this stunning location from the Leonardo Di Caprio film The Beach! This is a perfect spot for sun-soaking and relaxation and it is also one of the most popular snorkelling areas in Phi Phi. The coastal cliffs are beautiful below the water and you may find shoals of shimmering glassfish in the natural underwater tunnels that have formed over the years. The day ends with sunset drinks and another crack at Phi Phi s nightlife. Day 15: Viewpoint Visit Slow down the pace today and enjoy a long lie-in, a casual morning and a chilled-out afternoon. Later today, you ll enjoy a walk up to the island s best viewpoint for an epic view, and then it s time to do it all over again at the beachside bars! Day 16: Transfer to Koh Phangan Time to swap Koh Phi Phi for Koh Phangan. Transfer by boat, coach and boat again and prepare for 4 glorious days ahead. Laze your days away in a haze of sun, sea and sand, making the most of the waters which lap against the ivory shores. Try a spot of scuba diving or snorkelling, sail around the islands, or just soak up some rays with a well-deserved cocktail. Day 17-20: Koh Phangan Living/ 18-day Adventure ends Please Note: The 18-day Thai Adventure ends on the morning of day 18. Check out is at 11am. A return transfer is not included but is easy to arrange. Your guide will be on hand to help you organize onward travel. All 18-day trips will include the traditional Thai massage. Over the next 4 days you ll enjoy a range of awesome activities on Koh Phangan, including a traditional Thai massage, a visit to a secret beach and an island tour. Most trips also coincide with an epic Moon Party. The exact timing of the activities on these days will depend on when the Moon Party falls. About the Moon Parties 15/23

16 We try to plan most of our start dates to coincide with a chance to enjoy a Full Moon, Black Moon or Half Moon Party. Either of these party experiences would round off your Thai Adventure in serious style and be a truly unforgettable experience, one you'll be buzzing about for years to come. The Full Moon Party is held at Haad Rin beach on the island of Koh Phangan. People from all over the world come every month for this unforgettable night; expect to see anywhere from 10,000 30,000 people! You will find everything from trance to reggae being played from dusk until the sun rises the next morning. Entry costs approx. 2-3 The Black Moon Party is an amazing beach party experience and is known as one of Koh Phangan s best outdoor parties. The Black Moon Party hosts a night filled with the latest trance music from Thai and International residents, and guest DJs. Entry costs approx The Half Moon Party is the coolest music party on Koh Phangan. Top DJs play fantastic sets and the forest setting creates a buzzing, intimate vibe. This awesome party is the ultimate in offthe-beaten track adventures, quality music and all-night dancing! Entry costs approx You will stay in gorgeous accommodation overlooking Baan Tai beach. This beautiful accommodation is just a 20-minute taxi ride from the location of the Full Moon Party and just minutes away from the Black Moon Party and Half Moon Party. You're never far from the action on Koh Phangan! Please note: We try our best to plan our start dates to coincide with a Moon Party but this is not always possible. Attendance is not included as part of the Thai Adventure and due to changing circumstances in Thailand, party dates are subject to change and cancellation at short notice. There is no guarantee that your trip will coincide with a party and Gap 360 cannot take responsibility if your trip dates do not coincide with a Moon Party. Please contact your travel advisor to check whether your trip coincides with a party. Day 21: Transfer to Samui Another day, another paradise island! Take a short ferry ride across to Koh Samui and check into your accommodation for the next four nights. Day 22: Dam! 16/23

17 Today you re heading into the forest to take part in a fantastic dam building project on Koh Samui. You will help build small dams with rocks, sand, PVC pipes and cement, which help with the water management of streams in Koh Samui's stunning inland forest areas; one of the island's most amazing locations. You'll be supervised every step of the way, and will help out until round lunchtime, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy the incredible surroundings of Koh Samui. Groups can usually complete a dam in one day giving you the satisfaction that you have made a small but important benefit to the ecology of the island. You can even leave your name scratched into the dam and become a part of Thailand! When you return, you ll have the evening free to head out for some drinks with your group and enjoy the incredible island nightlife. Enjoy an epic party at Ark Bar, Koh Samui s most famous beachside venue! Don t worry you have a free day tomorrow to recover! Day 23: Chill on Koh Samui Today is all about taking a step back and relaxing in your gorgeous island surroundings. Wake up late and head down to the beach. Life doesn t get much better than this! Please note if a Moon Party falls when you are on Koh Samui it is very easy to get to the party location on Koh Phangnan. Most travellers usually go to the parties, and the guide is on hand to help you get there! The ferry transfer to and from Koh Phangnan is not included in the trip cost however tickets are normally around 5-10 each way. It is your responsibility to get to and from your accommodation to the Moon Party and tickets and entry to a Moon Party are not included as part of your Thai Adventure. Day 24: Angthong National Marine Park Prepare for one of the most beautiful places in the world; Angthong Marine Park is a stunning stretch of forest-covered islands, shimmering turquoise waters, gleaming white beaches, and majestic cave systems. You ll spend the day here kayaking around the islands, cooling off in the sea water and drinking in the unbelievable landscapes. Enjoy your final night on Koh Samui before you jump across to Koh Tao in the morning! Please note that the visit to Angthong Marine Park on day 24 is weather dependent and subject to last minute closures by local authorities. If the day trip is unable to go ahead a snorkelling day trip to the waters around Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao will take place instead. On very rare occasions if there are extreme weather conditions and no boats are able to run then no water based activities will take place on this day. Days 25-28: Chill out on Koh Tao 17/23

18 On day 25 you will hop across from Koh Samui to the neighbouring island of Koh Tao, for a few days of relaxing beach time. Spend the next five days treading softly along creamy white sands, lapped by the gently rolling and rippling Gulf of Thailand, as you relax in the haven of Koh Tao. Staying close to a beautiful beach, you also have all the best bars and restaurants on your doorstep during your stay on the island. The beaches and coastline of Koh Tao hide a vast array of activities, so when you re not slumbering sweetly in your guesthouse you can spend your days in a tranquil haze of diving, snorkelling and downtime on the beach, or get your adrenaline pumping with some rock climbing or abseiling. Snorkelling tours are a popular pastime, as is kayaking and other water sports. Muay Thai boxing training is another popular optional activity and you can take a five-day course teaching you all the tricks of Muay Thai in this exotic tropical location. Or you can just relax and chill out at a yoga lesson or indulge in a spa or a traditional Thai massage for the ultimate in island relaxation. Please note that all optional activities will be at an extra cost. On day 27, you ll enjoy a fantastic island boat trip taking in all the best snorkeling and kayaking spots as well as the stunning Koh Ngan Yuan. On day 28, you ll have the opportunity to join the legendary Koh Tao Pub Crawl along Sairee Beach. Day 29: Tour Ends Your amazing month of Thai travels have come to an end! Your tour finishes today on Koh Tao. A return transfer is not included but is easy to arrange. Your guide can help you book a transfer back to Bangkok. Optional Add-On: Learn to Dive on Koh Tao Never been diving before? Koh Tao is the place to learn! Extend your time in Thailand and book our fantastic Learn to Dive programme! Combining a mixture of scuba theory lessons and 4 awesome open water dives you'll enjoy a whole host of aquatic adventures as you practice your new-found skill in the stunning oceans off Koh Tao. Find out more about our Learn to Dive Thailand Programme. Arrival Information Arrival/Departure information until 14th March 2018 Arrival/Departure information from 15th March /23

19 Arrival/Departure information - Until 14th March 2018 Arrival Arrange your flights to arrive in Bangkok on day 1 of your tour. You will be met at the airport by your group leader, who will take you to your hotel and introduce you to the rest of your group. Please note that airport transfers are only available between 6am and 10pm and only from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK). If you arrive outside of these hours (or at Bangkok s other smaller airport (Don Muang (DMK)) you will need to take a taxi to your hotel, which is very easy to arrange. Departure Return airport transfers are not included as part of this trip but are easy to arrange: The 22-day adventure ends in Bangkok. There are regular public transport links from the city to the airport, or you could jump in a taxi from your accommodation. Your guide can advise you about your best transfer options. You can leave at any time on your final day. The 29-day adventure ends on Koh Phi Phi. A return transfer is not included but is really simple to arrange. There are two options for your return transfer: 1) You can book an all-inclusive transfer from Koh Phi Phi pier to Bangkok Airport through a local airline. This includes a ferry and a flight to Don Muang Airport in Bangkok, and you are guided throughout the journey. You will then just need to take a taxi or bus from Don Muang Airport to the main international Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi). 2) Alternatively, you can take a short ferry ride across to Phuket or Krabi and fly home from Phuket Airport/Krabi Airport. Ferries from Koh Phi Phi depart regularly across the day so you can depart when most suits you. There are international flights departing from Phuket and we recommend you fly out of Phuket the following day. More detailed instructions will be provided after booking, and your guide will be on hand to give you information about return transfers once you arrive. Arrival/Departure information - From 15th March /23

20 Arrival Arrange your flights to arrive in Bangkok on day 1 of your tour. You will be met at the airport by your group leader, who will take you to your hotel and introduce you to the rest of your group. Please note that airport transfers are only available between 6am and 10pm and only from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK). If you arrive outside of these hours (or at Bangkok s other smaller airport (Don Muang (DMK)) you will need to take a taxi to your hotel, which is very easy to arrange. Departure If you have booked the 18-day tour, your trip ends on Koh Phangan on day 18. If you have booked the 29-day tour, your trip ends on Koh Tao on day 29. Return transfers to Bangkok are not included as part of this trip but are easy to arrange. The most common return transfer options are: 1. Ferry/coach combination 2. Ferry/flight combination You can then fly home (or to your next destination) from Bangkok. More detailed instructions will be provided after booking, and your guide will be on hand to give you information about return transfers once you arrive. Accommodation & Meals Accommodation is included for the full duration of the tour. For the majority of the trip your accommodation will be in twin or triple shared guesthouse rooms. When in Bangkok, you will stay in a guesthouse close to Khao San Road, famed for its backpacker popularity and its position as a starting point for many Thai trekkers. You will stay in authentic Thai accommodation at the elephant park, in dorm-style rooms with mosquito nets. This is basic, but comfortable. In Chiang Mai, you will stay at a lovely guesthouse which is a short walk from the night market and Tha Phae Gate area. 20/23

21 On Koh Samui, you stay in a more chilled out area of Bangrak. If you wish to hit the main beach for some late night partying a tuktuk will take around 20 minutes. As the dam building project is located close by, you get to really experience a difference pace of Thai life. Koh Tao is all about activities, you have plenty of free time to chill on the beach which is a few minutes walk from your accommodation or relax by the pool. For those who want some action there are a host of optional extra activities you can book locally. On Koh Phangan the accommodation overlooks the white sands of Baan Tai Beach. Here you can chill out by the pool, grab a few drinks in the bar or enjoy a dip in the turquoise sea. If your trip coincides with a Full Moon Party, your accommodation is just a 20-minute taxi ride away from the party beach. Split between your group, the cost of this journey will be approximately 2 each! This means you can easily head out for an unforgettable night and then retreat to your chilled-out beach-front accommodation to recover. And if your trip coincides with a Half or Black Moon Party the festivities are right on your doorstep! You re never far from the action on Koh Phangan! On the tropical paradise that is Phi Phi, you will stay at a resort 10 minutes from the ferry port and beach with it's own pool! Please note: In some of the hotels along the way, you may be asked to pay a security deposit of around 15 to 20, which is standard practice across Thailand. These deposits are fully refundable on departure, as long as there is no damage to your room. Please note: All accommodation is subject to change dependent on group size, season and other factors. Most meals and drinks are not included, except meals at the Elephant Park and during the Hill Trek. This provides an excellent opportunity to engage with local people at restaurants and market stalls and to sample authentic local cuisine. Food in Southeast Asia is very cheap so eating out won t break the bank! From 15th March 2018 Onwards You will also visit Krabi, and you will stay in shared rooms with air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and Wi-Fi available. There are also a few more meal and drink inclusions. Minimum age & eligibility The minimum age to join this tour is 18. British nationals can enter Thailand without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days if arriving by air. 21/23

22 If you wish to extend your stay beyond these time boundaries, or plan to begin employed work during your stay, then you will need to apply for a visa before you depart the UK. If you are not planning on working this will be a 60 day tourist visa. Please note: for 15th March 2018 start dates onwards we will require a photo or scanned copy of your passport to be able to confirm your trip. This is due to internal flights being included on the trip. Group Size Maximum group size 26. What's Included Until 14th March 2018 Personal airport greeting on arrival Transfers to your hotel in Bangkok Access to a buddy list before you travel Bangkok city tour 28 nights total accommodation (4 week option) or 21 nights (3 week option) Some meals An elephant experience Bamboo rafting 2 days of trekking in the hills in Northern Thailand Chiang Mai night market & temple tour Cookery class in Chiang Mai Dam building project on Koh Samui Angthong National Marine Park visit A Koh Tao island beach break A stay on the famous island of Koh Phangan (29 day option) Koh Phi Phi stay (29 day option only) A return transfer to Bangkok (22 day option) PADI Open Water certificate if you choose the learn to dive option 24 hour emergency support From 15th March 2018 Personal airport greeting on arrival Transfers to your hotel in Bangkok Access to a buddy list before you travel 22/23