Thailand Experience

Amazing culture, best coordinators, great friendships, partying but also rewarding

The Tiger Temple, Spending a few nights in the jungle, visiting the dream orphanage, parties at Haadrin

Be flexible (the itinerary will change) Try everything on offer Have fun

Yes

Yes

friends for life stay with me forever you wont wnt to leave soak it all up!

the tiger sanctuary, working on a house in the jungle for the village leader, the waterfalls, the various nights out, elephant riding and the most important thing was meeting life long friends

take a backpack. make sure you dont overpack on clothes because you will buy so much out there and most importantly give everything a try and seriously soak it all up!

Yes

Yes

hilarious, amazing, life changing, unforgettable, action packed, exciting, cultured, perfect.

Ideally i'd like to say all of it, but in order to be helpful, I'd say my favourite day was when we went elephant trekking and then helped out in dreamhouse orphanage. That was a great day. Spending a few nights in the jungle was incredible too, we worked hard in the day building a chicken pen and farming the rice for the school, but we were rewarded with delicous home made food and were able to relax in the night with the help of the bar. I love that this trip has given me a real insight into thai life and especially the two weeks spent in Sangklaburi I really began to feel at home and settle into the culture. It was great being able to walk down to the lake here and just spend our free time all chilling out by this beautiful lakeside and everyone must get a banana shake up at the guest house!

Spending time at the orphanage and in the childcare centre have undoubtedly changed my outlook on everything, i know thats cliche to say but they really have. I feel way more aware of the variation between our systems and theirs and also just seeing the smiles on the childrens faces despite their past histories is amazing. Definitely do this. Another top tip is dont be afraid to go alone, I am 18, just come out of school and wanted to travel but had no friends who could come with me. And after possibly two/three days I felt like some of the people on the trip were old friends and this made the experience incredible. You dont need a lot of spending money because food, drink and most activities are really cheap. However, there are some things that youve got to pay for that you may not expect (this was never a problem but im just saying) so for example, some activities that you pay for in the package are planned but the actual transport may not be paid for so you'll have to pay for this. Or perhaps, lunch isnt included on a day trip so youll have to pay for this. One other tip, sorry i know you said three, but girls, id carry toilet roll around in your bags if you go on a day trip or for the 16 hour bus trip to koh phangan because thai toilets just dont have toilet paper!

Yes

Yes

Best time of my life, made so many good friends!

Visiting the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburi.

The money suggested to take is not enough if you want to make the most of your trip. Try to pack lightly At night stay in groups and take care of valuables.

Yes

Yes

Best month of my life! Totally worthwhile and unforgettable!!

Best bits were easily the project work in theParanoik jungle village. Loved it!

-100% Deet no less -girls, pack more t shirts that cover shoulders for villages -Do ALL of the tiger temple, scary but worth it.

Yes

Yes

Hot, lovely country and amazing culture.

Elephant riding, learning to Scuba dive on Koh Phangnan and Staying right on the beach, partying on Hadrin beach.

Bring enough tops that cover your shoulders, don't bring a bag that's too heavy, make sure you have long light trousers for the trek through the jungle!

Yes

Yes

Amazing, just do it!

Enjoyed almost all of it to be honest. The elephant riding and meeting loads of new people and making many new friends!

Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to pack and think of everything you will need. Dont leave it all to the last min

Yes

Yes

best time of my life, made amazing people and lifelong friends!

Kanchanburi- sugar member bar, tiger temple. The food!! Full moon party, our travel coordinator

Brings lots of extra money Wear lots of insect repellant and sunscreen Bargain bargain bargain!

Yes

Yes

Fantastic trip, everything I wanted, made some amazing new friends.

I enjoyed every second of the trip it's too difficult to pick a highlight. Beach and party week was obviously fabulous as well as the elephant rides and water falls, but I would have to say the volunteering and the cultural experience found in Sanglabuhri was amazing. It really felt like our work made a difference to the lives of others and has really opened my eyes and made me more appreciative of what we have in the u.k. I have come away determined to do more fundraising so the money can be used at Dreamhouse.

Take a travel diary. Be prepared to be moved by some experiences. Don't be scared of going on your own - friends are so easy to make on the trip.

Yes

Yes

Seeing a lot of Thailand, the food! Volunteering with the kids, meeting new people.

Yes

Yes

meeting new people and experiencing things that i never new about

do it do it do it

Yes

Yes

All the great people i met, working with the orphans at Dreamhouse, Jungle trek and elephant trek, the Erawan Waterfalls, the Border Market and the Grand Palace. Kai Jae Waritsara Kaewkumla (our team leader) was amazing, especially considering it was her first ever group! 

- Pack as lightly as you can, so you can take advantage of all the amazing shopping opportunities. - Never walk alone or in small groups at night, and only ever carry your valuables in money belts, not shoulder bags, one of my friends was mugged as she had a shoulder bag on and lost all her valuables. -Bring lots of mosquito repellent and sun cream, you will still burn badly even if its cloudy!

Yes

Yes

elephant trekking, dreamhouse, jungle trekking, haad rin beach, koh phangan as a whole!

bring a suitcase instead of a backpack get a waterproof case for camera come with an open mind, charisma and willingness to help

Yes

Yes

The four locations we stayed at were amazing and really different! The people in our group were lovely and our co-ordinator Kai Jae was excellent!!! I loved the elephant trek and dreamhouse orphanage, as well as Koh Phangan!

Everything, especially spending time in the dream house.

Waterfalls, elephant trekking, water pipe building, half moon party.

Orphanage work, elephant treck, waterfall trecks, the whole week in Koh Pa Ngan. The nature and attitude of the starfish group leaders; Wisan, Meaw and Lucy.

Yes

Yes

There were numerous highlights! I absolutely loved going to the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburi and the whole time there was amazing. Also, in Sanglaburi, I found the visits to the Dream House were so touching and really worthwhile. The elephant trek was also the experience of a lifetime and the day at the Nature Club was one of my favourite days. Our coordinator, Pond, absolutely made the trip for me - his personality had us laughing everyday and he kept me going through the volunteer work with his lighthearted attitude. Lucy was also excellent during our time in the jungle.

Tiger Temple Full Moon Party Dreamhouse Orphange - I learnt so many valuble lessons whilst working with orphans, never take your family for granted because you never know what is round the corner. Pond! Our group co-ordinator War Memorial and Cemetry

Pond- He really made the trip for me. His energy and personality made the group bond and feel really comfortable. He was always there if you needed him for anything (even a hug). Lucy/ Meaw were brilliant too. Lucy was amazing for volunteering and Meaw was amazing in the first week. All the events that were organised.

too many to say

just do it!

Yes

Yes

The friends you meet, the leaders and Thailand is amazing for young travelers!!

The tiger temple was along with the jungle trek, volunteering and the elephant rides.

Yes

Yes

KATOON was by far the highlight of the whole trip! an amazing tour guide! apart from him, bangkok was amazing as was koh phangan.

pack light, you buy alot. take old clothes to leave behind WEAR PROPER SHOES IF DOING ADV OPTION!

Yes

Yes

I oved moving around from one place to another however i felt that 2 weeks in Sangkhlaburi was possibly too long, personally i enjoyed it there however i felt that we could have used some of the time spent there to see another place in Thailand. I loved getting to know the other people on my trip and i felt that we had ample opportunities to do so. I felt that our guides Katoon Meaw Lucy and Sasha were all really useful and more than willing to help us if we had any queries or problems. Overall, i loved the trip and would love to do a similar trip but in a different country again.

Everytime there is an optional extra, take it; its better to do everything and know what you enjoyed than to regret going all that way and not doing it!

Yes

our tour guides, katoon and meow, were real good so its hard to choose one but i'd have to say the tiger temple was amazing experience as was teaching. I really enjoyed spending time at dreamhouse, while the last week on the beach was definitely fun as well.

i recommend bring a backpack stick with it, do everything thats available, make the best out of it go out and have a good time, get to know the people in your group they're likely to be real cool.

Yes

tiger temple elephant trekking volunteer work

visiting dreamhouse, jungle water pipe work and trek, snorkelling and scuba diving, visiting temples etc, elephant ride, nature club.

Yes

Yes

I loved the community project of the adventure option in Sangkhlaburi and the jungle trek! The last week in Koh Phangan was a much needed break and there was still loads to do! The week in Kanchanaburi (week 1) was my favourite. We did loads of different activities and still had time to relax around the pool and party (loads). The best month of my life!

Yes

Yes

Tiger Temple has got to be one of the most amazing life changing things I have ever done. Had there been a bit mentioned about it in the itinerary eg. whilst in kanchanaburi there is tiger temple available, that would have made it easier to prepare for the cost of it. My co-ordinator Puuki was a highlight, seriously fantastic woman - could not have done enough for us! she was really ill during the last week but was still on top form!! Full Moon as well!!

Yes

Yes

Highlights were the elephant trek, erawan waterfall and the jungle trek!

Prepare for rain ( I didn't!) Don't take valuables out in Ko Phangan Keep an open mind

No

Yes

The highlights were visiting the orphanage, trekking in the jungle, visiting the tiger temple on our day off and Full Moon!!

Our tour rep - Puukkii was amazing and made the trip enjoyable for everyone. She is approachable, well organised and great to be around! I loved the tiger temple, erawan waterfalls, adventure option, Dreamhouse and all the amazing friends made

There were so many!!! My top 3 though have to be: 1) Elephant trekking- that was an amazing experience, even if it was in the rain!!! 2) DREAMHouse- going to the orphanage to help out was a humbling experience, these kids are amazing and so is the woman who runs it! 3) Erawan Waterfalls- It was beautiful, and the fact you get to swim in a waterfall like this makes it worthwhile!

Yes

Yes

I loved trekking in the jungle- it is not something that many people can say. I also really liked seeing really Thai areas and communities, with nothing touristy about them, it felt authentic and I feel that I can say I really saw Thailand.

Erawan waterfalls All of the time in Sangkhalburi Visiting DREAMHOUSE The co-ordinators; Meaw, Lucy, Pond, Jay and special mention for Katoon.

Yes

Yes

There are too many!!! I loved the trekking, it rised above my expectations, and i wanted to do it for weeks on end! I really enjoyed all the visits to the temples, rafting, elephant trekking, and the volunteering was so rewarding!

Elephant trekking was awesome as was the day out to the nature club and water parks...

Do not leave your flip flops behind. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be responsible in Koh Phan Gan

Yes

Yes

There really were so many highlights, the whole experience was amazing. The elephant trekking was one of my favourites. The community placement was also a great experience, the whole group worked together to get as much done as we could, and although it was hard work, we felt that we'd made a difference and it was appreciated.

1. You can never have enough repellant, but buy it when you get there because it's much cheaper than at home. 2. Try everything, it's what you are there for. 3. Each make it your responsibility to make the group work, and you will all enjoy it. By the end of the trip the group is like a family.

Yes

Yes

Unforgettable Experience

Everything, literally everything, Koh Phangan was crazy, but Sangkhlaburi was great too with the trekking and volunteering and Kanchanaburi was so relaxing and like a proper holiday! May, Pond, Meow and Lucy who were our coordinators were so great and made the trip for all of us, they made everything so much more fun because they're so quirky and outgoing! I'd do it all again just so i could see them for another month!

Be prepared to spend much more money in Koh Phangan because it's so worth the extras Don't talk to the ladies in Bangkok who give you birdseed, they will pretty much rob you for your money Do a diary/journal/blog and write in it everyday because you'll forget everything you did

Yes

Yes

Certainly a trip I will never forget: I've made friends for life!

Kho San Road The Elephant Trek Volunteering in 'Dreamhouse' Mac Bay Resort May; Pond; Lucy

1)Take advantage of every opportunity that is put to you from the coordinators - this is a once in a lifetime experience. 2)Remember to respect the culture, you are not at home!

Yes

Yes

Amazing experience, great people and fantastic team leaders.

All of it! Meeting new people. The leaders were fantastic, really helpful and helped make the trip even more fun.

Yes

Yes

Best month of my life, met some great people!

Meeting new people and learning about different aspects of the culture.

Always listen to your reps, take every oppourtunity you can whilst out there and have a great time!

Yes

Yes

staying in a beautiful resort in Kanchaniburi, elephant trekking and working with the children in Sangkhlaburi

dont pack all your western luxuries as you wont need them - and if you do you can buy them. learn a few thai phrases before you go as people respond much better if you're polite pay attention to local customs and be prepared to cover up if asked to without complaining.

Yes

Yes

Everything was absolutely amazing, cannot fault the experience in any way. Everything was really well organised and i had such a good time, i especially loved Koh Phangan, the accomodation was amazing and had a really good time I want to give a massive thanks to May, Pond, Lucy and Meaw they were absolutely brilliant and it wouldnt have been the same without them.

Absolutely incredible experience, made the best friends ever! Katoon's Amazing!

Meeting everyone in my group Elephant Trekking Volunteering at the Nun School Amazing views and Beaches Night's out in Bangkok Great in country coordinators (especially team leader Katoon!)

Be confident and outgoing towards the other members of your group and your team leaders as they could become some of your best friends for life! Get Involved with as many different activities as possible (don't stay in your room!) Don't drink alcohol if you are on antibiotics!

Yes

Yes

'Best decision of my life, incredible experiences, made new friends''

Elephant trek in Sangkhlaburi, Erawan Waterfalls in Kanchanaburi, Nature Club (zip wire, zorbing and quad biking) in Sangkhlaburi and Half Moon party on Koh Phanang

Pack light!!!! Throw yourself into every experience. Always smile - you''ll make more friends!

Yes

Yes

Best thing i've ever done, and met some incredible people.

Meeting everyone on the trip. The team leaders were all amazing especially Katoon and Meaw. Working at the Nun School in Sangkhalburi was amazing, the accomodation in Koh Phangan was as well. I really want to emphasise how brilliant the leaders were, so helpful all the time as well as being fun.

Enjoy yourselves all the time. Do things you normally wouldn't do,

Yes

Yes

Amazing people, pad thai, full moon, beaches, best bars, cheese omlette sandwhiches, buckets, temples, coach journeys, the best memories.

1. The amazing people that you meet! I made such good friends out there and had so many unforgettable memories. Not forgetting my super coordinators - Puukii and Pop. 2. The full moon party and all the nights out throughout the trip! 25,000 people partying under the moon, neon paint and buckets everywhere, and every genre of music pumping through the speakers all night! 3. The crystal clear waters of Koh Pah Ngan's beaches and snorkelling. 4. The day at the Nature Club in Sangkhlaburi! Trying my hand at zorbing, the longest zip wire in Thailand and quad biking. Absolutely awesome. 5. The jungle trek on the adventure option. A really rewarding experience after a rigorous trek and living simply but the evening games were hillarious! 6. Elephant trekking. A truly awesome experience to ride an elephant and see children as young as 10 steering them. 7. Tiger Temple. Washing tigers, playing with them and seeing them jump 10 feet in the air in front of you! 8. The amazing food! You won't find food like this anywhere else. Nothing beats a tasty chicken fried rice lunch - except the delicious red Burmese curry in Sanghklaburi! Finally, the legendary Seven-Eleven supermarket ham and cheese toasties. 9. Three temple tour in Kanchanaburi. Climbing all 400 steps to the top of one of the temples and seeing the view was priceless. 10. Working on the development project at Dream House orphanage. It felt great to do my bit for the community and then be able to see what came out of the hard work I put in.

1. Bring a water-proof pouch to keep your passport, money and important documents in. 2. Bring two bottles of insect repellent. They run out very quickly. 3. Learn some haggling skills! You will be suprised how much you can bring the price down on anything you buy!

No

Yes

Month of a lifetime doing amazing things with amazing people.

Puuki and Pop (on the Thailand Experience) were incredible coordinators. They were constantly upbeat and enthusiastic and this rippled right through our (oversized) group. My highlights include zorbing, the kids at the orphanage, Haad Rin beach parties and the amazing people.

Don't book your flights too early - talk to other people on the trip to see what they're doing afterwards. If there's any way for you to stay longer, take that chance!

Yes

Yes

Amazing experience, met some amazing people, trip I will never foget

The whole month was really incredible. My highlights have to be going on the elephants, spending time at the orphanage, being in Thailand for Tai new year, and spending time on the island.

Yes

Yes

The best month of my life. Everyone should do it!

First night, Tiger temple, elephant trekking, full moon party, making lots of new friends!

- Take lots of suncream and deodrant because everything is whitening so it is hard to find one that doesnt make your skin whiter! - Take trousers and warm clothes even if it says it is going to be hot, we ended up buying lots! - Try everything!

Yes

Yes

absolutley amazing, unforgettable experience, best time of my life.

the water fights for thai new year, meeting new friends and the "real" team. katoon and meaw were brill, so funny, they made every day fun, no matter what you was doing

Yes

Yes

Made friends for life and have unforgettable memories, loved it.

Full moon party, tiger temple, volunteering at the orphanage.

Don't hold back on anything, take every opportunity given to you, take a lot of photos so you never forget

Yes

Yes

The people who I met out there, including Puukii and Pop the group leaders who were amazing throughout. The elephant trekking, white water rafting, and our trip to the tiger temple.

Be open minded and patient, don't pack too many clothes because the shopping is very good and take up all opportunities offered.

Yes

Yes

Hot Unpredictable Make new friends Tolerating others Good experience

Hot springs, thai cooking, the weather, and the beach week

Ensure that you have the coordinators phone numbers as if you ever need any help or assistance and there is noone around to help you, you will need to contact them Keep hydrated, there is alot of walking involved to the erawan waterfalls!

Yes

Yes

Amazing people, beautiful country, memorable experiences, opens your mind!

Our reps in the country were amazing and made it very entertaining! Making new friends along the way- starting off as strangers but being like a family by the end. The jungle trek was great fun and i loved going to meet the children at the orphanages.

Go with an open mind of trying new things. Pack light as there will be many things to buy along the way. Emerse yourself in the culture of the country.

Yes

Yes

Hot. Very Hot. Great Reps. Fantastic Trip.

Riding an elephant. Eating dinner on a boat. Meeting/Meditating with Monks Visting Temples. The truck rides.

Dont bother with a mosquito net. Buy plently of water from 7/11 (cheaper than others) every day. Do not compare lifestyles with that of England-have an open mind.

Yes

Yes

Fantastic trip with many unforgettable experiences and people.

Erawan Waterfall, elephant trekking, orphanage volunteering, beach week in Koh Phangan.

Don't bring many clothes cos you'll end up buying loads. Bring a mac, even if it's supposed to be the dry season. Pack as lightly as possible cos you really won't miss the stuff you leave behind.

No

Yes

1- fantasic experience 2- made friends for life 3-unforgetabble 4-mozzy bites 5- pleanty of cheap booze 6-pleanty of cheap clothes 7- 7 eleven 8- tuk tuks 9- angry dogs 10- temples

Erawan waterfalls, Elephant trekking working in the school and visitng house of hope were definatley the highlights of my trip.

1- Pack lightley you can get everything u need on your travels especially in Bangkok. 2-Bring pleanty of sun cream with you as most of the suncream has whitener in it and when u find suncream without it it costs a fortune even pharmacys in non tourist areas dont sell suncream. 3- Remember your waterproofs even if its meant to be a dry season.

Yes

Yes

Unforgettable, amazing, awesome people. I LOVE THAILAND!!

Rafting day, despite no White water. Thai boxing, beach week, the co-ordinators especially Lucy, pond, Meaw and may, they were amazing. Lucy did an incredible job of looking after everyone On the nights out on koh pangnan, I Dont know what we would have done without her!! The group was awesome, everyone wad up for everything. And the volunteering was great fun.

Be prepared to say yes to anything and take every opportunity!

Yes

Yes

Four weeks of giggles and awesome adventures!

The people I met were fantastic and we had such a great time. I was a single traveller and everyone was so friendly! I miss them! Elephant trekking was out of this world and volunteering was brilliant, kids were amazing! Kanchanaburi hotel was mega!

Don't be scared if your on your own, you will make friends easily! Do everything you can, even if your tired and hungover as you are only there once and go to Jonny F***in bucket stand on Koh Phangan - he will give you good deals!

Yes

Yes

Will never forget this experience!!

Everthing was great but the main highlight for me was meeting all the people in the group and also the staff in thailand, as they are the ones that make the trip, couldnt have asked for a better group, felt like we had all known each other for years.

Dont buy too many clothes before you go as clothes are really cheap in thailand and it save you carrying around all that weight. Dont book too many things in advanced like hoels and internal flights after you are done with your thailand experience as plans can change as you may make freinds with people on the group and decide to change some of your plans. Also go with an open mind and enjoy yourself (remember its your trip).

Yes

Yes

Best month on my life, met some amazing people (staff and travellers)!

The big group, the staff, the orphanages, the selection of places, koh phangan accomodation...

-clothing for temples and the orphanage -extra padlocks for rooms and valuables -open mind!

Yes

Yes

Adventure filled, wont forget this trip in a hurry!

Koh Phanghan, the Thai tour guides, meeting some cool people, elephant trekking, zorbing, being blessed by a monk!

1) Make the most of the time you have. 2) Be open minded. 3) Be sensible, if you wouldn't do it in the UK, don't do it in Thailand!

Seeing the caves in Kanchanaburi and helping build a new libary for a school , knowing i was doing something to help otherss. We had a really large group with all great personalities , so we had a great time doing the work but also partied hard !

Exciting, unforgettable, laid-back, educational, adventurous, occupied, enjoyable, made new friends & learned more about a different country & culture.

Everyday was an adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed nearly every aspect of the trip.

Have a budget planned. Pack only three days worth of clothes, carrying around excess clothes was the biggest annoyance. Don't be afraid to

Yes

Yes

Fun packed Amazing co-ordinators Friends for life Fantastic experience Unforgettable Dont actually think these words are doing justice to how much I loved this experience :)

I loved the Thailand Adventure option due to the fact that May and Pond and Pookie while she was working with our group(our co-ordinators) were absolutely fantastic and looked after us so well. They were the best 4 weeks of my life. They felt like friends rather than tour guides and were so welcoming. Im off to australia next and I will be amazed if it comes close to the time I had in Thailand. The volunteering is good and the staff are really friendly, although doesnt seem as organised and there are times when you dont really feel as though your making a huge difference to the school etc.

I would definately recommend the Thailand experience. I had the time of my life. Enjoy every minute and make the most of an opportunity like this. Its amazing just what you get out of an experience like this.

Yes

Yes

Fantastic way to see the country.Truely unforgettable experience

All of it, the places and people are amazing and the team looking after you are fantastic

Yes

Yes

Fantastic experience: Buddhism, thai cooking and culture, contributing to the society and enjoying the natural beauties of the country.

Volunteering in Sangklhaburi orphanage, Elephant treck and Tiger Temple

Embrace Thai culture, get fully involved with the projects and enjoy!

Yes

Yes

Amazing time, made best friends, unforgettable, best guides ever!

The in-country team in Thailand were the best ever. Everything was so well organised by them and all were friendly. I think the in-country team made the experience even better by getting involved and recommending so many options for us on our days off. Two of my highlights were the elephant trek and Tiger Temple, but the best part of the experience was definitly the volunteering at the Orphanage!

1. Make sure you bring Mosquito repellent, although they were not that bad when I went (Jan/ Feb time). 2.Have enough memory on your camera to take hundreds, even thousands of photos- there are so many beautiful camera opportunities. 3.Once you've packed, half the amount of clothes by half, and then take even more out! You will not need much, there are laundrys out there so you can always get your clothes washed. Also gives you more room for the massive amount of souverneirs you can buy!

Yes

Yes

Fantastic, trip of a lifetime, many laughs, lots of fun, an experience, worth every penny, great people, beautiful food, always looked after, exciting

The jungle trekking was amazing. The team were brill expecially jay and katoon.

Thailand is cheap and so pack light.

Yes

Yes

expensive, good way of meeting lots of people, badly organised

The predeparture info was good and I left feeling very well prepared. I liked the fact that we were picked up from the airport and appreciated the support travelling through realgap gave me.

No

Yes

amazing experience best memories that ill cherish forever i laughed so hard it hurt

The Koh Phanyan beach week the accommodation we stayed in the friendliness of the staff. the free weekend when we arranged to go zorbing quadbiking etc

its not the trip its the people you meet that make the trip

Yes

Yes

The leaders of our trip Katoon and Puuki. Without them the trip would not have been as fun or organised. They made me feel happy in every location, answering all of my questions and helping everyone out at any time of day!

No

Yes

Brilliant,Awesome,Brillaint,Awesome, Brilliant,Awesome,Brilliant,Awesome Found Soul Mate!!!

What my highlight of my trip? Word can't explain cause everything is perfect!!!! I found my soul Mate! Tiger temple was amazing,Hotel in kanchanaburi was brilliant!!! But all is perfect! May and Pond done very brilliant!

A/ /Don't book flight at the same day when you arrive to final days B Most the most of every day and don't sleep during the day! C/ Tiger Temple is a MUCH go

Yes

Yes

amazing people, unforgetable experience, beutiful country, friends for life

Everything- there were so many amazing aspects of the trip that to name a few highlights is impossible however the amazing people i met was awesome and the bond with the real gap co-ordinators out there are now friends fro life!

1- always be yourself 2- try new things 3- go with the flow

Yes

Yes

Awesome everyday, amazing experience,miss everyone, beautiful country, loved it.

The elephant trekking was amazing, the hotel in Kanchanaburi was well above expectations, the community project was awesome and going to the orphanages was a real eye opener, the kids were amazing. Our guides May and Pond made the whole trip a great experience.

Take toilet paper on the day trips. Make the most and enjoy everyday, the time flew by. You dont need to take lots of clothes with you because you can get everything very cheap out there :-)

Yes

Yes

fantastic friends, great tour leaders, volenteering rewarding, best month of my life!!!

Absolutley everything, the volentering was very rewarding and the whole holiday was amazing

watch out for the wild dogs. bring mosquito repellent. have lots of fun

Yes

Yes

Best month of my life thanks to Pond and May!

I wanted to write this email because I had such an amazing time in Thailand. I'm travelling around Australia at the moment and have also done a Real Gap experience in Zimbabwe in 2007 but I can honestly say that this was the best month of my life so far! I loved it all and wouldn't change a single thing! Bangkok When I first arrived In Bangkok I was greeted by May and Pond they had both been backwards and forwards to the airport god knows how many times as my flight had been seriously delayed, bless them. When we arrived at the hotel Mark and Katoon greeted us and explained what was going to happen over the next month. It had some of the same information we had been given by Real Gap when we first booked the trip but with extra information which was great. We were informed about 7 eleven, cheese and ham toasties and again about the accomadation at Koh Phangun. It was really exciting to hear all the information and I couldn't wait for it all to begin. Visiting the Temples around Bangkok, they were beautiful completely amazing. Especially the Grand Palace! Walking around and learning about all the culture was such a great experience to have and having May and Pond was brilliant cause they could give us more information and help answer any questions we had. On the way back from the temples we got in a tuk tuk!! My first time it was wicked May and Pond came in it with us so we wouldn't get lost. That evening a buffet was laid on for us at Silk bar which I thought was really nice as it gave the group a chance to get to know eachother. I had been late to arrive as was

Bring move clothes for covering up in the towns and temples long sleeved tops and longer trousers. Learn the local language and have respect for the Thai people. They really respect you if you speak their language Even though its cheap in Thailand bring lots of money as you will want to buy so much stuff

Yes

Yes

changed my life!

the whole package but for me especially koh phangan

pack light always put ur chargers away when used so u dont forget to bring them home! have no regrets and write a journal for the memories!

Yes

Yes

great fun experience, made some great friends, definitely worth it!

overall it was a great way of seeing the country of Thailand! met some great people on and off of the tour and the coordinators (in particular Num) were excellent and helpful. elephant trekking was my favourite experience but all was enjoyable.

pack light and buy once you reach thailand and its much cheaper! if you have a couple of free days leave the tour and explore on your own or with friends e.g. i traveled back to bangkok on our free weekend! make the most of the days AND the nights as they're equally important!

No

Yes

Exceeded my expectations, travelled with awesome like-minded people, unforgettable memories, fantastic trip, unbelieveable opportunities

Everything was amazing, the team in Thailand are awesome and always ready to help in anyway they can. Big thanks to Katoon, Mai and Pon, for all their support and guidance. Loved elephant trekking, bamboo rafting, learning about Buddism, meeting monks and temples, Erawan waterfall was beautiful. Big highlight was my achievement of completing the overnight jungle trek, very hard but worth it. Loved learning Thai and cooking thai dishes, Tiger temple was brilliant and the volunteering was really good.

Try everything you can, especially if outside your comfort zone. Buy tiger balm for bug bites. Ask guides for local tips, eg in Bangkok always find a axi who will put on the meter, much cheaper!

Yes

Yes

Amazing, unreal, met friends for a life time!

Meeting the group that we travelled with, and sharing many great memories with them!

Yes

Yes

sensational experience, the group and the country were unforgettable

the locations of the hotels. the excellent co-ordinatirs, especially nom. the tiger temple day and many of the day trips then the beech week

do all optional activites. look after your health

Yes

Yes

Incredible month filled with "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunities everyday!

Elephant treakking, Koh Phangan beach week (inc. Fullmoon party!), The guides, The group!

1. Take enough money so you're not worried to pay for little extras or indulgences which aren't on the itinery. 2. Don't hold back - embrace every opportunity and they'll be the highlights that you never forget! 3. Read up on the culture in Thailand first; make sure you're aware of the differences, and make sure you're open to trying new things, e.g. different foods.

Yes

Yes

Sounds cheesy but it is simply unforgettable.

The people, both the other Volunteers and the tour leaders! Also the tigers. elephants and lack of safety in Thailand!

1) Enjoy every minute - you'll miss it when home 2) Do everything - don't worry about how much your spending 3) Wear sun cream!

Yes

Yes

Best 4 weeks of my life. FACT.

Visiting the Orphanage is Sangklhaburi. The Ang Thong Marine Park on Koh Pah Ngan was beautiful. Also, the Half Moon Party, the Nature Club in Sangklhaburi and the 10 Baht Bars in Kanchanabhuri.

Drink Lots of Red Bull and say YES

Yes

I feel I experienced the Real Thailand and all the country has to offer.

Trekking, Beach week, Cooking Lesson.

Bring some games (there is a lot of free time in the evenings, and there is only so many hours you can play cards. I wish I considered the board games on the packing list seriously) Get ready for Thai time, nothing runs on time, but there is no need to worry, your on holiday. Bring a select few DVD's for the long bus journeys.

Yes

Yes

Best month of my life, amazing experience of real thailand aswell as all the tourist attractions, Do it.

elephants and bamboo rafting, and all the trekking

1- deet mosquito repelent seems to attract mosquitoes not repell them. 2- just do everything 3-the nature club in kanchaburi is amazing.

Yes

Yes

Beautiful Country, Once in a life time oppurtunity, perfect break!

feeding tigers, riding elephants, zip lining through the jungle, volunteering!

GIRLS- invest in a SHEWEE (outdoor weeing device) made my trip SO much easier. Comfy walking SHOES. dont bring to many clothes.

Yes

Amazining trip, made so many friends, coordinators were amazing, trip planned so well..

Coordinators, the whoile round experience was amazing.

Yes

Yes

amazing, beautiful, great people, cards, tiger balm, tuk tuks, banter

tigers, elephants, bamboo rafting, house of hope orphanage, meeting all the new people, the partys, the real gap team we had who was, Num, May and Nay they were brilliant.

get vacuum bags for your clothes it will keep them dry and clean. if you get alot of bites take alot of insect spray. dont over pack you can buy clothes flip flops and stuff in bangkok at cheap prices.

Yes

Yes

unforgettable great experinece best four weeks of my life

Best four weeks of my life

Go with and open mind Dont say no enjoy every minute of the trip

Yes

Yes

Absolutely fantastic, made the best friends ever and unforgettable experiences.

Nym and Nay our Thai coordinators were absolutely fantastic and really made the trip as amazing as it was. It would not have been the same without them

1.Remember you're in Thailand, it's not going to be, nor would you want it to be, 5 * luxury 2. Bangkok and Koh Phangan are a lot more expensive than rural areas. 3. Remember where you are and have a fantastic time!

Yes

Yes

Amazing time! Expensive but I felt secure but still adventurous!

Rafting, elephant trekking and feeding the cubs at tiger temple.

Take LOTS of anti-bug spray (5/6 cans!?) Take lots of clothes, I didn't take enough really, or would have liked more! Don't forget to haggle....you can get things a lot cheaper than they first say in Thailand!!!

Yes

Yes

Most amazing trip ever, made life-long friends, life changing experince!

All of it was FANTASTIC!

Take more money than reccomended. Book community option as its cheaper but you still do exactly the same thing. Go to 'house of hope'.

Yes

Yes

Thailand is beautiful, there is loads to see and do!

Elephants and Bamboo Rafting Visiting the local Orphanage Diving

1. Prepare yourself for BASIC accomodation 2. Research the areas you are travelling to 3. Think about malaria tablets as you are literally on the Burmese border

No

Great experience, great memories, great excursions, will never forget it.

elephant trekking & bamboo rafting grand palace bangkok thai cooking lesson temples in Kanchanburi The orphanage & schools The 2 day trek was fantastic. All of Kophangan

Enjoy it all, your probably only there once Learn about their culture its very intresting Try everything

Yes

Yes

Amazing experiences. Incredible journey. Fantastic Friends. Would do it again!

Everyday was so different and so full that you could say everyday was a highlight. For me, every activity we did, from sightseeing, to volunteering, to elephant riding, bamboo rafting, zorbing and to sitting on a beach was amazing. And the people I was with made the trip. I loved every minute and everyone.

1. Make sure you know whether you need a visa or not. There was a lot of confusion in my group as we were all staying for different lengths and not everyone had the right one. 2. Don't worry about making friends. You definitely will. 3. Enjoy it! (Clich

Yes

Yes

emotional fun exciting relaxing hot great shopping amazing food great friends fun activities cheap unforgettable

meeting a fantastic group of people, bamboo rafting and being able to organise our own trip to the phi phi islands.

dont take too many clothes, buy a thai sim card for your mobile. definitely have a full thai body massage (

Yes

Yes

meeting new people as they made the experience amazing. the extras such as the tiger temple and learning mauy thai boxing were unbelienveable as was the bamboo rafting.

1. take extra money there are lots of unexpected extras to pay for. 2. take lots of insect repellent 3. have fun

Yes

Yes

Amazing, met some of the friendliest people and made some lovely new friends that Im still in touch with. Learned a lot about the culture as well as gained new qualities for myself, with lots of great memories.

I loved the elephant trek and staying in the rural areas, experiencing what it is really like in some of the remote parts of thailand. as well as learning about the temples and the beach week, black moon party.

take plenty insect repellent, only take clothes that are practical for the treks as well as do a bit of background reading about the culture to learn about some of the norms and values, helping you to respect it. Lastly take a camera with plenty of memory or keep a diary so that you can remember your experience.

Yes

Yes

volunteering in childcare in sanklaburi, elephant treking bamboo aefting, treking and waterfalls, going to the tiger temple.

Yes

Yes

Rare opportunities, best month of my life, fantastic memories, rewarding, diverse locations, stunning scenery, paradise, incredible, new friends, FUN

Elephant Trekking ~ ask your co-ordinator Erawan Waterfalls Full Moon Party Zorbing, Zip-wiring and Quad Biking at the Nature Club in Sangkhlaburi. Getting to know the group and coordinators First night out in Bangkok at the club we were recommended

If you have time, get the rabies injections. Find someone to fly with using the Buddy List even if it's just 1 person ~ I did this and we became friends which made meeting the rest of the group less scary! Bring a waterproof bag liner (zip-lock plastic wallet - anything) ~ Phones and iPods get wet very fast in monsoons

Yes

Yes

Amazing experience with many breath taking experiences, never forgotten

It was an amazing experience, we were able to do a lot more than we had expected. The elephant trekking and bamboo rafting were amazing experiences. I was able to meet so many wonderful people and definitely made some friends for life. The volunteering was so rewarding.

1) Be open minded about the places you visit, it isn't always how expect it to be. 2) Be flexible, timetables / schedules never work when travelling, things come up and you can't always be what you want. 3) Enjoy every moment, live in the moment don't think about what ifs, if you want to do it do it.

No

Yes

funny, exciting, eye-opening, inspirational, culture shock, independence, great friends, weird food, life changing, character building.

Ko Phangan beach week was excellent, it was a great finish to the first 3 weeks we had had, it was great to relax a little and make the most of the beautiful Island that we were on. The elephant riding in Sangklaburi was great, and experience i will never forget. The temples of Bangkok were also great, as you really got a feel for the culture of the country.

Bring at least

Yes

Yes

Brilliant new friendships made in spectacular surroundings.

I enjoyed the full moon trip to koh phangan. Also our orientation and tour through Bangkok ws brilliant.

Look at what you have packed, and half it. Anything you are missing you will be able to purchase from the markets etc. dont forget a camera and have a spare battery with you.

No

Yes

great experience, love the country, now have the travel bug!

too many to write, i even liked the monsoons!

take sun cream and mosquito net, try as much food from their country as you can and enjoy every second.

Yes

Yes

Good Experience, made new friends!

Meeting our guide Palmy, I have made a friend for life she is amazing! Also... elephant trekking, Muay Thai, Bamboo Rafting, Blackmoon Party and Quadbiking! I loved all of the tour guides! They really made the experience worthwhile.

Make the most of Bangkok! The stay there isn't long so go out every night! Muay Thai is a really great way to keep in shape for Beach Week! Do not book boxing through Real Gap - it's a rip off! Book it once your out their.

No

Yes

A great experience that i wont forget, plenty of memories

elephant trekking bangkok tour

bring extra money for travel into town. we were not told we would need to get taxis into town in Kanchanaburi or Koh Phagnan.

Yes

Yes

4 fun packed weeks!

Hightlights included; thai cooking lesson, the waterfalls, visiting the dragon temple, the stay at the first hotel generally, trekking and also activities that werent included in the trip particularly the tiger temple and extra activities on the beach week.

Get yourself some tiger balm when your out there its just so handy! Don't take a travel card or travellers cheques if your only out for a month - the atms charge and are an inconvenience so just take cash! Write a diary - such a nice way to look back on the trip and a forever keep sake.

No

Yes

Unforgettable

The amazing people in our group and the co-ordinators, elephant trekking and tiger temple, being part of the community in Sangklaburi and the half moon party on Koh Phangan

Be open to trying different foods, be patient with your co-ordinators and remember they're not there to hold your hand, before you go unlock your phone and buy a Thai sim card because they cost as little as 2p a minute to landlines

Yes

Yes

ABSOLUTLY AMAZING! the people, culture, food, travellers, parties, simply incredible.

Erawan Waterfalls, elephant trecking, Tiger Temple, meeting so many different people, party time on Ko Pagnan!

dont forget loads of deet, beware of the dogs, buy a thai sim card out there, its definitly the cheapest option

Yes

Yes

Unforgettable, amazing friends, fantastic coordinators, memories to keep forever.

My highlights were the first week of all the sight seeing and the elephant trekking and also the beach week.

1) Take cheap clothes then you have the option of leaving them on the way home!Bit of extra room! 2) Dont bother taking loads of jewellry as there is plenty to get out there. 3) Buying a sim and phone out there is easy and cheap.

Yes

Yes

A great way to fit in as much as possible to your time travelling!

Erawan Waterfalls Thai Massages in Kanchanaburi Tiger Temple Thai Boxing in Sangkhla Teaching in Sangkhla Koh Pha Ngan - half moon party and Haad Rin

Go to the Tiger Temple and pay to see the evening exercise programme - well worth it! Try Thai Boxing Don't waste to much timing sleeping in Koh Pha Ngan

Yes

Yes

varied, cultural, relaxing, lots of free time, beautiful.

The Beach week in Ko Pha nang.

1) Try to meet to as many people as possible! 2) Take loose cool clothes - it gets really hot! 3) Be prepared to spend more than you think you will!

Yes

Yes

Trip of a lifetime, best group ever, completely incredible!

All of it, Elephant trekking, volunteering, our group of amazing people were what made it!

sleeping bag liners! take plenty of pictures! Dont have early nights!

Yes

Good food, amazing people, unforgettable experiences, falling in the mud, sunsets, sand, Sangsom, 'Sawatdekaa' - undoubtably the best 4 weeks ever!

All of it!! The In country team, Starfish, were absolutely amazing and while we did have a few hiccups, the co-ordinators were there to help and support us and just made the trip so memorable! One of the many highlights was the volunteering at the orphanage in Sangkhlaburi. We got to take the kids to a nearby river a couple of times which was so rewarding to see how happy there were, just spending time with them put everything in persepctive. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone who is looking to meet some amazing people, make friends for life, try new and different experiences and cultures and is willing to have fun and plenty of laughs!

My top tips would be to drink plenty of water, remember the loo roll and have the most amazing time of your life!! I know I did!

Yes

Yes

Incredible place, fantastic group, top destination for a gap year!

Erawan Waterfalls. Elephant Trekking and Bamboo Rafting. The Temples in Kanchanaburi. The group and co-coordinators! Koh Phanghan Full Moon Party was amazing! Trekking and going out in Khao San Road.

Set a daily/weekly budget. You spend way less in Sangkhlaburi as its such a small town that things are so cheap, we ate out for 70p a meal and it was some of the best food I had during my stay there. Get a Thai Sim Card whilst your away. You can call a home phone in the UK for as little as 2p a min. Plus its the best way to keep in contact with the people in your group. Look after your belongings, especially on Koh Phangan. And especially when drinking. Even if you put something down for 2mins it can disappear. My friend lost her SLR camera in Sangkhlaburi which is such a rural place. So just be aware of your surroundings and belongings.

Yes

Yes

amazing memories, unforgettable moments, great company :)

elephant trekking, Songkram festival, helping at the orphanage, trekking

be well prepared before you go, be confident and make the most of every moment!

Yes

Yes

Lifelong friends, experience of a life time, unforgettable, Thai protestors!

Meeting some amazing people! Elephant trekking Jungle trek hard but worth it! Sense of achievement for travelling alone.

Dont pack too many clothes, do pack going out clothes as in many places there is lots of evening entertainment, Dont drink too much chang as its much stronger than our lager! Water all the way!! Take plenty of sun cream as it is very hot and very expensive in Thailand. Dont be afraid of being alone so is the majority "you are not alone"

Yes

Yes

memorable amazing new friends something to talk about

i was able to pay to join option B on the elephant trekking which was a fabulous day, the bamboo rafting was also equally enjoyable.

make sure that you always lock valuables away in your bag when you are not in the room. do not compramise where you feel unsafe and unsecure. always have a disposable cameran to hand in case your digital one breaks.

Yes

Yes

An amazing time, made some friends for life!

Eating insects on the first night in Bangkok. Spending a night in the jungle. Meeting the locals in Sangkhla Buri, exchanging gifts and joining them for a drink. Elephant trekking and Bamboo rafting was pretty incredible. Chilling out in Koh Penang.

1. Be careful at beach parties, lots of people had their stuff stolen while i was there (its the other tourists who are the least trustworthy). 2. Try and chat to the locals and be friendly. We had some great nights drinking with them. 3. Try to learn some of the basic language (i.e. counting, and asking how much). In the poorer regions its almost impossible to find English speakers.

Yes

Yes

Excellent time ,met some really nice people

Elephant riding Bamboo Rafting Half moon party Ko pangyan

Awesome experience, new friends including guides, will never forget it'

The highlights of my trip are when we went elephant trekking, helping at the school in Sangklaburi, and the week ok Koh Phangan.

Learn simple language before you go, not told at the start of the trip which is what i thought would happen. Keep a record of how much you spend, Koh Phangan was quite expensive. If you need help ask for it, don't try and sort it yourself.

Yes

Yes

Loved the people, loved the country, loved the experience!

I think the group was really good and there were some fantastic experiences, such as the teaching and the elephant trekking. This was offset nicely by the opportunity to relax in Koh Phangan.

1. Drink plenty of water! Dehydration can make you feel ill which will detract from the fun of the tour. 2. Take plenty of photos - never leave your camera behind - Thailand is a fantastic country and there are some beatiful sights which need to be snapped up. 3. Respect the culture - Thailand is steeped in it and you will enjoy your time more if you immerse yourself in it rather than alienating yourself from it.

Yes

Yes

amazing experience, get to meet loads of people, have fun

buy all toiletries out there no need to pack these things be prepared for the teaching, you get left to do everything

Yes

Yes

Great experience & got new ideas for further travelling.

Elephant trekking Learning to cook Thai Meal Relaxing at Kho Phag Ngan Meal on travelling boat across river Kwai Erawan Waterfalls Relaxing at P Guesthouse, Sangklaburi

- Pace yourself: Don't try and do too much too quickly. - When doing anything in a group of at least several people or more be careful of pricing. Eg when ordering food, double check bill as there have been incidients when prices have been increased witho

Yes

Yes

an experience i'll never forget, so many dramas on our trip but a lesson to be learnt from each of them

meeting new people and friends for life, seeing some amazing sights, helping the kids at the schools learn english.

enjoy everyday as it goes very quickly, try new things as much as possible, try new foods

Yes

Yes

Always interesting, immensely varied, unique, made friends, an exceptional experience!

Experiencing Thailand in such varied, in-depth and interesting ways. I particularly enjoyed (among many things) the waterfalls, temple trips, elephant trekking, and more mundane things like visiting the markets and learning to barter! The Starfish volunteers were fantastic, they were a lot of fun and genuinely considerate, caring and always ensured you got the most from the experience. I found teaching quite challenging. As I had signed up for childcard and was not given this option I felt a bit misled by Real Gap.

1)Pack economically and strategically - & make sure that the luggage is appropriate for the trip. 2)Bring more than the minimum suggested money for emergencies and to get by comfortably 3)Enjoy it!

Yes

Yes

Fun, Once in a lifetime trip, made great friends, opened up the world, was bitten by the travel bug...was also bitten by lots of Mosquito's, Temples, Waterfalls, Thai Buckets and Pancakes!

Everything! experiencing a mesmerizing country and culture, seeing and doing things that would be hard to achieve as an independent traveller - all with a great bunch of people. It was a perfect blend going from bustling Bangkok to the rural charm of Sangkhlaburi then onto the tropical paradise of Koh Phangan. I wish I could do it all again!

- try the local food and drink, Pad Siew and Chang Beer being my favourite - Take a good pair of walking shoes, epecially for climbing Erawan Waterfall - Meet the locals and practice your 'Sawatika!'

Yes

Yes