Bangkok Tours and Trips

Overall, the explore elements of the trip were great, the Elephant walking was wonderful and interesting (could write more but I don't want to give any spoilers) and the kayaking through the mangroves were highlights. Some of the optional trips were less good - mainly the bio luminescent trip. I wouldn't recommend this trip to people as it isn't what was advertised in the local trip notes. It was commercialised travel on a speed boat with only 30 minutes of snorkelling at one destination (we were told several sights of snorkelling) and the swim with the bio luminesence was good but that was only for 10 minutes. Additionally the organisation of the trip (after the explore guide had booked) was horrendous. We were on and off buses/taxis and no clue where we were heading. We did eventually get the right boat, but I wouldn't recommend this optional extra to others. We were lucky with the time of year we went and were able to experience a couple of night markets which are well worth visiting for the local food. Our guide Por, was kind and caring and ensured we got to the right pier at the right time. Some of the speed boat people are a little hap hazard with your luggage, so you will need a strong piece of luggage. Overall though, a great trip to see many islands, see the sun, sea and sand (though we did have a lot of thunder and rain through out the trip too). There is a good mix of activities and relax time though I think my favourite island was Koh Hai - the first island.

A great all rounded trip. Our guide was v accommodating and happy to please. She gave us plenty of stops for snacks and coffee. She explained not all meals come at once in a group, nor starters. Food was good and cheap and well catered for vegetarians etc. Accommodation was good overall. Would have liked one less night in the jungle and an extra night at the Dolphin Bay resort to use the facilities. Great to have water provided at every hotel and a kettle. Lots of optional activities on this trip which add to the price but all v good. Expect some trips to be v busy in the touristy areas. Well recommended.

Great trip . The overnight train and the homestay wasn't something I'd normally do ,but it was an experience and added to the variety of the trip. Our guide was very helpful and his knowledge and passion for his country was first class. Highly recommend the trip but it is as described 'full on' so don't expect much time to relax .

Explore excelled again. Our guide Mhor was fantastic. His guidance and knowledge made every day special. The itinerary from Bangkok to AoNang showed the full spectrum of Thailand at its best. Thank you for making such amazing experiences and memories to treasure. I would recommend Explore to anyone.

The tour from the beginning to the end was fabulous and action packed. Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are each different in exciting ways. The waterfall was absolutely beautiful and the Vespa ride is not to be missed. Our tour manager Andy was the best. I loved the visits to the farms and homes to make noodles and lunch with them, to see how palm sugar is farmed and made and a dinner with a local family to be blessed. The tuk tuk rides were enjoyable and the markets! Bring money because you will purchase. Very affordable.

I would certainly recommend this trip. There were many highlights and we ate some excellent food during the holiday. I particularly enjoyed the Thai massage in Chiang Mai and later that day the cooking experience with the Raunkaew Family. The visit to The Elephant Nature Park was special and we were lucky enough to be able to participate in the annual Lantern Festival during the trip. The Buddhist temples visited were all so fascinating and set in such varied locations, not always easy to access with lots and lots of steps, but well worth the effort. Our time unwinding by the river Kwai on a truly special floating hotel was awesome and I really enjoyed the visit to Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Woody, our tour leader was tremendous. He had a really engaging personality and he couldn’t do enough to ensure everything went as smoothly as possible. He did have to deal with a few problems caused by torrential rain and flooding, which meant diversions and one or two programme changes, but nothing that spoiled the trip for us.