Thailand Active outdoor Trips

This is an excellent tour, covering a lot of ground at a moderate, but completely manageable pace. Highlights are those out of the major cities, though Chiang Mai itself is also an interesting place, much more relaxed and less crowded than Bangkok.

It’s New Years Eve. I haven’t finished my holiday yet having remained in Krabi for a further six nights after the Explore holiday. I have done this holiday twice in the past three years and will probably do it again. It isn’t full on touring with long travel days…….even transferring between island by speedboat is nice. Sometimes you need a more relaxing holiday at this time of year. Thailand and the Andaman Sea is the perfect place for this. The only thing I didn’t enjoy was being allocated a top bunk on the overnight train journey from Bangkok to Trang as this was enforced lying down for eleven hours on a narrower bed because of the curvature of the train roof. The wider, more headroom, able to sit up bottom bunks cost 150 Baht ( about £2.50) more which I would have willingly paid for.

Our guide Champ was brilliant. So attentive to the needs of the group, as well as providing so much information throughout the trip. A varied itinerary, with superb food all the way

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 .