| Travel Transport, Accommodation, and Food FAQs |
| How will we travel around in Thailand? In order to experience the true journey through Thailand, we will use several modes of transportation including trains, buses, boats, song teows, and tuk-tuks. One of the train rides will be the sleeper car where the seats unfold to make a bed. This is actually very comfortable and a good way to travel at night. Buses and song teows are also very common for travel throughout Thailand whereas tuk-tuks are used for short distances. Roads can sometimes weave throughout the mountains in the north so those who suffer from motion sickness may want to bring along some motion sickness medicine. Longtail boats will also be used in Kanchanaburi. |
| What kind of accommodation will we have in Thailand? Again, so that you will experience Thailand, we will stay in a variety of accommodations ranging from hotels and guest houses to bamboo huts. The hotels and guest houses usually have hot water and air conditioning although because Thailand can be quite hot, you may choose to use just the cold water as Thais usually do when showering. All hotel and guest house rooms have a private Western-style toilet though some may have an Asian-style toilet that is designed for squatting. Although the hotels and guest houses we stay at are in the middle range and clean and comfortable within Thai standards, they may be different from what you are used to in America. But then again, you are here to experience something new. Phones and TVs may not be available in every room. However, there may be internet access available in case you would like to send email. While trekking, you will sleep on the floor, dorm-style with blankets and pillows in bamboo huts just like many hill tribe families living in Northern Thailand. This will be one of the best parts of our adventure as we visit various hill tribes and experience life in the mountains. Outhouses include an Asian-style toilet and shower with cold water. You must be able to rough-it during the trek. |
| What if I do not want a roommate and instead want a single room? The cost of the trip is based on double occupancy where you will be paired with another person of the same gender in the group. If there is not another group member of the same gender available for you to share a room, then supplemental payment for a single room may be necessary. It is sometimes possible to reserve a single room if you choose although an additional supplement of $200 will be necessary. At times however, a single may not always be available for example while trekking. |
| What will we eat? Although a simple breakfast will be provided each morning, you will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of restaurants for Thai or any other kind of food you are in the mood for. We will however be sharing all of our meals together during the trek that Yao will teach you how to cook. In addition, you will learn to cook several other Thai dishes at an all-day cooking lesson. Thai food is usually shared family-style with several different dishes to eat along with rice. The group dinner at the Thai Cultural Center along with the meals during the trek and the cooking lesson will be shared in this way. |
| What if I am a vegetarian or have special dietary needs? Accommodations can be made during the trek and the Thai cooking lesson. You will also have your choice of restaurant during the majority of the trip. However, it is your responsibility to make this known prior to departure. |
| Is it safe to eat the street stall food? Yao will advise you on what is safe to eat although the food stalls are usually ok and a part of Thai culture. The street food is usually cooked right in front of you so you can see what the ingredients are and it’s served hot from the wok. Some of the most delicious foods are served from street stalls daily. |
| Can I drink the water and ice? It is best to drink bottled water although brushing your teeth with tap water is ok. Ice cubes are also usually ok although you are always welcome to pass and just drink cold bottled water. |
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| Learn about Thailand Thai Culture Map of Thailand Thai Language Facts on Thailand Thai Festivals For more information, email Yao@1000Smiles.com |