You will be recieving regular emails from Michelle leading up to the trip with all the details on how to get ready. A full packing list with fun travel tips & links to helpful websites will be provided to you.
How Does the Currency Work?
Right now, the Thai Baht is about 33 Baht to $1 USD, Needless to say, your lunch money will go a long way on this adventure!
Are Visas Required?
United States Citizens do not need a visa to visit Thailand. If you are from the U.S. and plan to stay longer than our retreat dates or are traveling from another country, please check with your local government.
Are Vaccines Required?
There are no vaccine requirements for United States Citizens. If you are traveling from another country, please check with your local government. We do suggest to all participants that you consult a physician or Travel Clinic before traveling so that you can be educated on the immunizations that are suggested as an extra precaution. This decision is totally up to you. We will be in Bangkok and Phuket where disease risk is very low. We had 24 travelers on our last trip. No one got extra vaccines and we were fine but every one is different. If you plan to travel to more rural areas, extra precaution should be taken. U.S. Citizens can read more here :https://www.cdc.gov/
How Safe is Thailand?
Forbes magazine has named Bangkok the most visited city in the world 2 years in a row now, It is a metropolis for solo travelers. As with any country in the world, use common sense, relax and have fun!
What if I Need to Cancel My Trip?
Deposits are non refundable. You may be eligible for a full or partial refund depending on the time of cancellation. All details are explained in the Retreat Forms you fill out when reserving your space. We always recommend travelers insurance just in case.
When Should I Book My Flights?
Once you have registered, you will recieve an email from Michelle with information on how to arrange air travel. You will be booking 2 flights. First, from your home country to Bangkok roundtrip. The second will be an interior flight from Bangkok to Phuket. These interior flights are very easy to book and range from $40-60 USD.
It is very important that you do not book your interior flight until Michelle has provided you with appropriate departure times.
Again, we will be here to assist you every step of the way.
Why Do I Need Travelers Insurance & How Do I Get It?
All travelers are required to obtain Travelers Insurance before going on the retreat. This is to protect you in case you have to cancel your trip, in case your luggage gets lost and ESPECIALLY in case you have a medical emergency. We are blessed in the United States to have hospitals that are required to treat us - even if we don't have money on hand. Most of the world does not work like this. Many hospitals will not even talk to you until you can show proof of a Travelers Insurance Plan.
While emergencies are extremely rare, it sure does feel good having the peace of mind while abroad. You are welcome to use any company you wish. Below is a list of 3 Companies we are comfortable referring you to:
This is the company that I have used a few times and been very happy with them. I know a few people that have actually had to file claims through them and they said that it was handled very well. So this is my first choice: https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/
The best thing to do is to call the companies directly and tell them that you want to ensure a trip to Thailand. They will ask you your age ,where you live etc. Then you will tell them the approximate total cost of your trip. You will just calculate how much you are spending on the retreat that you booked with us along with the cost of your flights. Then they will give you a quote. I think I paid $120 last year and Nelson paid 140 because he’s older than me . But that’s a good ballpark price. (If you are taking multiple trips this year, you can sometimes get a “bundle” with lower pricing.)
How Will We Meet in Bangkok?
Bangkok Airport ( BKK ) is a huge, modern airport with very organized taxi systems. You can hire a taxi for approx $12 USD to your hotel which is a 15 - 20 minute ride. You can also opt to take the Bangkok Airport Link Train for even less. Hotel Limo service is available at additional cost. You will receive an email with detailed information on how to get to the hotel once you have registered. Michelle & Nelson will be waiting to greet you in the hotel lobby upon your arrival.
If you have any other questions , please don't hesitate to call, text or email us at the contact info below.