Thailand Adventure 15 Days
Journey through a country rich in history and renowned for adventure travel. Explore the bustling markets of Bangkok, the jungles of Chiang Mai, the beaches of Krabi and so much more. From SCUBA diving and zip-lining to interacting with elephants and enjoying the beautiful beaches of Railay Bay, you’ll experience it all on this unforgettable teen summer program in Thailand. Traveling in a small, tight-knit group, participants on this teen summer program will bond and grow together through new experiences. Get ready for a summer full of adventure, cultural exchange, and new friendships!
This 15-day program is the Thailand portion of our longer 27-day Thailand & Vietnam Adventure travel program.
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
This program requires an open mind to experience a different culture, new foods and new surroundings.
Air-conditioned, professionally-driven vehicles.
A professional guide accompanies the group to assist, educate and immerse the students into the local culture.
On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection
Basic Hotels.
Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Up to 26 participants.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Fly overnight to Bangkok. Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.
After a warm welcome greeting and orientation to Thai customs, you will experience this intriguing city with multiple modes of transport – by elevated Skytrain, canal boat, three wheeled tuk-tuk and longtail boat. The first stop is a food walking tour of Bangkok where you will be introduced to many traditional Thai dishes and flavors. As you take in the major sights including Erawan Shrine, Golden Mount, Grand Palace and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), the city’s people will continue to amaze you with their warmth.
Get ready for what is no ordinary zip line! From multiple platforms, zip from tree to tree with spectacular views of one of the province’s oldest forests. You’ll also spend half a day getting up close and personal with Thailand’s national animal – the Thai elephant! Discover the region’s beauty and history as you explore the old city and some of its most famous temples (including Doi Suthep) after a hands-on lesson in Muay Thai kickboxing - the country’s national sport.
At Chicken Island, whether you choose to snorkel or SCUBA in the emerald waters of this paradise, you will see exotic fish, sea turtles and coral. At Railay Bay, you will be able to rock climb with professional instructors and take in the view of the bay as you scale limestone cliffs. Enjoy a second snorkeling opportunity at Koh Phi Phi and chilling on the beach at Railay Bay. (For your safety, all SCUBA operators restrict participants with certain medical conditions. Please ask about your own circumstances if applicable.)
Fly back to Bangkok and enjoy your final few days exploring the markets and canal communities. Enjoy a farewell banquet dinner to celebrate those departing after these 15 days.
Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!
Bangkok, Thailand
The I Residence hotel features a rooftop restaurant, swimming pool and sundeck with city views of Bangkok. The central location makes it easy to get around and the perfect place to start and conclude your journey in the Land of the Smiles!
Chiang Mai, Thailand
The Ana Park Hotel is a relaxing, centrally-located property featuring a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi access, and delicious breakfast options.
Krabi, Thailand
The Peace Laguna Resort stands out with a stylish combination of tropical lifestyle and contemporary design set in striking natural surroundings. You will enjoy the swimming pool, spa, open-air lobby, and free Wi-Fi.
Flights: On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection
Flight To Bangkok, Thailand
We begin this program with a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Bangkok. Our program leaders greet you at the airport and are with you from check-in onward. Everyone has the opportunity to begin bonding before we even land. For our many travelers from outside the New York area, we require all participants to join our group flight to Thailand and are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York. For participants outside North America, please reach out to us to discuss your flight options.
Internal Flights
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $595 USD fee for internal flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Krabi, and Krabi to Bangkok.
Return Flight Home From Bangkok, Thailand
For your return from Bangkok, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York or Los Angeles. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA; or you may fly from Bangkok to your home city and our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.
Meals & New Cuisines
Part of your travel experience will be immersing yourself in the local cuisine and culture so please bring with you an open mind and a willingness to try new things. For example, in Thailand, your mouth will water over authentic spicy local dishes. There is plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and many noodle dishes, but don’t worry, they also have North American style options on the menu. We recommend against drinking the local tap water and we provide clean water for our travelers.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Drinking Water
On this program we will have large containers of clean water for you to fill up your own water bottles as needed.
Vaccinations
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Thailand. These recommendations may change from time to time. We will send you detailed information in March (or upon enrollment if later) regarding the current recommendations for this itinerary.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, internal flights, and personal spending money for snacks, souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 26 participants on all itineraries other than the 17, 20 or 25-day Greece & Italy, 20-day Greece & Portugal or 10-day Greek Islands, which varies from 24-36 participants.)
Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. Select European programs travel exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.