What Makes our Thailand Trip Different?

Tahzi Travel is built for travelers who want meaning over checklists. We design small-group and private journeys that move at a human pace, led by trusted local experts, with cultural encounters rooted in respect and real relationships.

In Thailand, that means:

• Time to actually taste the food, not just photograph it

• Markets, temples, and neighborhoods experienced with guides who know the stories behind them

• Thoughtful pacing, with space for reflection,.

• We’re not a ‘one-and-done’ tour. Our days flow from morning into night at a relaxed pace, layering experiences that leave you feeling culturally connected to Thailand, not just passing through it.

To us, Premier in Thailand means you’re cared for in every detail while still feeling immersed in the real country. Think well-located hotels and boutique stays, memorable meals, attentive service, and guides who can read both the streets and the group. You’re not roughing it, but you’re not sealed off from the world either, you’re comfortable in the middle of something extraordinary.

Premier, in the Tahzi way, is comfort with conscience: a journey that’s enjoyable, deeply human, and gives back to the places and people who welcome us.

Why are the Prices Lower than other “Premium” Brands?

You may notice that our rates are often lower than some big-name premium brands offering similar hotels and experiences. It’s because of how we run the company.

Here’s what that means in real terms:

• Exceptional guiding and handpicked stays come first. Your days are led by top-tier local guides and supported by trusted partners we’ve built relationships with over years.

• Small groups, never “mass market.” We keep group sizes limited so the experience stays personal. We leave the big buses and headset tours to others.

• Lean, relationship-based operations. We don’t carry huge international office structures or expensive marketing layers. Your money goes into your trip, not into overhead.

• Curated departures. We run specific dates, not an endless year-round catalog. That lets us lock in great logistics and fair rates and pass that value directly to you.

When you’re traveling with Tahzi Travel you are getting a high-touch, thoughtfully paced, ethically grounded Thailand journey where every dollar works toward your experience.

How far in advance should I book?

We secure our hotels, guides, and key experiences well in advance and limit each departure to a small group , typically around 8–12 guests. Feel free to contact us for a private family or business group trip..

Most trips fill 6–9 months ahead, especially during popular seasons and festivals.
If our dates work for you, it’s best to book as early as you comfortably can, both for availability and better flight options.

Safety, Health, and Accessibility

Is it safe?

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular and established travel destinations. As with any major city, Bangkok and Chiang Mai require normal urban awareness, tourism infrastructure is very well developed and geared toward international visitors.

On our trips:

• We partner with reputable local operators and guides

• We use vetted hotels and transportation

• Your guide is always your first call if something feels off or you need help

• Access to modern medical care. In the unlikely event of a serious issue, Bangkok and Chiang Mai both have reputable hospitals and clinics used to treating international travelers, so you’re never far from quality care if you need it.

Do I need vaccines ?

We’re not medical professionals, so we always recommend you speak with your primary care doctor or a travel clinic for personalized advice.

General notes you’ll likely hear:

• Routine vaccines should be up to date.

• Additional vaccines (like Hep A, Typhoid, etc.) may be recommended depending on your plans.

• Malaria risk is low in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, but can exist in some rural or border regions; your doctor can advise whether medication is appropriate for your itinerary.

If you have a sensitive stomach or medical conditions, bring the medications you rely on at home and keep them in original packaging.

Can you accommodate mobility limitations?

Within the realities of Thailand’s streets and temples.

Things to know:

• There is daily walking on uneven or broken sidewalks, market lanes, and temple grounds, uneven terrain, crossing large intersections.

• Many temples have stairs and limited ramp access.

• Some experiences (like boat rides or local transport) may require stepping up or down without railings onto a moving boat.

We’d rate most of our Thailand itineraries around 3–4 out of 5 for mobility: manageable for guests who can walk a few miles a day with breaks, but not ideal for those who rely on walkers or wheelchairs.

If you have specific concerns, tell us before booking. We’ll talk it through honestly and help you decide if this trip will feel comfortable and enjoyable for you.

Visas, Entry, and Getting There

Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Thailand?

As of 2025, U.S. citizens visiting Thailand for tourism and staying fewer than 60 days generally do not need a visa in advance, but you do need to complete a digital arrival registration and meet standard entry requirements (passport validity, onward ticket, etc.).

Important:

• Entry rules can and do change (including new digital arrival card/ETA rules for visa-exempt visitors).

• Your passport must have at least 6 months validity beyond your departure date.

Always check:

• The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate or official Thai e-Visa site, and

• Your own government’s travel advisory page

Which airport should I fly into?

Our itinerary starts in Bangkok, so we require you fly into:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – main international hub

We’ll arrange your airport pickup as well as your departure drop-off.

Packing & Gear

What should I pack?

Think light, breathable, and modest-friendly.

Essentials:

• Light shirts and tops (short or long sleeves)

• Lightweight pants, long skirts, or longer shorts

• A light sweater or wrap for air-conditioning and cooler evenings

• Comfortable walking shoes or closed toed sandals with good support

• A packable rain jacket or small umbrella (showers can appear any time)

• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent

• Any medications you need, in original packaging

• A small daypack for walking tours and market visits

What should I wear at temples?

Temples are active places of worship and dress is more conservative:

• Shoulders, chest, and knees covered for all genders

• No short shorts or mini skirts

• Avoid low-cut tops, sleeveless and see-through clothing

• You may be asked to remove shoes before entering certain temple buildings

A simple formula: light pants or a long skirt + breathable top with sleeves + scarf or shawl in your daypack = temple-ready with minimal effort.

Do hotels do laundry?

Almost all mid-range and upscale hotels in Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer laundry service. Turnaround is usually 24 hours. This makes it easy to pack lighter and wash as you go. Laundry service is not included in your tour price.

Will I be able to charge cameras and phones?

Yes. Thailand’s electricity is typically 220V, 50Hz, and outlets commonly accept several plug types (often including the flat 2-pin Type A used in North America, as well as round European styles).

Most modern camera and phone chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V), which means you’ll likely just need a simple plug adapter, not a heavy converter. Always check the label on your device: if it says something like “Input 100–240V, 50/60Hz”, you’re good.

We recommend bringing:

• A universal travel adapter

• A small 12 in 1 power strip if you have lots of gear (laptops, cameras, phones).

Wi-Fi and charging are available in most hotels and many cafés.

On-Trip Experience

What does a typical day in Thailand look like?

It varies by day, but a sample rhythm might look like:

• Morning: Start early to beat the heat and crowds, visit a temple, local market, or neighborhood with your guide, with street snacks or a coffee along the way.

• Midday: Break for lunch, then enjoy free time for shopping, a massage, or a nap at the hotel.

• Late afternoon/evening: Re-group for a food tour, night market walk, or riverside stroll, often ending with a memorable meal.

You’ll have a blend of guided time and personal time, so you can both learn and wander.

How much walking is involved?

Most days include 2–4 hours of walking, broken into shorter segments with plenty of stops for food, photos, and stories. Surfaces can be uneven (old streets, market lanes, temple steps), so comfortable walking shoes or closed toed sandals are important.

How many guests are in the group?

We keep our Thailand trips intimate and small-group:

• Typically around 8–12 guests per departure

• Private journeys can be arranged for couples, families, or custom groups

Small groups mean your guide can adapt the flow of the day, answer deeper questions, and notice when it’s time for a break.

Guides & Language

Who are your guides?

Your guide is the heart of your Thailand journey.

We work with highly trained, handpicked local professionals, many of whom:

• Were born and raised in the regions we visit

• Speak excellent English (and often additional languages)

• Have deep knowledge of Thai culture, history, food, and daily life

• Know how to read a group’s energy and adjust the pace

They’re there not just to lead you, but to translate the country for you, culturally as much as linguistically.

What languages are available?

• English is standard on our trips.

How much should we tip?

Tipping is always discretionary, but many guests appreciate guidelines:

• Local guide: We suggest around $5–$10 per guest per day (or equivalent in THB), depending on group size and your experience.

• Drivers: Around $3–$5 per guest per day is typical.

• Hotel staff/porters: The equivalent of $1–$2 per bag or a small tip for exceptional service.

Culture, Ethics, and Impact

How do you approach cultural visits respectfully?

We don’t do “drive-by culture.”

Our visits are built around long-term relationships, fair compensation, and consent, with an emphasis on exchange instead of spectacle. That might look like:

• Time to sit, talk, and listen not just snap photos and leave

• Supporting locally owned shops, restaurants, and experiences

• Being briefed on basic cultural etiquette so you feel confident and respectful

We’ll always give you context before a visit so you know what’s appropriate and appreciated.

Should I bring gifts for children?

We know the impulse comes from a kind place, but handing out random gifts directly to children can do more harm than good:

• It can habituate children to see visitors as sources of handouts rather than genuine connection.

• Sweets and chocolates often aren’t part of daily life and aren’t sustainable once you leave.

• Wrappers and packaging become litter in communities that may not have robust waste systems.

A better way to give back, especially when visiting the villages in Thailand, is to bring $10–15 in cash. We’ll work with our local guides to purchase needed items within the country and they’ll distribute these on your behalf.

How does my trip support local people and the places we visit?

Tahzi Travel choose partners who:

• Hire and train local teams

• Source from local businesses wherever possible

• Support community and/or conservation initiatives

In Thailand, that can look like staying in Thai-owned hotels, eating in family-run restaurants, and joining experiences that directly benefit local entrepreneurs and craftspeople.

If you’re interested, ask us how your specific trip supports local communities, education, or conservation, we’re happy to share details.

Special Requests & Logistics

Can you accommodate dietary needs?

Yes, in most cases.

Thailand is fantastic for fresh, flavorful food, and many dishes can be adapted:

• Vegetarian and pescatarian options are widely available

• Vegan and gluten-free are possible in many places with clear communication

• Nut and shellfish allergies require more care, but we will do our best to advocate for you

Please tell us in advance about any dietary needs or allergies so we can coordinate with guides and restaurants.

What about Wi-Fi and connectivity?

• Most hotels offer Wi-Fi in rooms or common areas.

• Cafés and many public spaces in Bangkok and Chiang Mai also have Wi-Fi.

You can stay very connected if you wish, but we also encourage moments to unplug and just be in the experience.

Check with your cell phone carrier for international calling and data options.

Final Notes

What if I still have questions?

That’s exactly what we’re here for.

Traveling to Thailand, especially for the first time, is a big dream, and we take that seriously. Send us whatever you’re wondering about, big or small, and we’ll walk you through it like a trusted friend who happens to know Thailand inside out.