Thailand: Elephants, Education, and Cultural Exploration

Trip Name
Thailand: Elephants, Education, and Cultural Exploration

Who It’s For
High school students (completing grades 9–12)

2026 Sessions
Session 1: June 17 – July 6, 2026
Session 2: July 8 – July 27, 2026
Note: These dates reflect your teen’s departure and return on chaperoned flights to and from the United States. Additional travel information will be shared following enrollment.

Location
Bangkok, Koh Samet, and Chiang Mai, Thailand

Trip Length
20 Days

Service Hours
44–66

Tuition
$7,495

This is the plan, but plans can shift. Weather, group energy, and new opportunities sometimes lead us to make changes. No two trips are exactly the same, and that’s part of what makes the experience so memorable.

Days 1–2: Depart San Francisco & Arrive in Bangkok
We begin in San Francisco with an early morning group departure. We arrive in Bangkok on Day 2, settle in, and start getting to know the group.

Days 3–5: Orientation & Exploring Bangkok
We dive into the culture and history of Bangkok. Highlights include the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha, Wat Po, and Wat Arun, plus a boat tour through the city’s canals. It’s a mix of history, connection, and curiosity as we settle into the rhythm of life in Thailand.

Days 6–10: Teach English in Local Schools
We spend five days teaching English to elementary-age students. Lesson planning, games, and outdoor activities are all part of it. Along the way, we share stories, build friendships, and learn from the students just as much as they learn from us.

Days 11–13: Koh Samet Island Adventure
We take a boat to Koh Samet, a quiet island known for white sand beaches and warm blue water. Snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the bays offer a break from the city and a chance to unwind and connect.

Day 14: Chiang Mai & Night Markets
After returning to Bangkok, we fly north to Chiang Mai. We explore the city and check out the famous night market, full of handmade crafts, local snacks, and vibrant energy.

Days 15–17: Elephant Conservation Work
Spend three days learning from local caretakers at an elephant conservation center. We help with feeding, bathing, cleaning, and giving the elephants daily exercise. Each evening, we return to Chiang Mai. This is hands-on work, full of heart, purpose, and connection with these incredible animals.

Day 18: Culture & Celebration
We spend the day engaging with local culture, meeting Buddhist monks for a conversation on mindfulness and faith, then trying our hand at traditional Thai cooking. That night, we celebrate with our final banquet and reflect on the experience we’ve shared.

Days 19 and 20: Return Home
After one last transfer to Bangkok, we say goodbye and fly home - tired, proud, and full of stories!

We stay in modest hotels throughout the whole trip.

Group Living – Teens share rooms, divided by gender with leaders in separate rooms, nearby.

Western Toilets – Accommodations have Western-style bathrooms and access to regular showers everyday.

Shared Responsibilities – Everyone helps with tidying rooms and keeping group spaces organized.

What to Expect – Hotels are simple and all offer a clean, safe, and authentic experience.

All meals are provided by trusted local partners. This is a combination of meals at our accommodation, and other restaurants and cafes.

Cook Crew – At some locations, teens may help prep or serve meals.

Simple + Fresh – Meals feature rice, veggies, noodles, curries, grilled meats, and tropical fruits.

All Diets Welcome – Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other allergy-friendly options are all available.

Snacks + Hydration – Frequent water and snack breaks are built into the day.

Flights All participants fly together from San Francisco (SFO) to Bangkok (BKK). Do not book your flight until we send you the travel details and our official “green light” trip launch email.

Additional Internal Flight There will be one additional internal flight on this trip, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. RLT will book this on behalf of the group, and apply the charge to a final invoice.

Unaccompanied Minor Info We’ll walk you through the process if your teen is flying as an airline-designated Unaccompanied Minor (for major airlines this is often kids who are 14 years old or younger, and are flying without a parent.) Every airline has different policies so it is important to coordinate with RLT and look into each airline’s specific policies. Generally speaking, we will have an RLT leader available to meet Unaccompanied Minors at the arrival airport for each trip.

Packing Participants are responsible for bringing their own personal clothing, toiletries, and other personal gear. The Road Less Traveled provides all group gear, any specialized activity equipment needed for the trip. A detailed packing list will be sent to families well in advance (and is available upon request at any time) to ensure your child is prepared. We encourage packing clothing that’s comfortable, durable, and made for adventure. Our list will also provide guidance based on weather, location, cultural considerations, and planned activities to help participants bring the right items for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Luggage Note
We recommend one checked soft duffel bag (NOT a rolling suitcase) and a small carry-on backpack.

Forms & Waivers – Once enrolled, you’ll get access to your RLT portal with required forms: a health history, positive participation agreement, and more. All must be submitted before the trip. We review every form to make sure we can support your teen.

Medical Clearance – No doctor’s appointment needed unless a new or complex condition has developed. We connect with each family individually about any medical needs that require more attention such as severe allergies, diabetes, etc.

Medications – All medications that your teen will take regularly on the trip must be listed on your health history form (both prescription and over the counter medicine that is taken regularly); leaders manage them throughout the trip.

Behavioral Expectations – Every teen signs a Positive Participation Agreement. This helps set a shared standard for safety, respect, and inclusion.

Trip Insurance – Travel insurance is required for international trips. You can use any provider, but RLT does provide a recommended insurance provider.

Vaccinations – Because some parts of Thailand carry a risk of malaria transmission, families should know that anti-malarial medication is recommended for this trip. We encourage everyone to speak with a physician or travel health specialist about whether prophylactic medicine is advised. Additionally, we recommend reviewing CDC guidance for recommended vaccines and preventive medications for this trip. Your pediatrictian or a dedicated travel doctor can provide final guidance tailored to your child’s health needs.

Passport – For US citizens traveling to Thailand, passports must be valid 6+ months beyond the return date. For participants who carry passports from other countries, we strongly recommend looking into specific passport and visa requirements that may be in place.

Device-Free Philosophy – Phones and personal electronics are collected on Day 1 and returned at the end.

Why?
Disconnecting helps teens:
Build deeper relationships
Be present in their surroundings
Gain confidence without constant tech

Cameras Welcome – Bring a digital camera or GoPro, anything without internet access.

Communication – Families receive updates throughout the trip. Emergency line available 24/7.