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Global Exclusive
New Trip

Northern Thailand Hidden Kingdom

4.7(12,870 reviews)
Thailand
8 days
Operated by Us

14 others looking at this too. Next opening is Jan 2027, with limited spots.

$2,695

$495
deposit now
Limited spots • Free trip & date changes • Pay later, 0% interest

Destinations

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai

Vibe

Adventure, Nature, Foodie, Social

Intensity

Relaxed To Moderate

Seasonality

November–April, Dry Season

Unique to our Getaways

Comfortable hotel room with twin-share accommodation

No Cramped
Dorm Rooms.

Bed

Enjoy guaranteed twin-share or upgraded accommodation throughout your trip. More comfort, better sleep, and none of the crowded backpacker dorms often found on traditional youth tours.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Travel medical insurance documents with a Global Travel Cover card

Travel Medical Insurance,
Built In.

Medical insurance

All our Getaways include travel medical insurance from Global Travel Cover Inc. for the full duration of your tour, helping protect you against unexpected events while you focus on making unforgettable memories. TCs apply.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Travellers holding drinks at sunset

Sunset Drinks
Included.

Sunset

Bond with your crew over included sunset drinks at handpicked local spots. It's the perfect way to connect with fellow travellers while soaking up incredible views and unforgettable moments.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Group enjoying nightlife together

Big Nights.
Better Mornings.

Moon

Enjoy the nightlife without the early wake-ups. Our itineraries are designed with later starts after social evenings, giving you more time to rest, recharge, and enjoy every destination.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Group having their photo taken by a guide

Stay Present,
We'll Capture It.

Camera

Put the phone away and enjoy the moment. Your Global Guide captures photos and videos throughout the trip, with regular media drops shared to the group.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Bright night market street after dark

See More
After Dark.

Road sign

Experience destinations when they truly come alive. From night markets and rooftop bars to vibrant nightlife and evening adventures, you'll see a side of the destination most tourists miss.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Young travellers exploring together

Exclusively For
18-35ish.

Group

Travel with like-minded people in the same stage of life. Every Getaway is designed exclusively for 18 to 35-ish, creating a more social and connected group experience.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Traveller enjoying an ethical animal experience

Ethical Animal Experiences.
100% of The Time.

Animal welfare

Every animal encounter on our Getaways is carefully vetted for ethical practices. We never include experiences that exploit wildlife, only that put animal welfare first.

Only on Getaways by Global Work & Travel

Trip overview

70% cities. 30% mountains and jungle. 100% done for you.

You'll feel the energy of Bangkok before you even touch down. Thailand's capital is legendary for a reason, and you're about to find out why.

Maybe it's your first time in Asia. Maybe you're not sure where to start. But with a local Global Guide leading the way and a group of new mates by your side, you'll be in excellent hands from day one.

You'll experience Bangkok by tuk tuk and canal boat before diving headfirst into one of the world's greatest street food scenes.

But Thailand isn't just cities.

You'll slow things down in Chiang Mai and the mountains of Pai, where jungle landscapes, hidden caves and authentic local experiences reveal an entirely different side of the country.

You'll visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, explore underground rivers and limestone caves, soak in natural hot springs and experience the warmth of Northern Thai hospitality firsthand.

And as the trip comes to an end, you'll celebrate with your group over an incredible meal hosted by locals who'll welcome you into their world.

You'll leave with new stories, lifelong memories and friendships that stretch across the globe.

Why you'll love this trip

🤝 Come alone, leave together

Built-in travel crew so you're never alone, even if you're travelling solo.

🌆 Experience the real side of Thailand

From Bangkok's buzzing streets to hidden villages and mountain towns, you'll discover a side of Thailand most travellers never get to see.

🐘 Ethical elephant encounters

Get up close to these incredible animals at a sanctuary committed to their wellbeing.

🍜 Eat your way across Thailand

Street food, night markets and authentic local experiences that'll completely change the way you think about Thai food.

😌 Plenty of freedom

You won't be on a strict schedule every second of the day. There'll be some time to relax, explore and enjoy the journey with your new travel crew.

📸 Stay in the moment

Your Global Guide captures the memories and shares daily photos, so you can spend less time behind your phone and more time living the experience.

What you'll do

Explore Bangkok by tuk tuk and canal boat

Explore Bangkok by tuk tuk and canal boat

Experience Thailand's legendary street food scene

Experience Thailand's legendary street food scene

Discover ancient Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai

Discover ancient Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary

Explore Pai and the surrounding mountains

Explore Pai and the surrounding mountains

Venture into limestone caves and underground rivers

Venture into limestone caves and underground rivers

Share an authentic meal and cooking experience with local hosts

Share an authentic meal and cooking experience with local hosts

Enjoy sunset drinks in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pai

Enjoy sunset drinks in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pai

Trip itinerary

Pre-Arrival
Day 1 | Arrival | Bangkok
Day 2 | Bangkok
Day 3 | Chiang Mai
Day 4 | Chiang Mai
Day 5 | Pai
Day 6 | Pai
Day 7 | Chiang Mai
Day 8 | Departure | Chiang Mai
Pre-Arrival
Free Day1 day

The countdown is officially on! Weeks before you even pack your bags, your dedicated Travel Concierge can help you sort your flights to save you from the usual 20-tab logistics headache and your travel medical insurance policy will be issued by Global Travel Cover. You'll also have access to Social and a WhatsApp group so you can get to know your ...

Day 1 | Arrival | Bangkok
Arrive1 day

Settle into your hotel, meet your group & Global Guide and spend your first evening exploring one of the world's most exciting cities. Wander the buzzing streets of Chinatown, sample your first authentic Thai street food and soak up the electric atmosphere that makes Bangkok unforgettable.

Day 2 | Bangkok
Adventure1 day

Discover the city's historic canals, magnificent temples and bustling streets on a tour curated by your Global Guide. Visit iconic landmarks including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho before swapping sightseeing for rooftop views, sunset cocktails and eating your way through Bangkok's legendary street food scene by tuk tuk.

Day 3 | Chiang Mai
Tour1 day

Fly north to Chiang Mai, Thailand's cultural capital, where ancient temples, mountain views and vibrant night markets await. Ride through the city like a local, explore the sacred Doi Suthep temple and finish the day browsing colourful market stalls packed with incredible local food and handmade treasures.

Day 4 | Chiang Mai
Free Day1 day

Today is yours to enjoy however you like. Relax by the pool, hunt down hidden cafés, explore the Old Town or join an optional adventure before meeting the group for sunset drinks overlooking the city from one of Chiang Mai's best rooftop bars.

Day 5 | Pai
Activity Day1 day

Leave the city behind and wind through Northern Thailand's spectacular mountain roads. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary to learn about elephant conservation before arriving in laidback Pai, where you'll catch sunset over the dramatic Pai Canyon and toast the day with incredible mountain views.

Day 6 | Pai
Activity Day1 day

Adventure calls as you explore spectacular limestone caves, drift along underground rivers and unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by lush forest. As night falls, wander Pai's famous walking street, where live music, local crafts and some of Northern Thailand's best street food create the perfect evening atmosphere.

Day 7 | Chiang Mai
Activity Day1 day

Travel back to Chiang Mai through the scenic mountains before being welcomed into a local family's home for one of the trip's most memorable experiences. Learn the secrets behind traditional Northern Thai cooking, share an incredible home-cooked meal and celebrate the adventure and friendships you've made along the way.

Day 8 | Departure | Chiang Mai
Depart1 day

And just like that, your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your new travel family and head home with unforgettable memories, incredible stories and a camera roll you'll be reliving long after you've left Thailand behind.

What's included

Tap to expand

Premium Accommodation
Select Meals
Travel Medical Insurance
Airport Meet & Transfer
All Transport Included
Global Guide
Bangkok Activities
Chiang Mai Activities
Sunset Sessions
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visit
Cave Exploration
Local Host Dinner Experience
Photos Taken by Your Global Guide
Personal Travel Concierge
Social
Marketplace Deals
Global Academy
Exclusive Future Getaway Discount
24/7 Worldwide Support

Where you'll stay

Twin Share Accommodation

Included

Forget cramped dorm rooms. Throughout your adventure you'll stay in comfortable twin-share accommodation at carefully selected 3 or 4-star hotels, giving you all the social side of travel without sacrificing a great night's sleep. Travelling with someone? You'll be paired together. Flying solo? We'll match you with another traveller of the same gender, so you can settle in comfortably while making a new friend from day one.

Private Room Upgrade

Love the social side of group travel but prefer your own space at the end of the day? Upgrade to a private room and enjoy the comfort of having your own place to recharge between adventures. Private room upgrades are available on this trip for an additional cost (from A$374/£200 per trip) and are subject to availability.

Who it's for

Perfect for:

✔ Solo travellers (like 90% of our travellers)

✔ Couples and friends

✔ Travellers aged 18-35ish (anyone under 40 is welcome!)

✔ Anyone who wants all the fun without all the planning

Not ideal for:

✖ Families with young children

✖ Luxury travellers looking for five-star experiences

✖ Under-18s

✖ Travellers seeking highly structured, fast-paced tours

See Who's going.

Book & get early access to your group, start planning meet-ups, and make new friends before your journey begins.

Get more info!

Got questions or need to know more? Ask us here, we're online 24hrs Mon-Fri.

Further Details

Visa requirements can vary depending on the passport you hold, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Our team will advise you on what you may need, and you’ll also have access to our handy Travel Visa Tool in gWorld to check the latest requirements and, if needed, apply for the right visa before you travel.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Getaway?

A Getaway is a small-group adventure for travellers who simply want to explore. No work. No study. Just epic destinations, unforgettable experiences and a ready-made group to share them with. Our collection includes exclusive Getaways operated by Global Work & Travel, as well as carefully selected trips from trusted travel partners. Each one is chosen for its quality, value and ability to help you experience more without having to organise every detail yourself.

Are Getaways suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely. Getaways are designed to make travelling solo feel easy, social and supported. You’ll join a group of like-minded travellers, share experiences from day one and still have opportunities to enjoy some time to yourself. If you’re travelling on your own, you’ll usually be matched with another traveller of the same gender in twin-share accommodation. Private-room upgrades may also be available on selected trips.

Who will I travel with, and how big is the group?

Most Getaways operated by Global are designed for travellers aged 18–35ish and welcome approximately 6–14 people. This creates a fun, social atmosphere without making you feel like another seat on a crowded coach tour. You’ll meet travellers from different countries and backgrounds, but everyone has one important thing in common: they’re ready to explore, meet new people and make the most of the experience. Age ranges and group sizes on partner-operated Getaways may differ, so check the individual trip page.

Can I connect with my group before departure?

Yes. Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive early access to your group so you can see who’s coming, introduce yourself and start getting excited together. You can first meet in Social, our social network inside gWorld for all customers heading to your destination. About 10 days before your Getaway by Global starts, you’ll be invited to a dedicated Whatsapp group with your fellow travellers, your Global Guide, and our 24/7 Global Ground Control remote support team. It’s the perfect place to share plans, compare flights, ask questions and begin getting to know your new travel crew before you meet in person.

What does the Global Guide do?

On Getaways operated by Global, your Global Guide is there to bring the itinerary - and the group - to life. They’ll help coordinate the day-to-day details, keep the trip running smoothly and show you the places, experiences and local highlights you might otherwise miss, and that only a local would know. They’ll also help create a fun, welcoming group atmosphere and capture photos and videos throughout the trip, with regular media drops shared with the group. That means you can spend less time behind your phone and more time enjoying the moment. Partner-operated Getaways are led by the partner’s professional trip leader or local guide.

What is included in the price?

Every Getaway is different, so you’ll find a complete list of inclusions on the individual trip page. Getaways operated by Global always include comfortable accommodation in a twin room (you + 1 other only), transport during the itinerary, listed activities and experiences, select meals, a Global Guide, arrival support and travel medical insurance for the trip. You’ll usually need to budget separately for flights, meals not listed, optional activities, personal spending and your journey home from the finishing point. Partner-operated Getaway inclusions will vary.

What accommodation will I stay in, and who will I share a room with?

Getaways operated by Global only include comfortable twin-share (you + 1 other) or upgraded accommodation - without the cramped backpacker dorm rooms often found on traditional youth tours. If you’re travelling with someone, let us know and we’ll arrange for you to share where possible. If you’re travelling solo, you’ll only be matched with another traveller of the same gender, unless you state you’re happy to share with an opposite gender. Private-room upgrades may be available for an additional cost on selected trips and are subject to availability. Accommodation arrangements on partner-operated Getaways may differ, so check the trip page before booking.

Are flights and travel insurance included?

Flights to and from your Getaway are generally not included unless the trip page specifically says otherwise. Any internal flights required by the itinerary will also be clearly identified as either included or excluded. Our Travel Concierge team can help you find flights that suit your trip’s starting and finishing times. Getaways operated by Global Work & Travel only, include travel medical insurance from Global Travel Cover, Inc for the duration of the trip. This provides a base level of protection but may not cover cancellation, pre-existing conditions, every activity or travel before or after your Getaway dates. You should review the policy and consider whether additional comprehensive cover is right for you.

How does the deposit work, and when is the remaining balance due?

You can register for your place by paying the promotional deposit when you book of $/£/€1. Once you’ve paid the Standard Booking deposit your place will be confirmed subject to paying the trip balance by the due date. Your dedicated Trip Coordinator will explain how much remains to be paid and the final date by which your Getaway must be paid in full (generally 60-90 days out). The deposit amount and final-payment deadline can vary depending on the trip, departure date and operator. If you book close to departure, you may need to pay the full balance at the time of booking.

Can I pay for my Getaway in instalments?

Yes. If you book far enough in advance, you can spread the remaining cost across flexible, interest-free instalments instead of paying everything at once. We’ll help you create a payment schedule that works toward your final balance deadline. You can also make additional payments whenever it suits you. The available payment options may depend on your location, departure date and the operator running your Getaway.

When is my departure confirmed?

A departure is confirmed once the minimum number of travellers has booked for that Getaway. We’ll keep you updated on your departure status and let you know as soon as it is confirmed. Unless we advise otherwise, we recommend waiting for confirmation before purchasing non-refundable flights or making other non-refundable arrangements. Once confirmed, our team can help ensure your flights line up with the correct arrival and departure times.

Can I change my dates or switch to another Getaway?

We understand that plans can change. On most trips, you can request a different departure date or destination up to 60 days before departure. Your available options will depend on timing, availability and operator. A price difference may apply. Contact us as early as possible and we’ll explain your options before making any changes.

What happens if I need to cancel my booking?

Contact us as soon as you know you may no longer be able to travel. Your available options will depend on how far away your departure is, how much you’ve paid and the cancellation conditions of your particular Getaway. On eligible bookings, a deposit may be held as a future travel credit or transferred to someone else under our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee. Additional payments may be subject to cancellation charges when within 60-90 days of departure and converted into a Store Credit. Cancellations outside this window can usually be fully transferrable to any other trip or a Store Credit for use later. We’ll review your booking and clearly explain the available options before processing your cancellation.

Can you accommodate dietary requirements and allergies?

We’ll do our best. Tell us about any dietary requirements or allergies when you book so we can notify the relevant accommodation providers, guides and local suppliers in advance. Many destinations can accommodate common requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy-aware meals. However, options may be more limited in remote locations, and we cannot guarantee completely allergen-free preparation in shared kitchens. If you have a severe allergy or medical dietary requirement, speak with our team before booking so we can assess the specific itinerary with you.

Are airport transfers included, and can I arrive early or stay longer?

All Getaways operated by Global include an arrival airport meet and transfer when you arrive at the designated airport within the specified arrival window. Transfers at the end of the trip are generally not included unless stated on the trip page. Partner-operated Getaways may have different arrangements. You’re welcome to arrive early or extend your travels after the Getaway. You’ll need to arrange any additional accommodation and transfers outside the scheduled trip dates, but our Travel Concierge team can help you coordinate your plans and choose flights that work with the itinerary.

Why travellers choose Global Work & Travel

Plans change (and that’s ok)

Can’t travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it to someone, or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Travel backed by actual experts

With 17+ years in travel and over 120,000 travellers helped worldwide, you’re in experienced hands from day one.

Be more than a tourist

Go beyond the guidebooks to discover hidden gems and experience each destination like a local.

Book now, pay your way

Don’t wait to start your next adventure. Secure your spot today and spread the cost over time with flexible instalments that fit your budget.

We’re travelling with you

Whether you’re planning, packing or already overseas, we’re here to help every step of the way with always-on global support.

Flexible travel, built in

Life changes. Your trip can too. Change your destination or departure date on most trips up to 60 days before departure and keep your adventure moving.

Still have questions?

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Northern Thailand Hidden Kingdom