On PMGY’s Real Thailand Experience, you’ll embark on an unforgettable 29-day adventure, combining volunteer work and travel across this vibrant and diverse country. Thailand offers so much to explore: pristine beaches, majestic mountains, lush jungles, sprawling paddy fields, bustling cities, serene Buddhist temples, and warm, friendly locals. During this incredible 4-week journey, you’ll have the chance to experience all sides of Thailand’s charm. With a group of like-minded travellers to share the adventure and a dedicated guide to help you make the most of every moment, the Real Thailand Experience is truly one not to be missed!
Program Highlights
- Join Us In 2027 On 15th May, 12th June Or 10th July For An Epic 4 Week Trip
- Spend 1 Week Teaching English To Local Students In Historic UNESCO Ayutthaya
- Gain Practical Teaching Skills While Supporting A Local School In Thailand
- Enjoy A Structured & Social Group Experience With Support Throughout
- Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Reclining Buddha, Markets & Historic Canals
- Stay On Cheow Lan Lake & Explore The Rainforests Of Khao Sok National Park
- Enjoy Koh Samui & Koh Phangan With Beaches, Island Life & A Full Moon Party
- Choose Optional Adventures Including Snorkelling In Koh Tao & Erawan Falls
- Discover Chiang Mai With Optional Elephant Sanctuary, Rafting & Thai Cooking
- Experience Thai Culture Through Temples, Markets, Island Life & Local Food
Program Map
Summary of the Real Thailand Experience
The Real Thailand Experience is a thrilling adventure designed for ambitious individuals eager to explore the very best of Thailand. Our local team provides a structured, fast-paced group itinerary, taking you to a range of amazing destinations across the country. The Real Thailand Experience combines exciting travel with meaningful volunteering, where you’ll have the chance to give back to local communities while developing your skills.
Arriving in Thailand on a set date, you’ll join a group of like-minded travellers for an unforgettable 4-week journey. This makes the PMGY Experience trips perfect for anyone seeking adventure and cultural immersion in a safe and social environment.
On this Real Thailand Experience, you’ll enjoy unique opportunities, from living on a floating house and teaching English in schools to spending time with elephants. Across this 29-day itinerary, you’ll create lasting memories, form lifelong friendships, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Thailand.
All in-country transport and accommodation are arranged by our local teams, ensuring a seamless experience from one destination to the next. The itinerary includes a variety of activities to help you fully immerse yourself in Thai culture, while our local experts are always on hand to suggest additional ways to make the most of your free time. Part of your journey will also involve making a meaningful impact within a local community, putting your skills and enthusiasm to good use.
The group-based structure of the trip ensures it’s a highly social experience, where you’ll meet people from all over the world and share unforgettable moments together. Staying with your group throughout the adventure, you’ll also have the chance to connect with local communities, making your gap year program in Thailand even more enriching and memorable.
Exploring Thailand
The Real Thailand Experience kicks off in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, where you’ll dive into a whirlwind of culture and excitement. A city of striking contrasts, Bangkok blends modernity with tradition, chaos with charm, and everything in between – you’ll love exploring it! Highlights include Bangkok’s famous 8,000-stall market and the bustling Koh San Road, brimming with restaurants and bars – a perfect spot to bond with your fellow travellers.
Next, we’ll slow things down with a visit to the serene Khao Sok National Park – the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest. This incredible jungle, over 160 million years old, boasts an extensive network of trails where you might spot elephants, tigers, gibbons, sun bears, and an astonishing variety of birds. With 38 types of bats and the world’s largest (and smelliest!) flowers, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
One of the highlights of this experience is staying in a floating raft house on Cheow Larn Lake, set against the backdrop of majestic karst mountains. The tranquillity of the setting is truly magical. To top it off, you’ll have your own kayak right outside your room – ready for you to explore whenever you like. It’s a truly unique experience!
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You’ll spend two days soaking in this lush jungle landscape, with its dramatic limestone formations and cascading waterfalls. By day, you can trek, kayak, and explore caves. By night, relax in your raft house under a canopy of stars – a moment of pure bliss you won’t forget.
From the jungle, we head to the stunning islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, your perfect tropical escape. These islands offer everything you’d dream of for a beach retreat: white sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of fresh seafood. Lounge in the sun, swing in a hammock, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into activities like island tours, water sports, or even a Thai cooking class – learn to whip up your own delicious dishes!
And, of course, no Real Thailand Experience would be complete without the Full Moon Party. Prepare for an unforgettable night of fun and celebration as part of this exciting itinerary. We’ll then return to Bangkok to wrap up the tour on a high note.
Volunteer Placement
As part of your Real Thailand Experience, you’ll dedicate one week to a meaningful volunteer program in Ayutthaya, just an hour north of Bangkok. During this time, you’ll work on community projects, focusing on English language teaching at a local school. Over the course of five days, you’ll be teaching English to eager students, immersing yourself in the local culture. Be prepared for an exciting and engaging experience, where the warm greetings of “Sa-wat-dee kraup/kah” and smiles from the locals will make you feel truly welcome.
Working hours vary depending on your assigned project, but a typical day runs from 9:30am to 11:30am, followed by an afternoon session from 12:30pm to around 2/3pm. This means an average of 2-4 hours of volunteering each day, Monday to Friday. During the lunch break, the children finish their meals, giving you free time to explore the town, relax at the Volunteer House, or stay at the school.
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The volunteer project is not usually within walking distance of the accommodation. Our local team will provide daily transport to and from the project, with costs included in your Program Fee. Travel is typically by mini-van or private car, ensuring your journey is comfortable and hassle-free.
A member of the local team will be on hand to assist, helping you make a real impact. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience a different side of Thailand and immerse yourself in traditional life. To make the most of your time as a volunteer in Thailand, we highly recommend preparing lessons in advance. Planning ahead helps create engaging, fun, and effective classes.
If teaching is new to you, don’t worry! You’ll quickly build confidence after delivering your first few lessons. The more effort you put into planning, the smoother your classes will run. Use the late afternoons to fine-tune your lessons or explore Ayutthaya and its surrounding areas, soaking in the rich culture and history.
Itinerary
Please make sure you arrive into Bangkok International Airport (BKK) on the appropriate Saturday. You should arrive after 7am on the Saturday start date of your trip, and the pickup service is available until midnight on this day. If you wish to arrive before this time, you can either arrange your own hotel and airport transfer, and we can collect you from your hotel on Saturday.
Sawa Dee Kah – welcome! A member of our local team will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a PMGY sign. From here, we’ll transfer you to a guesthouse on Khao San Road, where you can relax and start getting to know your new travel companions.
This is an arrival day, with participants arriving throughout the day. You can take this time to recover from your journey and settle in. If you’re up for it, we’ve planned an evening out – the perfect icebreaker to start your Real Thailand Experience!
Meals included: None
After a good night’s sleep, we’ll start the day with an orientation session. Our local team will introduce you to Thai culture, key safety advice, useful phrases, and provide a detailed overview of the itinerary. We’ll also take you to exchange money and pick up any essentials you may need.
We’ll then visit JJ Market, Bangkok’s famous weekend market with over 8,000 stalls! This is a great opportunity to practise your bargaining skills and pick up any last-minute travel essentials.
In the evening, we’ll board the air-conditioned sleeper train to Surat Thani, which takes around 11 hours. From there, we’ll take a local bus to Khao Sok National Park, ready for the next adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
We will arrive at Khao Sok National Park in the morning and check into floating raft houses on Cheow Larn Lake, an unforgettable experience. This stunning setting, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rainforest, is the perfect place to unwind.
Spend the morning kayaking, swimming, or simply soaking up the incredible scenery. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a boat cruise around the lake, spotting wildlife before returning for a group dinner under the stars.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, we will take one last swim in Cheow Larn Lake before checking out at 11am. From there, we will travel to the island of Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, known for its palm-lined beaches, lush rainforests and fresh coconuts.
We’ll check into our guesthouse in Koh Samui in the evening, just in time to watch a breathtaking sunset.
Meals included: Breakfast
With its white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and tropical vibes, Koh Samui is the perfect place to unwind. These days are free for you to explore at your own pace, with a variety of optional activities available:
• Elephant Sanctuary – Spend three hours at Koh Samui’s first ethical elephant sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to feed, walk, and interact with the elephants in a natural environment. (Cost: approx. 70 GBP / 85 EUR / 110 USD)
• Island Tour – Take a guided tour to Big Buddha Temple, Nameang Waterfall, and Chaweng Viewpoint, exploring some of Koh Samui’s must-see spots. (Cost: approx. 10 GBP / 12 EUR / 15 USD)
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we’ll take the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Our local team will introduce you to the island and the various activities available:
• Ang Thong National Marine Park – A breathtaking cluster of 42 limestone islands with jungle-clad mountains, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches. Here, you can go snorkelling, kayaking, and hiking. (Cost: approx. 55 GBP / 65 EUR / 80 USD)
• Koh Tao Island Tour – Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of ‘Turtle Island’, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. (Cost: approx. 60 GBP / 75 EUR / 90 USD, with optional scuba diving available for an extra fee.)
• Water Sports – Try kayaking, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, and windsurfing, or take part in Muay Thai boxing and Thai cooking classes.
On one of the evenings, you will experience Koh Phangan’s famous Full Moon Party, a night filled with music, fire shows and beach celebrations. Your entrance fee and transport to the party are included.
Meals included: Breakfast
Time to say goodbye to the islands as we take a ferry from Koh Phangan to Chumphon, followed by a bus journey back to Bangkok. We’ll check back into our guesthouse in Khao San Road in the evening.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today is a free day, but we also offer an optional tour to Erawan Falls and the famous Bridge Over the River Kwai.
• Hike up the seven tiers of Erawan Falls, one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls
• Enjoy a longtail boat ride along the River Kwai
• Visit the historical bridge and learn about its role in WWII
Cost: approx. 60 GBP / 75 EUR / 90 USD
Meals included: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring Bangkok’s famous Khao San Road, packed with street stalls, souvenirs, and delicious local food. From handmade crafts to Thai silk, it’s the perfect place to pick up last-minute gifts or simply soak up the bustling atmosphere.
In the evening, we’ll gather for farewell drinks to celebrate an unforgettable journey with those finishing their two-week experience.
Meals included: Breakfast
In the morning, enjoy a guided half-day tour of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks. This tour is included in your Program Fee.
• The Grand Palace – A spectacular royal complex home to Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
• Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) – Famous for its 46-metre-long golden Buddha
• Thonburi Klongs (Canal Tour) – A longtail boat ride through Bangkok’s historic canals
The afternoon is free to explore – visit Chinatown, rooftop bars, or hidden cafés before we leave Bangkok behind.
Meals included: Breakfast
Travel to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient temples and river landscapes. After checking into the Volunteer House, you’ll receive a full briefing on your volunteer project and daily schedule.
Spend the afternoon exploring Ayutthaya at your own pace:
• Cycle through ancient ruins like Wat Mahathat & Wat Chaiwatthanaram
• Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River
• Try local street food such as grilled river prawns & boat noodles
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Support local community projects, working with children in local schools to improve their English skills and confidence.
• Teach English through games, songs, and creative activities
• Work in pairs with another volunteer, supported by local teachers and coordinators
• No prior teaching experience is required – just enthusiasm and a positive attitude
Evenings are free to explore, visit temples, or relax at riverside cafés.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
On your last day, say goodbye to the children and staff at your project. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner in Ayutthaya, reflecting on an amazing week of giving back.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
After completing your volunteering in Ayutthaya, you will return to Bangkok for a free day to explore at your own pace. Shop at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, visit the Jim Thompson House, or relax in a rooftop café.
In the evening, we’ll board an overnight sleeper bus to Chiang Mai, arriving in the early morning. Known as the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a rich blend of ancient heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life.
Over the next few days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore everything this charming city has to offer, from its majestic temples and bustling markets to thrilling adventure activities and authentic cultural experiences.
Temple Visits
Chiang Mai is home to over 300 temples, each with its own unique history and architectural beauty. One of the most famous is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain overlooking the city. A visit to this sacred site offers breathtaking panoramic views, along with an insight into Thai Buddhism and local traditions. Take part in a traditional blessing ceremony or simply admire the intricate golden chedis and detailed carvings.
Elephant Sanctuary (Cost: approx. 60 GBP / 75 EUR / 90 USD)
Spend a day at a rescue and rehabilitation centre where elephants are cared for in an ethical and cruelty-free environment. Unlike traditional elephant tourism, this sanctuary does not allow riding, ensuring the animals live a peaceful and natural life. You’ll have the opportunity to feed, walk, and bathe the elephants while learning about their history, conservation efforts, and the importance of responsible tourism. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for these gentle giants.
Thai Cooking Classes (Cost: approx. 30 GBP / 36 EUR / 45 USD)
Discover the flavours of Thailand by joining an authentic cooking class led by expert local chefs. You’ll start the experience by visiting a traditional market to hand-pick fresh ingredients, before learning how to prepare classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum Soup, and Mango Sticky Rice. The best part? You get to enjoy your creations at the end of the class!
White-Water Rafting (Cost: approx. 60 GBP / 75 EUR / 90 USD)
For those craving adventure, white-water rafting in Chiang Mai’s jungle-lined rivers is an exhilarating experience. Paddle through fast-flowing rapids, navigate past lush rainforests, and soak in the stunning natural surroundings. No prior experience is needed, as professional guides will provide a full safety briefing before you set off on your journey.
Evenings in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai comes alive at night, offering plenty of ways to unwind after a day of exploring. Wander through the famous Night Bazaar, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to authentic street food and live performances. Alternatively, you can relax in a cosy café, grab a drink at a rooftop bar, or enjoy a traditional Thai massage to soothe any post-adventure aches.
This section of the Real Thailand Experience is the perfect blend of cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable stay in Northern Thailand.
Meals included: Breakfast
On Friday, we take a night coach back to Bangkok. Saturday is your last day on the Real Thailand Experience. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, our team will help arrange transport to your next destination.
Meals included: Breakfast
Other Things to Consider on the Real Thailand Experience
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Itinerary Schedule – The itineraries for our PMGY experience trips are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While we strive to inform participants of any changes ahead of the program start date, daily activities during your time in-country may still be subject to last-minute adjustments.
Depending on the time of year and the Full Moon dates, the route of your itinerary may differ slightly from the outline provided. This could involve completing your volunteer placement and exploring northern Thailand during the first two weeks of your Real Thailand Experience. Rest assured, any changes are made with your best interests in mind to ensure all planned activities are delivered. Regardless of the schedule, your gap year Thailand Experience will always start and end in Bangkok.
Free Time Activities – As highlighted throughout the itinerary, our local team can assist in arranging activities during designated free time. Any example prices provided in the itinerary are indicative and based on typical costs. Please note these prices may vary from year to year and should only be used as a rough guide for budgeting.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Accommodation on the Thailand Intro Experience varies as you travel between destinations, giving you the chance to stay in a mix of locally based accommodation throughout the trip. Rooms are shared on a single sex basis, with the main accommodation styles as follows:
Guesthouses
You will stay in comfortable guesthouses, typically sharing rooms with 2 to 6 participants. Rooms have fans, WiFi and western style bathroom facilities, although internet access can occasionally be intermittent. Guesthouses are conveniently located for exploring each destination and accessing nearby restaurants, shops and attractions.
Raft Houses
During your time in Khao Sok National Park, you will stay in traditional floating bamboo huts surrounded by the national park. Rooms are simple but comfortable and typically shared with 2 to 6 participants. Each hut also comes with access to a kayak, giving you the chance to head out onto the water and enjoy the surroundings during your free time.
Volunteer Accommodation
During the Real Thailand Experience, you will spend just under a week volunteering and staying in Ayutthaya, approximately 1 hour north of Bangkok. The accommodation provides a comfortable base in a peaceful neighbourhood, giving you the chance to experience a more traditional side of Thailand while still having convenient access to local shops, restaurants and amenities.
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Individuals on a volunteer trip to Thailand are recommended to bring a small padlock for added security. Valuables can be stored with the local team, but participants are advised to bring only essential items during their volunteer work in Thailand. There is usually fridge space available for cooling items, although power cuts are common in Thailand and typically last only a few hours.
The volunteer projects in Thailand are generally not within walking distance of the accommodation. Transport to and from the project is provided by the local team via mini-van or private car, and this service is included in your Program Fee.
Wi-Fi
Usually Yes
People Per Room
Up To 6 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1 Hour
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Drive
Meals
Some meals are included in the Program Fee – please refer to the itinerary section for details. Dining out in Thailand is inexpensive, and the local cuisine is world-renowned for its flavour and variety. Our local team will guide you to the best dining spots and recommend must-try dishes. International options such as pizza, burgers, and curry are also widely available if you’re in the mood for something familiar.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Cereal, Fruits, Yoghurt, Eggs, Toast
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Chicken, Pork, Fish, Curry, Rice, Noodles
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes participants in Thailand of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all participants need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Thailand will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a PMGY Thailand participant, you must provide a clean criminal background check before travelling with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the Real Experience programs — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Travelling overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Real Thailand Experience, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
The Real Thailand Experience starts on the following start dates –
15th May 2027
12th June 2027
10th July 2027
For your trip to Thailand, you should book your flights to Bangkok International Airport in Bangkok (airport code BKK) to arrive on the designated Saturday start date after 7am. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Real Thailand Experience participant.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Thailand, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Real Thailand Experience participant will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Real Thailand Experience program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Thailand, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Participant safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our participants are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail — from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international travellers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Real Thailand Experience participant.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Real Thailand Experience participant is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
