Behind the scenes, the travel industry talks in a strange language, overuses acronym's as if we're some secret agency, and does it's best to baffle the consumer with unnecessarily complicated language. Do you know what an "F.I.T." is? Ever heard of a "P.N.R."? Have you ever been referred to as a "PAX"?
In our new series of posts we want to clarify, for you, what these weird acronyms actually refer to so that you can be informed and don't have to ask that awkward question - "*ahem*, what's an OTA?"
For our first post we're helping you to understand the acronym - F.I.T.
It stands for Free Independent Traveler (or Flexible, Foreign, Fully Independent Traveler).
Think of a F.I.T. as someone (or a small group, usually under 10 people) who loves to plan their own adventure! They book flights, hotels, and activities themselves, instead of joining a big, pre-packaged tour.
Why go F.I.T.? These travelers want:
Freedom: To set their own pace and itinerary.
Personalization: Experiences tailored just for them.
Authenticity: Real connections and local immersion.
At Trunk Travel, we specialize in crafting custom trips for F.I.T.s, building unique adventures that truly match your style!
21/06/2025
City Explorer or Beach Bum? What's Your Thailand Vibe? 🤔🇹🇭
Thailand offers all the adventures, but what kind of traveler are you at heart? Are you:
The City Explorer? 🏙️ Hooked on the vibrant energy of Bangkok's bustling markets, glittering temples, and sky-high bars? Love navigating the modern pulse mixed with ancient charm?
The Beach Bum? 🏖️ Dreaming of sinking your toes into soft, white sand, swimming in turquoise waters, and chilling out with a coconut in hand? Blissfully unwinding by the ocean's rhythm?
Or maybe you're a bit of both! 😉 Tell us, what are you most excited to do when you visit Thailand?
Let us know in the comments! 👇
20/06/2025
Ever dreamed of a perfectly curated trip, tailor-made for you? While AI might seem like the ultimate travel planner, when it comes to crafting truly unforgettable journeys, especially in dynamic regions like Southeast Asia, there's simply no substitute for human expertise.
Our latest blog post dives deep into why relying solely on AI for your curated travel plans might leave you missing out – or worse, running into unexpected snags! Here are just a few factors AI might miss:
Real-time Local Conditions: Sudden weather shifts, localized flooding, or unexpected road closures that can impact your itinerary.
Last-Minute Changes: Unforeseen temple closures for ceremonies, specific market days, or sudden renovations of key attractions.
Cultural Nuances: AI might miss subtle etiquette tips or local customs that a human expert instinctively knows.
Authentic, Exclusive Access: Those hidden gems, local eateries, or unique experiences that aren't on any public database.
Unforeseen Events: Small, spontaneous festivals, local events, or temporary area restrictions.
Personal Preferences Beyond Keywords: Understanding your true travel style – quiet escape vs. lively immersion.
That's why it's always much, much safer and infinitely more rewarding to connect with in-country professionals who have their finger on the pulse. This is what we do! They live and breathe the destination, offering real-time insights, crisis management, and access to truly exclusive experiences that an algorithm simply can't match.
Click the link below to read our new blog post and discover why human insight is key to an extraordinary Southeast Asian adventure!
In our increasingly digital world, the allure of instant solutions is strong. Planning a trip abroad? Why not ask AI to whip up an itinerary? It sounds efficient, perhaps even revolutionary. But before you entrust your hard-earned vacation to the algorithms, consider this: your dream trip deserves m...
20/06/2025
Ready to explore Thailand worry-free? ✨ Our new blog post spills the beans on common travel scams, how to spot 'em, and stay savvy! Don't let anything spoil your adventure.👇
Following our journey through Bangkok's serene green spaces, let's dive into another pulsating facet of the city's charm: its incredible markets! Whether by day or night, these vibrant hubs offer an authentic taste of local life, where bargains, culture, and mouthwatering food converge. The best part? Bangkok's amazing public transport network makes exploring these gems incredibly easy.
Here are our top 5 essential Bangkok markets, each offering a unique experience:
Chatuchak Weekend Market: (Day) An absolute must-see! This colossal weekend market is a labyrinth of everything imaginable – from vintage clothing and handcrafted souvenirs to pet supplies and home décor. Prepare to get lost (in the best way!) and snag some fantastic bargains.
Jodd Fairs: (Night) A trendy and popular night market known for its relaxed vibe, fantastic street food stalls, and stylish fashion items. It's a prime spot to enjoy incredible, affordable eats under the stars and discover unique local designs.
Asiatique The Riverfront: (Night) Situated by the Chao Phraya River, Asiatique blends a traditional night market with a modern mall and entertainment complex. Expect a more curated shopping experience, diverse dining options, and even a Ferris wheel, making it a perfect evening out with a view.
Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market): (Day/Night) A sensory explosion! This 24-hour market offers an astonishing array of fresh flowers, orchids, and floral arrangements. It's less about traditional shopping and more about soaking in the beauty and the dedicated work of the vendors – a truly unique Bangkok experience.
Yaowarat (Chinatown Street Food): (Night) While technically a district, Chinatown's main thoroughfare transforms into one of the world's most famous street food havens after dusk. Indulge in everything from fresh seafood and dim sum to noodle dishes that will delight your palate without breaking the bank. It's pure culinary theatre!
From bustling day bazaars to enchanting night extravaganzas, Bangkok's markets promise unforgettable experiences. Hop on the BTS or MRT and dive into the heart of local commerce and cuisine!
19/06/2025
Discover Ayutthaya, Thailand's captivating former capital, a city steeped in history and brimming with magnificent ancient ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an absolute must-visit for anyone fascinated by rich culture and breathtaking historical architecture.
Wander amidst crumbling temples, towering stupas, and grand palaces, each telling tales of a powerful kingdom that once flourished. Ayutthaya is wonderfully accessible and easy to explore – whether you prefer to leisurely stroll by foot, feel the breeze on a bicycle, zip around in a local tuk-tuk, or navigate by car.
To truly bring its stories to life and ensure an enriched experience, exploring with a knowledgeable guide is always recommended. The best part? Ayutthaya makes for an incredibly easy and manageable day trip from Bangkok, offering a perfect escape into history without the long journey.
Add this fascinating historical gem to your Thailand itinerary – you won't regret it!
18/06/2025
Packing for your Thai adventure is an art form, and we're here to help you master it so you can fully enjoy every moment! Our top tip remains: Lay out everything you think you'll need on your bed... then take 50% of it away! Seriously, you'll thank us later. Thailand's humid climate means clothes dry fast, and you'll want space for those amazing market finds and souvenirs!
Here are more ideas for how to pack well:
Fabric Smart: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-dry synthetics. They're comfortable in the heat and easy to wash and dry. Remember to pack some modest options (shoulders and knees covered) for temple visits.
Footwear Essentials: Comfort is king! Bring a pair of supportive, comfortable walking shoes for city explorations and temple visits. Complement these with versatile sandals or flip-flops for the beach, poolside, and casual strolls.
Power Up Peacefully: Don't forget your tech essentials! Thailand uses several different plug socket types (primarily Type A, B, C, and O), so we strongly urge you to bring a multi-type adapter with a multi-socket extension cable. This will be a game-changer for charging all your devices simultaneously!
Sun & Bug Savvy: The Thai sun is glorious but strong! Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. For evenings, especially near nature, a good insect repellent is a must-have.
Rain Ready (Just in Case): Even outside the official rainy season, tropical showers can pop up. A small, lightweight umbrella or a packable rain jacket can be a lifesaver, keeping you dry without adding bulk.
Essentials Bag: Keep essential medications (with prescriptions if necessary), copies of your passport and visa (both physical and digital), and important contact numbers in a small, easily accessible bag.
Home Comforts: Lastly, consider those unique "home comforts" you can't live without that might not be readily available here. This could be a specific brand of toiletries, a favorite snack, or even a particular type of pillow. A little bit of home can go a long way in making your transition smoother.
Happy packing, adventurers! Get ready for an incredible trip and don't forget that if you need any more advice on how to best prepare for your adventure, shoot us a DM and we would be happy to help.
18/06/2025
Discover the heart and soul of Bangkok where history meets vibrant energy! 🏮✨ Ratanakosin Island and Chinatown (Yaowarat) are not just places on a map; they're an essential, unforgettable experience for every visitor to the city.
Step into a world of incredible culture, from the grandeur of ancient temples and palaces on Ratanakosin to the bustling, historic streets of Chinatown. As dusk falls, these areas truly come alive! The aroma of stunning food options wafts from every street corner, inviting you to indulge in a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds without breaking the bank. From classic Thai street eats to unique Chinese delicacies, it's a foodie paradise!
Beyond the delicious bites, you'll find buzzing nightlife options, ranging from traditional tea houses to trendy bars tucked away in charming alleys. The atmosphere is electric, alive with locals and travelers alike. Getting here is a breeze too, thanks to Bangkok's excellent transport options, including the MRT, making it easily accessible for an evening of exploration.
This dynamic duo of districts must be on your Bangkok itinerary. And for an truly unforgettable journey led by those who know it best, remember that Trunk Travel can craft a bespoke experience, led by our local experts, ensuring you uncover every hidden gem and savor every moment.
17/06/2025
Get ready to dive into deliciousness, because it's Tasty Thai Tuesday! 🍢🍚
Today, we're spotlighting a street food superstar that's guaranteed to get your taste buds salivating: Moo Ping!
Imagine this: perfectly grilled, juicy, and wonderfully fatty marinated pork skewers, glistening with a savory-sweet glaze. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, tender and packed with that irresistible char. And what's the perfect companion to this heavenly meat? A small bag of warm, gelatinous sticky rice, ready to soak up all that incredible flavor.
It’s the ultimate grab-and-go delight, a breakfast staple, a midday snack, or a late-night craving satisfier. Simple, authentic, and utterly addictive!
Have you tried Moo Ping before? What's your favorite part of this iconic Thai treat? Let us know in the comments!
17/06/2025
Craving a tranquil escape where golden sands meet the Andaman Sea? Discover the untouched allure of Khao Lak, Southwest Thailand's ultimate serene beach destination!
Just an hour's drive north of Phuket's bustling energy, Khao Lak offers a beautiful contrast. Here, you'll find a collection of quiet, peaceful villages nestled amidst lush natural beauty, providing a genuine sense of calm and local life that's increasingly rare. Unwind completely on its incredible, uncrowded beaches, stretching for miles with soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply watching the world go by.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or simply a place to disconnect and recharge, Khao Lak delivers. And if the call for a livelier night or more extensive shopping arises, the vibrant lights of Phuket are just a short drive away, offering the best of both worlds.
Experience the unparalleled peace, natural splendor, and warm hospitality that makes Khao Lak a truly special slice of paradise. Your serene beach dream awaits!
17/06/2025
What are you doing in this situation? A wild elephant comes charging at you, most likely protecting a young one and her territory. We're pretty sure we would have done exactly what this group did 🐘🇹🇭😁
Founded back in 2013, trunk has evolved over the years to become one of south east Asia’s leading tour operators, specialising in ethical, cultural and responsible solutions for the environmentally and community-conscious traveller.
Our story has seen us welcome over 10,000 travellers to Thailand, Cambodia, India and Vietnam, lead them on mindful, unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventures that positively support captive, endangered and rescued animals, whilst also supporting rural communities.
Our unique network of contacts allows us exclusive access to off-the-beaten-track experiences that have been specifically designed to aid and to benefit those who allow us to see a different side of each country.
If you are seeking a holiday that’s more than lying by a pool, or tanning on the beach, then have an adventure that will not change your life, but will positively affect the lives of those who need as much help as they can receive.
Trunk is one of the only tour operators in Thailand to be members of the Thai Eco-tourism and Adventure Travel Association, the Thai Responsible Tourism Association, the Association of Thai Travel Agents, The Tourism Authority of Thailand and to have been awarded the much coveted Thailand Health & Safety Administration certificate as reward for exceeding the Thai governments stringent guidelines for safely managing travel during the pandemic.
In addition to all of the above, trunk received the award for 2020 South East Asia Eco-tourism Operator of the Year for 2020. We think it’s safe to say that if you travel with trunk, you’re in for a safe, fun and rewarding adventure!
Whatever it is you’re looking for from your next adventure, just drop us a message and let us show you something that you’ll never, ever forget!
*COVD-19 UPDATE*
Of course the current global pandemic has affected almost every single business operating in the travel and hospitality industries. It is no different for us. Since countries closed their borders to international tourists, life has been tough for everybody at trunk but more so for those we work so hard to benefit. We have been actively fundraising to keep a level of support for the elephants and to date we’ve raised over $3,000 - which will go a long way to ensuring safety and a healthy diet.
We are extremely, however, that we can still operate. Thanks to mindful management of the finances at trunk we still have a very busy team of passionate and enthusiastic staff doing everything they can to ensure our survival and that once borders reopen we’re here to welcome you with open arms.
