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Questions & Answers

Everything You Need to Know

And if your question isn't here, we're always a message away.

Before You Book

How far in advance should I book?

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Three to six months is ideal, giving us time to design something truly bespoke and secure the best accommodation and experiences. That said, we've created beautiful journeys in as little as three weeks — just let us know your timeline, and we'll work our magic.

What's the typical price range?

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Our journeys start from $3,500 per person for 7 nights, though the final price varies based on season, your choice of hotels, and the experiences you want. We're completely transparent about costs — you'll never be surprised. During our initial conversation, we'll discuss your budget and create something that works for you.

What's included in the price?

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All accommodation, private transfers (car and driver throughout), guided experiences as per your itinerary, domestic flights where needed, and 24/7 local support. International flights are not included. Everything is customized to your journey — from which meals are included to which activities are guided versus self-explored.

Do you offer group tours?

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Never. Every SALA journey is entirely private — designed for you and your travel companions alone. There are no shared experiences, no group meetings, and no competing schedules. Your journey is yours.

What's the booking process?

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Simple and personal. We start with a conversation — usually via WhatsApp or email — where we learn what draws you to Thailand. We'll send you a proposal within 48 hours. From there, we refine together until it's perfect. A 30% deposit secures your dates, with the final payment due 60 days before you depart.

Can I customize a set journey?

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Absolutely. Our published journeys — Bangkok & Beyond, The Islands, Northern Thailand — are starting points, not fixed itineraries. Every element can be adjusted: swap regions, change the pace, add activities, remove others. We design around what matters to you.

What payment methods do you accept?

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Bank transfer or credit card (Visa & Mastercard). We can invoice you in USD, EUR, or GBP, depending on your preference.

What's your cancellation policy?

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Full refund if you cancel up to 60 days before departure. 50% refund if cancelled 30–60 days out. Under 30 days, cancellation terms are subject to hotel policies. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

Planning Your Trip

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

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Most nationalities receive visa-free entry for 30–60 days. We'll confirm your specific requirements well before your trip and provide guidance on any documentation needed.

What vaccinations are recommended?

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No vaccinations are mandatory for Thailand. Hepatitis A and B, as well as Typhoid, are commonly recommended. We suggest consulting with your doctor 6 weeks before departure to discuss what's right for you.

Should I get travel insurance?

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Strongly recommended. Travel insurance protects against unexpected illness, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. We can suggest trusted providers if you'd like.

What should I pack?

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Light, breathable clothing (cotton and linen are your friends). Modest cover-ups for temple visits. Comfortable walking shoes. Sunscreen. Honestly, we'll send you a detailed packing guide tailored to your specific journey, so you know exactly what to bring.

Is Thailand safe?

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Thailand is very safe for travelers. We provide 24/7 local support throughout your journey and carefully vet every experience, guide, and restaurant on your itinerary. You're in good hands.

Do I need to speak Thai?

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Not at all. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and at partner hotels. Your SALA guide handles all communication for cultural visits, restaurant bookings, and local interactions. You'll be completely comfortable.

During Your Journey

What's included on each day?

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Breakfast is always included. Guided experiences follow your itinerary. You'll have a private car and driver for all transfers, and a local guide for cultural visits. Meals are included as specified in your itinerary — we don't leave you guessing about what's covered.

How does tipping work?

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Tipping isn't expected in Thailand, but it's deeply appreciated. We include a brief guide in your journey book explaining Thai tipping customs and what's appropriate for guides, drivers, and restaurants.

Will I have free time?

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Yes — and we believe in it deeply. Afternoons are often left open for spontaneous exploration, rest at your hotel, or whatever calls to you. A good journey has rhythm; it's not wall-to-wall activities. You'll have space to breathe and simply be.

What if I want to change plans mid-trip?

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Your SALA concierge is available 24/7. Adjustments happen in real-time — that's one of the superpowers of private travel. Fell in love with a neighborhood and want to stay longer? Want to skip an activity? We adapt.

Is WiFi available?

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Yes, at all our partner hotels. If you need connectivity while traveling between cities, we can arrange a portable WiFi hotspot for seamless on-the-go access.

What about dietary restrictions?

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Thailand is exceptional for dietary needs — whether you're vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, or managing allergies, the cuisine is adaptable. We brief all restaurants and guides in advance, so every meal is prepared with care for your requirements.

About Thailand

When is the best time to visit?

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There is no wrong time. Each season offers its own beauty and experiences. For a deeper dive into weather patterns, crowds, and what to expect month by month, see our month-by-month guide in the Journal.

What's the weather like?

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Thailand has three seasons. Cool season (November–February) ranges from 20–32°C (68–90°F). Hot season (March–May) is 28–38°C (82–100°F). Rainy season (June–October) is 25–33°C (77–91°F), with short afternoon bursts of rain. None of it should deter you — each season has its own magic.

What currency does Thailand use?

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Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are everywhere, and credit cards are accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants. We provide a currency guide and recommendations for getting the best exchange rates in your journey book.

Is Thailand good for families?

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Exceptional. Thai culture adores children, and the country is remarkably family-friendly. We design family itineraries with age-appropriate pacing and activities that keep everyone engaged. From elephant sanctuaries to cooking classes, there's something for every age.

What makes Thai hospitality different?

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It's the concept of "nam jai" — water from the heart. Thai hospitality isn't transactional; it's rooted in genuine warmth and generosity. People go out of their way because they care, not because they expect something in return. Learn more about this philosophy in our Journal.

About SALA

Who is behind SALA?

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A small team of Thailand-based travel designers who live here year-round. We're not distant curators — we're deeply embedded in Thailand's culture, communities, and rhythm. Meet the team and learn our story.

How is SALA different from a travel agency?

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We don't sell packages. We design private journeys based on genuine conversation with you. We listen, we think, and we create something entirely bespoke. We live in Thailand and know it intimately — not from brochures, but from daily life.

Do you only offer Thailand?

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Yes. We believe in depth over breadth. Thailand is our home and our expertise. By focusing entirely on this one country, we've become authorities on its regions, people, experiences, and rhythms — so we can design journeys that truly resonate.

Can I speak with a past guest?

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On request, we can connect you with past guests who've agreed to share their experience. There's nothing quite like hearing directly from someone who's lived a SALA journey.

Still Have Questions?

We love hearing from you. Reach out and let's start a conversation about your journey.

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