Gangtey Lodge

At Gangtey Lodge travel-weary guests are greeted with a welcome song so powerful it reduced our party to tears, a hot towel, sweet tea by the fire, and a five-minute massage. “We wanted to create something for the backpackers that now want a little more luxury,” says Khin Omar Win, who co-owns the lodge with husband Brett Melzer. Luxury here comes in the form of personalized meals but also silence, space, and a sense of being cocooned by the sweet-natured staff who anticipate your every need. From $700. —Anna Prendergast

Taj Falaknuma Palace — India

With its dreamy frescoes, Corinthian columns, and Ostler chandeliers, Hyderabad’s storied Taj Falaknuma Palace had been a beloved residence of the ruling nizam—one of whom was famously depicted on a 1937 Time magazine cover as the “Richest Man in the World”—before falling into disrepair for decades. The hilltop aerie has been a fixture of my annual vacations in Hyderabad, from a childhood visit when it was still shuttered and shrouded in cobwebs to countless intimate dinner parties, afternoon teas, qawwali concerts on the gardens at sunset, and a memorable 75th-birthday celebration for my father last winter—complete with a flute serenade of “Happy Birthday” at breakfast under the stained-glass dome of the Gol Bungalow terrace. For the special way it brings Hyderabad’s rich history and traditions to life at every corner, Falaknuma will always have my heart. From $450. —Sarah Khan

The Dwarika’s Hotel — Nepal

Ian Schrager may have made lobby socializing a thing when he sparked the boutique-hotel revolution back in the mid-80s, but at Dwarika’s it’s all about the courtyard. Soundtracked by birdsong, it feels like being inside a secret walled garden—a bubble of tranquility from the cacophony of Kathmandu. The hotel is both a marvel of conservation and a monument to historic Newari architecture because it was gradually assembled from eaves, windows, and pillars rescued by Dwarika Das Shrestha. Now grandson René is continuing the project, as CEO of Dwarika’s Group of Hotels and Resorts. But the property more than a museum piece with yoga lessons on the rooftop, a swimming pool surrounded by sculpted serpents, and some of the best momo dumplings in Nepal; this is an immersive, deeply atmospheric microcosm of the Kathmandu Valley. From $410. —Rick Jordan

Aman Kyoto — Japan

Serene. Timeless. Escapist. And deliciously crowd-free. Nature and its subtlest micro-shifts are the main protagonists at Aman Kyoto. At its heart lies an otherworldly “secret garden” that wavers between wild and cultured, the hotel is set against tumbling mountainside forests in a quiet northeastern corner of the ancient capital. Mindfulness is nonnegotiable while navigating the moss-covered stone pathways or relaxing within the peaceful minimalism of the 24 suites. Housed in clean-lined black timber pavilions designed by Kerry Hill, the accommodations feature tatami floors, hinoki bathtubs, ceramic abstractions, and haiku-inspiring views through walls of windows. Luxury lies in the property’s simplicity: Instead of a swimming pool, picture a small boulder-strewn onsen alongside spa treatments imbued with a sense of the sacred and the intuitive omotenashi warmth of the staff. Food is treated with no less reverence, from meticulous kaiseki craftsmanship at Taka-an to contemporary land-to-table cuisine in the Living Pavilion. All in all? The perfect place to recover from Kyoto temple fatigue—and reconnect with the present moment. From $2,675. —Danielle Demetriou

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — Thailand

Some hotels lose their luster after a while. Others, like the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, only get better with age. This Southeast Asian hidey-hole has been around since 1876 but doesn’t feel mired in the past. Frequent spruce-ups have kept it looking tip-top, while an ever-evolving lineup of a dozen or so restaurants (including the new Kinu by chef Takagi Kazuo and classic Thai restaurant Baan Phraya) keep a finger on the pulse of Bangkok’s dining scene. And then there’s the spa, with CBD-oil-infused massages, ice baths, and rubdowns using herbs from northeast Thailand’s Isan region, that still sits in a league of its own. They just don’t make them like this anymore. From $650. —Chris Schalkx

Narendra Bhawan Bikaner

This hotel is much like a cabinet of curiosities and so the vibe is eclectic, hedonistic, and easy-going. Lazy breakfasts lead into lazier lunches and dinners that end when you retire. In between, you could go carpet shopping and visit local attractions, trusting that your G&Ts will be waiting upon your return. You could also view the city as you lounge by the hotel’s rooftop pool and get yourself a massage during which Bach Flower remedies are used. However you play it, you’ll probably leave humming that Edith Piaf number “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien.” You’ll find the lyrics painted across the red piano in the foyer. From $150. —Prasad Ramamurthy

Aqua Mare

In the morning we plunge into the 60-degree sea to snorkel with penguins. In the afternoon we scramble up cliffs and watch albatross chicks stretch their wings into the wind. In the evening we take a culinary tour through Ecuador and Peru during our family-style dinner on the aft deck. Such is a day on Aqua Mare in the Galapágos. With seven suites for just 16 guests, Aqua Mare isn’t your typical Galápagos cruise ship but a true superyacht—one that you can book by the cabin rather than charter. Built in 1998 by CRN Yachts and designed by Francois Zuretti, and refurbished in 2021, Aqua Mare has all the Italian-inspired glitz and glam you’d expect from that partnership, including glossy walnut-veneer walls and Carrara-marble tables and bath. As much as I enjoyed the sun deck with its whirlpool and the beach club with its swim platform, the experience is all about the Galápagos. With two local guides for 16 guests, it feels as if you’re seeing the archipelago on a private tour. And that’s what Aqua Mare is all about. Seven-day sailings from $10,920 per person.

Celebrity Edge

Standing on the literal edge, I take in the ever-changing colors of the Caribbean from the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform dangling like a necklace pendant off the ship’s side. It moves like an elevator, maximizing the views as you clink glasses of sun-soaked Veuve Clicquot. Although, these days, the Celebrity Edge has swapped Mediterranean and Caribbean island-hopping scenery for summertime glacier spotting in Alaska and Aussie coastal landmarks in (northern) winter. The vessel’s first-of-its-kind Infinite Verandas, found in the Edge Staterooms, are tailor-made for Alaskan voyages, during which brisk temperatures might send you scurrying inside. One touch of a button, and my electronic glass panel slides closed, transforming balcony back into stateroom while satisfying comfort and Instagram simultaneously. Come sunset, Eden restaurant calls like a siren with its curvaceous sculptures guiding you into a sexy Patricia Urquiola–designed greenhouse lounge. Live music and hypnotic cocktail menus send fellow sailors to the dance floor by round two. Not the party type, I turn the corner for the water-facing swing chairs, suspended from the ceiling by a chain, to get lost in the magic of being at sea. The beauty of Celebrity Edge is its design-forward edginess. Instead of deciding which amusement park ride or superlative-inducing waterslide to wait in line for, my decisions are simpler: fresh oysters, Greek kebabs, or sushi? The right answer is all three. Eleven-night sailings from $1,589 per person. —Ramsey Qubein

Crystal Symphony

Fresh off a down-to-the-steel refurbishment, Crystal Symphony returns with luxe touches everywhere: plush carpets, polished stonework, and fascinating art. And no two spaces on the ship give off the same vibe. In the tony Connoisseur Club, while sunk into a tufted leather banquette, you might savor a limited-run Irish whiskey. Or in the sunlight-flooded Palm Court, you can luxuriate on an oversized lounger, with afternoon-tea views over the bow. Indulgent comforts don’t stop at public spaces. Sapphire Veranda Suites have walk-in closets and marble showers so spacious you could almost host a cocktail party in them. Butlers are on hand to memorize preferences (order that iced Americano just once, and it’s at the door on a silver tray at the same time each morning). But the best part is the space—more of it than virtually any ship afloat, making a fully booked sailing feel like it’s all to yourself. Seven-day sailings from $4,300 per person. —Scott Laird

Disney Wish

While you may think of families when you think of Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Wish is ideal for Disney-loving adults who may or may not be cruising with youngsters. The glittering 4,000-passenger ship highlights Disney royalty around every corner, and once you step on board, you feel like the king or queen of the ship too. Luxe adult-only spaces are found all around the vessel, from wake-facing infinity pools in the Quiet Cove to the signature extra-charge restaurant, Enchante, with a menu by chef Arnaud Lallement of the three-Michelin-starred L’Assiette Champenoise. Alternatively, head to the included rotational dining restaurant, 1923, for a steakhouse-caliber meal without the extra charge. Sip on a nightcap at the Cinderella-themed Nightingale’s piano bar, where whimsical cocktails inspired by bubbles are served—we love the Chocolate Frozen Bubbles, a decadent mix of Baileys Salted Caramel, Absolut Vanilia, and chocolate, served in a hollow ice sphere that you get to break open with a tiny metal hammer. Between the adult escapes, go to the Walt Disney Theater for a Broadway-style retelling of the Disney animated classic The Little Mermaid, play the interactive Disney Uncharted Adventure game, or even head to the kids club during open house hours to virtually build and ride your own roller coaster in the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and view once-a-cruise fireworks at sea. And besides all of this, at any moment during the voyage, you may find yourself face-to-face with Mickey Mouse himself. Four-night sailings from $2,018 per person. —Megan duBois

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai. Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu, the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru, you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours.

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing, you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer, the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can’t get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons, the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Bhutan:

Bhutan has been developing its tourism in a way to protect and preserve its natural resources and culture. Wisely one of the best eco-friendly travel destinations, isn’t it?

New Zealand:

New Zealand’s terrain is home to diverse plants and wildlife. Visit this beautiful destination through New Zealand Tourism since it is one of the most popular destinations for luxury ecotourism.. Harming the environment is almost against their religion!

Costa Rica:

Costa Rica is on its way to becoming the first carbon neutral country by 2021. Here, you will notice the implausible diversity of flora and fauna. And this is the place, where you can look at the clear skies and sing ‘City of Stars, are you shining just for me?’

Alaska:

If you want to have an experience like ‘Gone with the wild’, Alaska is among the last truly wild places on earth. See glaciers, amazing wildlife, enjoy fishing, kayaking and explore Denali National Park. An eco-tour you can’t refuse!

Santa Cruz Island, California:

Santa Cruz Island is truly like taking refuge in the arms of nature. Be pampered by nature and remember, it’s not man vs wild! The island has two rugged mountain ranges, a large central valley, deep canyons with all year springs and streams, giant sea caves and expansive beaches.

Amazon Rainforest, Brazil:

Cruise your way to the Rainforest with over 80,000 plant species and 30 million animal species. Here you can spot pink and grey river dolphins. Live your free-willy moment!

Before leaving the house
Scan or “screen grab” important documents and information. Even if you’re holding a physical boarding pass, it never hurts to take a photo or screen grab of the QR code, itinerary or other details in case you lose the hard copy. That way, you can easily access all the important information. It’s also a good idea to save scans of your passport, driver’s license and other essential documents, just in case you misplace them or get pickpocketed.

Best time to buy airline tickets? Usually Tuesdays, from 2–4 p.m. That’s when most airlines start discounting, especially for short-term purchases.

Travel-size refills. Rather than buy the usually-overpriced travel sized items over and over, just buy them once and refill. Or hit The Container Store and get free vials and tubes and put all your speciality products in them rather than buying what’s available at the drug store.

Saving space. Rolling your clothes saves luggage space. You can also fill your shoes with items like rolled-up socks, a spare pair of glasses or even chargers to maximize storage.

Philippines East: Adventure Awaits
Take yourself on an unforgettable journey starting in the vibrant city of Cebu. With flights often more affordable from Australia and the United States, it’s a convenient starting point for your adventure. Here’s what awaits you on this tour:

Chocolate Hills: Take in the panoramic views of Bohol’s breathtaking countryside as you visit the iconic Chocolate Hills- a sight straight out of a postcard.
Cambais Falls: Experience local hospitality as a welcoming family prepares a delightful breakfast picnic for you by Cambais Falls- a moment of tranquillity amidst nature’s beauty.
Loboc River: Kayak and paddleboard down the picturesque Loboc River, immersing yourself in lush greenery, tropical vegetation, and coconut palms lining the riverbanks.
Boracay Islands: Island-hop around the stunning Boracay Islands, with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Snorkel the mesmerising Sardine Run and opt in for an adrenaline-fueled canyoneering adventure.

Philippines West: Cultural Immersion and Natural Wonders
Start your journey in Manila, where flights are often more affordable from the United Kingdom. Explore the rich culture of the Philippines with these captivating experiences:

Puerto Princesa Underground River: Delve into the depths of Puerto Princesa to discover the UNESCO-listed Underground River- a mesmerising natural wonder waiting to be explored.
Port Barton Beach: Experience the ultimate beach getaway as you sleep in tents directly on a private beach near Port Barton- a serene retreat surrounded by nature.
Island Hopping in El Nido and Coron: Explore the idyllic islands of El Nido and Coron, where you can swim in the bluest waters and take in the beauty of untouched paradise.
If you’d like to get more insights into this trip, checkout this One Life Adventures Philippines Review written by Two Frequent Flyers.

Can’t Decide? Combine and Conquer!
If you can’t decide which tour to take, why not combine them? Our team can help you combine the tours, and you’ll even get a special discount. This way, you can experience the best of both worlds and make the most out of your trip to the Philippines.

Ready for your Philippines Adventure?
Both tours provide unique experiences and beautiful waters, so it really depends on what you are interested in seeing and doing. We hope this blog has helped you make an informed decision. For more information on our tours or to book your trip, please contact us at enquires@onelifeadventures.com.au.

1. Wander the Streets of Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is the gateway to this extraordinary country. History, culture, and spirituality come together perfectly in this place.

Must-sees:
Durbar Square: This UNESCO World Heritage site is like stepping into a time machine. It’s the perfect place to start your Nepal tour.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Perched on a hill, this ancient complex offers amazing views of Kathmandu Valley. Plus, the combo of shrines and cheeky monkeys is pretty unique.
Thamel District: A bustling neighbourhood known for its vibrant streets, local markets, and diverse eateries. Thamel is a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy some authentic Nepalese cuisine.

Go Wild at Chitwan National Park
Nature lovers, listen up! Chitwan National Park is your slice of paradise. This world-famous park is home to some seriously cool wildlife, including the iconic one-horned rhino. Thanks to conservation efforts, Chitwan is now home to over 600 rhinos, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Things to do:
Wildlife Safari: Hop on a jeep or elephant safari to spot rhinos, Bengal tigers, and tons of birds. It’s like being in your own personal National Geographic documentary.
Canoe Ride: Cruise down the chill Rapti River in a traditional canoe. It’s a great way to take in the park’s flora and fauna from a different angle.
Jungle Walks: Team up with expert guides for a walk on the wild side. You’ll be amazed at what you might spot!
3. Find Your Zen in Pokhara
Known as the ‘Gateway to the Himalayas,’ Pokhara is a picturesque city surrounded by stunning mountain views and serene lakes.

Don’t miss:

Phewa Lake: Rent a boat and paddle across this tranquil lake with the Annapurna range as your backdrop. Make sure to check out the Tal Barahi Temple on the island – it’s pretty cool.
Sarangkot: For the best sunrise and sunset views in Nepal, this is your spot. Watching the sun light up those Himalayan peaks is pure magic.
Devi’s Fall: This waterfall that disappears into an underground tunnel is a quirky natural wonder that adds to Pokhara’s charm.

4. Trek the Himalayas – Dhampus Village
Nepal is synonymous with trekking, and one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is by trekking to Australian Camp via Dhampus Village.

Highlights:
Scenic Trails: The path to Dhampus Village serves up stunning views of the Annapurna range, lush forests, and cute villages. It’s a relatively easy trek, so perfect if you’re not quite ready for Everest.
Cultural Immersion: Interact with the local Gurung community and gain insight into their way of life. The warm hospitality and cultural richness make the trek even more rewarding.
Dive into Nepalese Cuisine
Nepal’s melting pot of cultures means its food scene is off the charts. From mouthwatering street food to traditional dishes, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Must-try dishes:
Momo: These Nepalese dumplings are the ultimate comfort food. You’ll find them everywhere, and trust me, you’ll want to try them all.
Dal Bhat: The OG Nepalese meal. It’s a hearty combo of lentil soup, rice, and various sides that’ll keep you fueled for your adventures.

Snapshot Tours:
The Quick, Immersive Getaway
Best For: Time-conscious travellers who want a deep dive into a destination without spending weeks away.

Snapshot Tours are designed for those who want to experience the best of a destination in just 4-7 days. These tours are perfect if you’re looking to pack as much culture, adventure, and local flavour as possible into a short trip.

Recommended Experiences:
Tokyo, Japan: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Anime in Akihabara, take a sushi making class and see all the key sites of Tokyo.
Bangkok, Thailand: Dive into the vibrant streets & serene temples of Bangkok. Experience a traditional Thai cooking class and a serene boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.
Why Choose Snapshot?
If you’re short on time but still crave an authentic, enriching experience, Snapshot Tours let you get a taste of a new culture without the long commitment, or the hassle of planning yourself. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and guided by experts who help you make the most of every moment.

Classic Tours:
The In-Depth Cultural Experience
Best For: Passionate travellers who want to truly immerse themselves in a destination over 10-15 days.

Our Classic Tours are the heart and soul of One Life Adventures. These mid-length itineraries offer a perfect mix of unique experiences and the well known spots, allowing you to dive deep into local culture, history, and natural beauty.

Recommended Experiences:
Vietnam: Cruise and kayak through Ha Long Bay, trek the rice terraces of Sapa, and engage in community projects like eco-bricking with collected trash.
Morocco: Experience a camel ride through the Sahara Desert at sunset, explore ancient medinas, and enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Moroccan culture.
Costa Rica: Trek up to the rim of Poás Volcano, spot wildlife in Monteverde Cloud Forest, and explore the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park. This tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to experience the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica.
Why Choose Classic?
Classic Tours provide the opportunity to create lasting memories while deeply connecting with the destination and its people. Our tours all include unique experiences and will change the way you approach travelling for years to come.

Essentials Tours:
The Flexible, Budget-Friendly Adventure
Best For: Budget-conscious travellers who want the freedom to explore at their own pace.
Essentials Tours are designed for those who want to explore more while spending less. With a mix of included activities and free time, these tours offer the flexibility to shape your adventure according to your interests and budget.

Recommended Experiences:
Japan: Wander through the iconic Shibuya Crossing, explore Kyoto’s bamboo forests, and choose from optional activities like a sushi-making class.
South Korea: Explore the historic palaces of Seoul and enjoy ample free time to explore towns in depth with travel buddies.
Why Choose Essentials?
Essentials Tours are perfect if you’re looking to experience the highlights of a destination without breaking the bank. With more control over your time and spending, you can customise your trip to match your personal interests.

Expedition Tours:
The Ultimate Immersive Journey
Best For: Adventure seekers and gap year travellers ready for a transformative, 18-23 day experience.

Expedition Tours are for those who want more than just a holiday—they want a life-changing journey. These longer tours offer complete immersion in a destination, with a blend of iconic sites and hidden gems, plus exclusive local experiences that often include community engagement.

Recommended Experiences:
Philippines: Explore the UNESCO-listed Underground River, dive among Coron’s shipwrecks, and witness the Sardine Run in Cebu. Highlights include camping on a private beach, visiting the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, and engaging in community projects.
Thailand: Our Thailand Expeditions take you from the bustling cities to the remote hill tribes, offering a deep dive into Thai culture. Highlights include an ethical elephant experience in Chiang Mai, island explorations around the Andaman Sea, and participating in community projects.
Why Choose Expedition?
If you’re seeking a deeper connection with your destination and are ready to embark on a journey that’s as much about personal growth as it is about exploration, Expedition Tours offer the ultimate immersive travel experience.

Which Tour Style Is Best for You?
Your perfect tour style depends on how much time you have, your budget, and the type of experiences you’re looking for. Here’s a quick recap:

Snapshot: Ideal for a short, immersive getaway.
Classic: Perfect for a balanced, in-depth cultural exploration.
Essentials: Great for budget-savvy travellers seeking flexibility.
Expedition: Best for those craving an extended adventure.

1. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Home to some of the oldest rainforests on Earth, Khao Sok National Park is a feast for the senses. From towering limestone cliffs to emerald lakes, this biodiverse wonderland is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Why Go Now: With the rise of eco-tourism, Khao Sok’s floating bungalows and sustainable adventures are becoming more popular. 2025 is the perfect time to visit before this hidden gem becomes a global hotspot.

One Life Connection: Join our Thailand tours to kayak on Cheow Lan Lake, cycle through lush trails, and relax in a floating bungalow surrounded by pure serenity.

2. Pokhara, Nepal

Nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake and framed by the majestic Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara offers serene landscapes and thrilling activities like trekking and paragliding.

Why Go Now: Nepal has been gaining attention for its commitment to sustainable tourism and its warm, welcoming culture. Visiting now supports local communities rebuilding after challenging years.

One Life Connection: Discover Pokhara on our Nepal Snapshot tour. Enjoy cultural immersion, explore local markets, and experience trekking in the spectacular Annapurna region.

3. Seoul, South Korea

This vibrant capital is a melting pot of tradition and modernity, where ancient palaces sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers. From K-pop vibes to Michelin-starred street food, Seoul is always on trend.

Why Go Now: With the increasing global love for K-culture, including K-dramas and K-beauty, Seoul is buzzing with energy. Plus, 2025 may bring exciting cultural festivals and events you won’t want to miss.

One Life Connection: Join our South Korea Classic Tour to dive into authentic Korean culture, explore bustling neighborhoods like Hongdae, and savor the best Korean barbecue.

4. Sapa, Vietnam

Famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic hill, Sapa is a must-visit for those seeking a mix of stunning natural scenery and meaningful cultural connections.
Why Go Now: Sapa is rapidly modernising, and 2025 could be your last chance to see its untouched beauty and traditional way of life before further development alters its charm.

One Life Connection: Trek through Sapa’s iconic landscapes with our Vietnam Snapshot Tour. Stay in local homestays, share meals with ethnic minority families, and immerse yourself in this captivating region.

5. Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

A paradise of lush rainforests, idyllic beaches, and playful wildlife, Manuel Antonio National Park is where adventure meets relaxation. Spot sloths, monkeys, and peculiar birds as you explore this ecological treasure.

Why Go Now: Costa Rica continues to set the standard for eco-tourism, and 2025 is ideal for travellers who want to enjoy the country’s natural wonders while contributing to sustainable practices.

One Life Connection: Our Costa Rica tour includes time in Manuel Antonio National Park, where you’ll explore its trails, relax on pristine beaches, and give back through an inspiring ocean clean-up activity.

Imagine exploring beyond the familiar tourist paths, uncovering hidden cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes that most travellers never see. From the busy and energising street markets to the tranquil beauty of remote landscapes, our carefully curated tours are designed to reveal the authentic, multifaceted soul of Thailand.

Whether you’re seeking deep cultural connections, adventure off the beaten path, or moments that will become lifelong memories, these experiences promise to transport you straight to the vibrant heart of Thailand.

Hidden Gems in Thailand You Can’t Miss in 2025
While Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Phuket’s beaches might top most planned Thailand trips, some of Thailand’s most remarkable treasures are best discovered with a guide, on a group tour. Here’s a taste of the hidden gems our tours uncover:

1. Wat Pho by Boat

Experience the iconic Temple of the Reclining Buddha in a completely new way. Board a riverboat and watch Bangkok’s chaotic skyline transform into peaceful temple grounds as you approach. Wat Pho’s serene atmosphere and stunning golden statue make it a bucket list highlight – but it’s the tranquil journey there that feels like stepping into a different era of Thailand.

2. Chiang Mai’s Northern Cuisine Food Tour

Street food in Thailand is epic, but Chiang Mai’s Lanna cuisine takes it to another level. Forget the Pad Thai for a moment and dive into a world of spicy sausages, rich khao soi, and unique local flavors. Join our guided food tour and sample hidden culinary delights that even some locals don’t know about.

3. Chang Chill Elephant Sanctuary

Ethical elephant tourism is on the rise, and Chang Chill is leading the charge. Spend a day surrounded by these gentle giants in their natural habitat – no bathing or riding here. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression and a perfect addition to any 2025 Thailand travel plan.

4. Hill Trek in Doi Inthanon National Park

Often overlooked for busier trekking routes, this area is one of Thailand’s most stunning hidden gems. Journey through lush forests, visit the King and Queen Pagodas, and discover the warm hospitality of the Karen people. The trek combines breathtaking scenery with meaningful cultural experiences, a must for any adventurous traveller’s bucket list.
5. The Beachside Bliss of Ao Nang

Nestled along Krabi’s stunning coastline, Ao Nang is a blissful paradise that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a dream destination for those craving sun-soaked adventures. Ao Nang offers more than just beach lounging (though you’ll want to carve out time for that!); it’s also your gateway to iconic Thai experiences. Explore the emerald lagoons of Hong Island, marvel at the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands, or venture to Phra Nang Cave, a mystical seaside treasure. Make sure you carve out some time to paddle through serene mangrove forests and along the limestone cliff coast for panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.
Why 2025 is the Perfect Year to Visit Thailand
Thailand is constantly evolving, but 2025 feels particularly special. With borders fully open and tourism initiatives promoting sustainable travel, it’s the ideal time to explore hidden gems before they become mainstream. Small group tours, like the ones we offer at One Life Adventures, ensure you’ll enjoy authentic, crowd-free experiences without sacrificing comfort.

Looking to travel solo in 2025? Thailand is one of the best places for solo travellers, with its friendly locals, vibrant group activities, and countless opportunities to connect with like-minded adventurers. Our small group tours make it easy to meet new friends while checking off bucket list destinations in a stress-free, curated way.