By:
Danniell Saunders
2012-07-18
What do you think of when you picture Thailand? There are many things that may come to mind: the incredible culture, the stunning architecture, the wild jungle, the remarkable wildlife, and of course, the food! Glorious Thai food!
Another thing most people imagine when they think of Thailand is its breathtaking coastline, lined with thousands of islands. Each island has its own charm and character — some are known for their pristine beaches, others for their caves, and some for their vibrant nightlife. The island of Ko Phangan, a tiny jewel in the Gulf of Thailand, is world-famous for its Full Moon Parties. Every month, between 10,000 and 30,000 people flock to this island, at least doubling its population. The celebration begins at dusk when the round, golden moon rises over the beach, and it continues until sunrise the next morning.
Encounters Travel offers two tours that include a stay on the nearby island of Ko Samui, giving you the perfect opportunity to take a short boat trip to Ko Phangan and join the Full Moon festivities. These tours are carefully timed so you can experience the party atmosphere at its peak. Whether you are dancing the night away or simply soaking up the incredible energy, it is an unforgettable experience.
Of course, if an all-night beach party is not your idea of fun, Ko Samui and its surrounding islands offer countless other ways to enjoy your time. You can go elephant trekking, snorkelling, diving, or shopping; take a Thai cooking class; enjoy a relaxing massage; or simply spend your days basking in the sun and the laid-back rhythm of island life. Whatever your style of travel, Thailand has something special waiting for you — a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and paradise.
Need some travel inspiration or looking for some handy travel tips? Our blog provides excellent insight into our travel destinations - from tour updates to country guides, packing lists to little known things to do, you'll find it all in our travel blog.
By:
Martin Hosie
2026-06-18
We spent 11 days travelling through Sierra Leone on a small group tour, visiting 10 locations across this quietly remarkable West African country. From the colonial weight of Freetown and the haunting history of Bunce Island, to chimpanzee spotting on Tiwai Island and unwinding on barely-touched beaches, this is our honest trip report. If you've been wondering whether Sierra Leone is worth visiting, read on. The answer may surprise you.
By:
Martin Hosie
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Uganda surprised us in ways we never expected. We went looking for the best places to visit in Uganda and came back with something far more valuable: a deeper understanding of what it means to truly connect with wild places and the creatures that inhabit them. From the thundering power of Murchison Falls to the misty silence of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda is one of those rare destinations that does not just show you Africa, it makes you feel it. If you have ever wondered what the best things to do in Uganda really look like from the inside, this is that story.
By:
Martin Hosie
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Wondering how to explore the best places to visit in Egypt without falling for tourist trap prices? Discover how Encounters Travel’s expertly guided tours unlock the magic of the pharaohs. From marvelling at the Giza Pyramids and Luxor’s ancient temples to sleeping on a Nile felucca, your Egyptian adventure awaits.
By:
Martin Hosie
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Uncover the wonders of the Far East with Encounters Travel’s China small group tours. Journey from Hong Kong to Beijing, marvelling at Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, encountering Chengdu’s Giant Pandas, and camping overnight on the iconic Great Wall. Find out why travelling with expert guides delivers the ultimate immersive adventure.
By:
Martin Hosie
2026-06-12
This Botswana travel guide was born from dust, wonder, and a mokoro gliding silently through papyrus reeds. From the waterways of the Okavango Delta to the elephant-packed banks of the Chobe River, this overland safari across one of Africa's most extraordinary safari destinations left a permanent mark. Whether you are researching your first African safari or comparing travel guides before committing to a trip, this honest account covers the wildlife, the logistics, the highlights, and everything in between, so you can travel to Botswana with your eyes wide open.