Group Travel

Travel with confidence knowing that BBYO organizes supervised group flights to and from Europe. Our staff are present at departure airports to greet teens and help them feel welcome right away, and they accompany each group throughout the journey—both on arrival and on the return trip home. To learn more about how we organize travel for our programs, click here.

Bangkok, Thailand (2 Days)

Bangkok is a city full of energy, where colorful markets, ornate temples, and lively streets offer an exciting introduction to Thai culture. Take in the remarkable architecture of the Grand Palace, browse the vibrant flower market, and experience the city's bustling neighborhoods. Hop aboard one of Thailand's famous tuk-tuks for a fun, interactive adventure through Bangkok, and spend time exploring the shops and atmosphere of the popular Khao San district.

The city also offers opportunities to connect with the wider Jewish community through encounters with Israelis living in Thailand. Learn about the experiences of people who have made Thailand their home, explore how Jewish communities connect across cultures, and begin building friendships with fellow travelers as you discover one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating cities.

Chiang Rai, Thailand (2 Days)

The lush landscapes of northern Thailand offer an incredible setting for outdoor exploration and cultural encounters. Speed along the Kok River by boat, hike through tropical forests, and cool off near the beautiful Huay Kew Waterfall. Take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside from the Pha Ngao Skywalk, enjoy the region's natural hot springs, and experience the gardens and temples that make Chiang Rai such a distinctive destination.

Beyond the outdoor adventures, Chiang Rai offers an opportunity to learn about local community needs and participate in meaningful service. Volunteer alongside a local organization supporting children and young people, gaining insight into its work and the people it serves. Through these experiences, teens can begin to understand how listening, learning, and working alongside others are essential parts of responsible community service.

Chiang Mai, Thailand (4 Days)

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and centuries of cultural tradition, Chiang Mai brings together adventure, local experiences, and opportunities for personal growth. Soar through the treetops on a jungle ziplining adventure, visit the remarkable Doi Suthep temple overlooking the region, and explore the beautiful Mon Tha Tan Waterfall. Spend time browsing the city's colorful night markets, where local crafts, food, and traditions offer a lively glimpse into everyday Thai culture.

Chiang Mai is also a place to discover how individuals and organizations are working to make a difference. Through experiences focused on social entrepreneurship, sustainability, and environmental responsibility, explore new approaches to supporting communities and protecting the natural world. Participate in an eco-cycling workshop and spend time volunteering with an ethical elephant sanctuary, learning about elephant welfare and the importance of responsible wildlife tourism.

Get a taste of Thailand's culinary traditions during a hands-on Thai cooking workshop, preparing local dishes while learning about the ingredients and flavors that make the country's cuisine so distinctive. Celebrate Shabbat with your group through candle lighting, shared traditions, and meaningful conversations. With opportunities for Jewish reflection and time spent together, Chiang Mai provides a memorable setting to connect with your values and the friendships developing throughout the journey.

Chiang Dao, Thailand (2 Days)

Away from Thailand's bustling cities, Chiang Dao offers a chance to experience rural communities and the natural beauty of the country's mountainous north. Feel the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Mae Taeng River, where rushing water and surrounding jungle scenery create an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Visit the Bua Tong "Sticky" Waterfall, known for its unusual limestone formations that allow visitors to climb along portions of the cascading water.

Community engagement is an important part of the experience in Chiang Dao. Participate in a workshop exploring the difference between responsible volunteering and "voluntourism," examining how visitors can contribute respectfully while learning from the people and organizations they hope to support.

Put those lessons into practice through a service project with a local rural school, working alongside the school community and participating in cultural exchanges. Through hands-on activities, conversations, and shared experiences, gain new perspectives on daily life in Thailand and discover how service can create opportunities for connection across different backgrounds.

Phuket, Thailand (5 Days)

Turquoise water, tropical islands, and beautiful beaches make Phuket one of Thailand's most recognizable coastal destinations. Enjoy time along the sandy shores of Patong Beach, explore the colorful streets and historic architecture of Phuket Old Town, and experience the lively atmosphere of the island's night markets. Whether you're enjoying the coastline or discovering local traditions, Phuket offers plenty of opportunities to experience southern Thailand's island culture.

Service remains part of the journey through a community beach cleanup, where teens can contribute to local environmental conservation efforts while learning about the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems. Visit a local pearl factory to discover an important regional industry and how pearls are cultivated and produced. Share another Shabbat with fellow Jewish teens, with time for group programming, reflection, and enjoying the island's beautiful surroundings.

One of the most exciting experiences in Phuket is a speedboat adventure through the surrounding islands. Cruise across the Andaman Sea, snorkel among colorful marine life, and take in the striking limestone cliffs and tropical scenery that make this region famous. Enjoy opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration around the Phi Phi Islands, creating unforgettable memories with your group.

Throughout your time in Phuket, celebrate the experiences you've shared, the friendships you've built, and the ways you've put Jewish values into action through service, cultural understanding, and adventure.

How will my teen travel to the program?
BBYO strongly recommends all North American participants to fly on the group supervised flight for this program. Flight costs are not included in the program’s land cost. The flight cost for programs with supervised flight options will be announced, along with the flight booking details for all programs, after registration. The supervised flight for this program will depart from the New York City area, typically Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Learn more about flying to the program .

Where will my teen be sleeping?
The group stays in a variety of 3-star hotels. When booking our accommodations, we request for each teen to have their own sleeping accommodations in a shared living space. On a rare occasion, your teen may share a large bed with another teen of the same gender. We try to avoid this as best as possible, but sometimes have limitations due to hotel space.

How is the program staffed?
Each group is accompanied by a team of madrichim (counselors), a local Thai tour leader, and a bus driver. Senior field staff also circulate between our groups for extra support. Staff names are sent out approximately 2–3 weeks prior to your departure as part of the pre-trip preparation emails. Staff are asked to make welcome calls to teens before departure. Feel free to ask them any remaining questions you may have. Learn more about our staff team.

What's the summer weather like?
Summer in Thailand is typically hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s. June and July fall within the rainy season in much of the country, so participants should expect occasional heavy rainfall, especially in northern Thailand and along the southern coast.

Rain doesn't necessarily mean an entire day of activities will be canceled, but outdoor programming may be adjusted based on weather and local conditions. We recommend packing lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, and insect repellent.

How do you approach security?

The safety of the teens under our care is our guiding consideration. Learn more about our organization’s approach to safety and security.

What's the typical group size?
Group sizes vary by departure and program enrollment. This program typically includes approximately 20-32 teens per bus, with participants joining from communities across North America.

Some teens may also be participating in connecting programs that combine two separate BBYO Passport experiences. For more information about group assignments and friend requests, please visit our General Travel FAQs.

What's the food like?
Thailand is known for its vibrant culinary traditions, and teens will have opportunities to try local specialties throughout the program. From noodle dishes and rice bowls to tropical fruits, curries, and traditional Thai street food, meals offer another way to experience the country's culture. This trip is unique from our other travel experiences because a kosher chef will cook all meals for the group!

The itinerary also includes a hands-on Thai cooking workshop, where participants will learn about local ingredients and traditional preparation techniques.

As a travel-based program, our meals take a variety of forms and may include hotel buffets, restaurants, catered meals, and allowance funds for participants to purchase a meal on their own. When a meal is served in a public buffet format (e.g. hotel breakfast), we will always ensure that there are vegetarian, pescatarian, or dairy options available and we will not restrict teens from eating the food of their choice.

Some meals may be provided via a cash allowance where teens will be given money to purchase the food of their choice, called a pizur meal. Such meals are typically arranged in an area where there are multiple restaurant options and teens can choose the food of their liking. When time is limited for meal choice, staff may choose to facilitate meal orders on behalf of teens using their allowance funds.

Participants with special dietary needs (i.e. lactose intolerance, gluten-free, kosher, etc.) should review our dietary restrictions commitment document and contact us in advance to be sure we can accommodate your needs during the program.

Will I need a visa?
As part of Thailand’s entry requirements, all foreign travelers are now required to complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) prior to arrival.

The TDAC is free, mandatory, and must be submitted within 72 hours of your teen’s arrival in Thailand (not the date of departure from home). Without a completed TDAC, travelers may face delays or issues at immigration.

Instructions on how to fill out a TDAC will be sent to families prior to trip departure.

What are the payment and cancellation terms?
All of these details are available here: Enrollment and Registration Terms.

How do I enroll my teen if we live outside of North America?
Visit this page to find all the information you will need and express your interest.

For more information, check out our general FAQs or the pre-trip guide.