Thailand Adventure Secrets

In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, Bill sits down with Alison Gieschen, a lifelong sailor and author who is in the middle of a full sailing circumnavigation with her husband Dan. After selling everything they owned to chase a dream, Alison and Dan have traveled to 47 countries, crossed the Panama Canal, and are now bound for the remote islands of French Polynesia. Alison shares what it was like to leave land life behind, the moments at sea that shaped her, and how long ocean passages continue to influence her writing.The conversation explores the realities of blue water sailing, from handling storms to finding the quiet magic in the middle of the ocean. Alison talks about the people they have met along the way, the challenges that tested them, and the freedoms that make the cruising life worth pursuing. She also discusses her memoir Riding the Waves of Reality and how her adventures shape her fictional works as well.Toward the end of the episode, Bill and Alison look ahead at what she hopes to discover when she eventually sails into Thailand. She shares what draws her to this region, what she imagines experiencing here, and why Southeast Asia holds so much appeal for long-distance sailors.Listeners will come away inspired by Alison’s courage, curiosity, and dedication to storytelling. This episode is for anyone dreaming of casting off, writing their own adventure, or finding new horizons on the open sea. Then, of course, making their way to Thailand.#SailingAdventurePodcast #BlueWaterCruisingLife #CircumnavigationStories #ThailandAdventureSecrets #AuthorOnDeck #SailTheWorldJourney #ThailandTravel #Thailandpodcast #travelpodcast #podmatchsupport@thailandadventurenetwork.com

In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, Bill shares six of his favorite shore excursions along the Siam Spice Route. These are the trips that consistently amaze charter guests, offering a mix of river journeys, wildlife encounters, sunrise hikes, hidden caves, glowing seas, and quiet jungle waterfalls. Each excursion is easy to pair with a yacht charter itinerary and adds depth and variety to any sailing adventure in Southern Thailand.What you will learn in this episode:• Why bamboo rafting in Khao Sok and boating on Cheow Lan Lake feels like traveling back in time• Where to swim and bathe with elephants in Phuket in an ethical and quiet setting• How to experience the Koh Phi Phi sunrise from Viewpoint Two before the island wakes up• Why the bioluminescent plankton around Koh Lanta make for a perfect night excursion• How to access the hidden lagoon inside Emerald Cave and relax afterward at Koh Kradan• Where to enjoy a jungle waterfall picnic near Khao Lak at Ton Chong FaTo find out more about each of these shore excursions feel free to email us at support@thailandadventurenetwork.com Please put the word "charter" in the subject line.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #ThailandTravel #SiamSpiceRoute #AndamanSea #TravelPodcast #AdventureTravel #SailingThailand #ShoreExcursions #KhaoSok #PhiPhiIslands #KohLanta #KohKradan #PhuketTravel #KhaoLak

In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, Bill sits down with Paul Baker, senior instructor at the Island Spirit Sailing School and one of the most respected sailing teachers in Thailand. Known to a few as the "Yoda of Sailing," Paul has spent decades on the water and has guided hundreds of students through their first steps as sailors.Together they explore Paul’s early days of learning to sail, the lessons he has carried across a lifetime at sea, and the turning points that shaped his approach to seamanship. Paul shares stories from his time teaching on the Andaman Sea, the breakthrough moments he sees in new sailors, and the surprising things that separate confident skippers from those still finding their footing.The conversation also takes a close look at the Zero to Hero program at Island Spirit Sailing School. Paul explains why this immersive course is so effective, the transformations he sees in students from day one to graduation, and what anyone considering the course should expect.Bill and Paul also talk about why Thailand is one of the best places in the world to learn to sail. They cover the calm bays, the training-ready weather, the welcoming culture, and the beauty of Southern Phuket, where Paul lives and teaches. Not to mention the excellent value for the dollar.If you dream of cruising the islands, gaining real confidence on the water, or understanding what it takes to progress from beginner to skipper, this episode delivers a clear and inspiring look at the path ahead.Email Bill for details: support@ThailandAdventureNetwork.com#ThailandAdventureSecrets #LearnToSailThailand #CharterThailand #SailingThailand #ZeroToHero #AndamanSea #TravelThailand #TravelPhuket

In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, Bill takes you beyond the day-trip crowds to uncover the eternal beauty and living history of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam. From cruising the river in a vintage Chris-Craft-style boat to sipping sundowners beside temple reflections, this journey reveals how to experience Ayutthaya with depth, flavor, and a sense of wonder.Bill’s six featured experiences include dressing up in traditional Thai clothing for photos at Wat Mahathat, watching the sunset from Wat Chaiwatthanaram, gliding along the canals by wooden boat, relaxing at Sala Ayutthaya for evening drinks, exploring the historic park by bicycle, and learning authentic Thai cooking at Ayutthaya Thai Cooking Class.This episode is perfect for travelers seeking to slow down a bit, connect locally, and experience Thailand’s golden past in the most authentic way.Email support@ThailandAdventureNetwork.com for Bill’s insider details that include the best routes, and booking details for Ayutthaya.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #Ayutthaya #TravelThailand #BillMullenauthor #AyutthayaTemples #SiamSpiceRoute #SalaAyutthaya #ThaiCookingClass #AyutthayaByBike #HiddenThailand #travelAyutthaya #Ayutthayabyboat

In this episode, Bill shares his personal six best experiences in Bangkok, the city that never stops surprising even the most seasoned travelers. From royal grandeur to street-side grilling, he takes you through a full day that reveals every side of Thailand’s capital.You’ll start with the spiritual heart of the kingdom at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, then dive into the neon and flavor of Chinatown at night. Next, drift up the Chao Phraya River on a teak rice barge with Manohra Cruises to explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya. You’ll ride a longtail boat through the hidden canals of Thonburi, stopping at Wat Pak Nam to see the glass pagoda and golden Buddha. Then hop on the Saen Saep water taxi from the Trimurti Shrine down to Golden Mount Temple for sunset views. The evening ends local-style at Victory Monument with moo-kra-tah and live jazz at Saxophone Pub.This episode captures what makes Bangkok unforgettable—the blend of royal, river, street, and soul that defines the city.For travel details, charter itineraries, or help planning your own Bangkok adventure, email support@thailandadventurenetwork.com and put "charter details" in the subject line.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #BangkokTravel #travelbangkok #BangkokPodcast #ChaoPhrayaRiver #AyutthayaCruise #WatPakNam #SaxophonePub #ThailandCharter #BangkokFoodTour #TravelThailand #bangkokforfoodies

This week, Bill heads north to Chiang Mai for the magical Yee Ping Lantern Festival, where thousands of glowing lanterns rise into the night sky. That journey inspired him to create something special — The Thailand Bucket List Episode: six extraordinary experiences that capture the heart, spirit, and pure wonder of this incredible country.These aren’t anything close to being tourist traps. They’re the secret, soulful, and ultra-luxurious adventures that make Thailand unforgettable — from sailing the Andaman Sea aboard a private catamaran, chasing whale sharks, to walking beside elephants in the misty jungles of the Golden Triangle, drifting upriver on a teak barge through the ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya, and ending with a candlelit sandbank dinner on Koh Lipe — The Maldives of Thailand.If Thailand is on your travel radar, this episode will light the spark.It’s about wonder, luxury, connection… and discovering the real Thailand most travelers never see. Listen now and start building your own Thailand Bucket List And if you’d like to experience Thailand, this way — aboard a private catamaran, exploring secret coves, and living the Blue Water Nomad lifestyle...Email Bill at support@ThailandAdventureNetwork.comand put “Charter Details” in the subject line to get exclusive charter and adventure info.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #ThailandBucketList #LuxurytravelThailand #ChiangMaiLanternFestival #KohLipeParadise #AndamanSeaSailing #AyutthayaCruise #travelBangkok #travelthailand #GoldenTriangleThailand

A couple flew to Chiang Mai for the famous Yee-Ping Lantern Festival and missed it completely. In this episode, Bill reveals what really happened, where the true lantern release takes place, and how to make sure you never miss Thailand’s most magical night.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #ChiangMai #LanternFestival #YeePingFestival #LoyKrathong #TravelThailand #Thailandlanternfestival #CulturalTravel #BucketListThailand #WatDoiSaket #NorthernThailand #TravelChiangMai

Set your sails and drop anchor along one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting cruising routes, the Siam Spice Route, from Phuket, Thailand to Langkawi, Malaysia. In this episode, Skipper Bill our own Blue Water Nomad and host of Thailand Adventure Secrets, shares his six favorite anchorages you’ll never want to leave.From the peaceful curve of Ao Yon Bay in Phuket to the island charm of Koh Bulone Lea, and the sophisticated comfort of Telaga Harbor in Langkawi, each stop tells its own story, of turquoise water, local culture, and those unforgettable sunset moments that make you fall in love with the Andaman Sea all over again.Whether you’re a weekend sailor, charter guest, or planning your own blue water voyage, this episode will help you discover where to anchor, what to explore along Thailand’s most captivating coastline.If this episode inspires you to start your own sailing journey through Thailand, visit ThailandAdventureNetwork.com or email support@thailandadventurenetwork.com with “Charter Details” in the subject line to learn about upcoming yacht charters and private adventures.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #travelthailand #SiamSpiceRoute #SailingThailand #PhukettoLangkawi #YachtCharterThailand #IslandHoppingThailand #OSRCharters #travelphuket #emeraldcave

Just a few hours from Bangkok, the province of Kanchanaburi offers one of the most powerful combinations of wild jungle, living Thai culture, and WWII history found anywhere in Southeast Asia. In this episode, host Bill Mullen takes you through the 6 must-experience highlights, not the tourist traps, but the real places worth your time.You’ll discover:1) An ethical elephant sanctuary where you help care for rescued elephants, not ride them.2) Thailand’s most photogenic waterfall, the 7-tier Erawan Falls, deep in emerald jungle.3) A temple with a hilltop Buddha overlooking endless rice fields.4) The haunting Hellfire Pass Memorial, where WWII history comes alive.5) A gentle bamboo raft float down the River Kwai through jungle scenery6) And finally, a peaceful hot spring soak in the mountains of Thong Pha PhumThis is a field-ready travel guide, not just inspiration, with practical tips, timing strategy, and local insight you won’t find in generic videos or travel blogs.If you’d like a private curated travel itinerary, Thailand yacht charter, or insider route planning, just email: support@ThailandAdventureNetwork.comSubject line: Charter Details#ThailandAdventureSecrets #KanchanaburiThailand #ElephantsWorld #ErawanFalls #HellfirePass #RiverKwai #ThongPhaPhum #ThailandTravelPodcast #ThailandExplorer #travelThailand #travelKanchanaburi

Sail with me down Thailand’s Andaman coast as I reveal the six most unforgettable beaches along the legendary Siam Spice Route - from the world’s #1 ranked beach (2023) to the hidden shores only locals and sailors ever find.In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, I’m taking you with me, virtuously of course, down the legendary Siam Spice Route, exploring the six beaches that define the magic of the Andaman Sea.We start on Koh Kradan, which is home to the recently voted the #1 best beach in the world, then sail on to secret coves in Koh Mook, Krabi, Koh Lipe, Koh Rok, and Koh Lanta, each one more cinematic than the last.These aren’t just beaches, they’re soul-level experiences. Places you don’t just visit… you remember for life. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing these places not as a tourist - but as a true explorer… this episode is for you.If you’re listening to this thinking one day, I want to experience this for real, we quietly open a few private catamaran charter weeks each season. Just email support@ThailandAdventureNetwork.com and put “Charter Details” in the subject line and I’ll personally send you everything you need to know.Cheers, BillAuthor of the upcoming book - "Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand; Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route"#SiamSpiceRoute #ThailandAdventureSecrets #Andamancoast #hiddenbeachesThailand #sailingThailand #votedbestbeach #bestbeachintheworld

When the sun sets over the Andaman Sea, a different kind of magic awakens along Thailand’s southern coast. In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, host Bill Mullen, The Blue Water Nomad & author of the upcoming book "Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand; Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route," takes you beyond the beaches and into the glowing heart of Thailand after dark.Follow the Siam Spice Route from Khao Sok and Phuket to Koh Lipe as the night markets come alive, fire dancers ignite the sand, and the ocean itself begins to sparkle with living light. Discover where to sip rooftop sundowners above the sea, how to join local fishermen for night squid fishing under green lamps, and where to find that secret beach bonfire that feels like it was made just for you.Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this episode reveals six unforgettable nighttime adventures that capture Thailand’s beauty, rhythm, and soul, from sizzling walking streets to starlit horizons.In this episode, you’ll explore:Night markets and walking streets of Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lipe.Rooftop bars and live music where the sun melts into the sea.Fire shows that turn the beach into a blazing stage.Bioluminescent plankton tours — nature’s secret light show.Night squid fishing with local crews under emerald lamps.Bonfires on hidden Thai beaches, where the stars outshine the lights of the world.Whether you’re planning your own Thai adventure or just dreaming of warm nights and glowing seas, this episode will transport you straight to the heart of Thailand... after dark.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #SiamSpiceRoute #TravelThailand #AndamanCoast #ThailandAfterDark #GettinglostinthemagicofThailand #travelPhuket #travelKrabi #travelKohLipe #walkingstreet #KohLipe

Most people come to Thailand for the beaches, temples, and food. But if you want your trip to be truly unforgettable, Thailand is one of the best places in the world to learn something new. From ancient traditions to modern adventure, this country offers world-class instruction at a fraction of the price you’d pay back home.In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, host Bill Mullen, author of the upcoming book "Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand; Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route", takes you through six powerful experiences travelers come here to master:Thai Massage - learn from temple traditions that go back centuries.Muay Thai Combat & Training - train with world-class fighters, and even get a special visa.Thai Language - unlock a deeper connection to locals and extend your stay.Thai Cooking - cook like a pro and bring the taste of Thailand home.Scuba Diving - discover world-class dive sites at affordable prices.Sailing - from Island Spirit Sailing School to Galileo Maritime Academy, learn to skipper or go pro on the seas.Each of these isn’t just a skill - it’s a doorway into Thai culture, a way to extend your journey, and in some cases, a career path that can take you around the world.Whether you want to deepen your travel experience, change your lifestyle, or even reshape your future, Thailand is the classroom and adventure is the curriculum.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #TravelThailand #MuayThai #travalBangkok #travelPhuket #ScubaDivingThailand #SailingThailand #ThaiCooking #Thaimassage

In this special scuba diving edition of Thailand Adventure Secrets, I take you beneath the surface of Thailand’s most legendary dive sites while researching my upcoming book, Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand: Island Hopping down the Siam Spice Route.Join me as we explore three unforgettable underwater adventures: the Similan Islands, where Richelieu Rock bursts with soft corals and the chance to meet a whale shark; Koh Phi Phi’s Bida Nok, where blacktip reef sharks glide along coral walls; and Koh Lipe’s 8 Mile Rock, a wild offshore pinnacle alive with big fish action and unexpected surprises.Whether you’re planning your first dive trip to Thailand or adding to your bucket list, this episode will give you insider tips, vivid storytelling, and the inspiration you need to experience these underwater paradises for yourself.If you’d like help booking any of these dives, just email me at support@thailandadventurenetwork.com. And if you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the show to help more adventurers discover Thailand’s secrets.Dive Center Emails:Khao Lak: info@khaolakexplorer.comKoh Phi Phi Don: info@princessdivers.comKoh Lipe: info@kolipediving.com#ThailandDiving #ScubaAdventure #SimilanIslands #KohPhiPhi #KohLipe #scubaThailand #richelieurock

What do a kidnapped queen, a ten-faced demon, and a trickster monkey have in common? The greatest story in Thai mythology and you can still see it come alive in Thailand today.Discover Thailand’s most legendary tale — the battle between the ten-faced Demon King, Totsakan and the fearless Monkey King, Hanuman. From fiery escapes to temple murals, this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets brings myth to life and shows travelers where to experience it across Thailand today.#ThailandAdventure #TravelThailand #ThaiMythology #Ramakien #Hanuman #ThaiCulture #GettingLostThailand #travelThailand

Amazing Phuket Adventures You Can’t Miss: Your Fantasea, a Floating Beach Club & Catamaran CruisingIn this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, Bill takes you right into the heart of Phuket’s most exciting experiences. First up is Phuket Fantasea, a dazzling cultural show that mixes Thai mythology with jaw-dropping stage production. Then we set sail - well, sort of - out to the Yona Floating Beach Club, the world’s first floating club anchored in Patong Bay, where the music, cocktails, and infinity pool vibes never stop. Finally, we jump aboard Nikorn Marine’s half-day catamaran cruise, gliding across the Andaman to swim, snorkel, and soak in Phuket’s legendary seascapes.Yes, these are “touristy” activities, but they’re touristy for a reason. Because they’re packed with fun, energy, and those unforgettable moments that remind us why Phuket is one of Asia’s most iconic destinations.Don’t forget, all of these experiences and more will be featured in Bill's upcoming book, “Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand”, due out in early 2026.👉 If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate the show, leave a quick review, and hit subscribe so you don’t miss any future adventures.#ThailandAdventureSecrets #PhuketActivities #SiamSpiceRoute #PhuketTravel #ThailandTravel #PhuketDayTrip

In this episode, I sit down with Richard Sims from Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to explore the magic of cruising through Asia. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok and Koh Samui to the tranquil islands of Japan, and beyond, we discuss why Asia is one of the most exciting regions to discover by sea. Richard shares insider tips on what makes NCL stand out—from world-class dining and entertainment to the freedom and flexibility that allow travelers to experience destinations their own way and only unpack once!We also dive into why Norwegian Cruise Line is the perfect choice for solo travelers, offering options and amenities designed to make every journey comfortable, social, and unforgettable. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime voyage to Japan or simply want to island-hop across Thailand and Malaysia, this episode will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how NCL makes every cruise special. If you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, you won’t want to miss the wisdom Richard shares.#NorwegianCruiseLine #AsiaCruises #ThailandTravel #JapanTravel #SoloTravel #CruiseLife #Thailandadventure

In this episode, I take you to Kanchanaburi, Thailand, where the past is never far away. We begin with the powerful story of Hellfire Pass, part of the infamous “Death Railway” carved through rock by prisoners of war and civilian laborers during World War II.From there, we travel to Sangkhlaburi, home of the legendary Mon Bridge—Thailand’s longest wooden footbridge and a living symbol of cultural unity. Alongside the bridge’s daily rituals, we dive into the timeless Thai epic of Khun Chang Khun Phaen, where myth, magic, and memory still cling to the hills of Kanchanaburi.Join me as I explore how this province blends history, folklore, and community; offering stories that are as alive today as they were generations ago.If you enjoy this journey, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. Your support helps keep these stories alive.You will be able to find many other stories in the new guidebook "Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand; Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route" The publishing date is set to be in late January, 2026.#Kanchanaburi #ThailandTravel #HellfirePass #DeathRailway #MonBridge #ThaiCulture #TravelPodcast #ThailandHistory #GhostMonth #ThailandAdventureSecrets

Bangkok’s temples are more than beautiful—they hold the legends that shaped Thailand. In this episode, uncover the hidden journey of the Emerald Buddha, once concealed from invading armies and carried by a sacred white elephant. Climb the Golden Mount, a temple born from a king’s collapsed dream and rebuilt as a shining symbol of resilience. And follow the dramatic rise and mysterious downfall of King Taksin, the warrior who rebuilt Siam from ashes.👉 Don’t miss an episode: subscribe, rate, and like to keep these stories coming.#BangkokTemples #ThailandHistory #EmeraldBuddha #GoldenMount #KingTaksin #TravelPodcast #TravelThailand

Drop anchor in paradise! In this episode, we set sail to Koh Mook, a tiny island in Thailand’s southern Andaman Sea that holds some of the region’s best-kept secrets. You’ll discover the perfect anchorage spot, learn why sailors return here again and again, and step inside the legendary Emerald Cave, where sunlight turns the lagoon into a glowing emerald world.But Koh Mook isn’t just about natural wonders—it’s about culture and flavor, too. We wander through the island village to taste street-side chicken satay and warm, flaky roti, a reminder of the island’s unique community and heritage. Between hidden beaches, anchoring tips, and local food finds, this episode captures everything that makes Koh Mook a must-stop for cruisers and curious travelers alike.Whether you’re a sailor planning your next passage or a dreamer mapping out a Thai island escape, join me for this journey to Koh Mook’s unforgettable shores.#SailingThailand#TravelThailand#TravelPodcast#IslandHopping#KohMook#SecretThailand

Every November, Chiang Mai lights up with one of the most magical festivals in the world — Yi-Peng, the Sky Lantern Festival. But here’s the secret no one tells you: there’s a smarter, cheaper, and far more adventurous way to experience it.In this episode of Thailand Adventure Secrets, I’ll share the real story behind Yi-Peng — its deep Buddhist roots, the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of glowing lanterns rising into the night sky, and what it feels like to be in the middle of it all. I’ll also reveal my personal travel hack: skipping overpriced Chiang Mai flights and instead flying to Nan Province, a quiet, authentic gem of Northern Thailand, before taking a scenic bus ride to the festival.You’ll also discover why Nan is worth the trip on its own — from ancient temples with murals that tell love stories, to the mysterious golden rice terraces, to hidden coffee shops where time slows down. I’ll even give you insider tips on the best spots to release your lanterns during Yi-Peng, including a secret riverside location and the romantic old chedi that glows with candlelight.Whether you’re planning your first trip to Thailand or you’ve been here for years, this episode will give you the inside track on one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have in Southeast Asia.Tune in, take notes, and get ready to see Northern Thailand like never before.#ThailandTravel #YiPengFestival #ChiangMaiAdventures #NanProvince #ThailandHiddenGems #SkyLanternFestival