The Thailand Trip: Passport Princesses

​Trip Overview:

​Join Shelby X DWSC on this immersive 7-day women's community and connection retreat which blends culture, nature, and community in the heart of Northern Thailand. You’ll explore Chiang Mai’s sacred mountain temple, cruise the Mae Ping River, and settle into a 3-day stay in a Karen highland village devoted to ethical elephant conservation. Days unfold through soft forest hikes, hands-on cultural experiences, homemade meals, and meaningful conversations with local families.

​Returning to Chiang Mai, you’ll cycle leafy neighbourhood trails, visit a forest monastery, and travel into the highlands for a Lahu-led organic coffee experience. This itinerary weaves together slow adventure, responsible travel, and authentic cultural connection—offering a warm and deeply memorable Northern Thai story.

​Highlights:
- Explore Chiang Mai’s cultural icons, including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
- Immerse yourself in a 3D/2N stay in a Karen highland village.
- Enjoy forest hikes to observe elephants in their natural habitat (no riding, no shows).
- Join community-led activities—local crafts, cooking, language, and village traditions.
- Cycle the Secret Chiang Mai route through leafy lanes and countryside.
- Experience a Lahu-led organic coffee workshop at Suan Lahu farm.

IMPORTANT NOTES: Cost is $1390 a person, if you are on a payment plan, you must have your first payment completed by August. Registration is first come, first serve up to 10 folks. Once you register, Ari & Josie will create a channel and send you the link needed for check-out. For full details on what is included in your ticket price, scroll to the bottom of the itinerary.

​DAY 1
Arrival in Chiang Mai & Welcome Dinner

​You will be greeted at Chiang Mai International Airport and transferred to your boutique hotel inside the Old City walls. After settling in, enjoy a Northern Thai welcome dinner and a relaxed briefing on the days ahead—temples, forest hikes, elephant conservation, and soft adventure.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight in: Chiang Mai

DAY 2
Doi Suthep Temple & Mae Ping River Cruise

​Begin with a scenic drive to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most iconic mountaintop temple. Climb the Naga staircase to sweeping city views before visiting a rural herbal garden. In the afternoon, glide along the Mae Ping River on a peaceful long-tail boat cruise.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight in: Chiang Mai

DAY 3
Journey to the Karen Highlands & Begin Elephant Program

​Travel into the mountains toward Mae Chaem, stopping for lunch en route. Arrive in a remote Karen village where you’ll meet your homestay hosts and the conservation team. After an orientation on elephant welfare and village customs, unwind with a cooking session and a basket-weaving activity.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in: Mae Chaem

DAY 4
Elephant Forest Hike & Karen Community Activities

​Start the day with an early forest hike to observe elephants living freely in their natural environment. You’ll watch them feed, move, and interact while learning how the community protects their wellbeing. After a picnic lunch, return to the village for cultural activities such as language lessons, local crafts, or helping with daily community tasks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in: Mae Chaem

DAY 5
Final Elephant Hike & Return to Chiang Mai

​Enjoy one last morning hike to visit another elephant group. After a simple village lunch, travel back to Chiang Mai through winding mountain roads. The evening is yours to relax, wander night markets, or enjoy the riverside cafés.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overnight in: Chiang Mai

DAY 6
Secret Chiang Mai Cycling & Lahu Coffee Experience

​Cycle through Chiang Mai University, leafy neighbourhoods, and the forest monastery of Wat Umong on a soft-adventure route. After the ride, drive into the highlands to Suan Lahu, an organic coffee farm run by the Lahu community. Participate in hands-on coffee, tea, and herbal processing, learn about sustainable agriculture, and explore village trails before returning to Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overnight in: Chiang Mai

DAY 7
Departure from Chiang Mai

​Enjoy a relaxing breakfast and a slow morning at leisure. When ready, your guide will transfer you to Chiang Mai International Airport for your onward flight—carrying with you the warmth of the mountains, the forests, and the people who welcomed you.
Meals: Breakfast

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE:
Transfers
Transportation between different destinations as part of the itinerary.

​Accommodation
Lodging at various hotels, guesthouses, or other types of accommodation during the trip.

​Admission fees
Entry fees for museums, parks, historical sites, and other attractions included in the trip.

​Guide fees
Fees for a Guide required for your adventure.

​Luggage transfers
Cost for transferring your luggage.

​Airport transfers
Transfers to the hotel on the day of arrival and to the airport on day of departure are included.

​Some Meals
Selected meals provided as part of the tour package, which may include breakfast, lunch, or dinner on certain days, as specified in the itinerary.

​WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
Alcoholic beverages
Costs for any alcoholic drinks consumed during the trip.

​Flights
All the flight charges required for your adventure.

​Gratuities
All the guide gratuities throughout your adventure.

​Visas
Required Visa fees for your travel.

​Travel insurance
Travel insurance from a trusted provider for your adventure.

ACCOMDATIONS:
Day 1 & 2

​You will be staying in a 3-star Botique Hotel in Chiang Mai on double occupancy basis.

​Day 3 & 4

​You will be staying at a HomeStay in Mae Chaem on double occupancy basis with shared facilities.

​Day 5 & 6

​You will be staying in a 4-star Botique Hotel in Chiang Mai on double occupancy basis.

Meet your host
Shelby Renee

​Shelby Renee is a creator, entrepreneur and community-builder based in Denver, CO, known for her feminine approach to travel, wellness and personal growth. After years in the beauty and creative industries, she now curates experiences that help women reconnect with softness, confidence, and soul. Shelby blends her background in entrepreneurship with her love for culture, nature, and meaningful connection. She is looking to create spaces where women feel seen, supported, and inspired. This retreat is her way of guiding you back to your magic and inspiration.