Koh Tao, Thailand
Personal guidance rooted in real-life experience, with in-depth support for Koh Tao travel. Honest insight from someone who actually lives here, not a guide passing through.
Sessions over Zoom or WhatsApp. Prices in USD. Payment at booking.
Sawadee Ka!, The going solo story
Nearly five years ago, I made a decision that felt equal parts terrifying and necessary. The world was shutting down, life felt increasingly heavy, and I realized I didn't want to spend that chapter waiting for "someday" to arrive. So I took matters into my own hands and left.
Like many people, COVID forced me to slow down and take a hard look at the life I was living, and the one I wanted. Travel wasn't just an escape; it became a reset. Looking back now, I'm endlessly grateful I trusted that gut instinct, and stepped away before things truly went sideways back in the U.S.
Gal Goes Solo grew out of that very moment. What started as a travel blog became a living record of navigating uncertainty, rebuilding a life abroad, and learning, sometimes the hard way, that freedom rarely looks neat, composed, or Instagram-ready.
Alongside the blog, I now offer travel consulting for people who feel that same itch I once did. The quiet question to yourself of, "What if there's another way?"
"If a Gen X gal with no grand master plan can figure it out, so can you."
About
I've been living on Koh Tao for over four years now. Long enough to move beyond the honeymoon phase and into the real rhythm of island life.
Every island in Thailand has its own vibe, and Koh Tao's is a unique one. It can feel magical, grounding, and freeing, but it can also feel confusing or overwhelming at first, especially if you're traveling solo or arriving without much context.
“I'm not a travel agent, and I don't book hotels, ferries, or activities. What I offer instead is a real-life perspective: honest insight, local context, and practical guidance shaped by actually living here.”
“Think of it as the advice you'd get from a friend who's already figured out the learning curve.”
Is this right for you?
If you're looking for relaxed, honest insight from someone who actually lives here, you're in the right place.
I also speak with parents of adult travelers who want reassurance and context, what Koh Tao is really like, how people get around, and what's considered normal here. This isn't about managing a trip, but about peace of mind through accurate, on-the-ground information.
Book a parent reassurance call →How I can help
All sessions are conversational, relaxed, and tailored to you. No script, no "right" questions to ask.
Koh Tao & destinations across Thailand
Best if you're planning a trip or just want a sanity check.
$45
30 minutes
Best for: First-timers, parents, anyone with one or two specific Thailand questions
Book a Quick QuestionDeep dive, Koh Tao + Gulf islands
Best if you want to leave the call with a clear plan in hand.
$90
60 minutes
Best for: Solo travelers committing to 1-3 weeks in Thailand who want a real plan
Book a Trip Plan SessionKoh Tao deep dive pack
Best if you want me on hand before and during your time on Koh Tao.
$250
Pre-trip + mid-trip + 5 days WhatsApp
Best for: First-time Koh Tao visitors, solo travelers who want a safety net, parents organizing a longer reassurance package for their adult child
Book Full Itinerary SupportTime slots are listed in Indochina (Bangkok) Time Zone. If you need a time not listed, please email [email protected].
Life here
What past travelers say
"I was so nervous traveling to Thailand alone for the first time. Jennifer was able to provide real information and personal insight into everything from Thai culture to what jungle parties to avoid to the best hidden beaches. No question was off limits and I had a lot of them. Would highly recommend."
"I found this service through a mutual friend and couldn't be happier with the outcome. Jennifer helped my boyfriend and me plan a private boat trip around Koh Tao and it was fabulous. She even met us for a beer on the beach afterwards and introduced us to her friends. I now have a second home and family in Thailand. Priceless."
"I reached out to Jennifer after reading her blog post about Cozumel. She answered all of my questions with the type of depth you don't get from google or typical travel guide books. My trip to Mexico wouldn't have been the same without this service."
If you're feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or like you're "not doing this trip right," you're not alone. Thailand is amazing, but it can feel like a lot at first, especially if you're traveling solo, visiting Koh Tao for the first time, or supporting an adult child from afar.
There's no perfect plan and no single right way to experience your travels. Sometimes it helps just to talk things through with someone who actually lives here and understands how Thailand works day to day.
"These conversations are meant to be relaxed, practical, and grounding. You don't need to prepare or know exactly what to ask, I can take it from there."Pick a session →
FAQ
If you are unsure if this is for you or have questions about more in-depth travel consulting for Thailand or anywhere else in the world, please send me a note. I'm more than happy to help.
Reply within < 48h on weekdays
