KOH TAO, THAILAND
Gal Goes Solo
Real Life Insight for Solo Travel inThailand
Personal guidance rooted in lived experience, with in-depth support for Koh Tao travel
SAWADEE KA!- THE GOING SOLO STORY
Greetings from Thailand!
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 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 instinct and stepped away before things truly went sideways back in the U.S.
Gal Goes Solo grew out of that 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 or Instagram-ready.
You’ll find stories here meant to make you laugh, nod in recognition, and occasionally think, “Okay… maybe I could do this too.” Because honestly? If a Gen X gal with no grand master plan can figure it out, so can you.
Alongside the blog, I now offer travel consulting for people who feel that same itch I once did—the quiet question of What if there’s another way? Whether you’re planning a trip to Thailand or dreaming of a new way of life, I’m here for you.
Welcome to Gal Goes Solo—and consider this your unofficial blueprint.
ABOUT
Life on Koh Tao, from the inside
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.
During that time, I’ve had countless conversations with travelers: answering questions, calming nerves, and sharing the kind of practical, on-the-ground insight you don’t always find online.
Every island in Thailand has its own personality, 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 real-life perspective: honest insight, local context, and practical guidance shaped by actually living here. The goal isn’t to sell you anything — it’s to help you feel more confident, informed, and at ease during your time on Koh Tao.
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?
Let's make sure we're a good fit
This is for you if...
You're planning a trip to Koh Tao and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice
You're visiting Thailand (or Southeast Asia) for the first time
You're a solo traveler who wants to arrive feeling more confident
You're unsure where to stay or which part of the island fits your vibe
You're interested in snorkeling, diving, or island life—but want honest expectations
You'd rather ask a real person than spend hours Googling or scrolling forums
You value practical, lived experience over 'top 10' lists
This might not be for you if...
You're looking for someone to book hotels, ferries, tours, or activities
You want a highly structured, hour-by-hour itinerary
You're expecting luxury travel consulting or concierge-style services
You prefer rigid rules over flexible, island-style advice
You're looking for free, ongoing trip planning via DMs or email
If you're looking for relaxed, honest insight from someone who actually lives here, you're in the right place.
A note for parents: 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.
HOW I CAN HELP
Choose what feels right for you
All sessions are conversational, relaxed, and tailored to you—there's no script and no "right" questions to ask.
Not sure which to choose? If you're unsure, start with Quick Questions. You can always book additional support later if needed.
Note: Time slots are listed in Indochina (Bangkok) Time Zone. If you need an appointment for a time not listed, please email support@galgoessolo.com for a time that works best for you!
COMMON QUESTIONS
Things people often ask
One Last Thing
If you're feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or like you're "not doing this trip right," you're not alone. Koh Tao is a small island, but it can feel like a lot at first— especially if you're traveling solo, visiting Thailand for the first time, or supporting an adult child from afar.
There's no perfect plan and no single right way to experience Koh Tao. Sometimes it helps just to talk things through with someone who actually lives here and understands how the island 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—we'll take it from there.
Starting small is always okay.
If now isn't the right time, feel free to come back later. This page isn't going anywhere.
Koh Tao Local Insight
Real guidance from island life
Prices in USD • Zoom or WhatsApp • Payment at booking
© 2026 Koh Tao Local Insight. All sessions are casual, conversational, and focused on helping you feel confident and at ease.