What other Travelers Say

Still have questions about the trips free and easy runs? Wanna hear first hand feedback from past trip members? Check out the following testimonials from people who have been on a free and easy trip with us, and wanted to share what their experience meant to them. There are email addresses listed with each name, and all of the contributors are fine to be contacted by YOU with any questions you might have about the company, the trips or their overall experience.

For more testimonials check out the reviews on our Facebook Fan Page.

Devin Licastro: dlicastro@gmail.com

Sitting at my boring office job many months ago I stumbled upon the Free and Easy website, I was instantly amazed by the concept of the trip. Spending 40 days traveling a stunningly beautiful country that I knew nothing about with 20 other fun travelers, being taken to all the coolest spots in the country by amazing leaders... I couldn’t believe that such a vacation existed (and that I had never heard about it before.) I decided at that moment that I would make the trip a reality, and looking back at that day it was the best decision I ever made.
My 40 day trip to Thailand was epic to say the very least. Spending 40 days in a country like Thailand which has a whole different style of life and a whole different type of 'people' has really changed me as a person, and expanded my perspective about the world. Getting a break from North American life and spending time with people who live with so much less than us but seem so much happier is really incredible. The friendly and genuine smiles of the Thai people are something that stays with you and something you long to see again once you return home.
Thailand is a stunning country. The places you visit and the scenery you are exposed to is more beautiful than any picture can ever do justice. Everything in Thailand is so different and interesting, you really feel as if you’re in another world. A simple walk down the street can turn into an amazing story that you struggle to explain to your friends.
A great thing about the trip is that its truly yours to have, it doesn’t have that stiff tour group feel. The leaders take the worry of planning your travels away but also give you the freedom to experience Thailand the way you want. If you like to relax you can spend your time lounging in your hammocks or sunbathing on the beach and if you’re an active person you will be happy to find that nearly every day you can go on some sort of adventure. Whether it’s a new cave to explore, a new hike to take, riding elephants through the jungle, visiting a monkey park, bungee jumping, a reggae concert, cliff diving, a fire show or a friendly game of volleyball there’s always something awesome to do. Whether you like to party your face off at the local dance floor or chill out and play some great tunes on the beach while checking out the stars, the trip offers a great variety of both.
Perhaps the best part of the trip is the friends you make in your group along the way, having a group of people to share all the amazing experiences you encounter is something truly valuable. The trip leaders are also incredible people. Not only are they extremely knowledgeable about the Thailand and the trip, they are also incredibly fun people to hang around and really know how to ensure everyone has a great time. If you’re a positive spirited person, you'll enjoy every minute of this awesome trip.
So if you were like me, looking at the website in wonder, thinking 'Is it really possible for this trip to be as amazing as it looks?' let me tell you that it will surpass every expectation you have. Your 40 day trip will be something you remember for the rest of your life.

Sheila Allen: Sheila.leanne@gmail.com

Traveling to Thailand this past summer with Free and Easy was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Thailand is such an amazing country with the most genuine locals you will ever meet. Being with the Free and Easy group made my experience so much more than I could ever have imagined. When you travel with Free and Easy, you start to feel like your group is your family because everyone is so welcoming and friendly. Before you even meet anyone in your group you already know that you will have at least one thing in common with everyone, and that is traveling. My experience in Thailand with Free and Easy is one that I will never forget and it definitely was life-altering in the most positive way possible. My group leaders were Jonas Liw and Jay Fafard and they were unreal. They made the trip run so smoothly and we had a blast with them! Traveling to Thailand with Free and Easy was such a great experience and I have now met many people who I know I will stay friends with for a long time back in Canada. I would recommend Free and Easy to anyone who plans on traveling to Thailand (or any of the other destinations Free and Easy will come up with); you will have an amazing time and meet so many amazing people along the way!

Philippines - Elysha Koran: elysha.koran@uleth.ca

When I told people I was going to the Philippines, the most common response I got was "why the Philippines?" the answer I tell people now is, because it's like nothing you've ever seen before. And it’s true, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just stepping off your first international flight you will be in awe of what this country has to offer. Whether your hiking through the 2000 year old rice terraces of Banaue, scuba diving on the reefs of Panglao Island, or catching a perfect wave at Cloud 9 surf break in Siargao, the Philippines will amaze you. You'll see things you will never see anywhere else in the world. Have experiences that you will cherish the rest of your life. And meet friends that you'll call your family. Mix that with some of the friendliest people in the world and some sand between your toes, and you know you’re in a special place. A place most people never think about going to, but once they see your pictures and hear your stores, will wish they had gone with you.

Ashley Penner: ashley203@hotmail.com

My trip to Thailand stemmed from a simple poster on the wall at school. The pictures looked neat, I checked out the website, and I was hooked! Getting prepared for the trip was simple, had awesome advice from amazing people, a detailed guidebook, and a packing list and I was set to go! I arrived in Bangkok, met my group, my two leaders, and the absolute best 40 days of my life began right there!

There’s something about hanging out on the beach, with a whole group of family-like friends, an absolutely stunning view of cliffs jutting out of the green water, with the sun setting behind, that makes a person feel as though there's no other place in the world they'd rather be! From the time that I've gotten back from my trip, countless hours have been spent wishing I could be right back with my group traveling Thailand in "Free and Easy" style.

Christina Rickett: christinarickett@hotmail.com

When I first signed up for the trip, Chad, Curtis and Rob were all very accommodating to my needs. I had dreamed about going to Thailand for years, but because I own my own business it was very hard to get away for such a long period of time. With the help of Chad I was able to work around my schedule and plan my trip of a lifetime. I found the process very easy, and once you were signed up all you had to wait for were your tickets to leave. Information was sent out regularly to keep you informed of what was going on and what you were expected to do in order to ready yourself for the trip. The regular parties that were put on to meet people prior to the trip are a great idea, and it helps for you to get to know people who you will be travelling with so you feel more comfortable when you arrive.

The flight over was long, but having known some of the travellers prior to the trip made it more enjoyable. It was well worth the long flight when you touch down in Thailand and walk off the plane to 40 degree weather. When we arrived the 2 best leaders ever were there to greet us. Bertus and Adam we so welcoming and were very helpful in making our arrival to this foreign country very enjoyable. The journey began here, and it was the best journey you will ever experience. I cannot even describe in words how beautiful Thailand is, and how safe I felt there. It is a culture shock, but if you allow yourself to embrace the culture and live the Thai lifestyle, it will really change your view on life.

Bertus and Adam are the best 2 leaders you could ask for. They both have beautiful voices to serenade you on those long train rides, or those chill nights sitting around the fire. They were always there to make sure you were having a good time, and were willing to show you or take you places you wanted to go. And they both definitely know how to party and show you a good time. I became really close with these guys, and we continue to keep in touch still after the trip. Since I have been there I have opened up to a whole new view on life, and you just really don't know what is out there on the other side of the world until you actually experience it.

Thailand allowed me to do a lot of firsts in my life; bungee jumping, bucket showers, riding an elephant, and best of all really embracing the culture and scenery and sleeping in my hammock at night to be awaken by families of monkeys. Before I left all my friends were wondering why the heck I would want to go to Thailand, they freaked me out by telling me there is bugs and rats and snakes everywhere, and that it was a very bad place to go. I assure you, I saw one cockroach the whole time I was there, and there was not once that I felt unsafe. Never had to worry if I was out walking around on my own, because Free and Easy has such a good reputation on all the islands, that you actually become very close with the workers and people travelling on the island. Some of the friendships I made with people in my group will last forever because you all become so close in that short period of time.

I could go on forever about my trip to Thailand with Free and Easy, but it would be about 20 pages long. If you are looking to travel with this company, but have that slight bit of doubt, I am telling you that you have nothing to worry about. They will show you some of the most beautiful places that you could ever imagine. If I could work for this company I would, because they all are the greatest guys, and they are looking out for their traveller’s best interests.

Now don't hesitate, book your trip of a lifetime, it is worth every penny spent!!

Hanna Eirich: eirichh@shaw.ca

My trip to Thailand with Free and Easy was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life! It was a chance of a lifetime and with F+E's unbelievable leaders the trip became a stress-free adventure through one of the most beautiful countries in the world! It was a chance to meet some fantastic people and form a bond with these people unlike any other. You spend 40 days with your group and along the way you all experience together the paradise that is Thailand. My heart aches every time I look back and remember, I would give anything to be back there!

Katie Funk: knf270@mail.usask.ca

My Thailand adventure was amazing. I would even go as far as to say life changing, however cliché it may seem. It exposed me to a culture very different from my own as well as the most amazing people and sights. The scenery alone is enough reason to make the trip. It was hard to believe sometimes where I was. It was surreal. I had to say to myself…. “I’m at the Ocean…” which would eventually break into song…which helped it sink in. (you will know what I mean when you get there and hear the song!)

My trip was everything I could have wanted in a group organized trip and more. It took the worry out of trying to figure out where to stay, where/what to eat and what is the best way to experience each place. I felt like I got to experience Thailand with a more local flavor with the excitement of experiencing everything for the first time. It’s an amazing combo. Also the people I met, both Canadian and Thai made a lasting impression on me. One I will take through my day to day life for years to come.

Kavan Melton: Kavan_m@hotmail.com  

Thailand was a life changing experience for me and is something that I will never forget. It gave me the chance to explore a different part of the world as well as learn more about myself. I had such a great time that only two weeks after I got back I'm already in the midst of making plans for next year. Everyone always asks how my vacation went and I never get tired of telling them all about it. I always reply by saying it was more than just a vacation, it was a great experience as well as undeniably the best times of my life. I met friends and created memories that will never be forgotten. I thank the people of Free and Easy so much for helping make my Thailand experience all that it was. I highly recommend it to anyone traveling to Thailand to travel with Free and Easy. They provide a very welcoming and positive atmosphere...and the trip is very "free" and "easy".  Curt, you couldn't have found a more appropriate name for your company!  I really can't stress enough what a great experience my Thailand trip was for me.

To all my friends in Thailand I send an international Cheers! aka Chuk de khap!

Rock on and keep livin' the good life.

Kara Sergeant: karasergeant_90@hotmail.com

My name's Kara Sergeant and I was very lucky to get the chance to go to Thailand with Free and Easy this summer. My experience in Thailand was amazing! I can honestly say it was the best time of my life so far. The leaders that Free and Easy have chosen for each group are sick! They're totally accepting of everyone in the group and do everything they can to make your trip the best it can be, a trip that will give you a whole new perspective on life. The best thing, for me, about the trip was being able to experience the Thai culture. Being able to meet different Thai people and be a part of their lives for 40 days was unbelievable! Just laying back and enjoying life. I really did meet some Thai people that I can call friends which is crazy. I got to do everything I wanted to do while I was there, like bungee jumping and celebrating my birthday (what a party!), and I made 23 friends I really will never forget. Free and Easy is all about introducing people to paradise and making them love it just as much as they do and they definitely accomplished that. I miss Thailand everyday and can't wait to go back!

Tyler Gould: tyler.gould@hotmail.com

Sitting here in Seoul during my 10-hour layover and running over my entire trip in my head, from Bangkok to Haad Yuan, to Railay and up to Chiang Mai and Vang Vieng, I was realizing how f#@king amazing it was. I've traveled quite a bit, but not even the San Fermines festival in Pamplona (the Running of the Bulls), New Years in Vegas, or Christmas in Times Square compares to how wicked Thailand has been. Next year's trip is already in the works. And then I check my e-mail and here you are asking for a testimonial - I'd be more than happy to give one.

I signed up for the Free & Easy trip because a good friend of mine recommended it. I spent a month travelling Europe with him after he'd been in Thailand and he got me more than excited with all his stories. I came to Thailand with what I thought was a pretty good idea of what to expect and how awesome it was going to be. Not even close. Every single experience on my trip absolutely blew any and every expectation out of the water: The trip doesn't even compare to anything else I have ever done, it's simply life changing.

Hope that's helpful, but even if it's not, understand that it's true and I'm more than grateful to the entire F+Easy team for sharing the best places in Thailand with me!

Kate McCannel: k8mccannel@hotmail.com

My free and easy trip was one to remember. Someone once said that life isn't measured by the number of breaths you take but the moments that take your breath away. Thailand never ceased to take my breath away. Waking up to a beautiful view never got boring, and I enjoyed every day I spent there. With Free and Easy I was able to do quite a few things that I wouldn't have done on my own. It also gave me the chance to introduce things that I love, to a group. It was extremely rewarding to see of few of the people in my group grow to love climbing as much as I do.  It may have helped that the rock faces in Railay are some of the best in the world. 

Speaking of the best in the world, don't even get me started on the food!  My friend Janel and I had an amazing time experimenting, and I can't imagine a better meal than Som Tam (Spicy Pappaya Salad) on the beach.  That has probably been the most difficult thing about coming home is adjusting to "Canadian food”.  We actually organized a day in Railay for a bunch of us to learn some cooking.  We all had a blast and now I make a pretty great Green Seafood Curry. Who knew cooking was actually kind of easy. 

Other wonderful experiences include: Riding in my first Tuk Tuk, going to the boxing matches in Koh Phanang, learning to Thai box, Yoga, hiking, climbing, the boat trips, swimming with sharks, finding Nemo, riding an elephant, wading through rivers and hiking in caves, befriending Das, Kai, Subin and various other friendly locals, experimenting with another language, getting another tattoo, and going to bed each night so excited for the next day that I couldn't stop smiling.......... 

I would like to thank Free and Easy for an amazing experience, and I would like to also thank both Eric and Adam for being great leaders.  If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me.

Brenna Lyle: balyle@ucalgary.ca

Alright I am trying my best not to sound too cliché, but going to Thailand has been one of the best experiences of my life. There is not a single regret that I have about signing up for the trip - except that I wish I would've stayed longer. I'd bet money that I had a smile plastered on my face the whole 40 days. Since I've been back in Calgary I want nothing more than to hop on a plane and go straight back to Thailand. The trip leaders were great, the people I met were amazing, the food was unreal, the parties were legendary, and the culture is something everyone must experience. It’s hard to believe, but the pictures on the website do not do the place justice - Thailand will blow you away.

Free and easy went above and beyond my expectations for the trip - they couldn’t have organized a better trip.  Believe me - to get the most out of your experience - these are the people you want showing you around Thailand.

Dave Reisman: Reisman182@hotmail.com

It’s hard to put into words the 40 day Thailand experience that I completed in early June 2006.  Free and Easy enabled me to experience the most beautiful, exciting and overall unbelievable place I have ever been. Thailand is a marvelous place with a culture like no where else in the world. Lounging on beautiful serene beaches, partaking in the most gorgeous hikes, partying with great friends, or just basking in the culture; that’s what Thailand is all about: no worries. Our guides were unbelievable.  They gave us independence to explore the country, but also helped to unite the group and provided us with pointers from their previous experiences regarding travel, food, parties, activities, and pricing; which was a great assistance in a foreign country.

If you have ever dreamed of going to paradise...forget Club Med, The Four Seasons or a Disney Cruise...sign up for a trip, head to Thailand and you wont/cant be disappointed.

Curtis has designed a perfectly balanced 40 day trip which gives you a taste of all that Thailand has to offer; great beaches, the jungle, Bangkok and more.  Do yourself a favor...go.

If you have any questions toss me an email at Reisman182@hotmail.com.

Chock dee Khap!

Paige Dumont: dumontpm@hotmail.com

I was on the May 2006 Trip with Sala and Adam.  I had an amazing time in Thailand.  I missed being there immediately when I returned home.  I didn't know what to expect when we first landed in Thailand and I wasn't sure what the group thing was going to end up like.  From the beginning to the end I enjoyed being with the group.  I had great friends and some one to party with any night.  Our group got along very well and no one was ever left out.  Free and Easy was the perfect company to travel with because their main goals are for people to have fun and have an unforgettable time in Thailand - which I did.  I would recommend anyone to travel with Free and Easy, you won't be disappointed.

Thanks a million,

Mitchell Harty: mitchell_harty@hotmail.com

This trip was a huge eye opener and a great experience for me...A beautiful land, kind hearted people and a great atmosphere.  All combined, it felt like a therapeutic dream...but one you can revisit anytime.

Thanks Free & Easy for bringing me to paradise!

Jon Rempel: Zanyards_007@hotmail.com

To start off by saying I love Thailand, or I believe ‘pom rak Thailand’ in Thai, would be quite the understatement.  Each place we visited was more incredible than I could have imagined.  They each had their own thing that introduced me to the greatness of Thailand.  Before I went on the trip I had quite the travel bug and wanted to go everywhere.  Now I have the problem that I can't just forget about Thailand and move on to the next country that I wanted to visit.  Instead I must return again to the “land of the smiles”.  The people are extremely friendly, the countryside and beaches are amazingly gorgeous, and really it is all just too good not to come back. 

I had the most fun I’ve ever had and it opened my eyes to how great other parts of the world can be.  It was beyond my wildest dreams.  I made friends that even though I’ve only known them a short time, they feel like life-long friends.  Going on this trip is the best thing one can do if they want to start traveling cause it shows you the ropes of traveling, takes you to the best places, and introduces you to what to expect when you are on the road.

Eric: jemckenn@ucalgary.ca 

I decided to go on the Thailand trip because I enjoy travelling and I had never been overseas, I had heard good things about Thailand so I figured I would give it a shot. The trip also gave me something to look forward too after a long school year. From day 1 of the trip I had one incredible experience after another. The trip was a roller coaster ride, with unbelievable parties, incredible beaches and scenery. Curtis and the other leaders did an amazing job making every day as easy as possible.  The travel arrangements were convenient and hassle free. I would recommend this trip to anyone, it was the best 40 days of my life and I have no regrets. I met so many awesome people that I will be friends with for a long time. Every day since I’ve gotten home to Calgary I have wished I was back in Thailand, and I plan to return as soon as possible.

Kimberly Craig: kimberlycraig77@hotmail.com 

Deciding to go to Thailand this past summer was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made.  If checking out the amazing pictures on Free and Easy's website (which still don't do Thailand justice) doesn't convince you to go, just talk to anyone who's traveled with Curtis.  Free and Easy is the perfect balance for someone who's not quite confident to plan every aspect of their traveling on their own but doesn’t want to be babysat the entire time.  The major factors that are the least fun to plan are taken care of for you.....the places you stay are booked, transportation is taken care of, and best of all, you've always got someone to help you out when those little unexpected issues pop up once you arrive. 

Thailand is an amazing country with a ton to offer no matter what kind of traveler you are.  If you want 40 days of relaxation, the beaches are beautiful, the hammocks are comfortable, and the food is delicious and fantastically cheap! If you’re into partying, you can basically do that 24 hours a day for the entire trip.....and trust me, I've see it done!  If you love taking in new cultures, there's cooking classes, massage classes, yoga lessons, temples, an opportunity to learn a new language, exotic food, and a bazillion people who live a lot differently than we do.  If you're adventurous you can try scuba diving, snorkeling, rock climbing, bungee jumping, sea kayaking...its probably safe to say that some of the food could fall under this adventure category too!!   

My favorite aspect of my entire experience with Free and Easy was the people I've met.  I had the opportunity to hang out with some absolutely phenomenal people in Thailand.  The Thai people are fantastic, cordial, and generally love to help you get the complete Thailand experience.  The Free and Easy guys are super knowledgeable, helpful, and a blessing to have around. Most importantly, I met 23 other people in my group who have become amazing friends....our little "Thailand reunions" seem to happen every other week!!  If anyone wants to email me withny questions, you are more than welcome to.

Michael Claeren: claeren@shaw.ca 

Hey all! After traveling through Thailand with Curtis and ˜Free and Easy Traveler”, and having a GREAT time-of-my-life experience, I thought the least I could do to thank Curtis was to take a second of my time and try and encourage all of you perspective Thailand travelers to just go for it, and sign up for this amazing trip! 

It took me a while to decide to go. I wasn’t sure if it would work to travel in a group as a couple with my girlfriend, if the age and personality differences in the group would work, and whether I wanted to do the tour thing v. doing it all myself.  Curtis quickly worked through each of my concerns and, in hindsight, everything he told me in our initial correspondence was absolutely accurate and credible, something you can always count on with Curtis... 

My girlfriend and I had plenty of time together but at the same time had the joy of mixing with the group any time we wanted. There were couples, pairs, groups, and individuals; great people from ages 18 to 29; all of whom were tons of fun and totally open to new friendships and experiences. Lets face it, the type of young person that takes the plunge and goes half the way around the world is probably cooler, more open, and more interesting then joe-schmo sitting at home watching 'American Idol', right? On one hand you were travelling with a group large enough to make a bar or club come alive without anyone else there but small enough that you could spend an intimate evening in a restaurant or an afternoon laying on an otherwise empty beach. You always had a scuba, Frisbee, or shopping buddy yet at the same time could (thanks to the cool places Curtis has you staying) get to know the locals and interact as though you were all alone. Best of all though, our group is still getting together regularly and I can honestly say I NEVER would have thought I would meet, all at once at that, a group of such all-around awesome, quality people...

Essentially it all boils down to understanding Curtis’ amazing “Free and Easy” travel concept. The idea here is that you are NOT signing up for a scripted guided tour of Thailand, nor are you being left to fend for yourself in a strange (yet wonderful) country. Curtis basically becomes your logistics guy. He gets you from place to place (by train, bus, van, truck, tuk-tuk, boat, ferry, car, elephant...), makes sure you are staying in really cool places, and makes sure you experience the must-see sights guided by the locals who really know what they are talking about.  YET he leaves you TONS AND TONS of time to see whatever you want to see, go wherever you want to go, and talk to who ever you want to talk to! He is in love with Thailand and honestly wants to let you discover it on your own terms, through your own eyes. This is certainly NO Contiki nightmare (no offence) where you spend all day on buses and have people banging on your door at 6AM every morning. You are ˜free” and yet it is still “easy”, the very best of both worlds! You get to spend prolonged periods of time exploring one of the coolest places on earth...as simple as that!  

Let me finish by saying, GO TALK TO CURTIS! (Or Rob, or Matt, or Chris) He is so friendly, so nice, and will NOT pressure you in ANY way. He only wants people on his trip who really, really want to be there. He will enthusiastically and patiently answer each and every question you have and I assure you that you are not making a mistake if you take the plunge and take this trip with Curtis and “Free and Easy Traveler”. As others have said, the best investment is in yourself, and in this case it is worth ever single penny and then some...  

PLEASE feel free to email me with any questions or concerns you have in regards to Curtis, his company, or Thailand in general! (claeren@shaw.ca)

Virginia : vjbritton@vogue.co.uk

So once you’ve decided that you're going to travel, at this point in your life and given the age you are, there is no other choice than Thailand.  And being a Free and Easy alumni member, I would absolutely recommend going Free and Easy.  I have done a fair bit of traveling on my own, having lived in Europe for a year, and I was definitely not keen on the idea of participating in a typical "group trip".  I prefer to think of myself as more of a strong and independent woman than that.  However, the "group trips" that Free and Easy puts together, redefine what I think a group trip can be.  There is no agenda, aside from the transportation that they have arranged (which after traveling on my own for a few weeks after the trip, I realized was truly a blessing) and you can be as much or as little a part of the group as you want to be.  They make an effort encouraging people to get involved, and always managed a good balance of being obvious leaders and stepping back to allow us to really the shape the group we were.  Most importantly the trip is organized in such a way that you see the absolute best the country has to offer.  And when you've got a month in an amazingly diverse country like Thailand, time is precious.  A wise man once said "Don't invest in RRSP's.  Invest in yourself...Now".  I'm certain that nothing you learn this year in school will even compare to the growth you'll experience through traveling.  And besides, who wouldn't want to be with 20 fun-loving, young party people all together on a great adventure in Southeast Asia?   

Karla: karlasaskiw@hotmail.com

The trip to Thailand was so amazing! Curtis and Rob are very knowledgeable about the place. They were extremely helpful and prepared. The best part was that we had all the freedom that you enjoy traveling without a group, and all the awesome benefits of traveling with a group. Experience of a lifetime. Email if you've got any questions.... would love to help!    

Nicole: galaxy103@hotmail.com

Free and Easy is not your typical group tour. It is an experience that keeps the door open for complete independence, while at the same time providing guidance where you feel it's needed. Curt and Rob have great suggestions on places to see and things to do, but they will also encourage you to go check out things that interest you. Thailand is for everyone to discover, and Curt and Rob allow you do this without the hassle of buying train tickets, and arranging accommodations (which you can easily get ripped off with if you're a newcomer). The only thing left for you to worry about is having a good time. And in Thailand , that's not much of a worry!  

Geoff: gkschoenberg@shaw.ca  

Thailand. When you first arrive there is so much going on and so much confusion. Without our group leaders I would have been lost, wandering the streets of Bangkok in search of a place (anywhere really) to stay. Luckily I chose Free and Easy. This meant that I had a great air con room with a private bathroom in a place with an excellent restaurant and some of the best coconut shakes around. So, instead of having to carry my bag from place to place, attempting to communicate where I want to go and just butchering the language, I had to carry my bags a WHOLE 5 MINUTES, before having the difficult task of chillin out with some good food and a shake. Then came the islands. There's nothing quite like an overnight train ride in an air-con car with 20 people who are just ready to party! Train parties are a good time! Then you reach the first island, and the best part of the vacation begins. Sometimes we'd sleep on the beach after swimming with some of the most amazing phosphorescence; and then wake up to some of the most amazing sunrises ever. Each island you go to has its own vibe and culture, and it's all awesome. If you wanna party every night till 5 am with your bucket of Thai Whiskey, Red Bull and Coke, you can. If you wanna sit on the beach and stare at the stars in the peace and quiet, you can. If hiking through caves and jungle is what excites you, there's that too. ANY life you wanna live is available in each place that they'll take you. I had the time of my life. The benefits of travel with Free and Easy are enormous. Reasonably priced, great guides, wonderful places, and the list just goes on and on. If you want an amazing worry-free adventure then I highly recommend this trip.    

Andrea: andreasargeant@hotmail.com  

This past summer I went to Thailand with "Free and Easy." The trip was very well-organized and there was not one instant where I was uneasy about the whole experience; both leading up to the trip, as well as during the trip. I did not have any expectations of what to expect from Thailand , but Curtis gave me an experience of a lifetime by thoroughly allowing me to relax and enjoy all of the many delicacies of Thailand . I had previously shopped around for trips to Thailand and found that "Free and Easy" was the most organized and experienced. I have since experienced first hand what a phenomenal job they did. I did not have any regrets traveling with "Free and Easy," and it was by far one of the best summers I have ever had.    

Sarah: electriclemon77@hotmail.com  

I have not only been to Thailand with Free and Easy, but also to Spain in 2001. This alone is testament to the great time I had on the first trip….And Thailand... well lets just say I could be persuaded to endure another 24 hours on a plane to get there. Traveling in a group may seem cheesy to some of you, but it's a great way to meet people and a really good way to go if you have limited experience traveling. I'm now quite an experienced traveler, but would still consider going with a group. If you're in to having a good time, not having to worry about where you're going or how you're going to get there, and down for meeting some awesome people, I would have to say that this is the way to go.  

Kristin: krisross13@hotmail.com

This summer my friend and I decided to join Free & Easy on the June trip. When I first found out about the setup, I was pretty stoked. But as it got nearer to the day and as the payment deadlines were getting closer, I started to have second thoughts. I wasn't sure about the whole thing anymore, with traveling, with payments, with the legitimacy of the company, and the whole SARS issue in the media didn't help with my worrying. At one point, my parents even cancelled one of the payment checks and told me I couldn't go! I emailed Curtis a lot about it and he told me to relax and not worry so much about it. He said it would be a great time once I was actually in Thailand and that the things that were worrying me would seem so distant and even silly. And he was totally right! I made the best choice by deciding to go through with my trip. I had an amazing time. I honestly lived carefree for the whole trip! The hardest decisions of my day were whether I should hit the beach in the morning and shop in the afternoon or vice versa...Or, deciding whether I should drink Beer Chang or a bucket!!! I met so many great people and had the most amazing adventures. I loved the country itself as well as the lifestyle and I definitely intend on going back there someday! Every time I look at my photo album from the trip I think about how much I'd be kicking myself if I had decided not to go! So, if you're trying to decide whether you should do it or not, I say go for it...you won't regret it and you'll have a blast!!    

Karin: karniki19@hotmail.com

Traveling with Free and Easy made my experience in Thailand worry-free. Curt took care off all of the things you don't want to think about on vacation. He was very organized, knowledgeable and a blast to hang out with. He put together a fantastic trip... it was an experience of a lifetime!