About me:Hello, my name is Kooga.I come from the northeast province of Thailand which is called Chiangrai but I am now working in Koh Samui as an English teacher and coordinator. I love cooking and I really like spicy food (probably I am the one who eat the spiciest food in bamfam). And I like taking a picture especially taking a selfie so many people called me a selfie queen.
LanguagesEnglish, Thai
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Share your thoughts on the itinerary, guide, and overall organization of the adventure.
S
Volunteer with Elephants
Positives: The tour was good. At first not knowing the whole itinerary made me a little nervous. But when we were in Camp 9 it was fantastic to let the day unfold in front of us. The elephants were am…Positives: The tour was good. At first not knowing the whole itinerary made me a little nervous. But when we were in Camp 9 it was fantastic to let the day unfold in front of us. The elephants were amazing and the Mahouts have such a unique bond with them. Conservation and care were definitely the top priorities. Every day spent with the elephants was excellent and an experience I will treasure forever.
The tasks that our group engaged in, bamboo cutting, sand carrying and cleaning/ sweeping the temple and school, to some extent, brought our group closer together and boosted morale when the weather was hot and humid. It was all achievable!
Negatives: The itinerary brought us from Bangkok to Chang Mai but it did not include a trip back to Bangkok and we had to make our own way back... Although our Team Leaders arranged transport out of the jungle, this part of the trip created some anxiety within our group. This communication could be more transparent. I understand that some group members would choose to stay on in Chang Mai or head off to other parts of the country, but I honestly believe that we should have been given the option of returning to Bangkok within our original booking.
This next negative comment is disclosed with a heavy heart. In the second week of our tour, when we stayed in the village, our driver drank alcohol every morning and throughout the day. [comment removed by TourRadar in moderation] I became concerned by this because in my opinion, he compromised our safety. The impact this has had on me is significant. After the first week, my impression was so high, I imagined coming back to Melbourne spruiking the good work of Bamboo to encourage more patronage and support for such a worthwhile cause, but after the second week, I felt let down by the choice of driver and untidy end to our trip. Communication and safety is key.
Our Team Leaders, Tony, Coo gar, Tangmo and Tee were great particularly when we were in the Jungle. The food was great and I’m grateful for the helpers who prepared food for us everyday. I have to mention that Coo gar did an amazing job driving through the mini monsoon after we’d been carrying sand. A flash flood appeared and she drove us out of there with determination and safety as her top priority. Trees were knocked down, roof tops came off the village and concrete power lines were brought down. Thank goodness that other guy ‘Hans Solo’, [comment removed by TourRadar in moderation] wasn’t driving that day, is all I can say.
Thank you for giving me this space to give my feedback. I hope it helps you with your policies and procedures. Overall I am very grateful for this experience. It was great to get out of my comfort zone, to meet a group of people from different parts of the globe, appreciate a different culture and experience those majestic elephants, close up and personal.
C
Elephant2Islands
I did the elephants to islands tour. Let me praise and brag. Kooga was our guide and I could list word after word about her and it would never be enough to truly capture this woman. She was remarkabl…I did the elephants to islands tour. Let me praise and brag. Kooga was our guide and I could list word after word about her and it would never be enough to truly capture this woman. She was remarkable, patient, so loving, fun and honestly wanted everything for us and she delivered! Wow!! I expected a "guide" but Kooga is not a guide. She is a teacher, a translator (lol), one of the kindest biggest hearts and a lifelong friend. My words are not near enough for her and everything she did. Every experience she handled perfect, made sure every need was covered, went above and beyond if we asked for things, set up extras and did everything with a constant smile! Remarkable woman!!
M
Elephant2Islands
I hadn’t planned on going when I did. It was sort of a last minute decision to pick my tour date for elephants 2 islands. I’m so glad I did. Because of Kooga, I think everyone else and I had the best …I hadn’t planned on going when I did. It was sort of a last minute decision to pick my tour date for elephants 2 islands. I’m so glad I did. Because of Kooga, I think everyone else and I had the best tour bamboo could offer. I’m serious when I say she can do everything without a hitch. Great photographer. Exceptional guide (she doesn’t just show us where and what things are; she teaches us about them). Fun loving, organized and willing to listen to everyone’s questions.
A
Elephant2Islands
I cannot say enough positive things about this amazing human being....I've never met anyone like her, and I doubt I will again. It's fair to say that she had her hands full with our group, yet she was…I cannot say enough positive things about this amazing human being....I've never met anyone like her, and I doubt I will again. It's fair to say that she had her hands full with our group, yet she was always patient, kind and thoughtful (and funny)...always making sure we were having the best time. I miss her dance moves already, and her sweet little smiling face. I hope you realize how much you (and Tang) touched us--we are still talking about it daily! God bless you over and over because you deserve it....and I cannot wait to see you again someday, because I will! <3 Anyone who doesn't get the chance to do a tour with her is missing out on something incredibly life-changing....love you, Kooga!
C
Elephant2Islands
Kooga was AMAZING! So loving and kind, she really took care of us on our tour was genuinely caring to us all. Such a knowledgable, fun (she is a GREAT DANCER), warm and good natured human being and fr…Kooga was AMAZING! So loving and kind, she really took care of us on our tour was genuinely caring to us all. Such a knowledgable, fun (she is a GREAT DANCER), warm and good natured human being and friend. She made every day wonderful and her smile can light up the darkest night. We love you Kooga! KA!
L
Elephant2Islands
Kooga and TangMo have such big hearts and immediately make you feel like family! They both have such a bubbly and kind spirit. I am so grateful to have had them as our tour guides on the Elephants2Isl…Kooga and TangMo have such big hearts and immediately make you feel like family! They both have such a bubbly and kind spirit. I am so grateful to have had them as our tour guides on the Elephants2Islands tour in Thailand!! The tour was amazing but they were definitely the best part about it! Kooga and TangMo always made sure I had vegan dishes to eat, and when I was injured during the tour, they took time out of their day to take me to the hospital for daily follow up visits. I cannot thank them enough for all of their love and support!! And I cannot wait to venture back to Thailand to volunteer and see Kooga and TangMo again!! ♡♡♡
E
Elephant2Islands
My experience with Bamboo exceeded every expectation I had. Kooga, TangMo, and Tee did an absolutely fantastic job at being our guides, and now, my friends! I would have no problem recommending the Ba…My experience with Bamboo exceeded every expectation I had. Kooga, TangMo, and Tee did an absolutely fantastic job at being our guides, and now, my friends! I would have no problem recommending the Bamboo experience to anyone that's interested in doing a different kind of trip. That's a testament to Kooga's abilities as a Bamboo guide. GIVE THEM ALL A RAISE IN PAY!!!
A
Elephant2Islands
LETS DO THIS!!!
Kooga, I don’t even know where to begin!! I couldn’t have been happier that you were with us throughout our entire journey. You made it the best experience of my life.
You taught …LETS DO THIS!!!
Kooga, I don’t even know where to begin!! I couldn’t have been happier that you were with us throughout our entire journey. You made it the best experience of my life.
You taught us so many phrases that I will remember forever. You are one of the most beautiful human beings I have ever met.
No matter what was thrown at you you handled it with such a positive attitude. You truly are an inspiration. Please keep doing what you do and continue to touch peoples lives.
I cannot wait to come back and visit you! You are one of a kind. I love you so much!!
L
Elephant2Islands
Oh kooga, where do I start..
You are the kindest, cutest, friendliest person I have ever met and you have such a big heart!
You have made this tour amazing and I have now gained a friend because of…Oh kooga, where do I start..
You are the kindest, cutest, friendliest person I have ever met and you have such a big heart!
You have made this tour amazing and I have now gained a friend because of it
Elephant2Islands
The tour was unlike anything I had experienced before. It allowed you to join the most amazing tour guides and group in experiencing the beauty of a more 'real Thailand' and step off the beaten touris…The tour was unlike anything I had experienced before. It allowed you to join the most amazing tour guides and group in experiencing the beauty of a more 'real Thailand' and step off the beaten tourist track.
The itinerary allowed a jam packed schedule to include culture, adventure, volunteering and so much more. The tour ran seamlessly and was incredible value for money.
Highlights for me included the elephant jungle sanctuary stay where you really are living alongside the most majestic (free and happy) animals, Koh Tao and Koh Tan. Alongside this seeing the children and the amazing impact Bamboo has had on the schools in Koh Samui was an incredible privilege.
Overall though the trip would not have been half as good without the incredible work from Kooga and Chan. These two went above and beyond. They were our best friends and truly opened our eyes to so many aspects and issues - there were so many tears saying goodbye because of how truly touched we all were by these two incredible people.
C
Elephant2Islands
Amazing experience, fantastic variety on the adventure option, plenty of meals included - more than expected, very basic accommodation in shared rooms (even for partners)' excellent guides
I
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
I travelled this time last year to volunteer with the Bamboo project. Our role was to help renovate a local schools on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand. The project itself was very fun and rewarding…I travelled this time last year to volunteer with the Bamboo project. Our role was to help renovate a local schools on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand. The project itself was very fun and rewarding. The team were incredible and maydeliver us feel very welcome. On arrival they took us on a tour in Bangkok and from that moment I knew that the team would be very accommodating. The staff very extremely friendly and would take us out for mealsome amd provide us with anything we needed. We soon became friends and continue up to now a year later to keep in contact!
L
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
While with the Bamboo Project I worked on with the Beach and Teach crew in Koh Samui and absolutely loved it. I had such a unique experience and every single Bamboo Guide on the island was so nice and…While with the Bamboo Project I worked on with the Beach and Teach crew in Koh Samui and absolutely loved it. I had such a unique experience and every single Bamboo Guide on the island was so nice and fun to be around!!
S
Elephant2Islands
though the trip was different from what I expected, it was a phenomenal experience and would highly recommend it!
A
Elephant2Islands
Incredible experience, Bamboo is very organized and they have chosen the best activities while giving back
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
My stay in Koh Samui with Bamboo volunteers was a real blast. And it's mostly thanks to the amazing staff, and especially the leaders in my school; Kooga and Aoum. They are some really nice, caring an…My stay in Koh Samui with Bamboo volunteers was a real blast. And it's mostly thanks to the amazing staff, and especially the leaders in my school; Kooga and Aoum. They are some really nice, caring and helpful people and made the stay so easy and fun. The accomandation vas nice, and the transport oppurtunities were also good. Personally I would maybe have changed the periode I was staying in Koh Samui to a more popular time, as we were only two volunteers in the volunteer house when I volunteered. There is always more fun when there are more people together! But elsewhere I had a really good time with the adorable kids at school, the amazing staff and the beautiful island.
S
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
My trip with Bamboo was absolutely incredible. The staff had me very prepared before I even arrived in Bangkok for the 2C tour with all the info for airport arrival and addresses I needed, I never had…My trip with Bamboo was absolutely incredible. The staff had me very prepared before I even arrived in Bangkok for the 2C tour with all the info for airport arrival and addresses I needed, I never had a worry about not being able to communicate with anyone from the team. The tour itself was amazing, it was packed with way more activities than I expected, we did something new everyday. We went from doing the work during the day to some of the favourite local markets, restaurants and awesome nightlife.
I will never forget the day we got into the elephant village and the way everyone's faces lit up! Being right in the village with all the locals was so eye opening, everyone was more welcoming then I could have imagined. Its not everyday you can say I stayed somewhere with elephants living in the backyard! I could have cried the day we left, so many memories that will stay with me forever. Seeing the bond between Mahout and elephant was amazing, they are family.
Entering Cambodia was more hectic then I expected but we couldn't have done it without our amazing guides, they took control and made it look easy. Before I came on the tour I didn't do a whole lot of research on Cambodia, all I knew was that it was still classified as a third world country. Well when we got there you would never be able to tell, it was stunning. From the huge hotels to beautiful temples Siem Reap was a buzzing city, I will be going back one day.
The entire week in Cambodia was so fulfilling. The projects were so rewarding and the weather couldn't have been better. Whatever project you decide to do while in Cambodia you wont be disappointed.
The guides we were blessed to have were Kooga and Pahn. This trip would not have been what it was without them. They were a dream team. Kooga was at the airport pickup and I instantly felt comfortable with her, she was so sweet, kind, and I never felt like I couldn't ask her a question. I like to think I have a new friend in her, and already being home I miss her! Pahn was incredible, she was so outgoing and just hilarious. She made everyone in the group feel included and at home, she just had one of those warm personalities you wish was always around. I miss her very much!
My trip with bamboo changed my life and I'm already planning my next tour with them.
So thank you to every single person involved, and I can't wait to see what the company grows into.
KHA PUN KAAAAA!! :)
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
I have just returned from the 2C tour and it was the most amazing and humbling experience and one I will never forget. From the time I met Pahn and Kooga I knew it was going to be a fun trip. Both w…I have just returned from the 2C tour and it was the most amazing and humbling experience and one I will never forget. From the time I met Pahn and Kooga I knew it was going to be a fun trip. Both were very helpful and very knowledgeable. Pahn was a great tour leader and together with Kooga (who was a ball of fun & energy) made a great team. I hope I get to go on another trip with them some day.
S
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
Hi Bamboo!! This review is for the 2 countries tour that I went on with the bamboo team - Pahn and Kooga. First and foremost- it's been the most amazing experience of a lifetime. Right from the start,…Hi Bamboo!! This review is for the 2 countries tour that I went on with the bamboo team - Pahn and Kooga. First and foremost- it's been the most amazing experience of a lifetime. Right from the start, Pahn , the group leader and Kooga gave me and the group the warmest welcome that assured me I was in great hands.
Pahn was an extremely effective communicator , providing us with wealth of information and advising us on all cultural aspects to follow along the tour with extreme professionalism. She ensured everyone was comfortable and no questions remained unanswered. She managed and organized the group at a high level at all times and we had no issues up to the end.
Kooga was an exceptional complement to Pahn- ensuring all tasks and arrangements were handled. She was the star photographer and her enthusiasm was contagious. As she and Pahn always worked alongside with the volunteers , they never missed to capture special moments through photos and videos ensuring all individuals had their experiences documented and to keep as memories!
There was never a dull moment as the team even as professional as they were, conducted themselves with humor and joy making us instantly feel as part of a family. The group itself was full of amazing people and I feel lucky to have been part of a group that got along so well with such helping hearts.
The volunteering experiences themselves were phenomenal- both at the elephant village and children school in Cambodia. I have never felt so accomplished and proud as I do after these two mere weeks! The tour inspite of being a volunteering focused one has been one of the most organized tour of my travels!
I am in awe, grateful for the bamboo team and my peer group to have taken this journey together and made lasting friendships!
Thank you Pahn, Kooga and Bamboo team for your wonderful service and open hearts - you are assets to this organization and the world!!! I will be back !!
M
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
Aka the best photographer you'll ever meet! Kooga is SO much fun, full of energy, totally cool and never bores of a selfie! I was lucky enough to spend time both in and outside class with kooga, she'd…Aka the best photographer you'll ever meet! Kooga is SO much fun, full of energy, totally cool and never bores of a selfie! I was lucky enough to spend time both in and outside class with kooga, she'd be making sure everyone was having fun, making memories and taking photo evidence of it all! Even managed to meet up with lovely kooga after my trip where she was still offering up her help and sharing tips!! Miss you already, thank you kooga!!!
A
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
Kooga is the best tour guide you could ask for. From the moment you arrive, she'll make you feel welcome, as if you were a part of her own family. She's always happy to answer any questions you have a…Kooga is the best tour guide you could ask for. From the moment you arrive, she'll make you feel welcome, as if you were a part of her own family. She's always happy to answer any questions you have and goes out of her way to help you. She's a great wealth of information and I learned so much about Koh Samui, Thailand, and Thai culture from Kooga. She's also an amazing photographer so you don't have to worry too much about capturing the perfect shot because you'll leave with a ton of amazing pictures from your trip (trust me, trying to pick which pictures to post might have been the most stressful part of my trip). Kooga's upbeat personality makes her a ton of fun to be around and the way she genuinely cares about people is a breath of fresh air. Overall, a super sweet girl who will make sure you have an amazing trip!
J
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
If i turn back to Bamboo again, the first reason would always be Kooga!
W
Koh Samui Volunteer Projects
Extremely friendly, fun-loving, skilled and sincere, Kooga loves working with volunteers to the maximum. She cares deeply about helping new volunteers feel welcomed, settled in and contributing to the…Extremely friendly, fun-loving, skilled and sincere, Kooga loves working with volunteers to the maximum. She cares deeply about helping new volunteers feel welcomed, settled in and contributing to their best. Off the job, she is a friend you will be grateful to have.
C
Discover Thailand - 14 days of Awesome!
Kooga was the most sweet and amazing tour guide she was allways happy go lucky and tried her best at all times to help our group and teach is new skills and knowledge aswell as supporting us every ste…Kooga was the most sweet and amazing tour guide she was allways happy go lucky and tried her best at all times to help our group and teach is new skills and knowledge aswell as supporting us every step of the way! Amazing guide sad to say goodbye!
C
Discover Thailand - 14 days of Awesome!
Arm was the best guide i could have ever asked for he put us before everyone else and allways done his best to help the whole group! He was allways happy out going and funny! Could not have asked for …Arm was the best guide i could have ever asked for he put us before everyone else and allways done his best to help the whole group! He was allways happy out going and funny! Could not have asked for a greater person to lead our group!
K
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
Kooga is such a beautful person! Nothing was too difficult and she eager to share all she knew about Thailand. Kooga made my experience with bamboo so great. and I'm glad to have met her.
R
Hill Tribe Volunteer Projects
My time in the hill tribes of Northern Thailand was brilliant. Time was spent out on building projects for the hill tribes and being immeresed in a different culture.
My guide, KooGa was great too! …My time in the hill tribes of Northern Thailand was brilliant. Time was spent out on building projects for the hill tribes and being immeresed in a different culture.
My guide, KooGa was great too! She has a passion for the traditional hill tribe way of life and helped me to feel right at home from day 1.
A very engaging and fun guide in KooGa , and a great organisation in Bamboo Project!
C
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
Kooga was amazing. She went out of her way for everyone. She was ready to help 24/7. Highly recommend requesting Kooga on your Bamboo tour. Your experience will be incredible.
L
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
Loved my experience with Bamboo & Kooga was awesome! ❤️
L
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
I loved my time with Bamboo.Kooga is a very sweet & passionate person! She truely tried to ensure all the volunteers enjoyed themselves. She also helped us understand the cultures we explored! Kooga i…I loved my time with Bamboo.Kooga is a very sweet & passionate person! She truely tried to ensure all the volunteers enjoyed themselves. She also helped us understand the cultures we explored! Kooga is a little bubble of joy! I had the pleasure of getting to know her quiet well during my time with Bamboo. Her passion & personality are second to non.She perked up the group & entertained us with song & dance (I have the videos to prove it
F
Hill Tribe Volunteer Projects
I had a great experience on my trip, learned a lot and I'm definitely better for it. Jai and Kooga were really helpful and made me feel very welcome, I would recommend them to anyone looking for a goo…I had a great experience on my trip, learned a lot and I'm definitely better for it. Jai and Kooga were really helpful and made me feel very welcome, I would recommend them to anyone looking for a good tour
G
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
This trip was everything and more than anything I could have imagined. I learned so much about myself, Thailand and Cambodia! I am forever changed and grateful to have made lifetime friends and will c…This trip was everything and more than anything I could have imagined. I learned so much about myself, Thailand and Cambodia! I am forever changed and grateful to have made lifetime friends and will continue to travel as the years progress! Thanks bamboo! :)
M
2 Countries - Thailand & Cambodia
My experience with Bamboo exceeded all my expectations! I had a life changing experience and would recommend this organization to anybody considering traveling with a purpose. ⭐️
