Meet our expert, resident Trip Leaders
Lift Tipchanyavatra
"Lift’s passion and enthusiasm from start to finish helped us develop a deep love and cultural understanding of Thailand. She went out of her way to make sure we experienced everything possible. Her sense of humor and engaging personality made for the experience of a lifetime. We appreciate her effort and care, her love of her job, and—most of all—her friendship.”"
–Susan & James Hughes, 3-time travelers, San Jose, California
100% of OAT travelers rate their experience with Lift on this adventure as "excellent"
Born in: Bangkok, Thailand
Currently resides in: Bangkok, Thailand
With OAT since: 2001
Languages: Thai, English, Chinese
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business English, Master’s Degree in Tourism Management, both from Assumption University in Bangkok
Hobbies/Special interests: Traveling, photography, writing in her journal, any kind of sports activity
Interesting Fact about Lift: She lived in Florida for a time before moving back to Thailand. It’s a detail of her past that she feels makes her a better Trip Leader: “Because I lived in the U.S., I feel I can highlight Thailand in ways that illuminate the culture to Americans in a more approachable way. I’m familiar with some of the misconceptions about my homeland, and because of that I’m able to guide my travelers in ways that will hopefully dispel false ideas and lead to true discovery.”
Memorable Small Group Experience: Lift’s favorite experience with travelers is, paradoxically, her least favorite as well: “The Farewell Dinner is such a wonderful evening of eating, laughing, storytelling and more, but it always comes with a twinge of sadness. I’ve known many of these dinners to be deeply emotional, and it moves me to see travelers who 15 days earlier didn’t even know each other’s name suddenly singing together, arms thrown over each other, hugging, sharing stories and tears … It’s an amazing thing to behold.”
Lift’s Insider Tips:
Food & Dining: “Travelers should absolutely visit Mango Tree in Bangkok (37 Soi Tantawan, Surawongse Road). The restaurant’s interior is warm and inviting, and there’s almost always a performance by some fantastic dancers and a live band playing Thai music. The staff is attentive and the menu boasts a number of Thai favorites. And for those who are unsure about ordering, the menu features illustrations of the dishes to help out. I personally love the yum ma-muang (spicy green mango salad), but the gai phad phed ka thi sod (chicken with red curry and coconut milk) and soong thong chao suan (crispy shrimp spring rolls) also top my list of favorites.”
Getting Around: “In my opinion, the SkyTrain is one of the best ways to experience Bangkok. Similar to subway systems in other major cities, the SkyTrain is distinctive because the majority of the tracks are not only above ground, but also elevated (hence its name). So when you use it, you’ll not only travel like (and with) locals, you’ll also enjoy panoramic views of the city. Open daily from 6 am to midnight, the SkyTrain has two lines: Sukhomvit and Silom. While fares are based on the total distance traveled, a one-way ticket typically costs about $1 U.S., while an all-day ticket runs around $3 U.S.”