Flourish in Thailand: Pole Retreat with @hangwithjulia

Dates

Mar 22–29, 2026

Group Size

8–24 Travelers

Duration

8 days, 7 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

This pole retreat is designed to help you flourish as a woman, a friend, and a dancer. Through 8 days of movement, connection, and adventure in Thailand, you’ll deepen your dance practice, connect with a supportive sisterhood and create lasting memories. Get ready for three intensive pole dance workshops with Julia, who will teach you all her techniques for dancing with grace and moving with emotion. Outside the studio, meet rescued elephants at an ethical sanctuary, island-hop on a traditional long tail boat, explore the turquoise waters and savour delicious local Thai cuisine. Find time to relax on white sandy beaches, gather for impromptu sunset photoshoots and soak in the many peaceful moments.
$2,249USD
Free to join the waitlist
$2,249USD
Mar 22–29, 2026
8 days
Sold Out

Travelers

1

Meet Your Host

Julia Selawry
Julia Selawry

Hi there! You might know me as @hangwithjulia - I'm a Danish pole dancer and aerial artist whose goal is to create, inspire and empower others through this amazing & beautiful sport. I'm also the self-proclaimed queen of shenanigans, which means I love fun and goofy pole fails just as much as I love working on graceful flows and lyrical combos.

View Full Profile

Trip Activities

  • Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve

  • Long Tail Boat Phi Phi Island Hopping

  • Phuket Local Treats Tour

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3 & 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Pole Workshop #1: "Delicate Dancer - the Fundamentals"

Workshop
In this 2-hour workshop, participants will channel their inner polerinas and learn how to infuse grace and elegance into their movements on the pole. This workshop revisits pole fundamentals with a focus on posture, long lines, and fluidity. You’ll learn all of Julia’s best tips and techniques for hand and head placement to help make your pole dancing look effortless and elegant. Extra info: Participants will be split into two groups, as Julia will teach each workshop at two different levels (lower level & higher level). Workshops will be hosted at OTP Studio, and participants will be sharing poles. Attire: Most of this workshop will be skirt- and leotard-friendly, so participants are welcome to wear full ballerina attire if desired. The class will be taught barefoot / with no shoes.

Pole Workshop #2: "Delicate Dancer - Signature Combos"

Workshop
In this 1.5-hour workshop, participants will explore the next step of delicate dancing as they learn some of Julia's favourite transitions and signature combos – all with an emphasis on dancing with grace and ease. Extra info: Participants will be split into two groups, as Julia will teach each workshop at two different levels (lower level & higher level). Workshops will be hosted at OTP Studio, and participants will be sharing poles. Attire: Most of this workshop will be skirt- and leotard-friendly, so participants are welcome to wear full ballerina attire if desired. The class will be taught barefoot / with no shoes.

Sunset Journalling & Photoshoot

Informal Gathering
Join Julia on the beach for a journalling session or a little impromptu sunset photoshoot depending on the wishes of the group. This may be moved to another day depending on the weather.

Pole Workshop #3: “Feel & Flow Choreo”

Workshop
In this final 2-hour workshop, you’ll take a deep dive into how to dance with feeling and intention. This session is all about learning to expressing yourself through basic spins and artistic movement, combined into a low flow choreography. Extra Info: The workshop will be taught on static pole and held at OTP Studio. Participants will be split into two groups based on level & experience with variations tailored to each group. Attire: This class will be taught in socks, kneepads, and long pants.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Welcome to Phuket!

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Phuket International Airport (HKT).

dinner

Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will be a set menu shared family style with water included. Additional food and drinks will be at your own expense. Restaurants are subject to change based on availability.

Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Phuket.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Workshop in Phuket

Today is your pole workshop day.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Pole Workshop #1: "Delicate Dancer - the Fundamentals"

4 Hours

In this 2-hour workshop, participants will channel their inner polerinas and learn how to infuse grace and elegance into their movements on the pole. This workshop revisits pole fundamentals with a focus on posture, long lines, and fluidity. You’ll learn all of Julia’s best tips and techniques for hand and head placement to help make your pole dancing look effortless and elegant. Extra info: Participants will be split into two groups, as Julia will teach each workshop at two different levels (lower level & higher level). Workshops will be hosted at OTP Studio, and participants will be sharing poles. Attire: Most of this workshop will be skirt- and leotard-friendly, so participants are welcome to wear full ballerina attire if desired. The class will be taught barefoot / with no shoes.

Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Phuket.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Elephant Sanctuary Visit

The main activity for today is a visit to the Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve. In the morning you will take a transfer to the Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve, where you will learn about where these majestic animals and the conservation efforts behind them. Then you'll have lunch at the sanctuary before transferring back to the hotel. In the afternoon you will have a workshop led by your host!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve

3 Hours 30 Mins

After a 30 minute transfer you will arrive at Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve. Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to connect with rescued elephants while supporting award-winning conservation efforts. Meet these magnificent animals and you hear their incredible rescue stories. Then, take a peaceful walk through a lush jungle sanctuary, where they roam freely in their natural habitat. Watch in awe as they bathe, play, and socialize in mud pools and natural ponds—just as nature intended. Guided by experienced expert, you’ll gain deep insights into elephant behavior and welfare. You’ll have the chance to participate in making nutritious vitamin balls, learn about elephant dung recycling, and discovering the specialized veterinary care that keeps them healthy and thriving. For ethical and animal welfare reasons, you are not permitted to ride, touch, or hand-feed the elephants. After touring the reserve, you’ll enjoy a brief cooking demonstration and be served lunch on the premises.

lunch

Lunch at the Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve is included. Your meal will be a 2-course meal with water included, subject to change.

Pole Workshop #2: "Delicate Dancer - Signature Combos"

3 Hours 30 Mins

In this 1.5-hour workshop, participants will explore the next step of delicate dancing as they learn some of Julia's favourite transitions and signature combos – all with an emphasis on dancing with grace and ease. Extra info: Participants will be split into two groups, as Julia will teach each workshop at two different levels (lower level & higher level). Workshops will be hosted at OTP Studio, and participants will be sharing poles. Attire: Most of this workshop will be skirt- and leotard-friendly, so participants are welcome to wear full ballerina attire if desired. The class will be taught barefoot / with no shoes.

Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Phuket.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Escape to the Phi Phi Islands

This morning you will transfer to the pier and take a speedboat from Phuket to Phi Phi on a short but breathtaking ride across the turquoise waters. On arrival, you will have a free day to relax on the beach and spend the day at leisure.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Speedboat: Phuket to Phi Phi Island

1 Hour 30 Mins

From the hotel, take a 40-minute private transfer to the pier. Then hop on a shared speedboat from Phuket to Phi Phi Island. Upon arriving on Phi Phi, take a 30-minute transfer to the hotel. Phuket Rassada Pier – Phi Phi Laemtong Pier Depart 12:30 P.M. – Arrive 2:00 P.M. Depart 1:30 P.M. – Arrive 3:00 P.M. (Boat schedule is subject to change)

Sunset Journalling & Photoshoot

Join Julia on the beach for a journalling session or a little impromptu sunset photoshoot depending on the wishes of the group. This may be moved to another day depending on the weather.

Phi Phi Natural Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Phi Phi.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Full Day Island Hopping

Today you will board a longtail boat at Laemtong Pier, and embark on a full day island-hopping adventure around Phi Phi island. Jet between Koh Phi Phi's two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, and spend the day exploring the breath-taking scenery on land and underwater, from fine sandy beaches to soaring limestone cliffs. Today's island hopping tour includes 8 stops: Bamboo Island, Nui Bay, Monkey Beach, Shark Point, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, and Loh Moo Dee Bay. Be sure to pack a swimsuit, light towel, sunscreen, hat, water, and sandals.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Long Tail Boat Phi Phi Island Hopping

7 Hours

Take a 10-minute transfer to Laemtong Pier to board a classic Thai long-tail boat expedition, exploring the hidden coves and beaches of Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh islands. Revel in a day of snorkeling, swimming, and soaking in the breathtaking scenery, beginning at Bamboo Island for sunbathing and exploration, followed by Nui Bay for snorkeling with tropical fish. Cruise to Monkey Beach for distant wildlife viewing, respecting regulations against close interaction, and continue to the exhilarating Shark Point for boat-based snorkeling, providing glimpses of marine life, including sharks (please note sightings of sharks and other marine life are not guaranteed and subject to natural conditions). Navigate through crystal-clear waters to Pileh Lagoon, a picturesque spot for snorkeling and swimming amidst stunning limestone cliffs. Explore Maya Bay, famous for "The Beach" film, with a walk and photos (no swimming due to national park regulations), and conclude the day at Loh Moo Dee Bay for coral reef snorkeling and an abundance of marine life. A mask and snorkel will be provided for stops that allow snorkeling. The maximum capacity for each long tail boat is 8-10, so larger groups will be divided accordingly. Note that visits are subject to change depending on weather/sea conditions each day.

lunch

A boxed lunch will be provided as a part of the Phi Phi Island Hopping Tour. The boxed lunch typically includes chicken and rice, seasonal fruit, and water (subject to change).

Phi Phi Natural Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Phi Phi.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Return to Phuket

This morning you will board a speedboat back to Phuket. This evening, you can either explore on your own or taste the flavors of Southern Thailand on an optional street food tour of Phuket.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Speedboat: Phi Phi Island to Phuket

1 Hour 30 Mins

From the hotel, take a 10-minute private transfer to the pier. Then hop on a shared speedboat from Phi Phi Island back to Phuket. Upon arriving in Phuket, take a 40-minute transfer to the hotel. Phi Phi Laemtong Pier – Phuket Rassada Pier Depart 10:30 A.M. – Arrive 12:00 P.M. Depart 2:00 P.M. – Arrive 3:30 P.M. (Boat schedule is subject to change)

Phuket Local Treats Tour

4 Hours

Embark on a culinary whirlwind by tasting the flavors of Southern Thailand on a street food tour of Phuket. Indulge in a variety of local favorites as you meander through the vibrant alleys of Phuket, in search of the best street stalls and food vendors in town.

Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Phuket,

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Final Workshop in Phuket

After Breakfast you will have the morning to spend at your leisure. In the early afternoon, you have final pole workshop, before you meet for a farewell dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Pole Workshop #3: “Feel & Flow Choreo”

4 Hours

In this final 2-hour workshop, you’ll take a deep dive into how to dance with feeling and intention. This session is all about learning to expressing yourself through basic spins and artistic movement, combined into a low flow choreography. Extra Info: The workshop will be taught on static pole and held at OTP Studio. Participants will be split into two groups based on level & experience with variations tailored to each group. Attire: This class will be taught in socks, kneepads, and long pants.

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will be a set menu, shared family style, with water included. Additional food and drinks will be at your own expense. Restaurants are subject to change based on availability.

Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Phuket,

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 8

Goodbye, Thailand!

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If you are departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Phuket International Airport (HKT).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.