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Holly Richter

I love South East Asia! The food, the people, and the endless, rugged natural beauty – has drawn me into making it my home. Having spent five years living in Hanoi and Saigon, I was fascinated by the frenetic pace. Four years ago, I decided to change things up and move to Chiang Mai, Thailand. I will admit, I have a bit of an addiction to the outstanding cycling and trekking on my doorstep!

Each of us travels for so many different reasons. My approach to travel – listen to find out what you hope to gain, discover, rekindle, achieve. With this, I can tailor the trip that fits you, and set up realistic expectations so you thrive in the exotic craziness of SE Asia!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Trekking, cycling, paddling and exploring in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Vacations mixed with opportunities for spontaneous engagement with local people: whether that is living with the nomadic, fishermen in Southern Thai Islands; cycling through the maze of paths in the Mekong delta of Vietnam; or laughing with the Khmer at the top of the holy mountain with a view of the Angkor ruins."

How did you get involved in travel?

"As a kid, when I figured out about studying abroad programs. I applied to any scholarship I could find. And after finishing school with years lived in Mexico, Spain, Denmark and France, I quickly jumped at the opportunity to become a guide for Backroads. Having guided over 200 active travel trips in 30 countries, I am amazed and humbled by all of the people I have met. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Having missed our scheduled boat to a remote camp in Northern Laos, we hired a boat that turned out to be a jet boat. Strapped in with motorcycle racing helmets on, we raced at mach speeds up the river with my 70 year old mother laughing in the background! But there are so many: exploring the worlds largest cave system in Vietnam to help my friend launch his caving company Oxalis, cycling along the Turkish coast...the world feels endless!

What is the next place I dream of, exploring? The largest waterfall in Thailand: Thi Lor Su!"

Featured trips & expertise

Warm hospitality of the Karin Villages
Northern Thailand: Village to Village Trekking - 5 Days

Set off on an active adventure through the forests and villages of Northern Thailand. Experience the local culture and food of the Chiang Mai area while trekking through in the natural beauty of the woods and villages that make up this rural and remote region.

James Bond Island in Phang Nag National Park
Thailand Family Adventure - 10 Days

Every member of the family will be satisfied on this trip, with a wide range of activities and experiences in both Northern and Southern Thailand. Sleep in a rural homestay as well as top-notch resorts by the beach. Scramble up waterfalls and kayak through peaceful mangroves. Go fishing with local fisherfolk and snorkelling in incredible bays. You'll see that Thailand is an amazingly diverse country with something for everyone.

Hmong woman moving her herd.
Trekking in Rural Vietnam - 8 Days

Vietnam is made up of over 52 different ethnic groups, all with their own customs, dress, architectural styles, and languages. Trekking through the mountains along the Vietnam-China border, you will stay in the homes of Red Yao (Dao), Zay (Dzay), Black Hmong, Xa Pho, and Tay villagers. This journey takes you through terraced rice fields and farming villages, enjoying local hospitality along the way.

Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang
Northern Laos Adventure: Biking, Hiking and Kayaking - 4 Days

Mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, cultural sightseeing in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a homestay with a local family, and a luxurious stay in a private bungalow — all in a four-day trip? You've got it. This active getaway is short but action-packed, well-suited to travelers who want to get away from it all, breathe some fresh air, and fit in a couple of workouts along the way.

Ha Long Bay
Highlights of Vietnam - 9 Days

See all the classic highlights on this nine-day trip to magical Vietnam. Roam around the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cruise on the azure waters of Ha Long Bay, and hike to villages and terraced rice paddies in the countryside. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded showcase of Vietnam's history, charm, and natural beauty.

View from the top of Doi Inthanon, outside Chiang Mai
Family Adventure in Chiang Mai - 7 Days

This week-long tour of the Chiang Mai area of northern Thailand offers the perfect mix of activities for the whole family to enjoy. From exploring the region's stunning waterfalls to playing with elephants to browsing authentic crafts markets, there's so much to see and do. Spend your week cycling, kayaking, and walking around the highlights of beautiful Chiang Mai Province. You'll hike to an ancient temple on a mountain, discover the bustling city of Chiang Mai, and feast on bold northern Thai cuisine.

Recent trip reviews for Holly

Trip to thailand, Thailand - Apr 3 - Apr 6, 2018

Traveler: christian r. - Local specialist: Holly Richter

After coming off a great trip with you guys in Myanmar I had the same expectations for the trip to Thailand but it couldn't be further from the truth. The biggest issue that I had was not having the items included in the list available upon arrival. The hotel was changed lat minute and when I arrived they had a sign out front that said cheap rooms with the price. Fair enough I went into the room and there was a sewage issue that made the room smell constantly. There was a gap under the... read more

After coming off a great trip with you guys in Myanmar I had the same expectations for the trip to Thailand but it couldn't be further from the truth. The biggest issue that I had was not having the items included in the list available upon arrival. The hotel was changed lat minute and when I arrived they had a sign out front that said cheap rooms with the price. Fair enough I went into the room and there was a sewage issue that made the room smell constantly. There was a gap under the door that let mosquitoes in at a constant rate but no mosquito net. These in themselves are not deal breakers but I paid $1,900 for 3 nights in a hotel and a guide for 3 1/2 days. The total for the hotel for the two nights that I was supposed to stay there would be $65 USD and the hotel on the last night would be $150 USD. That means that there was roughly $1,700 out there for a driver and a guide for 3 1/2 days. Since the room was unacceptable I went and paid for 2 more nights on my own and in my discussion with Holly I was never once offered a refund for the other night in the hotel. I then questioned the pricing and Holly gave me a breakdown which didn't actually add up tot he entire cost. When I responded back with questions there was never a response. I hate to say this but at the end of the day I feel that I was taken advantage of since its such a high tourist destination area. Feeling that I was taken advantage of did not help to the satisfaction of the trip even though the guide and driver were great. At the end of the day it is not hard to look at a menu or understand the cost of a hotel since they are right in front of you and then listen to the cost from the trip planner. I have no issue paying for value but there was no value added for this trip. I hope that the communications are reviewed and steps taken to make sure that others do not fall into the same situation. Again my trip t Myanmar though KimKim was awesome but the trip to Thailand has since changed my mind.