Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild

THAILAND - In this 5 +1 programming documentary episode, Ben journeys across Southeast Asia, meeting visionary entrepreneur Niall and touring his self‑built dog sanctuary on Koh Samui. The series blends adventure, drama and heartfelt entertainment, giving UK viewers a fresh at‑a‑glance look at Thai island life and delivering programme highlights for the television guide. Perfect quick overview for British TV fans of UK television and 5 +1 programming.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW THAILAND: BEN'S JOURNEY TO KOH SAMUI – A ONE‑OFF DOCUMENTARY EPISODE In this singular episode of the acclaimed travel‑documentary series, presenter Ben embarks on a vivid exploration of Southeast Asia, landing on the tropical island of Koh Samui. There he meets visionary entrepreneur Niall, the founder of a self‑built dog sanctuary that doubles as a thriving eco‑business. The programme weaves together the allure of Thai culture, the challenges of sustainable entrepreneurship and the heartfelt stories of rescued canines, offering UK television audiences a fresh perspective on both travel and animal welfare. WHAT TO EXPECT VIEWERS WILL BE TAKEN THROUGH A RICHLY FILMED JOURNEY, beginning with Ben’s arrival in Bangkok and his swift transition to the laid‑back rhythms of Koh Samui. The episode balances stunning aerial shots of turquoise waters with intimate, ground‑level encounters at Niall’s sanctuary, where rescued dogs are rehabilitated and re‑homed. Alongside the visual feast, the narrative delves into Niall’s back‑story – a former tech executive turned conservationist – and the logistical hurdles of building a sanctuary from scratch on a remote island. Insightful interviews with local artisans, veterinarians and community leaders provide context, while moments of humour and spontaneity keep the tone lively and accessible for British TV audiences. KEY FEATURES THIS DOCUMENTARY STANDS OUT FOR ITS HIGH‑PRODUCTION VALUES, featuring 4K cinematography, original soundtrack blending traditional Thai instruments with contemporary beats, and a compelling storytelling arc that feels both cinematic and journalistic. THE CAST – BEN, a familiar face from previous travel series, and Niall, an authentic entrepreneur with a palpable passion – bring credibility and warmth. UNIQUE SELLING POINTS INCLUDE exclusive access to the sanctuary’s behind‑the‑scenes operations, a deep dive into sustainable tourism on Koh Samui, and a heartfelt focus on animal rescue that resonates with the UK viewers’ growing interest in ethical travel and wildlife protection. WHY WATCH FOR DISCERNING UK VIEWERS, THIS episode offers more than picturesque scenery; it provides an IN‑DEPTH REVIEW OF HOW SMALL‑SCALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAN CREATE POSITIVE CHANGE in a region often portrayed only through beach clichés. The programme aligns with the 5 +1 programming ethos of combining entertainment with education, delivering a documentary that feels both inspiring and informative. It appeals to fans of travel drama, wildlife documentaries and socially conscious storytelling, making it a must‑watch addition to any British TV television guide or comprehensive guide to quality programming. 5 +1 PROGRAMMING CONTEXT WITHIN THE BROAD SCOPE OF 5 +1’S DOCUMENTARY SCHEDULE, THAILAND: BEN'S JOURNEY TO KOH SAMUI FITS NATURALLY BETWEEN ESTABLISHED SERIES SUCH AS “PLANET EARTH” AND “COAST”. THE EPISODE PROVIDES FULL DETAILS THAT COMPLEMENT THE CHANNEL’S COMMITMENT TO GLOBAL STORIES THAT ARE RELEVANT TO UK VIEWERS, reinforcing the network’s reputation for delivering high‑calibre entertainment that educates, inspires and sparks conversation.