It's the crystal waters and palm-fringed beaches, colourful floating markets and vibrant monsoon forests, tranquil temples and night bazaars, elaborate dance, spicy cuisine and above all the relentless good-humour of the Thai people that has attracted so many travellers to this kingdom in South East Asia.

A succession of dynasties have paused in Thailand to take in the breathtaking natural beauty - and perhaps build a temple or two - but none have created as much damage to the surrounding nature as today's well-meaning tourist.

However, there are now many more environmentally sound ways to explore this gentle culture, programmes that allow you to give something back to these hospitable people. Experience the Kingdom of Thailand in a more authentic and locally sensitive way with a 3-month Volunteer in Thailand programme.

Projects

Social and environmental development are the two main objectives of Greenway, our local partner in Had Yai, Southern Thailand. Equally important is cultural exchange: this Volunteer in Thailand Programme is a two-way learning experience, and volunteers learn at least as much as the local people with whom they live and work.

Greenway has ten base-camps, each with its own specific aim: teaching; Eco-tourism; social work; environment; research; agriculture; arts, sports and handicraft; youth activities; house-keeping and kitchen.

While it is important to indicate your choice of project, the actual placement is done after arrival in Thailand - experience has shown that the Orientation introduces new ideas to participants and they frequently change their mind after arrival! The centres are all located in beautiful places in rural Thailand.

Your placement is initially for three months, but this can be extended. You will have free-time to travel at weekends, but it is asked that you plan all longer trips to begin after your 3-month placement.

Housing

Accommodation and food are included in the cost of the programme. Greenway organises your housing according to your preferences (i.e. home-stay or dormitory style in the base-camp).

Many participants choose to live with a host family for at least a portion of their time in Thailand, to truly experience Thai culture.

Introduction to Thailand with Greenway

Upon arrival in Singburi, our local partner in Thailand, Greenway will bring you to the main base-camp, where the week-long Orientation course takes place.

You will learn about the various Greenway projects and community living co-operation, along with Thai culture, religion and some basic Thai language classes. At the end of this week, you will be assigned a local home base camp. Your Greenway Co-ordinator will provide ongoing service and support throughout your stay.

Greenway was established in 1998, arranging camps and projects for short term volunteers. They co-operate with many socially active NGOs in Thailand in the fields of education, environment and Eco-tourism and also work with socially disadvantaged groups.

Costs & how to apply:

Download application form

The Volunteer in Thailand Programme is open to those who fulfil the following

Age: 18-35 years
Nationality: UK/Ireland passport holder
Education: HND/Degree educated is desirable but not essential.
Skills/experience: Be flexible, enthusiastic and prepared for social interaction and co-operation with Thai volunteers. Be prepared to use your initiative, to share ideas, learn and develop within a group environment.

Costs

The fee for the 3-month programme is from £525 and includes

Visa processing
Pick-up at Had Yai airport
Week-long Orientation in main base-camp at Singburi
Travel from the base-camp to and from project location
Food and accommodation
Ongoing support services of Greenway in Thailand

Additional Costs

Flights: From £400 depending on the time of year (taxes extra).
Insurance: From £139 for a policy designed specially for those working and travelling in exotic places
Visa: Visa fees are charged separately by the responsible Embassy/Consulate.

Due to currency fluctuations, all fees are subject to change.

What Happens Next

If you would like to discuss this opportunity in more detail with a member of our specialist Work and Travel team and to begin making your travel arrangements, please contact: 0845 6001316 or info@studenttravel.com

After we have received your application you will be invited to attend an interview in Manchester/London. It will take six weeks to process your application and secure your placement through our partners in Thailand. So, please always remember this when planning your departure.

Please bear in mind that there are several recommended vaccines and prescriptions for travel to Thailand. Check these in good time before your departure.

TRAVEL..TRAVEL..TRAVEL..

These are work and TRAVEL opportunities so don't forget to take advantage of your exotic location to do more extensive exploring. We have plenty of ideas for adventure tours and expeditions, local travel passes, stopover suggestions and round the world routings, some of which are cheaper to buy before you go.

Thailand could be the first stop on an Asian odyssey heading south to Malaysia or to less travelled Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam!