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Volunteer Abroad in Thailand

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Precious smiles from the children of the Akha hill tribe. Garbed in their traditional clothing, they wait to welcome international volunteers.

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The Versatility of Volunteering in Thailand

Volunteer opportunities in Thailand are scattered on a broad spectrum. A volunteer can work with children, animals, social justice groups, teaching, and more. In a country where people value calmness and seek joy on a daily basis, international volunteers in Thailand feel embraced and welcomed. Even the most seasoned of world travelers feel at ease, despite the bustling crowds of the big cities.

Volunteer in Thailand, land of a million beautiful views. Photo by Noah Peden

Volunteering abroad in Thailand can consist of so many different opportunities that it would be a challenge not to find one that suits your strengths and interests perfectly. Thousands of visitors looking to make a difference in another cultural setting head to Thailand, and for good reason. Thailand has an adaptable culture that is very welcoming to tourism, be it for volunteering or just visiting.

Teaching English. In Thailand, as in many countries, there is a huge need for English teachers. There are unique opportunities to teach English in Thailand, such as programs to teach the language to novice Buddhist monks. The experience of being assigned a specific temple, and getting an unparalleled look into the behind-the-scenes working of monastery, is an incredible honor. There are also numerous schools in Thailand for young and old alike that are in need of teachers. A native-speaking English teacher is an incredible asset for students learning English by improving their conversational skills, and confidence in pronunciation. Teaching opportunities in Thailand are available in all parts of the country, and can be very rewarding.

Social Justice Work. Thailand is home to some of the most staggering social justice exploitations in the world. Prostitution and sex tourism run rampant throughout the country, and some statistics show that up to 2 million women and girls are stuck in this web of prostitution. Men and boys are forced into this life as well. International volunteers in Thailand are needed to rehabilitate adults and children who have left the sex trade.

Organizations in Thailand are devoted to getting people out of the life of forced prostitution, and supporting them through education and job training. Helping former sex workers to acquire legitimate, sustainable jobs and careers is of the upmost importance, both to maintain their lives and to prevent them from re-entering the dark underworld of sex trafficking.

International volunteers help these efforts by working in projects such as English teaching, agriculture training, job training, and sex education, just to name a few. Volunteers with strong writing and organizational skills can be extremely helpful to organizations fighting the sex trade, with their skills used for grant writing, social media, advertising opportunities, and fundraising.

Medical Work. Medical internships are also readily available in this country that is slowly becoming more modernized in its major cities. HIV and AIDS are a common occurrence in Thailand, primarily among the poorest of inhabitants. Education in areas of sexual responsibility are coming up around the country, and with the help of the growing medical community, the epidemic could slowly be on the decline.

Work With Animals. Thailand houses some of the most unique volunteer opportunities in the world. Are you interested in volunteering in elephant camps in Thailand? Located throughout the country, these sanctuaries need people to help care for the country’s prized animals, the elephants. Days are spent bathing and feeding these magnificent creatures — be aware that this isn’t easy work. Elephants can sometimes eat upwards of 300 pounds of food a day and this means one must be able-bodied and ready to work hard. While the work can be tiring, the experience with these gentle giants is said to be calming and full of joy.

Opportunities for travel and tourism in Thailand are plentiful and encouraged in one’s much-needed down time. Pair amazing volunteer work in Thailand with the lovely Thai people, and add in the reasonable cost of living, and this country might seem like a perfect option for both new and seasoned international volunteers.

Polly Dean

Author - Polly Dean lives in Sioux Falls, S.D. with her husband James, her daughters Kadence and Parker, and her son Noah. She writes a monthly column for 605 Magazine, and occasionally enters the blogosphere with her blog Wearing Love. She works as a Coordinator at Embrace Church, and an Assistant for Tapestry International Ministries. When she isn’t working or doing Mommy things, she’s planning her next adventure, reading, and drinking wine… all at the same time.

The Value of Culture Knowledge in Thailand

When traveling to Asia for study abroad, volunteering, or simply tourism, one must consider the many different cultures within this magnificent continent. Most Asian countries have their own languages, currency systems, and set of ideals and rules. Thailand is no different. If you want to make the most of your trip to Thailand for study abroad, volunteering, or traveling, homework is a must before you arrive in this exotic land.

Crunchy snacks! Photo by Vivian Flores

The first order of business might be practicing your wai. The wai is the action of pressing the palms together (like mimicking a prayer pose) at chest or nose level and bowing your head slightly. You will encounter this gesture almost immediately upon entering Thailand, possibly even on the flight in. While one isn’t required to do the wai, it is certainly an integral part of Thai culture. It shows respect and can be used as a hello, goodbye, and a thank you. Throughout the country you will see Thai men and women doing this in front of Buddha statues, to signify reverence. In a country with a language barrier for many travelers, a simple gesture like the wai can bridge this gap and show appreciation for their culture.

Thai is the language spoken most often in Thailand; however, you will see English in most businesses as well. Numerous apps, phrasebooks, and downloads are available to help even the most inexperienced traveler learn some basic Thai phrases. Thai people are accustomed to tourists, so do not be afraid to try and speak the language; more often than not they will know what you are trying to say, and will appreciate your effort.

Currency in Thailand is the Thai baht. Money exchange stations are scattered throughout most urban areas in Thailand, and also at the airport. Exchange rates are typically higher in the city. Also, know that major credit cards are usually accepted everywhere. Just make sure that, before you leave to study, travel, or volunteer abroad in Thailand, you contact your bank to give notice that you will be abroad, and for how long. This will avoid your card being put on hold by the bank due to concerns of theft or abuse.

Thailand is almost always humid and hot, though the country does have three seasons. Summer in Thailand runs from March through June, and temperatures can soar into the 100s. Rainy season runs from July to October and brings intense downpours. The cool season runs from November through February and is the most favorable. Many people drink hot tea and coffee to cool down — it sounds odd, but it works.

With temperatures soaring and the humidity ever-present, hydration is key. The public water supply in Thailand is often not safe for consumption by travelers, so bottled water is essential. Convenience stores are readily available throughout the country, so no need to worry about a lack of bottled water (but it is certainly something to add into one’s budget if traveling, volunteering, or studying abroad in Thailand).

Another aspect of the warmer temperatures is wardrobe. For many Westerners, hot weather means shorts and miniskirts, midriff shirts, and tank tops. However, Thai culture remains much more conservative in dress than many Western countries. Natives of Thailand are accustomed to “underdressed” foreign visitors (by their cultural standards), but it’s always a good idea to err on the side of being modest. Skirts and shorts that hit close to the knee, sleeves, and wraps to cover shoulders and arms (especially in a business establishment) can go a long way.

Pay especially close attention to your clothing if you plan to visit any temples — and really, if you’re traveling, studying, or volunteering in Thailand, you probably will. At a minimum, shoulders and knees are to be covered; wraps and pashminas for women are acceptable. Closed-toed shoes are a must, though flip-flops and sandals are worn regularly on the streets. One reason for the popularity of flip-flops is another custom that could take some getting used to in much of Asia. When one enters a home or some small shops, shoes are expected to be taken off and left at the door before entering. While this isn’t the case in all establishments, all you have to do is look for a pile of shoes in the doorway, and take your cue from that.

Another major custom of Thai culture that can go unspoken is their ability to remain calm. Rarely will you see Thai people lose their temper. This is something one needs to remember when traveling, volunteering, or studying in Thailand: keep your cool. Thailand is a busy, bustling city with car and foot traffic everywhere. There are language barriers as well as cultural barriers, and it can be easy to become frustrated. Thailand is a great place to learn patience and composure, so take a breath and follow the lead of the serene Thai people. Know that Thai people are used to international guests. If you are using your best judgment and remain open to suggestions and their culture’s specifics, you will make the most of your time in this wonderful country.

Polly Dean

Featured Programs

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Art Relief International Volunteer Abroad Program

By working with Art Relief International, you can expect to play a large hands-on role with many art therapy projects. Unlike any other volunteer placements, the art program works with a diversity of groups that focuses on a broad range...

Affordable Volunteering in Thailand: From USD 320!

Volunteer in Thailand with International Volunteer HQ today! IVHQ is the most affordable volunteer organization in the world, sending over 5500 volunteers abroad each year. IVHQ Thailand is located in Chiang Rai, with placements in both Chiang Rai and with the hill tribes in the Northern provinces. We have two volunteering opportunities available including Teaching English placements and Outdoo...