Teaching Volunteering in Chiang Mai, Thailand

My experience traveling through Northern Thailand with GIVE truly changed my life in the most amazing way. It’s been a week since I returned home, and not a day has gone by where I haven’t thought about, laughed about, talked about, or even cried over how much I love and miss being in Thailand with such an incredible group of travelers and guides. When I landed at the Chiang Mai airport, I was fearful and unsure of what to expect, but the moment my friend and I were greeted by our local guides, all of that fear melted away. Their warmth and kindness put us at ease very quickly. Our trip was so personalized and unique. We visited the home villages of three of our local guides, where they welcomed us and shared their culture and daily lives in such a heartfelt way. I loved teaching at Mueang Khong School and Mueang Khong Anuban (preschool) alongside the other volunteers, and I felt so supported by our amazing guides the entire time. Another highlight was participating in permaculture work as it was so fun and it felt incredible to see the progress we made as a team. I also learned so much about Thai culture through lessons in the language, weaving, cooking, and traditional dancing. I could write a whole novel about how amazing this experience was. I want to thank P’ Yanne, P’ Tony, P’ Nick, P’ Boka, P’ Krit, P’ Au, Chelsey, Chloe, all our drivers, hosts, and fellow travelers for changing my life in the most incredible way. I am already planning my next trip with GIVE after how incredible this trip was!

This GIVE experience changed my life and was completely unforgettable. Our guides, P’Chiarra, P’Dee, P’Pohn Pohn and P’Anne made this trip magical and so so special. It taught me the importance of ethical tourism and that we all have to do our part in educating ourselves on these issues that could hurt our beautiful world. It helped me realize that I could be part of a smaller ripple that could make a bigger wave. I plan to share my experience to inspire others by educating others about ecotourism and the mission that GIVE dedicates themselves too. I want others to be able to see experience everything me and my group did and see how beautiful our world can be when we step out of our comfort zones and take that leap. Thank you GIVE for the best trip of my entire life and for changing the perspective of my life. This company made me realize how I want to move forward with my own career and do my own part in this mission.