Why volunteer in Thailand?
Thailand is an excellent place to work and travel. It offers so much to backpackers and volunteers alike, that any trip to Thailand is a rewarding experience. There are many projects, which need volunteers and although the concept of volunteering is quite new there, volunteers are always greatly received.
Where is the Volunteer Experience Programme?
The base camp is located 142kms north of Bankok in Sing Buri province. This camp is situated about 10km from the nearest town and it costs about 25 baht (local transportation) to get there.
Where will I stay?
You will stay in a Thai style house with other partisipants in dormed accomodation which range in size from 3-12 people (all bunk beds) some have en-suite & others have separate toilets & showers. The doors & windows are screened & there are fans inside. Next to this building is the kitchen & eating area. The camp has a kitchen (with two cooks), a large restaurant with room for around 40 people and several seating areas where volunteers can hang out.
Do I need a visa?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. British citizens are allowed to enter Thailand for stays of up to thirty days without having to apply for a visa. If you are staying over 30 days you will need to apply for a 60-day tourist visa. We can help you organise this.
What will the weather be like?
Thailand has three seasons: the cool season from Nov-Feb, the hot season from March-May and the rainy season which runs from June-Oct (peaking in September & October). Thailand is always warm so whichever month you choose to visit you can be sure to enjoy the beautiful sunshine even in the rainiest of months.
How much money should I take?
We would recommend that you budget between £30-£40 per week… perhaps a bit more in your holiday week.
Your money goes along way in Thailand:
- A soft drink costs less than 30p
- A simple meal costs less than £2
- A beer costs around £1
- T-shirt costs around £3
Currency
The currency of Thailand is Baht, which consists of 100 satangs. Notes are available in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 and coins of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 satangs.
What is the food like?
It is normal in Thailand to eat rice dishes for breakfast and it is all part of the cultural experience. In fact rice and noodles are served with all meals. The food is gorgeous with fresh vegetables tasting far better than they do back home, there is also plenty of fruit. If you crave meat, then don't panic there are plenty of opportunities to visit local markets where you can buy chicken satay (marinated kebabs), beef kebabs and other types of meat. It is cheap too. If you are vegetarian or have special dietary requirements then please let me know before you depart.
What are the bathrooms/toilets like?
You will experience a number of different shower and toilet facilities. There are western toilets which don't have a flush - you simply fill a bowl with water and pour down the toilet. You will also experience Asian toilets which require placing your feet either side of the basin in the ground and squatting. Remember to put all toilet tissue in the bin provided and not the toilet. Whist on excursions, you will notice that many places do not have soap in the bathrooms. It is a good idea to take a small bottle of soap gel and keep it in your day bag. This is an antibacterial gel that you don't need to rinse off. These are available on Boots Chemist in the travel section.
What vaccinations do I need?
We are not medical experts so can not offer medical advice - you must go and se your GP. However we would recommend considering; Hepatitus A & B, Typhoid, Polio and Tetnus.
Do I need Malaria tablets?
On the 4 week Thai Experience you do not enter any Malaria areas but you may be travelling on after or before the programme so make sure you take malaria tablets should you be entering affected areas.
What is the time difference?
Thailand is 6 or 7 hours ahead of the UK depending on British summertime.
How do I phone home?
The international telephone access code for Thailand is 66. To place an outgoing call, direct dialled international call, dial 001, plus 44 and then the number. For example to call Real Gap from Thailand dial 001 44 1892 516164.
Can I use my mobile whilst in Thailand?
You can buy a phone card for your mobile phone. The cost is 300B for 15 minutes (a lot cheaper than your normal tariff). Remember to bring your mobile phone charger and check with your provider before you go.
Can I use a credit card?
Major credit cards are accepted at leading hotels, restaurants and stores. However use is restricted in small towns and country areas. It is advisable to take your debit card and use the ATM machines. There will opportunities for you to withdraw money from these when you need to. However I would get withdraw some money when you first arrive at Bangkok airport. There are Exchange offices in the airport and everyone speaks good English.
Will banks/shops always be open?
Banks are open 8:30am - 3:30pm, department stores 10:00am -9.00pm and shops 8:00am - 8:00pm. All except tourist shops are closed on weekends.
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