Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Highlights

In 2007 an ecological centre was created in Wang Thong, with the aim of providing focus to its environmental projects and to raise awareness for the situation of the environment in Thailand. The ecological centre thus strives to educate Thai people about the importance of saving natural resources and preserving biodiversity.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, in Thailand there are less than 3,000 elephants living in the wild. This number is shrinking steadily. It is for this reason that Greenway decided to adopt several elephants with their mahouts in the eco-center and to raise awareness for the situation of the elephants in Thailand in the surrounding area of the center.

During this week, you’ll be able to help mahouts in the Greenway Elephant camp as they take care of the elephants and to join them for their daily exercises. During the week, you will also learn about the place of elephants in the culture in Thailand, their needs and the social problems around it nowadays. Daily chores include washing and feeding the elephants, learning some gardening and working with the people of the centre.

What will I achieve?

Learn important environmental issues – This elephant project takes place in an ecological centre so there will be lots to see and learn about.

Witness the culture – Spending your time in Thailand will enable you to get out and see how the Thai people live and their customs too.

Gain hands-on experience with elephants – Zoos are one thing, this is another. You will be up close and personal with the adopted elephants at the centre.

Have fun - Saturday evening, there is usually a social event such as a party or special meal.

Where will I live?

Accommodation & Food
Your new home will be in our ecological centre in Wang Thong and has access to a local store.

There is a village about 2 kms from the centre and the nearest town (Wang Thong) is about 20 kms away, where you will find all the amenities you need i.e. internet, shops, hospital, pharmacy, banks and restaurants.

During the whole duration of your stay you will stay in eco-style Thatch Huts with a shower and the water is always nice and refreshing in the heat.

All food is included during your stay. The meals will be typical Thai fare, including plenty of rice dishes and traditional culinary delights.

Essentials

• Remember to bring a sleeping bag and lots of insect repellent with you.

Money

• The currency in Thailand is the Baht.
• The closest ATM is in Wang Thong which is 20km away from the centre. Therefore it is important to have money before you get to the centre.
• All the urban areas have numerous ATMs, although they do charge for withdrawals.
• Make sure you inform your bank that you will be travelling as some like to cancel your card when they see irregular behaviour.
• Pounds are not common so dollars are preferable. The best idea is to change money prior to departure.
• At the start of 2009, the rate of exchange was 1 GBP to 53 Baht.

Country facts

• Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. Over 10 million people live in its metro area.

• 63 million people live in Thailand, making it the 20th most inhabited country on earth.

• Thailand is one of the most devoutly Buddhist countries.

• Many of Thailand’s cultural traditions and customs differ from neighbouring countries such as India and China.

• Hello in Thai is: sà-wàt-dee . Thank you is: kòp koon.

Did you know? The name Thailand means ‘Land of the free’.

Eligibility

• The trip is open to all nationalities.

• The minimum age for this trip is 17; there is no maximum. Expedition teams consist of individuals from a diverse range of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone is welcome!

What's included?

• A Meet Your Team briefing day and BBQ in central London.
• Being met at the airport by a staff member.
• All meals and accommodation during the 10 weeks.
• Hands-on experience with one of the most amazing creatures on earth.
• A unique opportunity to explore Thailand like never before.
Points to note:
• On receipt of deposit, you’ll receive a Welcome e-mail with access to your personal page.
• We give you helpful advice about equipment, recommended flights, insurance and more.
• You will gain access to your very own personal website that allows you to input information and also has valuable information about fundraising, vaccinations and country information.
• A staff member is in the region all year round.

Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary only and is subject to change.

Sunday
Departure from Bangkok to Wang Thong.

Monday
In the morning we will explain the activities for the week and explore the area. In the afternoon, we will have an explanation about the ecological project and the elephant sanctuary. Then it is time for an introductory afternoon walk with the elephants. After this, we will help the mahouts bathe the elephants. Dinner will be traditional Thai fare.

Tuesday
After the morning walk and bath of the elephants, we will complete some volunteer activities with the ecological centre which will continue through lunch. In the late afternoon, we’ll join the mahouts again for the afternoon exercises and an evening bath.

Wednesday
Further work with the mahouts and the ecological centre.

Thursday
We work with the mahouts and the elephants in the early morning and late afternoon, and do volunteering activities with the ecological centre as on Tuesday.

Friday
We work with the mahouts and the elephants in the early morning and late afternoon. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore the region and the eco-centre.

Saturday
Free time. Optional activities include rafting, homestay, culture lessons etc.

Sunday
Free time with optional activities for all volunteers to participate in.

Maps

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