Volunteer in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Summary
Volunteer in the quiet, historic and beautiful city Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.

Programs

   • Orphanage Volunteering
   • Teaching to Monks
   • Home for Single Mothers
   • Elephant Park

Overview
Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand, with a population of over 170,000. Surrounded by mountains and quiet countryside, Chiang Mai is popularly known as the "Rose of the North." Many expats and locals have settled in Chiang Mai because of its beauty, relaxed atmosphere and cosmopolitan feel. As with many locations around the world, in Chiang Mai the people are extremely friendly, and you'll have the opportunity to truly become part of the local community.

Getting There
There are some international flights that fly directly into Chiang Mai (from Taiwan on China Air, Singapore on Tiger Air, etc.). However, the vast majority of international flights arriving into Thailand fly into Bangkok first. If you are flying into Bangkok first, look for connecting flights up to Chiang Mai on the following carriers: Thai Air, Bangkok Air, Air Asia, 1 2 Go, Nok Air. There is also bus (12 hours) and train (12-15 hours) service from Bangkok.

Language
The Thai language is Thailand's national language, written in its own alphabet. English is widely taught in schools but not widely used throughout the country.

Accommodations
The accommodations for volunteers depends on the program. Most programs have shared accommodation with other volunteers in a group house. For the elephant camp program, volunteers stay onsite at the camp.

Meals
Thai food is in large part, rather healthy, with its use of fresh vegetables and low fat meats, like pork and chicken. The common belief is that Thai food is spicy, which is true among some dishes, but not all. There is a wide variety of different dishes, ranging from fried entrees over rice, to spicy and herbal soups, noodle soups, and a variety of finger foods and snacks.

Communications
Mobile phones are widely available in Chiang Mai and throughout Thailand. New (cheap) cell phones are sold for approximately US$50.00 in Chiang Mai, while decent used phones can be bought for roughly half that. Most cell phones sold in Thailand operate on inexpensive pre-paid calling cards. At the end of your program, you can sell your phone (possibly to another volunteer).

Transportation
The most popular mode of transport around Chiang Mai is the songthaew (or "seelor"), which are covered pick-up trucks with two benches in the back, whose routes are distinguished by the truck's color. There also tuk-tuk and samlor vehicles that are widely used. You can also take cheap taxis as well. Don't forget about bicycling and walking too, as the city is relatively small.

Health & Safety
Chiang Mai is very safe in terms of personal safety as well as health. Volunteers should not drink tap water, use only bottled water and carbonated drinks. The most common ailment is an upset stomach as you adjust to the food and water. There is a small risk of malaria, so you might consider taking anti-malarial medication. There are local hospitals and clinics that can treat serious illnesses.

Climate/Weather
Thailand is a tropical country. Northern Thailand is considered tropical savanna. During the cool season the high temperature during the day can rise into the mid-80’s (F), where the evenings and mornings are rather cool (mid to upper 50’s). During the hot season (March to May) the temperatures can reach the 100’s (F) during the day and cool down to only the 90’s (F) during the evening. During the rainy season (June to October) the weather can be quite dynamic, with the norm, obviously, being rainy and muggy, with the occasional tropical storm that can last for several days.

Sightseeing & Activities
Chiang Mai has over 300 Buddhist temples (called "wats" in Thai). The most famous is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. You can also visit the Chiang Mai National Museum and the Tribal Museum. There are numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Flower Festival and Loi Krathong Festival (3 days). Also consider taking a guided bicycle tour of the city and countryside.