Thailand
Introduction to the Thailand expedition |
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| Thailand forms the heart of South-East Asia, bordered by Malaysia to the south, Cambodia to the south-east and Myanmar (Burma) and Laos to the north. The topography varies from high mountains in the north, which are part of a series of ranges that extend across northern Myanmar to the south-eastern edges of the Tibet plateau, to tropical islands in the south that make up a portion of the Malay archipelago. This is the destination for a team that are looking for a rich cultural experience combined with a wonderful jungle trekking experience which could include bamboo rafting and elephant riding. |  |
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Teams will head off the beaten track and visit remote hill-tribe villages. Thailand boasts a well-established tourism infrastructure, so transport will be quick and efficient. At the end of the month, teams can enjoy and relax on exotic beaches.
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Some possible expedition objectives are given below, please note these may alter between now and your expedition. The Expedition Program Manager for Thailand will design an expedition itinerary for you, to best match the abilities and aspirations of your team.
Bangkok
The team will fly into this fascinating and diverse city. Thailand’s capital might well come as a shock to the senses, but there is plenty to see for anyone prepared to put up with the heat and the pace of South-East Asia’s most cosmopolitan city. Several of the Thailand’s National Parks are in relatively close proximity to Bangkok, offering some spectacular jungle scenery, waterfalls and a huge variety of wildlife.
Acclimatization
Erwan National Park
50km North of Kanchanaburi, set against a backdrop mountains and caves, the Erawan National Park is famous for its 7 tiered waterfall which teams can trek to in half a day. There is also the possibility of seeing wild elephants. This option would also include a stopover in Kanchanaburi and the surrounding area to visit the area’s infamous WWII historic sites including the ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’.
Khao Yai National Park
Containing one of the largest intact monsoon forests in mainland Asia and also the Hew Suwat Waterfall as featured in the film "The Beach", Khao Yai is considered by experts to be among the world’s best National Parks. Khao Yai is also a possible location for a challenging main trekking phase.
Main Trekking Phase
The team will head for the lush jungle in the northern highlands for their main trekking phase. Possible trekking areas include the Um Phang region near Mae Sot, and the region north-west of Chiang Rai. Most of the trekking itineraries could include an elephant ride and spending nights in remote hill-tribe villages. In some itineraries it may be possible to do some white-water rafting, although such options would incur an additional cost.
Projects
There are many opportunities for different sorts of project work around Thailand, from living and working with remote hill-tribe villages around Chiang Rai in the far north, where previous teams have assisted with the construction of community buildings, to renovation work and English teaching at an orphanage.
Rest and Relaxation
Due to Thailand’s extensive coastline there is no lack of beautiful beaches and islands to relax on. Basic beach huts are available or the team may wish to simply sling their hammocks from the trees along the beach.
Our expedition allowed me to experience things I may never experience again in my life. It was a great opportunity to travel before a gap year and gain experience and knowledge of life in a developing country. It made me realise just how lucky we are!
Davina Combe, Challenger
The trip was amazing and it's something that I will never forget. I have gained a lot from it, physically and mentally. Loved every minute of it!
Natalie Rusher, Challenger
The pupils have learnt a lot about relationships, themselves and different cultures. They have learnt skills in teamwork, communication, organisation and management. Above all they have learnt to take responsibility. This has been a lesson in growing up.
Elaine McLaughlin - Link Teacher
Find out more
T: 877 – 333 – 1060
E: infoUSA@wcexpeditions.com
