Gap Year for Grown Ups
Famous for its miles of stunningly pristine coastline and picturesque scenery, Thailand has long been a must-see stop off point on the gap year trail. Another one of the country’s chief attractions is its culture, and it’s one that has recently been enticing an increasing number of mature travellers to its shores. From the awe Inspiring Mountains of Bang Tao to the tranquil beauty of the Phetchaburi province, there are plenty of intriguing corners of Thailand for explorers in search of more than just a week on the beach.
In a recent interview Dan Moore, in-country coordinator for leading alternative gap year company Gap Year for Grown Ups was unsurprised by the increasing number of mature visitors ‘Thailand has it all; an amazing coastline, mountains, national parks, history, culture and as if that wasn’t enough some of the world’s loveliest people.’ He is also a firm believer in the personal benefits Thailand offers ‘a great way to achieve personal development is to immerse yourself in a culture poles apart from your own. In Thailand, there is a real sense of community and massive amount of support given to complete strangers, it’s a different world.’
This week Gap Year for Grown Ups have launched a range of community based projects that will give travellers the opportunity to gain a real insight into the Thai culture and way of life. Working across schools, orphanages, medical institutions and care centres volunteers will not only be able to make a real difference to the lives of local children and community members, but also experience the beauties of rural Surin.
Travellers who want to make a direct contribution towards education and care within the community can opt for the Thailand Childcare Volunteers project or the Thailand Teaching in Schools and Orphanages programme. Working on the volunteer programme, participants will be able to gain a unique insight into the lives and culture of the Thai monks who care for the children, whilst helping to organise games, activities, basic lessons and prepare food for up to 50 pre-school youngsters. Mature explorers can also make an impact on the future of local children by assisting with education on the teaching project; improving vocational and English language skills, travellers can experience village life and give children better prospects.
Adventurers with medical skills and experience can give hands on help to the Thailand Medical Volunteers project. Ideal for those who are studying for or have completed their medical qualification, this project gives help to poor communities where health has been severely neglected, providing care at local hospitals, childcare centres and rural community clinics.
Animal lovers can combine cultural immersion with worthwhile conservation on the Thailand Community and Elephant Volunteers programme. Volunteers can lend a hand to the Tha Thum community who care for the elephants by planting bamboo, wild grass and other crops to help feed the elephants and help to wash them at the river.
Seasoned travellers who are interested in gap year travel or any of the new Thai options from Gap Year for Grown Ups can find out more here http://www.gapyearforgrownups.co.uk/
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
