Flight to Bangkok, Thailand
We begin this program with a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Bangkok. Our program leaders greet you at the airport and are with you from check-in onward. Everyone has the opportunity to begin bonding before we even land. For our many travelers from outside the New York area, we require all participants to join our group flight to Thailand and are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York. For participants outside North America, please reach out to us to discuss your flight options.

Internal Flights
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $485 USD fee for internal flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Bangkok to Phuket, and Phuket to Bangkok.

Return Flight Home from Bangkok, Thailand
For your return from Bangkok, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA; or you may fly from Bangkok to your home city and our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.

Where We Stay
We carefully select clean and comfortable accommodations with the needs of our students in mind. While our volunteer programs do not stay at luxury resorts, we do know that a good night’s rest, in your own bed, is key to performing your service hours well and having enough energy to enjoy the day’s activities. For this reason, and also to maintain the close group bond and to uphold the quality of this program, we do not offer any homestays.

Meals & New Cuisines
Eating well while away from home is an important part of a summer’s success. Part of your travel experience will be immersing yourself in the local cuisine and culture so please bring with you an open mind and a willingness to try new things. For example, in Thailand, your mouth will water over authentic spicy local dishes, there is plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and many noodle dishes but don’t worry, they also have North American style options on the menu.

We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.

Drinking Water
On this program we will have large containers of clean water for you to fill up your own water bottles as needed.

Vaccinations
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Thailand. These recommendations may change from time to time. We will send you detailed information in March (or upon enrollment if later) regarding the current recommendations for this itinerary.

Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. You will have the opportunity to do laundry at your convenience by dropping off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.

What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is transportation to and from the program, internal flights, and personal spending money for snacks, souvenirs, laundry and the application fee. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!