Finally, the first day of your adventure to Thailand and Cambodia is here! Your trip of a lifetime begins in the "Land of Smiles" as we arrive in the bustling capital of Bangkok, Thailand. As soon as we step foot off the plane we will feel the energy of this mesmerizing city which blends old and new, East and West. Our group will check in to the centrally located Courtyard by Marriott, located in the heart of the action. We will explore the opulent grounds of the dazzling Grand Palace, built by King Rama I in 1782. Inside the palace we will pay our respects at Thailand's most sacred temple, Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Get ready to take in the city from the Bangkok River, and truly understand why Bangkok is known as the "Venice of the East" as we cruise through the city's famed canals. Next up you won't believe your eyes as we enter Wat Pho and marvel at the impressive Reclining Buddha, which at over 150 feet in length is covered entirely in gold! We'll finish our time in this amazing city as we climb the stairs at Wat Arun and take in the sights and sounds as the sun sets over Bangkok.
Our short flight takes us to fabled northern Thailand, a traveler's paradise and home to outstanding landscapes and gorgeous natural beauty. Our first stop is the quaint city of Chiang Rai, where we'll check into Le Meridien Resort, located on the banks of the Me Kok River. Soak up the ambience of the magnificent countryside as you swim in the refreshing outdoor pools and stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens. Strap on your helmet and grab your bike as we head out on our Bicycle Tour. We'll discover rural Thailand and its rich culture as we pedal through small villages and rice fields and follow the Lao River downstream. No visit to Chiang Rai is complete without a visit to the glistening Wat Rong Khun, known as the White Temple, due to its astonishing snow-white exterior. Built by a local Thai artist in 1997, the temple is a masterpiece of modern art. As you move through the grounds you find yourself in the artist's surreal vision of Buddhist teachings, as superheroes, movie stars, and cartoon characters find their way into the building's murals!
Our next stop is Chiang Mai, founded over 700 years ago as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Home to historic temples, diverse ethnic tribes, elephant camps, and numerous outdoor pursuits, Thailand's "second city" is best known for its age-old traditions and welcoming hospitality. We'll settle into the beautiful Sibsan Luxury Hotel for our stay in this breathtaking location, where we will enjoy meaningful community service, enriching cultural exploration, and amazing outdoor activities. Enjoy the cool mountain air as we hike to the top of Doi Suthep, one of the area's highest mountains and home to Wat Phra That, one of the most historically and spiritually significant Buddhist temples in all of Thailand. From the top of the mountain we'll have commanding views of Chiang Mai and will experience the magic of this sacred place. Next, we'll enter the lush jungle as we get ready to brave the rapids of the Mae Taeng River on our exhilarating white-water rafting trip! Cross through the Tha Phae Gate and take in the excitement of the famous Sunday Night Market as you browse through the traditional art and locally made handicrafts as the Old City comes alive with musicians, street entertainers, and Thai dancers.
We catch our plane to our next stop, the tropical island paradise of Phuket. Few places in the world can boast of such an abundance of sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunning ocean views. We'll check in to the beachside Katathani Phuket Beach Resort, located on secluded Kata Noi Bay. Swim in one of the resort's six pools, work out in the world-class fitness center, and lounge on the spectacular palm-lined beaches. We'll marvel at the beautiful scenery and receive a monk's blessing during our Jungle Trek through the lush interior of the island. Enjoy an evening performance at one of Thailand's biggest shows, Phuket Fantasea. With trapeze artists, magical illusions, and special effects, this theatrical extravaganza is an unforgettably unique experience that blends Thai tradition with fantasy. A short ride to the top of Mt. Nagakerd brings us to the impressive Giant Buddha and incredible views of the Andaman Sea.
We'll say goodbye to Thailand as we board our plane for our unbelievable 5-day finale in the Kingdom of Wonder, Cambodia. Our plane touches down in Siem Reap, the gateway to ancient and mysterious worlds. Prepare to be awe-struck as you tour centuries-old temples and hike through lush jungles. Deep in the forest rises the elegant and soaring spires of the ancient stone city of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Angkor Wat. Built between 1113 and 1150 as a Hindu temple and encompassing over 500 acres, Angkor Wat represents one of humankind's most astonishing and enduring architectural achievements. Get your cameras ready as our private guide helps us explore this incredible ancient city. Next, we'll enter the jungle for our short hike to Angkor Thom (often referred to as the Tomb Raider Temple - parts of the movie were filmed here!) and the mysterious smiling statues of Bayon. Hike to Ta Prohm, a city disappearing back into the jungle as the roots and trees slowly reclaim it. Soar high above the trees as you fly over the canopy on our thrilling Zip-Line Adventure! You'll leap between elevated platforms and hanging sky bridges during this fun-filled adventure. Experience the amazing energy of Phare, the world-renowned Cambodian Circus. Enjoy dinner at the most happening spot in town, the Hard Rock Cafe! We'll stay at the beautiful Angkor Village Resort during our time in this majestic part of the world.
The last stop on our amazing journey is Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia. We'll check into the beautiful Garden City Hotel, centrally located in the heart of the city, where we'll swim in the refreshing pools and enjoy the resort's amenities. We'll have time to reflect upon Cambodia's troubled past as we visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where you will learn about the infamous Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. While difficult to process at times, you will leave with profound respect for what Cambodians endured and how they have rebuilt their nation. As the sun sets over Cambodia, we'll board our boat for our final night River Cruise. Enjoy the magnificent scenery along the Mekong River while enjoying the relaxing sounds of live traditional music. We'll take in the stunning Phnom Penh skyline after dark as we prepare to say goodbye to our new friends and your adventure of a lifetime.
Throughout Adventure Thailand, our teenagers stay in beautiful hotels and resorts. Our accommodations are all safe, comfortable, amenity-packed, and in great locations, always near the center of the action. We feature both international brand hotels and local boutique-style properties in each area we visit. No matter the hotel, our teenagers never share beds - you will sleep in your own bed, every night of the tour.
We'll be in the thick of the action at the Courtyard by Marriott, located in the vibrant Ratchaprasong District in the heart of downtown Bangkok. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and well-appointed accommodations during our stay. Close to all the city's major attractions, the Courtyard is the perfect place for our time in this amazing city.
The rich history, culture, and landscape of Chiang Rai blend with contemporary design, traditional architecture, and warm Thai hospitality at the amazing Le Meridien Resort. Located directly on the banks of the Mae Kok River, the resort is set at the heart of beautifully landscaped gardens and magnificent mountain scenery. Enjoy the relaxing outdoor pool, lounge on the private sun beds, and work out in the fitness center as you take in the gorgeous surroundings.
Experience the ancient and magical city of Chiang Mai from the comfort of the Sibsan Luxury Hotel, located on the beautiful River Ping. You'll be surrounded by the cool atmosphere of this Lanna-style boutique hotel. After a day of community service and amazing activities, you will enjoy a refreshing dip in the riverside pool and spend relaxing nights in your modern and tastefully furnished room.
Located on secluded Kata Noi Bay, this beautiful beachfront resort is the perfect place to get away from it all. This area of Phuket is known for its relaxing atmosphere and close proximity to all of the action at this world-famous tropical destination. Our resort boasts direct access to unspoiled white-sand beaches, six beachfront swimming pools, a fitness center, and game room. Each night you will enjoy watching the sun set into the perfect clear blue sea over this island paradise.
Located just minutes away from ancient Angkor Wat, this beautiful boutique resort is an enchanting tropical oasis set in a large luxuriant garden and features beautiful wooden cottages and a unique river-shaped swimming pool meandering throughout the resort. Each room is crafted from locally sourced hardwood and is outfitted with organic amenities and cool modern furnishings. Just minutes from all of the sites and activities of Siem Reap, Angkor Village Resort blends perfectly with the natural surroundings and serenity of the Cambodian jungle.
Nestled within beautiful private gardens, Garden City Hotel offers comfortable and modern accommodations in the Khŭm Prêk Pnŏu district of Phnom Penh. Enjoy lounging in the beautiful outdoor swimming pool, work out in the first-rate fitness center, and get a comfortable night’s sleep in your peaceful and relaxing room. Only minutes away from the local sites, Garden City Hotel is perfectly situated for a stay in Cambodia’s thriving capital.
Cultural Exploration & Service
Throughout our journey we will have meaningful opportunities for enriching cultural exploration and community service. In order to fully appreciate these opportunities, each teenager should come in with a curious and open mind. Each person will participate in all of the following activities.
Upon completion of the program, each participant will receive a certificate recognizing 20 hours of community service.
Cultural Exploration
Take part in an enlightening Monk Chat. This cultural exchange was designed with two things in mind: to help people better understand Buddhism and the way of life followed by Thai monks, and to help young novice monks improve their English skills by chatting with foreign students and learning about their backgrounds.
We'll spend a fun evening at a traditional Khantoke Dinner Theatre. Served on large wooden platters, Khantoke is the customary northern Thai style of eating food. We'll enjoy authentic local dishes while being entertained by traditional dance and music performances.
The mountains surrounding Chiang Mai have long been dotted with Hill Tribe Villages of Thailand's many ethnic minorities. We'll visit one of the tribes and learn about the village's unique customs and heritage. Take some time to converse with the villagers, food vendors, and skilled artists to get a better understanding of their unique culture.
We'll take a trip to the local market to learn about local fruits and vegetables and pick up the tasty ingredients for our Thai Cooking Class. The choice is yours as our instructors teach us to make Pad Thai, curry, stir fry, and more.
Let the stress slip away while you experience a traditional Thai Massage. Also known as yoga massage, your therapists will use their hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches. Some say that Thai massage is like doing yoga without any of the work!
Spend Quality Time with Thai Children
Our teenagers will have the amazing opportunity to volunteer with local non-profits that help children living under challenging circumstances throughout Thailand. We will spend time with the children at a pre-school for underprivileged children in Bangkok, playing with our new friends and helping them read in English. While in Chiang Mai, our teenagers will have the opportunity to volunteer at a children’s group home. Some of the children at the home are orphans while others come from at-risk ethnic minority villages; others are refugees of the turmoil in neighboring Myanmar. We will spend quality time with the children, playing games with them and sponsoring a lunch for everyone at the home. We will also participate in an enriching school exchange with a local high school, sharing ideas with local students and learning what life is like for teenagers in Northern Thailand.
Volunteer at an Elephant Camp
We will head to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary for a memorable day of volunteer work and the opportunity to gain a broader understanding of these remarkable animals. Located beside a Karen (the local hill tribe) village in a densely forested mountainous region, the Sanctuary is a sustainable and ethical eco-tourism project that promotes the proper and humane treatment of elephants. The resident elephants have all been victims of abuse and mistreatment, all of whom can now live full and free lives in their new home.
When we arrive at the Sanctuary, our English-speaking guide will first teach us a bit about the elephants and the way of local village life. Next we will get changed into traditional Karen clothing, grab some bananas and sugar cane for feeding, and get ready to meet the elephants! Interact with each of the friendly and gentle animals, learn about elephant behavior, and discover the unique and interesting history of each elephant as we play with them and feed them their delicious snacks.
Next we get the elephants their daily exercise by walking along jungle paths to a nearby river where we join them for a bath in the refreshing water! You will have the opportunity to bathe and brush the elephants while they enjoy wading through the river. Next up is a therapeutic mud spa! Feel free to get dirty as you cover the elephants in a protective layer of mud and have a blast playing with them as they joyfully frolic in their "spa".
When it is time to say goodbye to our new friends, we will leave with a better understanding as to why the Sanctuary is so important for the long-term health of these majestic animals, and how the Sanctuary’s profits also support jungle reforestation, tree and land purchases, local job creation, and educational scholarships.
Service Details
- In order to fully appreciate these opportunities, each teenager should come in with a curious and open mind. Each person will participate in all of the activities.
- Upon completion of the program, each participant will receive a certificate recognizing 20 hours of community service.
- The goal of community service is not only to give back to the community but for our participants to also learn and grow through their experiences.
