Thailand: Life on the Andaman Sea

Meet your group at your home airport. Fly together as a group to Thailand. Total travel time will depend on your departure location and flight schedule. Be sure to get some rest so you arrive ready for adventure!

Flight Details: Rustic Pathways will be happy to book your flight as an add-on service.

If your travel to Australia crosses the international dateline, you’ll likely lose this day to travel. Not to worry – you’ll get it back on your return!

Arrive at Trang Airport (TST) and meet your program leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the village, Ban Mot Ton Noi, and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation and an introduction to the local culture.

Begin exploring your new home – a Muslim fishing village that’s dependent on the conservation of Thailand’s fragile marine resources. Meet with a local environmental organization devoted to marine conservation, help your host family with the day’s catch, and enjoy dinner overlooking the first of many epic beachside sunsets.

Overnight: Baan Jao Mai Resort, Trang (or similar)

Learn how Ban Mot Tanoi manages local mangrove and crab populations by kayaking along the coastline, planting mangrove seeds, and releasing juvenile crabs as part of an ongoing conservation project. Switch gears and begin learning the ancient art of batik fabric dyeing in the afternoon and then assist your host families with their daily crab harvests.

Overnight: Baan Jao Mai Resort, Trang (or similar)

Work with members of the Ban Mot Tanoi community to build fish houses that protect vulnerable fish species from predators. Collect seagrass seeds that’ll eventually be planted to provide a habitat for numerous sea-dwelling creatures, including the elusive dugong. Place and collect crab traps with your host families. On your last night in Ban Mot Tanoi dance on the beach in traditional Muslim attire hand picked by your host families.

Finish the day with a closing discussion and the traditional Rustic Ties ceremony that allows students to reflect on their experiences and discuss how to use the lessons they’ve learned back home.

Overnight: Baan Jao Mai Resort, Trang (or similar)

After a final breakfast in the village, say goodbye to Mod Tanoi village and head north to Krabi province. Arrive in Ao Nang and enjoy the white sand beaches of this oceanside paradise. Play games on the beach, shop at the local market and take in the scenery as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea.

Overnight: Hotel in Ao Nang

Hop aboard a private longtail boat to nearby islands that dot the coast. Swim, snorkel, and explore small deserted beaches. Southern Thailand is home to many fish and coral species, and the crystal blue water and stunning scenery will make for some amazing memories. After a full day, head back to the bungalows for dinner and some chill time on the sand.

Overnight: Hotel in Ao Nang

Your program leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.

Flight Details: Rustic Pathways will be happy to book your flight as an add-on service.