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Participant, CLF 2022-2023 Director, CLF 2023-2025 Harvard College Class of 2029
August 7, 2025
June 19, 2025
Explore iconic destinations in Thailand including Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Bangkok. Make friends around the world on this amazing Thai adventure!
This journey may be short, but it will be filled with unique experiences that will give you a well-rounded understanding of Thailand. We start in the Big Mango. Bangkok, where you’ll explore historic districts, visit the Grand Palace, and hop on a long-tail boat ride. Then we jump up north to Chiang Mai, where you will wander around ancient stupas, browse eclectic markets, and check out the mountain temple of Doi Suthep. We’ll take a cooking class, learn about muay thaigo on a bicycling adventure and cool off at a one-of-a-kind water park. Then, catch the quick flight down to Krabi for a couple of days at one of Thailand’s most famous tropical beach destinations. We’ll explore the white sand beaches and limestone cliffs that make up this iconic coast. You’ll snorkel, rock-climb, and beach hop to close out this amazing experience in Thailand!
Thailand Adventurer
Temples, beaches & elephants
Age 14-18
$5495 plus Airfare
Thailand: Marine and Rainforest Conservation
Rich ecosystems & cultural immersion
$4995 plus Airfare
Arrive at Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH) where you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Thailand. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight.
Today is lost as you cross the International Date Line. Not to worry, though–you’ll get it back when you return.
Arrive at Bangkok’s Suwannaphumi Airport (BKK) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel in Bangkok and settle in for an orientation about your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture over a delicious Thai meal, your first of many to come.
Students will share rooms at this comfortable hotel with private bathrooms, Western-style toilets, and hot water.
Start your Thailand adventure with a trip into the historic and cultural heart of the country. Head with the group towards the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, the King’s official residence and the home of the famed Emerald Buddha. Take some time to wander the beautiful grounds and enjoy a walking tour through the historic Rattanakosin district. Hop on a long-tail boat and go for a cruise through Bangkok’s intricate canal system and sample some of the delicious street food and snacks that has made Bangkok a foodies delight. Hop on longtail boats to head out on the Chao Phraya, or “River of Kings”. See Bangkok from a different angle as you explore the waterways and see the bustling local life along the canals. Viewing Bangkok from the river – away from the busy streets and with a cool breeze on your face – is truly the best way to see it. Arrive at Asiatique to explore this cool market and take in the big city vibe of downtown Bangkok.
Catch a morning flight to Chiang Mai where you will dive into the wide world of Thai cuisine with a group cooking class! Learn how to prepare several tasty dishes from scratch with the guidance of an expert chef. Next, you will learn about the ancient art of Muay Thai kickboxing, which is the national sport and an integral part of the culture in Thailand. Finish the day with a trip up the mountain to Doi Suthep Temple, the holiest site in Northern Thailand, with commanding views of the City of Chiang Mai below.
Take advantage of the cool morning air for a bike ride through the countryside surrounding Chiang Mai. Known around the world as a Mecca for cycle enthusiasts, the rolling hills, forest and orchards of Chiang Mai make an idyllic backdrop. Work up an appetite and have lunch before visiting Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon Water Park. Climb, jump and slide through the vast array of inflatable structures, an epic jungle gym with refreshing water to catch if you fall. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage and spend the evening at the Sunday Walking Street Market, the perfect place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family at home.
Take a morning flight to Krabi, a highlight of Southern Thailand and one of the premier beach destinations in Southeast Asia. Arrive to Ao Nang and head to the beach for an afternoon enjoying the white sand and warm turquoise water of the Andaman Sea – quite the contrast from the mountains of the north!
Today you will embark on a private chartered speedboat adventure to explore the offshore islands and their surrounding reefs. Expect to visit uninhabited islands, pristine beaches, and dazzling reefs teeming with neon fish. As the sun wanes over the ocean, return to Ao Nang for a beachside dinner as the sun sets.
Take a short long tail boat trip to the tropical paradise of Railay, a stunning limestone peninsula with sheer cliffs descending into the ocean. Test your your strength with a half day rock climbing expedition in SE Asia’s premier climbing destination or kayak and relax on the many pristine beaches that ring this natural wonder. Enjoy a final sunset on the beach as brilliant colors illuminate the offshore islands of Thailand’s southern aquatic wonderland.
After an epic week exploring the wonders of Amazing Thailand, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for a short flight to Bangkok to connect with your return flight home.
Here is a detailed packing list for your time in Southeast Asia this summer. Packing the right gear (and not too much of it) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Remember that you’ll be responsible for carrying your belongings everywhere you go, so PACK LIGHT! If your bag weighs more than 35 pounds, you’ve overpacked!
Packing the right gear (and the right amounts) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Follow these tips to pack like a pro:
Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think! Consider no checked bag. We strongly recommend that you consider packing only a carry-on size bag. This prevents your luggage getting lost or separated from you, keeps your bag manageable, and helps you be more mobile on your travel day. Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are culturally appropriate for your destination and acceptable for service projects. This means bringing long shorts (think Bermuda and basketball shorts), t-shirts with sleeves to cover shoulders, and appropriate footwear. Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home. Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security. Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.
Weather in Southeast Asia
Summer in Southeast Asia is known as the “rainy season” or the “green season”—days are generally hot and humid, with brief and refreshing showers that keep the land very lush and green. Temperatures sometimes cool off once the sun goes down, making for more pleasant evenings. Because of the heat, you’ll need to drink a lot more water than you’re used to drinking to stay hydrated! Your clothes should be able to get wet, dirty, and / or destroyed during service work and program activities.
Our Dress Code Expectations in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asian cultures are very conservative. Despite the hot climate, people in these parts of the world show less skin than in many Western cultures, and you’ll rarely see low-cut shirts or short shorts in rural communities. As we seek to respect and preserve the culture of the communities we work with, we ask that our students dress conservatively while in country. If you’re not wearing proper attire, we’ll ask you to change your clothes or abstain from the service project of the day.
To dress respectfully in Southeast Asia, please bring loose-fitting pants or shorts that cover just above the knees (think basketball length). Bring basic t-shirts that cover your shoulders, and please leave all tank tops, cut off shirts, low-cut, see-through, or crop tops at home. As mentioned in our packing lists, yoga pants and leggings are not appropriate because they are too form-fitting. The key is to show less skin and to stay cool by wearing loose-fitted clothing.
Temple Visits
Personal hygiene is important in Southeast Asia, so when visiting temples we want to clean up more than while doing service. Wearing modest, clean clothes that cover the knees and shoulders is a must, as per usual. Being respectful is the name of the game!
Laundry
Access to laundry can vary, but most programs find access once a week, though not guaranteed. If you’re getting laundry done in a village or rural town, expect to pay $1-2 per kg. If you’re at a hotel, it can be up to $20 per load.
A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.
• Passport! • Photocopy of passport • Visa documentation • Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 19, recommended by the US State Dept but not required) • Rustic Pathways emergency contacts list • Additional community service forms if needed • Wallet / money / ATM card • Pens and journal • Book • Phone • Chargers • Outlet power converter (for transit only! Thailand uses the same plugs as the USA–just make sure all electronics are compatible with 220v) • Camera • Earbuds / Ear plugs • Reusable water bottle • Sunglasses • Medication • One change of clothing
A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.
<strong>Clothing</strong>
• 2-3 pairs of lightweight pants, jeans (too hot to wear often) or capris; leggings are not culturally appropriate as they are too form-fitting • 4-5 pairs of Long, loose-fitting shorts for service project work. Something that provides coverage and protection while keeping you cool • 7-10 tops (t-shirts and sports shirts) – they can be cotton, or quick-dry shirts like capilene or polypropylene; tank tops are generally not acceptable unless for time at the pool or beach; keep in mind you’ll find cool t-shirts and other clothing at markets you’ll visit throughout the summer, which can supplement the tops you bring over • 1 light, long sleeve t-shirts – breathable is best for the sun and certain areas of the region can get buggy or chilly (if you’re lucky!) at night • 1 lightweight hoodie – most likely needed on flights, in movie theaters, or in airports. Most people will be fine without one • 7-10 pairs of underwear – quick-dry material is best • 4-7 pairs of socks – lightweight cotton or quick dry athletic socks are best • 2 swimsuits – two piece suits are fine but need to be very modest • 1 sarong / shawl / lightweight towel (not white!) – many accommodations will have towels for you to use, but it is handy to have something of your own for sitting poolside or visiting a waterfall • A nice casual outfit – for special end of program dinners.
<strong>Important Items</strong>
• Flashlight or headlamp – rechargeable batteries are preferable • Ultra-lightweight rainproof jacket – fear not if you don’t have one; ponchos are widely available and do a better job! • Hat – for the sun • Strappy sandals – like Tevas or Chacos • Comfortable flip-flops or crocs – footwear that is easy to clean and easy to take on and off (you’ll be amazed at how often you’ll be taking your shoes off and on!); cheap flip-flops and crocs are widely available in Asia for a fraction of the cost • Closed-toed athletic shoes – shoes that dry quickly, that you can hike short distances in and that protect your feet are best; shoes will get muddy and dirty, so don’t bring your favorite pair. • A color photocopy of your passport • Students must bring additional hand sanitizer and one disposable mask per day of the program, or three hand-washable masks
<strong>Toiletries</strong>
Most general toiletries are available throughout the region at a fraction of the cost. We suggest packing all items that could leak in a plastic or ziploc bag.
• Deodorant • Shampoo and soap – you may want to bring biodegradable or natural soap and shampoo, but they’re not required • Toothpaste and toothbrush • Lip balm • Insect repellent – we suggest a natural option or something with DEET • Hydrocortisone/anti-itch cream or after bite • Hand sanitizer – 1 small bottle; we don’t want you getting sick this summer! • Contact lenses and solution • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe) and aloe vera – good quality sunscreen is not readily available in Southeast Asia and is expensive! • Feminine hygiene supplies – tampons aren’t widely available in Southeast Asia; past staff have suggested trying a diva cup; we recommend you bring what you think you will need for the duration of the program
<strong>Additional and Optional Items</strong>
• Local language phrasebook • Deck of cards, portable games • Lip balm • Digital camera – waterproof style shock resistant cameras are great for our programs; again, do not depend on your phone – we encourage our students to disconnect from their phones while on program.
• Please cover your shoulders and knees while in Southeast Asia.
• Dressing respectfully is very important. Southeast Asian culture is conservative, with ancient customs based mostly on Buddhism. Regardless of gender, Rustic students should be wearing loose Bermuda or basketball length shorts or pants. Please leave short-shorts at home, as well as leggings, which are too form-fitting. T-shirts should cover the chest and shoulders, nothing low cut, and no undergarments should ever be showing.
Accommodations throughout the program are at hotels–and a guest house–along the way. Expect to stay two students per room with en suite bathrooms. The hotels we use are fairly standard and clean, and some of them have swimming pools. The accommodations in Chiang Dao are more basic than the other places, but what they lack in amenities they make up for with character.
The Amazing Thailand program mostly features traveling and learning, so there is very little physicality required.
Breakfasts are eaten at the hotel each morning, and almost every other meal is eaten at restaurants. We order family style–which is also Thai style–so students will have the chance to try several dishes like spring rolls, stir-fried noodles, soups, curries, mixed vegetables, and more at each meal.
Dietary Requirements/ Food Allergies: Most restaurants feature a wide variety of dishes, so most diets can be accommodated. However, because of how difficult it is to control what is happening in each kitchen, this program may not be suitable for some severe food allergies.
Students will be drinking bottled water throughout the program. In order to limit waste, we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle with you.
Summertime is the “green” season in Thailand, which usually means that you can expect showers several times a week. The weather can get very humid–even if it is not overly hot–so students can expect to work up a sweat every day! Umbrellas and ponchos are readily available, so there is no need to pack bulky rain gear. Evenings in the mountains do cool down a bit in the mountains, but students won’t need more than a long-sleeved t-shirt.
Flights: Flights from the US depart arrive in Bangkok (BKK). The advertised dates for this program include travel time from the USA. Please refer to the itinerary for further details.
Visa: Students traveling on United States passports are not required to obtain a Thailand visa unless their stay exceeds 30 days. For students that stay longer than 30 days, we will arrange a second 30 day visa waiver. Students traveling with Rustic Pathways on passports not issued by the United States are responsible for determining their own visa requirements. Please check with the appropriate consulate or embassy.
Internal Travel: Students will have 2 internal flights on this program. These flights are included in the program price. The first internal flight is from BKK – CNX on Thursday, and the second internal flight is from CEI – DMK on Tuesday.
Internet and phone access is possible during limited intervals. Students are allowed to use the internet at select times during the program, but we challenge students to spend most of each day–and every meal–away from their phones to make sure they are fully engaged with the experience.
All activities listed on the program itinerary are included in the program cost. Checked luggage fees, souvenirs, laundry, donations and extra snacks are not included in the cost of the program. We recommend $150 – $250 of spending money for this program.
Students will have access to laundry once every 2 to 3 days. The average cost per load–washed and folded–is about $9.
The Amazing Thailand Adventure does spend limited time in rural village locations–most notably Chiang Dao–and you will frequently be visiting temples where women are required to dress very conservatively. Short shorts, low-cut tops, and tank tops are unacceptable while students are in rural places and at temples, so students are expected to dress accordingly. During the portions of the program which are not visiting temples or rural areas, normal attire (and bathing suits, while at hotel pools) can be worn without issue.
Amazing Thailand covers a lot of ground in a short amount of time, so students who bring smaller, more portable bags (small to medium wheeled duffle bags are best) are always happier! Remember – there is a lot of cool stuff to buy in Thailand, so save room for souvenirs!