Thailand Service and Adventure

DAY 1: LOS ANGELES LAX AIRPORT (FOR THOSE WHO OPT TO TAKE THE GROUP FLIGHT)

As the group flight takes off, the trip officially begins!

DAY 2: CROSS THE INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE 

DAYS 3 - 10: CHIANG MAI & HILL TRIBE VILLAGE

We'll hang out in Chiang Mai, a hip university town in the northern hills of Thailand, taking ample time to explore the world-famous Buddhist temples and vast outdoor markets, a tradition left over from the caravans that stopped off here from the nearby Silk Road. Meet Buddhist monks and participate in a question-and-answer session, try out Muay Thai boxing, ride elephants through the jungle, and learn Thai cooking and dancing. We'll cap off our time in Chiang Mai with a celebratory dinner where we sail the paper lanterns we have made into the sky.

In the hills near Chiang Mai, we'll participate in a meaningful community service project in an indigenous hill tribe community. This is a unique chance to spend time with the local population and work together on a useful project while learning about a different way of life.

DAYS 10 - 13: PHI PHI ISLANDS

Next, we'll jet down to the Phi Phi islands in the Andaman Sea for a taste of tropical nirvana. Snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters and, if you want, participate in our "meet the sharks" dive. Don't worry, this species of shark has absolutely no interest in humans!

You will also hike gorgeous scenic trails, take a longtail boat to a beach featured in movies (The Beach) and see the most gorgeous sunsets of your life. Meet and spend time with victims of the 2004 tsunami - These islanders live in a village which lost half its population in an instant, but modern safeguards and warnings are now in place and the island has been rebuilt.

DAYS 13 - 15: KANCHANABURI

Kanchanaburi, site of the Bridge on the River Kwai, is full of WWII history - we'll learn about this railroad bridge that was built by Allied prisoners of war, many of whom were worked to death. The story is told in a museum, and the nearby war cemetery is a stark reminder of the brutality of war.

Near Kanchanaburi is a monastery that runs a tiger rehabilitation project where we will be able to get very close to these majestic animals in a safe and controlled environment. This is one of the only successful captive tiger breeding facilities in the world; the monks feel their lifestyle contributes to the success of their program.

DAYS 15 - 17: BANGKOK

Bustling Bangkok is where we finish this incredible journey - a thriving city full of energy and life. We'll marvel at the Emerald Buddha and the Royal Palace, as well as the famed floating markets where you can fill your suitcase for the trip home. Safety is always our top priority, and you will be in good hands with our experienced, knowledgeable staff. Come experience the magic of Thailand with us this summer!

***Travel For Teens is also offering an overnight excursion to Siem Reap, Cambodia (extra tuition), site of the Angkor Wat temple, one of the seven modern wonders of the world. This will be a two day, one night trip.