2 weeks that turned into 26 weeks

This was the first GVI program I had my eyes on, and the second one I volunteered with. I headed to Chiang Mai, Thailand in March 2018 to originally volunteer for 4 weeks, but it ended up being 26 weeks. After my first 2 weeks I switched into the short-term internship and added 2 more weeks. Upon completion I was hired as field staff on a 6 month contract. Now why would I do that, because the village, Huay Pakoot, is absolutely remarkable. GVI has created a unique relationship with the villagers, which is something that can't be understood unless you go there yourself.

A bit about life on project: You arrive to Chiang Mai and stay at a hotel/resort for your first night - meeting your intake crew (including a couple staff members). On Sunday after a few pit stops and a long, twisty ride you arrive in the village. Someone takes you to your homestay to dump you pack, then it's back to base for supper and introductions. Monday is an early start (as is all the other days), because you head for hike at 7:30am. Where the elephants are located varies your hike difficultly and length, so does the season you come in, it could be very dry or very VERY wet. The afternoons are spent a number of different ways: muddling through an English lesson at the school, watching a presentation, attempting to learn Pakinyaw, or just soaking up the vibes. Evenings are spent doing a number of different activities as well: again, muddling through an English lesson with an adult villager, enjoying dinner at your homestay, watching a movie at base, partaking in a night hike and so much more! I recommend staying no less than 2 weeks, 4 is usually the best. This way you have enough time to get a taste of what Huay Pakoot has to offer and explore Northern Thailand a bit!

Conditions: Don't expect the Hilton! You are a guest to someone’s home, this includes their sleeping, toilet and eating customs. Do your research on what to expect.

When you first sign up its maybe because of Thailand but primarily because of the elephants, but you end up staying longer because of the village.