Thailand is located in Southeast Asia in a fertile monsoon belt between India and China. The country contains more than 1,200 miles of coastline and is speckled with hundreds of offshore islands. Its tropical climate and warm, sparkling waters are home to a variety of marine life and coral reefs. On the mainland, elephants roam the mountainous northern region, while rice patties and fruit trees comprise the central lands. Nicknamed the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand is renowned for its friendly people, Buddhist traditions, and mouth-watering national cuisine. Whether it’s the tranquility of country’s sandy beaches, or the vitality of its capital city, Bangkok, Thailand is a traveler’s paradise.

Why Volunteer in Thailand?
Thailand’s natural treasures are under increasing pressures, both environmental and man-made. The country is susceptible to destructive and deadly tsunamis—like that of December 2004, which killed thousands. Though schools and homes have been rebuilt, full economic and emotional recovery will take years. Despite frequent heavy rains and the annual monsoon season, Thailand is also subject to drought. Furthermore, the modernizing country struggles with air pollution from vehicle emissions, water pollution from organic and factory wastes, soil erosion and deforestation, as well as wildlife population depletion from illegal hunting. Volunteers in Thailand are needed for everything from habitat preservation to strengthening the community’s self-esteem.

Project Location: Phuket Island
Dubbed “Pearl of the South,” Phuket is Thailand's largest, most populous and most visited island. It stretches about 30 miles from north to south and offers everything from tranquil beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy countless activities, including scuba diving, game-fishing and waterskiing, mountain biking, rock climbing and horseback riding. Phuket Island is blessed with two of the world’s richest environments: onshore lies one of the oldest and most diverse rainforests, while offshore tropical reefs are home to an array of unique species. Both of these habitats, however, are under the attack of human sprawl and development.