Chiang Mai, Thailand
November 2010
It’s hard to dislike Thailand – it’s got it all: rich culture, beautiful beaches and forest and wonderful people! I was lucky enough to spend a few weeks in the north of Thailand exploring new programs and opportunties.
Gearing up for the festival of lights, "Loi Krathong"
My first site visit was to a volunteer program in Chiang Mai focusing on art education. The organization works with everyone from ethnic minorities to children coping with cerebral palsy. Workshops are designed and executed to expand creativity and introduce new mediums for expression.
Next I visited a working permaculture farm near the hippie-town of Pai. The energetic Thai owner has toiled happily for the past 6 years to build his property into a homestay farm for anyone interested in learning natural building skills, permaculture practices and Thai culture.
Tom and I stayed in a traditional thatched hut and spent our days learning about natural building, helping transport bamboo shafts to the farm, cooking and other duties. Staying on a successful farm surrounded by intelligent, enthusiastic people gets me really excited for our farm stays in New Zealand.
Learning how to weave baskets
Bike-powered washing machine!