Thailand had always been at the top of my bucket list, but I had no idea where to start. Planning flights, figuring out where to go, what to do, and how to make it all ethical and safe felt so overwhelming. Then I discovered Camp Thailand, and it honestly made everything so easy. Camp Thailand books your accommodation, plans all the activities, and gives you a full itinerary, including airport pickups, all I had to do was show up! Camp Thailand is more than just a holiday; it offers a unique blend of travel, volunteering, and cultural exchange. I wanted an experience, something that would push me outside my comfort zone and introduce me to new perspectives, culture, and people. There is a range of different tours to choose from, so you can decide which ones are more suited to you, depending on where you want to visit and how long you want to go for.
One of the first magical moments was the long-tail boat tour around the Phi Phi Islands. Imagine crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and snorkelling in the warm tropical ocean filled with colourful fish. It felt like paradise. The scenery was breathtaking, and it was one of those moments you want to just freeze in time. For years I had seen dreamy photos of this place all over Pinterest, and now seeing it in real life felt so surreal. This day was a dream come to life and a memory I will treasure forever.
If I had to pick the most unforgettable experience, it would be spending a day at an elephant sanctuary. Honestly, it was the best day of my life! Elephants have always been my favourite animals, so this visit was a dream come true. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into a peaceful, friendly sanctuary where the elephants were clearly well looked after. No chains, no riding, and no exploitation. We got to prepare their food and feed them baskets full of bananas. Many of these elephants had been rescued from harsh conditions, so it was so special to see them in a happy and ethical environment. We spent the day walking beside them, watching them play in the mud, and even helped give them a bath, not in a forced, touristy way, but just being present as they played and splashed around in the water.
We spent two days teaching in a local school. I had never taught children before, so stepping into a classroom in a new country felt terrifying. But it instantly became one of the best parts of the trip. The kids were amazing, so welcoming and full of energy. We used games and drawings to teach and also learnt some Thai from them! My confidence grew so fast, and I was so excited to go back and teach the next day. It felt incredible to give back to the community, and I miss the children every day.
But what made it even more special? The people. I met the most amazing group of girls, some of whom are now my closest friends and who I see on a regular basis. We laughed, explored, stepped way out of our comfort zones, and made memories together that we will never forget. I was worried about who I would meet and who I would be sharing a room with. What if we just didn’t get on? But as soon as I stepped in the room, we clicked instantly, and I now can’t imagine my life without her. The friends you make along the way are so important. We spent every second of the trip together, and late at night, when we both fancied a sweet treat, a 7/11 trip was something we would never say no to.
As well as the other people on the trip, our local Thai guide made our experience even more special. She was so kind, patient, and genuinely caring, she felt like a best friend or an older sister who was there for us the whole time. She made everything feel easier, and her support made me feel safe and comforted.
Why you should do Camp Thailand:
- It’s not just a holiday; it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
- You’ll meet like-minded people from around the world.
- It’s affordable, well-organised, and truly immersive.
- You’ll come home with stories to tell your future grandchildren.
Experiencing Camp Thailand is a truly unique way to immerse yourself in authentic Thai culture while surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You will have the chance to learn a variety of new skills, from Muay Thai and kayaking to traditional Thai cooking classes. You’ll connect with local communities through responsible tourism initiatives, gaining insight into daily life while supporting sustainable practices. Whether it’s hiking through lush jungles, relaxing with yoga and spa treatments, or taking a long-tail boat ride to hidden islands, Camp Thailand offers the perfect balance of adventure, wellness, and personal growth. It’s an unforgettable experience that allows you to disconnect from your everyday life and then return home with new skills, fresh perspectives, and memories that last a lifetime.
One of the best things about Camp Thailand is how flexible it is. You can choose a trip that suits exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re interested in working with children, spending time with elephants, relaxing on tropical islands, or immersing yourself in Thai culture, there is a trip designed for you. Plus, you can decide how long you want to stay, with options ranging from 12 to 21 days. It’s perfect whether you’re looking for a quick adventure or a meaningful few weeks abroad and opens up opportunities to travel after with more confidence. You can shape your trip based on your interests, comfort level, and availability. The accommodation is also one of the best parts. You’ll stay in nice, comfortable hotels that come with all the essentials: air conditioning, WiFi, and even a pool. Breakfast is also included, so you’ll start each day with a good meal.
Camp Thailand truly changed me in ways I never expected. I came in feeling shy and unsure, worried about certain things and stepping out of my comfort zone, especially since I had never even been on a plane alone before. But being part of a group made all the difference. The team helped me every step of the way, from finding flights and insurance to meeting me at the airport when I arrived, so I didn’t have to worry about a thing the entire trip. I quickly made friends who supported me, and I went from being anxious about teaching to loving every moment of it. This experience opened my eyes to the joy of travel and connection, and I’m now inspired and excited to explore even more of the world on my own.
If you’re dreaming of travelling but don’t know where to start, especially if you’re going solo. Camp Thailand is perfect. It gives you the freedom to travel without the stress and offers you an experience of a lifetime. Trust me, you won’t regret it!!