Thai Language and Culture

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You can easily get by in Thailand speaking only English. But it's important to at least make an effort to learn the language, if only to show that you've tried.

This effort shows a deference and respect to the local culture and to our Thai hosts. While living with the tribe, we find knowing a little Thai helps us make connections.

Since our students speak English, they are able to communicate almost anywhere in the world by speaking only one language; this is not the experience of most people.

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Having to communicate in a new language is helpful to understanding a piece of the lives of most people outside of the United States.

We'll pick up some Thai words and phrases while we are at the Elephant Nature Park in the first week. They sure come in handy while volunteering for an afternoon at the local school nearby!

Meeting these students is an amazing experience, as communication hinges on a lot of pointing and drawing and sculpting... and laughing.

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Having two full-time Thai staff is an open window into Thai culture, and students are encouraged to ask them questions. And being in Chiang Mai for 4 weeks means that we can practice our limited Thai language skills and get comfortable with the customs of the Kingdom.