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Orphanage - Thailand - Volunteer reviews
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Sam - 2012
How is your first week at the orphanage going?
“We are both really loving spending our time here! It took us a day to settle in and work out how things work etc, but we now feel part of the family. We have been kept very busy doing a variety of activities. We have been to the beach with the kids, played with them and helped out with some homework and English lessons. When the kids have been at school we have been either doing some chores around the orphanage or helping out in the kitchen. We have also been helping to build a wall and to paint the newly constructed bakery which has been hard work during the mid-day sun!
Next week we are hopefully going into the school to help with an English lesson, which we are both looking forward to. The kids and staff here have been really welcoming and are great to be around, they have so much energy. It’s been great getting to know them all. There are several other volunteers here as well, which has been lovely. Our first week has flown by and I think we will be sad to leave next week!”
Natalie - 2011
“I found this placement so rewarding, it's amazing how happy these children can be when they have so little, and they each have their own personalities. Every child was so polite and grateful. Every single child made you feel welcomed - and they each would come out of their shells at different times. So each day you would get to know a different child - and their quirks. Definitely a good project to be a part of.”
What did you find most rewarding?
“Watching the children have fun - doing the simplest of things. Also spending the evenings with them, and have them teach us Thai after we'd been helping them with their homework.”
What did you find most challenging?
“I found the language barrier hard - when children became close to you. The fact you couldn't speak to them when they were upset was hard - but I managed to find ways through colouring and drawing pictures to cheer them up.”
Rose - 2011
“My time in the orphanage in Phang Nga in Thailand was a fantastic experience; I will remember the time I spent there for the rest of my life. The children and adults who work there could not be more kind and generous; within hours of arriving the children were playing with me, asking for pigg-backs and chasing me round the garden! It was like they had known me for years! This project is good for a first-time experience as the orphanage is not at all dilapidated and we lived in comfort. The children are well fed and go to school, there is internet access, showers (albeit with only cold water) and transport. If you want a hardcore poverty-stricken placement this is not for you, but if, like me, you want to experience Thai culture, get to know some wonderful children and basically have an 'adventure', this placement would be perfect.”
Please describe a typical day at the project
“Weekends and weekdays are very different. The children get up at 6am on a weekday (or earlier), no one tells volunteers to get up but I usually set my alarm so I could help out with chores before the children leave for school at 8 - serving breakfast, sweeping leaves and helping set up the bakery. While the children are at school there isn't much to do, laundry is a big task which takes a lot of time, but other than that there isn't much until the kids get in from school. Take a good book with you! However, on the weekend you may go with the children to the local temple or beach, or learn to make banana bread! When I was there I borrowed the children's bikes, and rode to the Lumpee Waterfall for the afternoon. That was AMAZING; we swam in the river directly beneath the waterfall, it was absolutely beautiful. I also accompanied the staff to the local shopping centre, and went for a little walk myself during the day. When the children are at home time is spent playing with them, talking English with the older children, occasionally helping to cook meals, and tidying/cleaning.”
What did you find most rewarding?
“Talking to the children, and just generally experiencing a totally different culture. Thai people are so friendly and respectful, and Thai food is so good!”
What did you find most challenging?
“The weather - I went in monsoon season and there was really bad flooding. It rained constantly for the first week but with hindsight it just added to the experience. The language barrier could be difficult but mostly we coped fine, using actions and a mixture of Thai and English words. I learnt a few useful phrases, most importantly 'abnam' which we would yell at the top of our voices (it means 'shower time'!)”
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
“Email PoD in advance and ask them if they need anything - I brought lots of pens and pencils but they had plenty of these already. Also, bring books or other things to do with yourself during the day; if you have a laptop bring it as there is free wireless. Ensure you bring conservative clothing - Thai's don't wear vest tops or anything shorter than knee length. Don't waste money on a rabies jab - they don't have rabies in this region, nor malaria. But bring mosquito spray and some sort of anti-itch cream for bites. You really don't need much money at all if you are just staying at the orphanage; I spent less than £30 in two weeks. Plan English lessons and games in advance, and bring the stuff you will need to put these in place.”
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
“It will teach you about another culture, introduce you to amazing people and give you a new view on what is important in life.”
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
“PoD look after you at all stages of the project so you feel very safe and it is nice to know you won't be left alone if anything goes wrong. I would recommend them to others.”
Olivia - 2011
“Working at the orphanage was one of the most amazing experiences. Everyone there is so welcoming that it feels like you are joining a family straight away. The love care and warmth that Rosa and Root provide for everyone that lives there is touching and truly shows the extent of human compassion. The children are wonderful and intelligent and above all are happy to be part of a family once again. I would really recommend this project to anyone who is thinking of volunteering abroad and I hope to return as soon as I can, I only wish that I had stayed longer!”
Please describe a typical day at the project
“During the day whilst the children were at school we helped around the orphanage in manual labour. We did the washing, cleaning, ironing, construction, helped in the bakery, learnt to cook thai food and any other jobs that needed help. 2 days a week we went to the school to help teach english which was so fun to see the difference in education. When the children came home from school we taught them english, helped with homework and played games with the children. On the weekend we went out with the children such as the beach or to Buddhist temples.”
What did you find most rewarding?
“I found that teaching the children was the most rewarding aspect of the volunteering as the children were so keen to learn. At the same time we could learn Thai!”
What did you find most challenging?
“At first the language barrier seemed the most challenging aspect of the project however as the days went on we realised that this became less important. When interacting with the children actions, facial expressions and games proved just as important!”
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
“Bring lots of insect repellent as there are many mosquitoes in the evening!”
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
“If you want an experience that is both fulfilling but also fun then this orphanage is definitely the right place.”
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
“I searched the internet for non-profit organisations and this one seemed both professional and adventurous.”
Phoebe - 2011
"My time at the orphanage was definitely eye opening for me. It helped me to see how another family and another culture completely, lived. I learnt a lot whilst I was there, in a way that I couldn't have learnt in any other way. Gai and Sam were so welcoming and the work they do there is amazing. I left feeling as if I wanted to tell the whole world about what they do so that they can catch a break and finally do all of the things they want to do. It was great meeting and getting to know the children and I formed close bonds with lots of them so it was very sad for me to leave. They are such happy children and they do have a great life, its amazing how much you can communicate without speech! I think if you are interested in making a difference to these people and this orphanage and would like to see how another family and culture live then this is the project for you."
"I found interacting with the children the most rewarding experience of my time at the orphanage. Without speech and the same language it is very hard to communicate but sometimes you dont need speech. That really amazed me and I loved messing around with them saying the odd thai word mixed with a few English words."
"You should definitely volunteer abroad because you learn so much about how other people live and it broadens your mind without you even realising it. You learn so much about a different way of life and you learn so much about yourself too. Its completely out of most peoples comfort zones which is why its good, you gain more self confidence too!"
Laura - 2011
"I had what I can only describe as an absolutely incredible experience at Phang Na Orphanage, Thailand. I was nervous about going there that they would be a 'tight knit' family, due to it being a relatively small orphanage and I wouldn't fit in, but I couldn't have been more wrong. I was so welcomed and made to feel like a new member of the family as the children were so friendly and an absolute pleasure to be around. I feel very lucky and honoured to have been a part of something so special and hope to go back soon."
Please describe a typical day at the project
"The children go to school and from about 8am - 3pm and in that time you may be given a project to do. These were things to help the orphanage and in my time there I cleaned, tidied, worked in the garden building signs, making cement, digging and on 'market days' I would also help in the bakery to make the cakes. However, if there was no specific jobs that needed doing the owner was very happy for volunteers to spend a couple of hours at the nearby beach. When the children got home they would sometimes play in the river by the orphanage, do their homework, painting, card games and it was up to you what you wanted to get involved in. Evening meal was around 6pm and after that the children are normally in the activity room where they finish their homework and then enjoy looking at books with volunteers, where the children love to learn English words. When it is time for bed you ensure all children have brushed their teeth and then spend the rest of the evening with the adults at the orphanage. At the weekends or days the children weren’t at school we would normally go on a day trip to the beach or the local waterfall where we would stay for most of the day playing with the children."
What did you find most rewarding?
"I found being with the children incredibly rewarding in itself. I loved spending time with them, playing games, teaching them English words, singing, dancing and having fun. They made me appreciate my life in England so much more than they will ever know. I will definitely be going back in hopefully the not to distant future and would love to see how they’ve all grown."
What did you find most challenging?
"The most challenging bit would have been the language barrier, which for most of the time was not even an issue. I found it quite entertaining at times to try and describe what you meant using facial expressions and hand gestures. Although if it ever got too tough there was an adult there who spoke both English and Thai and would always help to translate what you were trying to say to the children if necessary. It was also quite a challenge trying to get used to eating so much rice and noodles!"
Were there any aspects of the placement which you would like to see improved?
"I thought the placement was amazing and I am in awe of the incredible work they are doing over there and therefore wouldn't want to interfere by changing anything that they are currently doing."
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
"Fantastic experience, I would recommend it to everyone. Don't think you're not brave enough, might not enjoy it, not sure if it's for you, just do it - best thing I ever did."
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
"Definitely!"
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
"I chose PoD as I found them on the internet and saw they had a lot of followers on Facebook and that a lot of people had recommended them. I have already recommended my friend to go with PoD as I felt they were very helpful in helping me to organise my trip."
Tim Peugniez - 2011
"I had a unique and enjoyable experience of Thailand while volunteering at Takua Pa orphanage. The children were really good fun, affectionate and full of personality, and it was wonderful to get to know them all. Sam & Gai were great hosts and the home-cooked Thai food was delicious. I joined-in wherever I could, playing football with the kids, taking them swimming in the sea, helping out in the garden, chopping and stripping bamboo for construction and visiting the local markets. There was a lot of spare time, particularly when the children were at school during the day. The attitude was very laid back, which was a challenge for me to adjust to: I wanted to be doing something useful every minute, but Sam seemed reluctant to delegate tasks and work stopped altogether whenever it became too hot or too wet, which was most of the time! However anyone who enjoys working with children and has a creative imagination for activities and games will find this a really rewarding project, and the children will love you! Many thanks to Beth and PoD for arranging this opportunity at short notice."
Please describe a typical day at the project
"There was no routine imposed except for mealtimes. On some days we went to the beach, or the waterfall or local markets, so each one was different. In the mornings, around 7am, I tried to help Sam with whatever he was doing. He does most of his manual work early, before it gets hot. During the day there was a lot of spare time when it was hard to find useful work to do. Sometimes we went to the market or shops. In the afternoon and evenings, after the children returned from school we often played games or football with them. While I was there, afternoon thunderstorms usually appeared around 4pm so we’d huddle indoors and watch TV or play games. Once we played football in the pouring rain - but rain or sun made no difference, either way you came out soaked!"
What did you find most rewarding?
"Certainly the most rewarding part was interacting with the children and getting to know them individually. At first they were shy but within a few days they all became playful and affectionate. Taking them swimming at the beach was a highlight."
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
"Plan lots of indoor and outdoor activities for the children and bring any materials you need (you probably can’t get them there). Board games, crafts and sports are all popular. Remember you won’t be able to communicate the rules, so you’ll have to explain by example!"
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
"I would absolutely recommend volunteering as an alternative to the usual tourist route – it gives you an opportunity to see a different and deeper side to the country, become involved in the lives of real people and make a positive contribution."
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
"I was looking for a responsible organisation working for the long-term benefit of the projects they support. I found PoD in a Career Break guide and they fitted the bill perfectly. They were able to set up my placement at short notice with minimum of fuss. I would certainly recommend PoD to others."
Any other comments?
"Many thanks to Beth at PoD for organising my placement quickly, and to Sam & Gai for their hospitality and delicious food – aroy mak! I had a wonderful time in Thailand and I'll really miss all the kids at the orphanage."
Tara Leneghan - 2011
"My time with the orphanage was by far the highlight of my trip! The kids are absolutely fantastic....I miss them soooo much!"
Please describe a typical day at the project
"The days vary - just whatever needs doing at the time. Sometimes construction work, gardening, teaching the kids different skills, going to the local school to help out with classes, etc etc!"
What did you find most rewarding?
"Every aspect of my time there was rewarding!"
What did you find most challenging?
"The heat!"
Were there any aspects of the placement which you would like to see improved?
"I hope the orphanage can raise enough money to build the restaurant they were thinking about."
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
"Just keep an open mind. Also, don’t expect your day to be filled from 8am til 5pm! Thai people are very laid back. It’s strange how you need to learn to chill!"
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
"An amazing experience - you get to live with people from that country which is a great cultural experience!"
Lynsey and Fraser - 2010
"We were blown away by our experience at the orphanage. The warmth and generosity of the children and staff was overwhelming and humbling especially given we were only there for a week. The kids are the most endearing I have come across and it was with a heavy heart that we had to leave. We most definitely hope to return as it exceeded our expectations in every way. The placement gave a great insight into Thai culture and provided us with a broad range of experiences from helping in the bakery, taking the children to the beach, to building tables and celebrating a birthday with a traditional pan BBQ. Amazing..if you get the chance, do it! Many thanks to Beth and the Team."
Please describe a typical day at the project
"There was no typical day as we did a variety of tasks on a day to day basis. This included anything from; teaching English at the school, baking, building, playing games with the kids or taking them to the beach."
What did you find most rewarding?
"Being able to build a relationship with the children in such a short space of time despite the language barrier. The children have the most amazing personalities and were so warm and loving towards us within such a short space of time..a special experience."
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
"You need to be open minded and used to the outdoors. There are lots of weird and wonderful bugs, no hot water and some rather unpleasant smells. But they pale into insignificance when you meet the children."
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
"It all adds to life experience, something you will never forgot and talk about for years to come. It's the sense of doing something worthwhile and it certainly puts things into perspective. We've donated money to orphanage instead of exchanging Christmas presents. A must do experience for everybody!"
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
"It was very last minute and we weren't sure whether any placements would accommodate us for only a week so it was by chance we came across Pod on a google search and it was the first one we applied to. We have already recommended PoD to friends and family."
Ashley - 2010
"I had such an amazing time at the orphanage in Thailand. I highly recommend it to everyone. Everyone was so lovely and welcoming and made me feel like part of the family. I can't wait to go back and visit next year to see how all the children are progressing!"
Please describe a typical day at the project
"I woke up to a beautiful breakfast of freshly cooked muffins and bread. Then I would help out during the day with whatever I could. Usually its manual labour, like helping build a wall or a new area for the children. A couple of days I went to the school with the children and helped them in their english class. When school was over the children came back to the orphanage and I played with them and spent time with them before having dinner. Lunch and dinner is always delicious, the food is amazing! After dinner I helped out with homework and played for a little while more before going to bed."
What did you find most rewarding?
"Everyone at the orphanage was so grateful for whatever I did which really inspired me. Even if I only did something as small as helping with homework, the children were so happy when it was complete it made me feel like I really was making a difference. I put in a lot of effort when doing manual labour jobs, it was so hot and i was sweating profusely but I kept on going until the job was done and I was so proud of myself when the job was finished. Building is something I'd never do at home so doing that for someone else who is worse off than I am was very rewarding and I now know I am capable of making concrete from scratch, mixing it up and building a wall!"
What did you find most challenging?
"I found the language barrier the most challenging part of the whole experience. The children knew very little English so during the first week I was questioning whether or not I wanted to be there and if I could help at all. The staff spoke near perfect English and they were so comforting and helpful towards me that after 2 weeks I didn't want to leave! Everyone is so caring and I learnt that even though we don’t speak the same language, we still care for each other and can become a family."
Were there any aspects of the placement which you would like to see improved?
"I think the placement was near perfect!"
Did you have any incidents, problems or accidents while on the placement?
"No"
What advice would you give others considering doing this placement?
"Anyone and everyone who is considering doing something like this, do it! I believe everyone should volunteer overseas at least once in their life, its so rewarding and amazing."
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad?
"You learn so much about others and about yourself. This has been something I always wanted to do but I never thought I could because of money and because I wasn’t sure how I would go travelling overseas by myself. This is affordable and rewarding. I had no trouble being by myself, everyone was so helpful and friendly you forget that your so far away from your family. Everyone needs to do this at least once in your life. I feel I have grown so much from helping others."
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend us to others?
"I chose PoD because it was affordable and because most of the money goes towards the project you are travelling too. Other companies charge a lot of money and none of it goes towards at the people who need it the most."
Any other comments?
"Thank you so much! Especially to Beth from PoD who helped me organise my trip. She was so helpful and caring, and really made sure everything was perfect before I left, while I was there, and after I returned."
Dino - 2010
"A really enjoyable and varied placement. It was a great opportunity to help out at a very worthwhile project and to meet some wonderful local people. It's worth trying to learn even 1 or 2 phrases in Thai beforehand, as people really appreciate it.
After the kids had gone to school, the rest of the morning and early afternoon was sent helping out on one of the projects at the Orphanage (ether helping with construction, working in the garden where they grow their own vegetables and herbs or the baking which they sell to provide some income). After the children return from school around 3.30pm, a few hours are spent with them, playing with them, helping them get ready for the next day and helping with their homework. There is some flexibility; for example an afternoon could be spent relaxing at the local waterfall or a morning spent going to the market with the cook.
The fact that even though I was only here for 1 week, I felt that I was able to contribute, both during the day on the construction projects and also later on with the children. Helping them with their maths was particularly enjoyable, given their enthusiasm for it.
It's a great opportunity to develop personally and experience things you may not otherwise get a chance to do. It also provides a better feel of local life than a regular holiday. It's also a great feeling when you know that you have put a smile on someone's face!"
Rachel - 2010
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the orphanage in Thailand! The children were full of life and laughter and made my experience what it was. Brilliant food and accommodation, both of which made the stay that little bit easier, as it can be a daunting prospect arriving in a foreign country by yourself! I was involved in various projects, anything from teaching English in schools, building, helping with daily chores and of course keeping the children entertained! All in all a brilliant experience and one that I wont forget!
I really loved teaching English to the kids in the orphanage and in the schools. In particular, one of the elder girls wanted to get into the hotel industry and so needed to improve her English language. I spent quite a lot of time with her doing role plays and speaking English. Knowing i was helping with something that would ultimately better her future was really rewarding.
It is definitely a worthy experience, not only for personal growth and development but being able to see another culture from the inside rather than as a tourist. Similarly, the benefit you can bring to another community makes it worthwhile in itself."
Janine - 2010
"It is so amazing here. Everybody is just so friendly and nice and I feel good!
Great experience and everybody is just part of the life there. Good chance to see different things and cultures.
Would you recommend PoD to others? Yes I would!"
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