CHAPTER FOUR
Chiang Mai , Thailand It was a wonderful week filled with new insights and experiences where the team learnt how to build infrastructure through the use of Adobe Bricks and how to consider the implications of our actions on the environment . Upon our arrival at Earth Home in our Homestay village , we were warmly welcomed by our homestay parents who took care of us and fed us with delicious and lovingly cooked meals every day .
Most of the mornings and afternoons were spent working on the project though we did have time to explore other areas such as meditation , yoga , permaculture and more . Our World Volunteer representatives were always ready to help and participate in all the activities and with the wise insights of Pie and Tony ( the local guides ) we learnt much more about the Thai culture and way of life . This trip was one to remember and the friendships forged will continue in our memories for years to come .
A wish upon a lantern at the Loi Krathong Festival
Departure
Chiang Rai , Thailand Upon arrival to Chiang Rai airport , we took an hour and a half van ride through the mountains to reach the Mae Kok River Village resort , situated at the edge of the Burmese border .
We paid a visit to the Faith Village , a safe haven for children who are orphaned , abused , in danger or have been trafficked for child prostitution or slave labour , and forced into rebel armies . In the morning , we attended a church service with the kids in the village , and some of us even taught them English . In the afternoon , we played some games with them that we organised before- hand , such as football , chapteh and five stones . More importantly , we got to interact with these kids and have a good time with them .
Making the mud
For the next three days , we spent our days doing construction . The canteen in the Ban Huaykokmhoo School , located in hills , was in a dire state and in need of replacing . We were part of a project to build a new canteen for the kids in the school . Our job during the construction was to dig the foundations , erect pillars , make and pour concrete . Despite the scorching sun , we managed to achieve our goals and set the stage for the next school to take over on the project .
On our second last day , we brought the children from the different villages and schools around the area to Chiang Rai city . Our first stop was Singha Park , where we did different activities with the children like cycling , walking around and enjoying the sights . After lunch , we visited the White Temple , a notable attraction in Chiang Rai . We then brought the children to shop and eat at a large shopping centre , and played games at the arcade . The journey back from the city was a sad one , as we had to say goodbye to our Thai friends we had made through the trip .
76 ST JOSEPH ’ S INSTITUTION