starfish brochure 2013 - starfish adventure · we will do anything and everything to prepare you...

thailand * sri lanka * india

brochure 2013

why starfish?

Starfish Volunteers specialises in supporting development projects in SE Asia through the placement of foreign volunteers, delivering financial aid and providing expertise and project management. We have a long-term commitment to each of our projects, not only providing volunteers but also financial support to achieve particular goals. Starfish works in partnership with the local organisations to continuously understand and prioritise the changing needs of the communities, providing knowledge, volunteers and financial help in tandem to ensure demonstrable, lasting change.

The best choice forpeople who wish to make a difference,

we welcome first time travelers and experienced backpackers too.

Our volunteers are the best in the world and choose Starfish because we offer the greatest experience at the best prices.

Dream house/Building Volunteer Sarah Mckenzie

learned how our children’s

home works not only to protect vulnerable children but to develop communities to sustain themselves.

Alone or a group of friends? Universities, schools or colleges? young or old?

We welcome and support everyone, every step of the way!

advice from people

just like youour in country team of young intrepid

travellers were just like you at one point so are the best people to speak to for some

great advice and tips

a placement for youwe are proud of the projects we run and are

very confident that no matter what your passion, skill or ability we will find the perfect

placement for you.

low pricesvery simple really, we don’t whack on huge

profit making charges. our projects can only work with people like you working on them.

no hidden costswhat you see is what you get. a very low

deposit to secure you placement.

quality pre departure info

we will do anything and everything to prepare you for your trip so that you can spend more

time worrying about how to get on that elephant.

travellers hotlinewe work non-stop to ensure your safety so any problems we have an amazing team of

people 24/7 to support you.

parents love starfishwe know that first leap into the unknown can be a little daunting, more so for the parents

than the traveller, on request parents can receive extra contact information or a chat.

charity statusunlike other travel companies we are a

registered charity in Thailand, USA and the U.K

Speak to a human

Skype Steve!

stephen.williams1101

Sarah Mckenzie Childcare 2012

www.starfishvolunteers.com +44 20 8133 5191

http://www.starfishvolunteers.com


thailand The 1st choice for most travelers.

Islands, mountains, jungles and rivers. This country has it all. We love it.

And you will too.The Starfish story began in Thailand in 2003, this is where our

heart is with most of our projects having their origins here.

available projects

TeachingWorking in rural thailand helping raise the level of english in local communities.

ChildcareHelping communities support themselves by supporting childcare centers.

BuildingDevelopment projects that create sustainable solutions.

ElephantsProviding care to the nations most revered animal.

Dream HouseHelp us build a home for up to 70 stateless children.

HealthcareQualified and Student nurses and doctors working on our outreach and other medical projects.

Thai-lights *Bangkok, an incredible city famous for it’s nightlife, culture and food.*Food, Thai food is wonderfully rich in flavour, colour, spice and burn.*Smile, The people of Thailand are famous for being relaxed, happy and always smiling.

fun facts It is the only country in Southeast Asia that was never colonized by a European nation.

Thailand shares a border with four countries: Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the north and west, Laos to the north and east, Cambodia to the southeast, and Malaysia to the south.

All Thai young men including the kings become Buddhist monks for at least a short period of time before their 20th birthday.

Medicine man Hoo Sateow from Thailand has the world’s documented longest hair at 16' 11" long. He says his hair “keeps him nice and warm.

One-tenth of all animal species on Earth live in Thailand.

Thailand’s and the world’s longest reigning monarch is Bhumibol Adulyadej, who became King Rama IX in June 1946. He was born in the U.S. in 1927 when his father was studying medicine at Harvard. He owns a patent on a form of cloud seeding and holds a degree in engineering from Switzerland. He also plays the sax and composed Thailand’s national anthem.

*Pre-departure support.

*24-hour emergency contact numbers

*Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)

*Daily transfers (excluding India).

*Accompanied transfer to your chosen project location

*Arrival orientation

*Daily support from Starfish coordinators and translators

*Safe and clean twin share accommodation

*Welcome meeting

*Location orientation

*Financial donation to your chosen project

*All necessary project training by experienced staff

*All necessary project equipment and materials (unless stated otherwise)

*24-hour in-country support

*Complete immersion in the local culture

*Local language lessons

*Learn how to cook a number of tasty local dishes.

what’s included

Wat Arun is among the best known of Thailand' s landmarks. The temple is so named because the first light of the morning reflects off the surface of the temple with pearly iridescence.




sri lanka The undiscovered gem of Asia.

Everything Thailand has to offer but with less tourists!

New York Times top destination for 2012On visiting Sri Lanka you are immediately taken back in time

to a world where the ‘jungle book’ was born.

available projects

TeachingWorking in rural communities helping raise the level of English.


Highlights *Lush Lush Lush, SL is a Jurassic Park esque island with so much wildlife.*Beaches, beautiful white sandy beaches.*People, similar to Thais. Sri Lankans are known to be open and friendly to anyone visiting their island.

fun facts Sri Lanka is often known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

The world famous writer Michael Ondaatje comes from Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is the world’s largest tea exporter.

Sri Lanka was the first country in the world to have a democratically elected head of state who was a woman.

Sri Lankas national flag is considered to be one of the oldest flags in the world.

There are eleven universities located in Sri Lanka.

The spice cinnamon originated in Sri Lanka and was discovered by the Egyptians.:The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee.

Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon before 1972









*Welcome meeting









what’s included

When the Sri Lankan elephant calf is first born, it weighs about 100 kg, and is cared for not only by it' s mother by also by other female Sri Lankan elephants in the herd known as aunties.


http://a-z-animals.com/animals/elephant/






india Rich in colour and culture.

India is as diverse as it is vast. You will leave this place beaming,

with a lifetime of memories.India is quickly becoming one of the most powerful countries in the world, but a huge part of it’s population is getting left behind

available projects

TeachingWorking in rural thailand helping raise the level of english in local communities.


BuildingDevelopment projects that create sustainable solutions.

HealthcareStudent and qualified nurses and other healthcare professionals work within local medical centers, outreach programs and clinics to deliver essential care.

Highlights *Food, some of the best in the world. Just be careful of the calories.*Variety, rich in culture and heritage, every corner, street or province is steeped in vibrant colour.*McLeod Ganj, the seat of the exiled Tibetan government. Simply mystical with the Himalayas as a backdrop

fun facts India is the largest democracy in the world.

Many Indians find toilet paper repellent and consider it cleaner to splash water with the left hand in the appropriate direction. Consequently, the left hand is considered unclean and is never used for eating.

More than a million Indians are millionaires, yet most Indians live on less than two dollars a day. An estimated 35% of India’s population lives below the poverty line.

Cows can be found freely wandering the streets of India’s cities. They are considered sacred and will often wear a tilak, a Hindu symbol of good fortune. Cows are considered one of humankind’s seven mothers because they offer milk as does one’s natural mother.

In India, the fold and color of clothing are viewed as important markers of social classification. Additionally, a woman will be viewed as either a prostitute or a holy person depending on the manner in which she parts her hair.









*Welcome meeting









what’s included

The construction of the Taj Mahal ताज महल began around

1632 and was completed around 1653, employing thousands of artisans and craftsmen.




childcare Providing care to local children

allows families to work and support themselves. Learning through play.

Micro-development projects Childcare is one of our most popular projects. Lots of playing, a little bit of teaching and a development project. Best of all worlds

Childcare volunteer, Rachel

Jones, felt part of the

community when he helped out at one of our childcare centers. Without these centers parents would not be able to support their families.

2 to 12 weeksFrom £375

The childcare philosophy centers around giving the community a voice and to take care of their immediate needs, while providing training and opportunities to make informed choices for a better future. We partner with local schools, orphanages, and vocational training centres to help children at all stages of development. The volunteers will be involved with the children in various games and learning exercises to create interest, develop their physical health and potential, as well as assisting with school work and extra-curricular activities. These venues are all in need of renovation and repair. Many groups undertake development in conjunction with their childcare volunteering.

What to Expect*Hugs, and lots of them!*Learning through play.*To help develop clean, friendly and safe environments.*The best chorus to 'Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes' ever.

Feedback“I had such an amazing time on my Childcare project. The good thing about this project was that I could play games with the kids, teach them a little English” Lucy Field Childcare 2012

Rachel Jones Childcare 2012


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* dates for India may vary.

Arrival DatesJan 4thFeb 1stMar 1stApr 5thMay 3rdJun 7thJul 5thAug 2ndSep 6thOct 4th Nov 1stDec 6th



teaching Rule number 1: “You don’t have to be a teacher,

to teach.” Become part of a school.

Teach basic English and make a real difference.Our staff are with you every step of the way, from planning your first class to taking pictures of your last tearful day with the kids.

By learning basic English the future of these children becomes increasingly more positive with job opportunities becoming more available. Something we take for granted, they certainly do not.

2 to 12 weeksFrom £375Jan 4thFeb 1stMar 1stApr 5thMay 3rdJun 7thJul 5thAug 2ndSep 6thOct 4th Nov 1stDec 6th

Join our volunteer teaching programs and teach English to some of the friendliest and welcoming children you will ever meet. As a volunteer teacher you will have the opportunity to teach in orphanages, primary schools & secondary schools, as well as teaching children with special needs. Whether on a gap year, presently studying, a mature volunteer or looking for an alternative holiday you can make a real difference as a volunteer teacher. The majority of our volunteers work in primary schools teaching children aged between 6 and 12 years old. For those experienced teachers, it may be possible to arrange placements in secondary schools, teaching adults or even teaching children with disabilities. Unlike schools in the west there are no special classes for children with learning difficulties. By becoming a volunteer teacher you will give these children the opportunity to learn English with a native speaker. A competency in English opens so many more doors later in life. With tourism being the No1 industry in these three countries many of the large hotel and tour operators demand a certain level of written and spoken English. All international companies with operations in these countries expect the same. By learning and discovering English these children have their first step on a real ladder to success.

What to Expect* More than thirty beaming smiles in every class!* Appreciative and excited students who want to learn.* Fun and games with fascinating kids from many diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.* Warm-fuzzy feelings when they just finally 'get it'.

Feedback“I have no previous experience of teaching and before I started was pretty daunted. But there was nothing to worry about as the coordinators are brilliant” Ben Beaumont Teaching 2012

Lisa Kent Teaching 2012


be the difference* dates for India may vary.



healthcare Open to healthcare students and professionals

from all fields of medicine. Work in rural communities providing essential care

through outreach projects, clinics and hospitals.We work with communities and listen to their needs. Only then can we guarantee a sustainable solution to their issues.

Dan Bressington realised the value of his skills when on our

outreach program in rural Thailand helping those who otherwise would not receive

any medical attention.

In developing countries the two areas of everyday life that suffer the most are education and healthcare. Both areas that we take granted very much go hand in hand. Without healthcare education, individuals often make the wrong choices, bringing unnecessary suffering on themselves and their loved ones. By working in these communities our medical volunteers can not only help to diagnose and treat illness and ailments, but also educate these people on why they have become sick, pulled a muscle or are feeling run-down. In addition to the clinics, our volunteers also have the opportunity to work within the communities often visiting the homes of sick individuals or attending a heath check-up centre at a community centre. This is a very popular area of our health work as volunteers get to experience exactly what it takes to survive in a poor rural area, meet communities and get up close and personal with patients. It is also possible to visit one of the local hospitals to observe their daily working schedules. Medical and nursing students must have completed at least their first year of university to qualify for this project. The more experienced and qualified a volunteer, the more ‘hands-on’ the work will be. We also welcome groups of medical and nursing students and can arrange projects to suit most learning outcomes and elective placement requirements. Available all year-round in all locations, volunteers on this project will have an incredible experience, guaranteed.

What to Expect* First hand experience in your chosen field of study.* Credit towards your university course.* Working within local communities to provide essential medical care that would otherwise be unavailable.* Working on community outreach projects, rural medical clinics and busy hospitals.* Learning new skills, teaching new skills.

Feedback“I volunteered as a physiotherapist at Prasat Hospital with Starfish. I have just recently qualified and found the whole experience to be amazing. ” Mark White Healthcare 2012


Dan Bressington Healthcare 2012


communityoutreach

* dates for India may vary.



elephants Without you our elephants would be on the

streets begging for money . Our volunteers ensure a happy life

for these amazing animals.And just like the elephants you will never every forget.

We have two unique projects in Thailand.

It’s a girl!!!In November 2012 one of our lady elephants gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! Experts

claim this is proof of our successful program in

Thailand. Come out and meet the little one.

Our elephant projects in Thailand help protect the nations most revered animal. These beautiful beasts are integral to the tradition and culture of every Thai. Recently the Government of Thailand has been doing more to protect these animals but the reality is that without organisations like Starfish these elephants would be used on the streets of busy cities to beg for money and often worse. We have two elephant projects with very different approaches, but the same conclusion, happy and protected elephants. Why not try our 4 week ultimate elephant adventure and experience both projects.

What to Expect* Living amongst elephants.* Working within a small rural community.* Learning how to handle these amazing creatures.* More face to trunk time than you could ever

imagine.* Meeting our new baby elephant!* Becoming a fully trained Mahout (Elephant

handler) ** Chiang Mai only.* Accommodation and meals included (meals when

on project location)Feedback“My 4 week stay with Starfish on their elephant project was by far the most exhilarating, worthwhile and meaningingful time of my life.” Wendy Reece Elephants 2012


Jan 4thFeb 1stMar 1stApr 5thMay 3rdJun 7thJul 5th

Aug 2ndSep 6thOct 4th Nov 1stDec 6th

chiang mai

surin

www.starfishvolunteers.com +44 20 8133 5191live amongst them



building Our building projects mean so muchto the communities we help support.

These projects strike at the heart of sustainable development.

Our development projects not only support local communities but also create a sustainable solution to their needs.

Man woman or child, young or old skilled or novice. We are of the opinion if you have hands you can dig, paint, lay, lift, plant and dig some more. If you have no hands you can use your feet.


If you’re the type of person who wants to get really stuck in, get their hands

dirty and really make a difference then this is the project for you. Right now we

have two building projects in two very different locations. Building volunteers need no experience or qualifications in

any aspect of construction. Just a willingness to get stuck in and work

hard is all you need.

What to Expect* Getting your hands dirty.* Blisters.* A sense of achievement when after a week you can see all the work your have completed.* Beaming smiles from the locals you are helping.* Opportunities to learn local craftsmanship and

skills.* Did we mention dirty? Bring your oldest smelliest

clothing. This is no catwalk...although people do try.

Feedback“Can honestly say this was the best month of my life. Being able to be a part of this programme was just the best feeling” Fran Mordant Building 2012


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dream projectThe dream project is our very own children’s home

that aims to protect those at risk from child trafficking through community development.

Starfish provides volunteers to aid in that developmentFor more information about how to get involved in the dream project you should check out their website dreamprojectfondation.org

Not only is DREAM project foundation an anti-trafficking

organisiation but together with Starfish 100% supports 38

‘stateless’ children on the border of Thailand and

Myanmar. Big pat on the back for us.

So how can you help? Well, there are two ways you can directly help out with this project right now; physically and

financially. The cost to build the new DREAM House is being funded directly by our volunteers fees and through

fundraising. If you can’t spare the time to come to Thailand, surround yourself with these children and pick up a spade, don’t fear. Contact us now and one of our team will let you

know how you can make a direct financial donation. 100% of any money you send will be used directly to support the

project. Unlike many other NGO projects, we don’t have any ‘administration’ fees to cover as.

If you feel you do have the time, know your way around a trowel and don’t mind getting an amazing tan, come and

help us build the DREAM House. Your help will make a massive difference regardless of whether you stay for one

week or twelve. You don’t need to be a builder to build. With the help and guidance of locally sourced labourers and the

Starfish team our building volunteers will soon have the basic required skills to make a DREAM become a reality.

Fundraising Ideas.* Speak to your friends, family, work colleagues, neighbours anyone who will listen and think of ways that will be fun and effective. It’s a serious cause but that’s not a reason not to have fun.* We don’t just need your money. Time is equally valuable. Everyone has a skill, be it marketing, accounting, social media etc... Tell us how you think you could be an asset.*Like the Facebook page for more information.

Feedback“Most inspiring children I ever met. After meeting the kids no matter what work Starfish asked of me I was ready to do.” Joe Stomanis DREAM project 2012



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ultimate elephants The ultimate elephant adventure

gives you an in depth look into the elephant culture of Thailand

2 projects 1 country a million memories.You will not find a tour like this on the planet! Making it happen since 2003. Starfish elephant projects!

* Free Transfer between projects.* Free Mahout Handling course.* Food included (on project)* Accommodation included.* Free 2 day jungle Trek

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Day 1. Friday: Arrival, get picked up from the airport and taken to your hotel on the infamous Khaosan road where you will meet the rest of your group.Day 2. Saturday:The grand tour of Bangkok, a unique tour of this amazing city through canals, temples, street food and palaces. After all that in the evening we will welcome you in style to the land of smiles (smiling compulsory).Day 3. Sunday: Transfer to Surin, take a train ride through Thailand’s largest national park, Khao Yai, home to wild elephants. Once you have arrived you will be taken on a tour of the local area and sample the local food.Day 4. Monday: Transfer to the elephant village via a blessing from the local monks at the temple. Our work in this area is highly revered, hence a rare blessing to our volunteers. Tour of the local village and meet the elephants you be spending so much time with.Day 5. Tuesday: Work at elephant village. Note: work at the village varies day to day depending on the needs of the community at the time of your arrival. Work usually consists of the standard washing, bathing, playing, feeding of the elephants but also can involve developing the community, planting food for the elephants, working with the elephant handlers and much more.Day 6. Wednesday: Work at elephant village.Day 7. Thursday: Work at elephant village. Transfer back to Surin town for a long weekend.Day 8. Friday: Free day. Note: Starfish can help you arrange some spectacular short breaks from popping over to Cambodia and visiting the famed Angkor Wat or taking an overnight bus and waking up on a tropical island or just chill and visit some of the amazing places in and around Surin, the choice is yours.Day 9. Saturday: Free dayDay 10. Sunday: Free dayDay 11. Monday: Transfer back to the elephant village for another week of activities.Day 12. Tuesday: Work at elephant village.Day 13. Wednesday: Work at elephant village.Day 14. Thursday: Work at elephant village.Day 15. Friday: Transfer back to town to prepare for the overnight bus to Chiang Mai.Day 16. Saturday: Arrive Chiang Mai. Collected from the bus station. Free day to explore this beautiful, lush city.Day 17. Sunday: Free day.Day 18. Monday: Mahout course, pronounced Ma-hoot is what we call the person who handles the elephants on a day-to-day basis. They see their elephants almost as family, if not more than. You will get an exciting opportunity to become a revered Mahout and help run the elephant camp in Chiang Mai. This is a rare treat for Starfish Volunteers due to out standing in the community.Day 19. Tuesday: Mahout course.Day 20. Wednesday: Work at elephant camp. Note: after your training and 2 weeks in Surin you will be quite used to working with elephants. The elephant camp is a working camp to protect elephants and educate tourists in how we can support the communities. You will be working for the camp, so helping the tourists to understand how elephants work, live, eat and play. Expect to be put through your paces.Day 21. Thursday: Work at elephant camp.Day 22. Friday: Work at elephant camp.Day 23. Saturday: Jungle Trek. This is a special treat just for Starfish Volunteers, a jungle trek through the stunning mountainous region of North Thailand. Chiang Mai is famed for its stunning views which you will get to witness first hand as you spend the night camped out there.Day 24. Sunday: Jungle Trek.Day 25. Monday: Free Day. You probably need a rest after all that. Chill out and try Chiang Mai's famous coffee shops dotted around the city.Day 26. Tuesday: Back to work. Work at elephant camp.Day 27. Wednesday: Work at elephant camp.Day 28. Thursday: Work at elephant camp.Day 29. Friday: Work at elephant camp. Prepare to leave for Bangkok.Day 30. Saturday: Farewell in Bangkok where it all began.

4 weeks£999

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Our ultimate elephant adventure brings together two different approaches to animal

care. Chiang Mai and Surin offer the adventurer a great

introduction to both the country and animal.


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thai intro Only £499 for a great introduction to

volunteering and a deep embrace to Thai culture.

The Thai intro is quickly becoming our most popular project. Why not combine with the India intro to have the complete experience.

Everybody wants to give back, everybody wants to have a

good time so Starfish developed the ‘volun-tour’

where we mix touring, culture and volunteer projects into

one nice big mixing pot of fun and adventure.

Week 1‘Welcome to the kingdom of Thailand’Once you have been picked up by our dedicated team from the airport you will be whisked through the bustling streets of Bangkok to the famous Khaosan road. Here you will get the opportunity to be immersed into the Thai backpacker life embracing all the sights, sounds and smells this city has to offer. The next day you will have a tour of some of the most beautiful and culturally significant locations in the city, including a James Bond style canal boat tour, visiting the most sacred Grand Palace and other ancient temples. In the evening you can let your hair down and enjoy many of the bars and clubs the infamous Khaosan has to offer. ‘The real Thailand’After a crazy few days in the kingdoms capital it is time to discover what makes ‘Thailand Amazing’. Our team will take you on a train journey through the heart of Thailand traveling through national parks where wild elephants can be seen. All the way to Surin, the elephant capital of Thailand. Surin is a small but bustling market town in the North East of Thailand on the border with Cambodia. Upon arrival you will be given a detailed orientation around the town and meet some of the staff and locals who will be looking after you during your stay. ‘Time to get stuck in!’At this point the volunteering begins. You have the option of becoming a teaching or childcare volunteer, both options are very similar with the major difference being the age of the children. If you choose teaching our staff are on hand to help you plan lessons and in the class with you at all times to help translate. There is no pressure on our volunteers, we believe teaching and childcare is based on learning through playing so the only real requirement is that you and the children have fun! English creates amazing opportunities to the people of Thailand, something that we in the West can often take for granted. Your time on the volunteer projects will be most memorable and rewarding, leaving you with classrooms of friends and too many hugs. Week 2‘An elephant adventure’No trip would be complete without a trip to see the most sacred animals in Thailand. You will spend a weekend living in a working elephant village, in the rural countryside about 30km outside Surin. Here you will get to come face to face with these magnificent beasts, experiencing what it is like to live amongst elephants. Trekking, walking, bathing and playing will leave you (like the elephants) with memories you will never forget. ‘Back to school’Continue your volunteering experience with either teaching or childcare. In Surin there are many opportunities to discover a different side to Thailand that many tourists miss by getting out and about visiting night markets and local bars and eateries. ‘Return to the City of Angels’After an emotional farewell from your school or childcare placement you will begin you journey home via Bangkok. Our staff will accompany you back to the capital where you again get to stay on the Khaosan for a final farewell night. The next day our staff will be around to take you back to the airport.

What to Expect* The best of everything, what a tour has to offer to how you can give back by volunteering.* A weekend with our elephants.* Guided every step of the way.* A true, in-depth introduction to Thailand and all

this land has to offer.

Feedback“This was my first step into travel so I didn' t really know where to go. Starfish were with me every step of the way from my first chat with Steve I knew i’d be ok ” David Shellings Thai Intro 2012

2 weeks£499Jan 4thFeb 1stMar 1stApr 5thMay 3rdJun 7thJul 5thAug 2ndSep 6thOct 4th Nov 1stDec 6th

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thailand summer Our Summer Special combines all our knowledge of Thailand, volunteering

and having fun What better place to spend you summer than in Thailand?

And with who better than with than with equally intrepid travelers and your very own starfish guiding you every step of the way.

Nearly 95% of Thailand' s population is Buddhist of the Theravada school, though

Buddhism in this country has become integrated with folk

beliefs as well as Chinese religions from the large Thai-

Chinese population.

Day 1 Arrival : Welcome to Thailand, settle in, meet your fellow volunteers

and explore the local area.

Day 2Chatuchak market is the world’s largest of its kind and is famous for

justabout everything. A day is simply not long enough time to squeeze through the sights, smells and sounds of this buzzing

market. You name it, you can buy it.

Day 3Tour : Discover the magic of Bangkok on a local city tour. See the

most revered and sacred temples in Thailand. Don’t forget your camera!

Day 4

Volunteer work : On the outskirts of the city is an orphanage for 74 blind and mentally challenged children. Get stuck in and involved in

assisting the staff of this school. No experience necessary, just a big smile and a warm laugh you will be beaming and exhausted by the

end of this wonderful day.

Day 5 Transfer to Surin : Spend the day on a train journeying through

jungles and national park. Keep an eye out for wild elephants as we take you to the project location.

Day 6 – 9

Elephant Village: Travel to our elephant village assisting the locals in protection and maintenance of these magnificent beasts. Without our

support these elephants are sent to the cities to beg for money and subjected to abuse. Ever hugged an elephant? Here is your chance.

Day 10

Free Day Explore the local area on your free day.

Day 11-15 Volunteer- Childcare: spend 5 days at a childcare center working

with teachers and staff to educate the less fortunate through playing games and having fun.

Day 16-17

Free weekend: After working hard all week you deserve a break. Go off and explore. Cambodia is not far away or one of Thailand’s most

stunning islands is an overnight bus away.

Day 18 – 19 Khao Yai National Park: Thailand’s largest and most impressive

national park is home to about 500 wild elephants, some of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls and adventurous jungle treks.

Day 20 – 21

Nearly time to say goodbye, return to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok for one last time or continue your journey with us and explore some of the southern Islands for beautiful beaches, full

moon parties and extreme relaxation..

3 Weeks£699Jun 14thJul 5thJul 19thAug 2ndAug 16th

what you do


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhist

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhist

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theravada

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theravada

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folk_beliefs




http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_Chinese






india intro Introducing incredible India has never been so easy with Starfish India intro volun-tour.

We welcome you to this magical land and take you to where only the adventurous roam.

If you only have a few weeks to explore, why not let Starfish take you to the heart of India. Where you will not only discover

an amazing culture but possibly even yourself.

New Delhi is the seat of executive, legislative, and judiciary branches of the

Government of India. It also serves as the centre of the

Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Starfish offers an exciting opportunity for our adventurers with a combination of volunteer programs and weekend excursions in the capital city of New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. This program gives you an opportunity to volunteer in Delhi as well as explore the world famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit. Program detailsWeek 1 Volunteers will be working in the Street Children or Orphanage Project in Delhi. Under this project, volunteers take informal education classes with the children, play games with the children and introduce them to different new activities. Volunteers work at the various contact points or shelter homes, being run by various organizations, which serve as day care centers for these street children. They can assist in providing love, care, basic literacy, recreation and most importantly spend time and shower affection on them. Weekend Trip Discover Delhi - Go on a tour to Delhi’s most visited tourist spots. Including: India Gate, Lotus Temple, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar, Akshardham Temple and much much more. Week 2 Mon – Fri: Continue with your Volunteer Program. Weekend Trip Visit Jaipur, The Pink City You will visit some of the most exotic palaces in Jaipur including: – The Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar. You will also be exploring Jaipur’s famous Johary Bazar which is a shopper’s paradise for hand crafted materials Week 3 Mon – Fri: Continue with your Volunteer Program. Weekend Trip ‘TAJ MAHAL’ in Agra The TAJ MAHAL is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also listed among the NEW SEVEN WONDERS OF WORLD. TAJ MAHAL is also known as the monument of love as it was built by Emperor Shahjahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. Volunteers are taken on a day trip to Agra and return to Delhi on the same day. Sunday – Take a flight back home or continue your trip in India depending upon your program schedule.

3 Weeks£675


3 Dates 201310th JUN8th JUL5th AUG

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_Delhi






india summer Based in the foothills of the Himalayas

Our india summer volun tour has so much to offer from tea plantations to mountainous treks.

You will discover the mystic of Northern India.Make sure you head over to Mcleod Ganj the seat of the exiled Tibetan government. Jaw droopingly stunning!

Palampur is a green hill station and a municipal council in the

Kangra Valley in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh,

surrounded on all sides by tea gardens and pine forests.

Program Location The program is based in Palampur which is located 550 Km North of New Delhi in the State of Himachal Pradesh. Palampur is located in District Kangra at an elevation of 4500 Ft above sea level. The area is very well known for its beautiful Tea gardens. Different tourist attractions such as Dharamshala are located in close proximity to Palampur. Dharamshala is the hometown of The Dalai Lama and provides immense tourist and learning opportunities. Palampur is also close to the start up points of very Interesting trekking routes through the Dhauladhar Mountain Ranges which are snow Capped Mountains with ample scenic sites. Palampur is blessed with natural water streams flowing from the mountains besides thick forest cover, culture, and tradition promoted by tribal herdsmen ,the Gaddis and also by the urban population which does not exceed 30,000 in this small hill city. Program details Volunteers will be given 4-5 hrs working for 5 days a week at various day care centers and schools where volunteers can teach as well as take care of small children in the age group of 2 years to 5 years. Arrive in Palampur by taking a flight or a bus from Delhi to Dharamshala (Palampur). Those arriving by plane will be picked up. Weekend Excursions (Included in the Program Cost) A) Trip to Manali: – The beautiful hill station of Manali lies in the Beas river valley and is one of the most popular tourist places in north India. Manali is located at a height of 6398 ft and offers some spectacular views of the Himalayan mountain range. Volunteers will go on this trip on the first weekend of the program.B) Trekking trip from Upper Dharamshala to Triund: - Two day trekking trip to Triund is included. Volunteers will go on this trip on the second weekend of the program. C) Sightseeing Trip in PalampurVolunteers are also taken on a one day tour of Palampur where they take a tour of places such as Baijnath Temple, Andretta Art Gallery, Tea Garden and Factory, Neugal Cafe and Neugal River.

3 Weeks£850


3 Dates 201310th JUN8th JUL5th AUG

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Municipal_council

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Municipal_council

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangra_Valley

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangra_Valley

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/States_and_territories_of_India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/States_and_territories_of_India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh



carbon freeReducing your carbon footprint

has never been easier or cost effective.You can even come out and dig you own way

to a carbon free experience.For only a small amount you can enjoy your experience in the knowledge you are protecting the environment.

We are approved by the Thailand forestry commission

since 2012

We are all enjoying the joy of long haul travel, the ability to be anywhere in the world within 24 hrs. Never have so many people had so much opportunity, or so many people taken advantage of this opportunity. Thailand receives over 15 Million foreign visitors a year. But everything has a price. The carbon emissions are out of control, you combine tourism and industry and it’s frightening. However imagine everyone did their bit? If we all offset our emissions and simultaneously restored the world’s forest and jungles….we could achieve so much. Starfish has formed a partnership with two of Thailand Government Departments; namely the Department of Forests and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. With your help we can restore Thailand’s inland and coastal forests. Off set your carbon footprint from as little as 5 GBP. Or from as little as 25 GBP while you are in Thailand spend a day planting your own trees. All of our forest restoration projects are verified by Thailand’s Government Departments and protected by law.

Conventional modes of transportation car, plane, boat burn fossil fuels and emit greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. The transportation system is based largely on these modes of transportation, but being eco-friendly requires that you consider ways to become carbon neutral, which means reducing your carbon emissions as much as possible and balancing the remaining carbon emissions by offsetting them with processes that consume carbon.

Carbon offsetting involves paying for or participating in programs that reduce the carbon in the atmosphere. Many of these programs involve planting trees, the most common carbon offsetting measure because as plants grow they take in carbon dioxide, removing it from the atmosphere. Other programs fund research into alternative or cleaner conventional technologies.

Carbon FreeFrom £5

whatis

carbon?




contact We are a friendly bunch at Starfish.

and love nothing more than to have a chat about the work we are doing.Feel free to drop us a line

through a number of ways.No question is too small.

[email protected]

Phone+44(0)20 8133 5191

Skypestephen.williams1101

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