Natucate
Volunteering Thailand - Wayne
Wayne spend four weeks at the animal welfare project in Koh Lanta, Thailand. Read about his volunteering time in his review.
Profile
Name: Wayne
Age: 54
Project: Ko Lanta Animal Welfare
Location: Ko Lanta, Thailand
Duration: 4 weeks
Rating
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Volunteering in Thailand– Feedback: Eight questions for Wayne
1) Could you give us a brief overview of your tasks in the project?
The main purpose of the volunteer work was to walk the dogs to make sure they were properly exercised and stimulated. We were also involved with feeding the dogs, cleaning out their kennels, and some grooming.
2) What was the biggest challenge for you during the project?
The biggest challenge was the heat (typically 33-38 degrees every day). You do walk quite a bit, between 6-10 miles every day which can be a bit draining but you get used to it pretty quickly.
3) Was there something you liked most? Or something you remember particularly negatively?
It would be hard to pinpoint the best part because overall it was such a great experience. I loved walking the dogs and spending time with them one-on-one and, because I have my own dog, I didn't even mind picking up dog dirt while we were walking or in their kennels.
4) Did you have certain expectations before travelling to the project?
To be honest, I didn't have any expectations, other than I thought I would be walking a lot so in that regard, yes, it met my expectations. I knew it wasn't going to be a holiday but I was surprised at how much fun I had doing the 'work'. The days went by fast and the full-time staff were great. In all, I'd have to say that the project far exceeded my expectations and I wouldn't hesitate to go back and spend another month or maybe even more.
5) Have you done anything in your free time that you can recommend to future participants?
There are lots of things you can do on the island. Most of the volunteers rented scooters to make it easier to get around but I didn't bother because there are plenty of taxis if you want to go further afield and explore the island on your own. Plus, all of the tours I took picked me up at the Welfare Center and dropped me back off again at the end of the day. I took two snorkelling trips, a crap fishing/tour of the mangroves, a zip-lining experience, and toured the Old Town. There are also lots of beaches and markets you can explore in your down time.
6) What recommendations would you give to other participants?
The most important thing to keep in mind is that this is NOT a four-week holiday. Yes, there is plenty of time to do touristy type things, but the majority of your time will be spent working with the animals. Go in with an open mind and don't expect things to be of the same standard that you may be used to.
7) Can you estimate how many additional costs you had on-site?
Overall, Koh Lanta is very cheap compared to Western prices. I would budget about £5-10 per day for food (this is enough for a few decent sized meals and maybe a few drinks) per day. I think overall I spent about £450 for my entire stay and that includes all food, taxis, extra-curricular activities, and a three nights in hotels on my way home. If you like to go out and party you should budget more, however.
