3 Things Most Families Don’t Know About Our Thailand Trip

When families first ask about our Thailand trip, the elephants usually come up right away. And for good reason. It’s a meaningful, ethical experience and one of the most visually memorable parts of the program.

But focusing only on the elephants misses a lot of what actually defines this trip.

Thailand is one of those programs that quietly does a lot. It balances leadership, cultural exchange, rest, and responsibility in a way that surprises families once their teen is home and reflecting on the experience.

Here are three parts of the Thailand trip that often don’t get talked about enough.

1. Teens spend a full weekend on a Thai island

Midway through the trip, the group travels to Koh Samet, a small island off Thailand’s eastern coast. Teens stay at an oceanfront hotel and spend their days snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the beaches.

This part of the trip is intentionally slower. After time in busy cities and classrooms, the island gives teens space to rest, connect with each other, and experience a quieter side of Thailand.

2. They don’t just assist in schools, they actually teach

A major part of the Thailand trip is teaching English in local elementary schools. Rather than stepping into a prewritten curriculum, teens work in small groups to design their own lessons.

They create activities, lead games, and teach full classroom sessions over several days. It’s one of the deepest student-led experiences we offer.

Teens have to problem-solve, communicate clearly, and take responsibility for how their lessons land. The confidence that comes from that work shows up again and again in post-trip reflections.

3. The elephant experience is fully hands-on and ethical

Most families know the Thailand trip includes time at an ethical elephant conservation center. What they may not know is how hands-on it is.

There is no riding. No performances. No photo-driven tourism.

Instead, teens work alongside local caretakers and participate in daily care. Teens help feed, clean, and bathe the elephants, then walk alongside them through the forest. It’s about care, consistency, and learning what conservation really looks like.