$7,495 | Grades 9–12

Thailand: Elephants, Education, and Cultural Exploration

JUNE 24 – JULY 13, 2026

JULY 15 – AUGUST 3, 2026

JUNE 24 – JULY 13, 2026 JULY 15 – AUGUST 3, 2026

 

Don’t read it. Feel it.

Want to hear what this trip is really like? Olly—our Director of Student Recruitment—has helped hundreds of families find the right fit, and in this short audio guide, he’ll walk you through the trip.

Temple

An at-a-glance look at the trip

Want the full breakdown? You’ll find it at the bottom of the page.

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All the details in one place

From lodging to logistics — here’s everything you’ll want to know before heading to Thailand.

  • Trip Name
    Thailand: Elephants, Education, and Cultural Exploration

    Who It’s For
    High school students (grades 9–12)

    2026 Sessions
    Session 1: June 20 – July 10, 2026
    Session 2: July 13 – August 2, 2026
    Note: These dates reflect your teen’s departure and return. Exact flight times and meeting details will be shared after enrollment.

    Location
    Bangkok, Koh Samet, and Chiang Mai, Thailand

    Trip Length
    21 Days

    Service Hours
    44–66

    Tuition
    $7,495

  • This is the plan—but plans can shift. Weather, group energy, and new opportunities sometimes lead us to make changes. No two trips are exactly the same, and that’s part of what makes the experience so memorable.

    Days 1–2: Depart San Francisco & Arrive in Bangkok
    We begin in San Francisco with an early morning group departure. After flying across the international date line, we arrive in Bangkok on Day 2, settle in, and start getting to know the group.

    Days 3–4: Orientation & Exploring Bangkok
    We dive into the culture and history of Bangkok. Highlights include the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha, Wat Po, and Wat Arun, plus a boat tour through the city’s canals. It’s a mix of history, connection, and curiosity as we settle into the rhythm of life in Thailand.

    Days 5–8: Teach English in Local Schools
    We spend four days teaching English to elementary-age students. Lesson planning, games, and outdoor activities are all part of it. Along the way, we share stories, build friendships, and learn from the students just as much as they learn from us.

    Days 9–11: Koh Samet Island Adventure
    We take a boat to Koh Samet, a quiet island known for white sand beaches and warm blue water. Snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the bays offer a break from the city and a chance to unwind and connect.

    Days 12–13: Chiang Mai & Night Markets
    After returning to Bangkok, we fly north to Chiang Mai. We explore the city and check out the famous night market, full of handmade crafts, local snacks, and vibrant energy.

    Days 14–19: Elephant Conservation Work
    Spend six days learning from local caretakers at an elephant conservation center. We help with feeding, bathing, cleaning, and giving the elephants daily exercise. Each evening, we return to Chiang Mai. This is hands-on work, full of heart, purpose, and connection with these incredible animals.

    Day 20: Culture & Celebration
    We spend the day engaging with local culture—meeting Buddhist monks for a conversation on mindfulness and faith, then trying our hand at traditional Thai cooking. That night, we celebrate with our final banquet and reflect on the experience we’ve shared.

    Day 21: Return Home
    After one last transfer to Bangkok, we say goodbye and fly home—tired, proud, and full of stories.

  • We stay in rustic hotels and private lodges throughout the trip.

    Group Beds – Teens share rooms and rotate sleeping arrangements, with staff nearby.

    Western Toilets – Accommodations have Western-style bathrooms and regular showers.

    Shared Responsibilities – Everyone helps with tidying rooms and keeping group spaces organized.

    What to Expect – Some places are simple, some more comfortable—but all offer a clean, safe, and authentic experience.

  • All meals are provided by trusted local partners.

    Cook Crew – At some locations, teens may help prep or serve meals.

    Simple + Fresh – Meals feature rice, veggies, noodles, curries, grilled meats, and tropical fruits.

    All Diets Welcome – Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options are all available.

    Snacks + Hydration – Frequent water and snack breaks are built into the day.

  • Flights – All participants fly together from San Francisco (SFO) to Bangkok (BKK).
    Do not book your flight until we send you the travel windows.

    Escorted Flight Option
    An optional group flight with an RLT leader is available from the New York area.

    Unaccompanied Minor Info – We’ll walk you through the process if your teen is flying as a UM.

    Packing – We provide a detailed list. Teens bring one checked bag and one carry-on.

    Essentials – Lightweight clothing, closed-toed shoes, rain gear, flashlight, modest attire for temples.

    Luggage Note – One checked bag + small backpack recommended.

  • Forms & Waivers – Required forms are available in your RLT portal after enrollment.

    Medical Clearance – A doctor’s visit is not required unless there’s a new or complex health condition.

    Medications – All medications must be listed on your form; leaders manage them throughout the trip.

    Behavioral Expectations – Every teen signs a Code of Conduct. We expect respect, openness, and care.

    Trip Insurance – Required for international trips. You can use any provider.

    Vaccinations – No specific shots are required, but participants should be up to date on routine vaccines.

    Passport – U.S. passports must be valid 6+ months beyond the return date.

  • Device-Free Philosophy – Phones and personal electronics are collected on Day 1 and returned at the end.

    Why?
    Disconnecting helps teens:
    Build deeper relationships
    Be present in their surroundings
    Gain confidence without constant tech

    Cameras Welcome – Bring a digital camera or GoPro—anything without internet access.

    Communication – Families receive updates throughout the trip. Emergency line available 24/7.

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