Thailand Friendship Tour
March 12-21, 2025
If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting Thailand and want to dive deep into not just the landscapes but the heart and soul of its people, Arelti’s Thailand Friendship Tour is calling your name. This is not your typical vacation—it’s a unique blend of travel and meaningful encounters, offering you a chance to explore the Thai-Burma border while connecting with local communities and their challenges. Whether it’s understanding the complex humanitarian issues in the region or immersing yourself in rich cultural traditions, this tour is designed to expand your horizons in ways you can’t imagine.
Co-led by Joe Manickam and Pam Akrapisan, two leaders with deep roots in this region, the trip will introduce you to local experts and community members whose stories will make this journey unforgettable. Here’s a peek into what you can expect and why it might just be the adventure you’ve been waiting for.
Chiang Mai: Where the Journey Begins
The adventure kicks off in Chiang Mai, a city steeped in history and brimming with charm. Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai has weathered the rise and fall of empires and is now home to diverse ethnic communities. The city’s fusion of ancient traditions and modern life offers a perfect backdrop for our exploration.
Over the first few days, you’ll dive into the cultural richness of the region. We’ll visit Payap University’s Peace Studies Program, where local experts will share stories of peace and conflict in this part of the world. The focus is on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Northern Thailand, especially the communities along the Thai-Burma border. You’ll hear firsthand about the struggles of ethnic minorities and refugees, giving you a broader perspective on global humanitarian issues. We’ll also stop by Akha Ama Coffee to explore how responsible entrepreneurship is making a difference in local lives and engage in interfaith dialogues at Buddhist and Sikh temples, immersing ourselves in the spiritual fabric of the region.
Mae Sariang: Heart-to-Heart on the Border
Next, we’ll journey to Mae Sariang, a quiet town close to the Burma border. This is where things get personal. You’ll visit the Border Health Development Foundation and spend time with the Karen community in Ta Tha Fang Village. Staying with local families, you’ll be welcomed into their homes and get a glimpse into daily life on the border.
During this leg of the trip, you’ll also visit refugee camps and local schools to better understand the challenges facing displaced communities. This part of the tour will be eye-opening, providing a human face to the abstract issues of border politics, ethnic conflict, and displacement.
Through these experiences, you’ll not only witness but also participate in conversations and activities that highlight the resilience and strength of these communities. Whether it’s listening to stories around a communal fire or exploring alongside villagers on coffee farms, these moments will stay with you long after you return home.
Wrapping Up in Chiang Mai: Culture and Reflection
As we circle back to Chiang Mai, the tour will wind down with some optional activities tailored to your interests. You can join a Thai cooking class, visit elephant sanctuaries, or explore the lively markets. In the evening, we’ll come together for a farewell dinner with traditional Thai performances—a perfect way to celebrate the friendships and insights we’ve gained over the course of the trip.
Want to Explore More? Add Bangkok or Patani
If you’re hungry for more than the main tour, there are two exciting add-ons: Bangkok before the trip and Patani afterward.
Bangkok (March 9-12, 2025)
This leg is an exciting exploration of Thailand’s vibrant capital. From a peaceful boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to a visit to the iconic Grand Palace, this part of the trip will show you a different side of Thailand. You’ll also meet local religious leaders involved in urban peacebuilding efforts, offering a fascinating glimpse into how communities coexist in this bustling metropolis. The adventure culminates with an overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai.
Patani (March 21-26, 2025)
After the main tour, you can head to Patani in Thailand’s Deep South. Rich in Malay Muslim culture and history, this region has a story of its own, one of resilience and identity in the face of political and social challenges. Here, you’ll visit Fatoni Islamic University, engage with local leaders, and witness spiritual practices during Ramadan with new friends. Plus, you’ll get to see how local artists are using their craft to inspire peace in a region shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and tension.
Details and Cost
The base cost for the Thailand Friendship Tour is $2,200 for double occupancy and $2,500 for single occupancy. If you choose to add the Bangkok or Patani trips, they’ll cost between $575-$800 each, depending on your accommodation preference. The full package (main tour + both extensions) comes to $3,400 for double occupancy and $3,850 for single occupancy.
Your tour fee covers everything from all domestic travel and accommodations, entry fees, and most meals. What’s not included? International airfare, most personal expenses, and insurance. If you’re wondering about financial aid, don’t worry, Arelti has some assistance available to make sure this journey is accessible to those who need it.
Ready to Join Us or Have Questions?
If this sounds like your kind of adventure, contact us for additional information. You can also secure your spot with a $500 deposit due by December 1, 2024, with the remaining balance due by January 15, 2025. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait too long to decide!
This trip is about more than just travel; it’s about seeing the world through new eyes, forging connections with people from different walks of life, and understanding the global challenges we all face. It’s a chance to make a difference, both for yourself and for the communities you’ll meet along the way. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go!