Arrive in Chiang Mai, the historic heart of Northern Thailand and former capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Surrounded by mountains and filled with ancient temples, colourful neighbourhoods, bustling markets and incredible street food, Chiang Mai is the perfect place to begin your Global Futures journey.

Meet your Programme Leaders and fellow students, settle into your accommodation and take some time to recover from your journey. Head out to explore the local area, experience your first sights, sounds and flavours of Thailand, and start getting to know the group you’ll be sharing the next 18 days with.

It’s a relaxed first day to find your feet, settle into a completely new environment and get excited for the adventure ahead.

Join our local team for a guided walking tour through the heart of Chiang Mai. Explore historic streets, bustling markets, ancient temples and some of the city’s best-known landmarks while discovering the stories, traditions and local culture that make Chiang Mai so distinctive. Along the way, gain useful local knowledge, uncover hidden corners and find places you may wish to revisit during your free time.  In the afternoon relax as a group and enjoy a team dinner.

Travel to Huai Lan, a peaceful rural community surrounded by forest, farmland and reservoir.

Settle into your comfortable lodge, close to the community and enjoy the slower pace as you experience a more traditional side of Northern Thailand.

Take part in your Global Futures programme briefing exploring Thai culture, language, customs and traditions. Through team activities and local insight, you’ll begin building confidence, getting to know your group and preparing for the experiences ahead.

Later, meet members of the Huai Lan community, learn more about everyday life in the community and discover the values and traditions that shape local life.

Spend a full day immersed in life around Huai Lan, connecting with your team and sharing meaningful experiences with members of the local community.

Meet local mums as you prepare traditional Northern Thai food together, with plenty of laughs along the way.

In the afternoon explore the nearby caves, temples and natural landscapes. Along the way, gain a deeper understanding of how community, Buddhism and the natural environment shape life in rural Northern Thailand.

Spend a second day learning alongside members of the local community as you try traditional skills and discover how they are being adapted for the modern world.

Depending on the planned activities you might pick cotton and learn traditional thread-spinning techniques with local artisan women, or explore bamboo and rattan weaving as you create a small souvenir, such as a traditional rice box.

Discover how local people are combining inherited knowledge with new ideas, using crafts and community-based tourism to preserve their culture, strengthen livelihoods and create opportunities for future generations.

In the evening, relax by the swimming pool and prepare for tomorrow’s national park adventure.

Say goodbye to Huai Lan and journey towards one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic landmarks, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Explore this spectacular mountaintop temple, discover its importance within Northern Thai culture and Buddhism, and enjoy sweeping views across Chiang Mai. Then follow part of the famous Monk’s Trail down through the forested slopes of Doi Suthep–Pui National Park before returning to the city.

Enjoy a free afternoon to relax, refresh or explore Chiang Mai at your own pace, followed by an evening discovering the food, crafts and lively atmosphere of the Walking Street Market.

Visit Payap University for an engaging introduction to social and environmental impact in Chiang Mai. Explore the role of social enterprise, the complexities of migration, and the experiences of highland and ethnic minority communities across Northern Thailand.

Today’s academic learning will provide valuable context for the organisations and communities you will meet throughout the programme, while building the knowledge and understanding needed for your Global Futures Action Project.

Later, visit Khum Khantoke for an immersive introduction to Northern Thai culture. Enjoy traditional Lanna food, music and dance in a vibrant setting that brings the region’s heritage and customs to life.

Meet the team at Gateway Foundation and learn about their mission, work and impact supporting refugees, migrants and people rebuilding their lives after exploitation and abuse. Gain insight into the challenges they address before receiving your Global Futures Action Project brief. You’ll then split into teams and begin exploring the challenge, developing a response that you’ll work on over the next few days.

In the afternoon, take part in an immersive Thai cooking class. Visit the gardens to discover the fresh herbs, spices and ingredients used in local cuisine, before being guided through a fun, hands-on session preparing several delicious Thai dishes—and then sitting down together to enjoy everything you have created.

Journey into the mountains for an unforgettable day exploring Doi Inthanon National Park. Hike through lush forest and spectacular mountain scenery, following trails that lead to cascading waterfalls and offer glimpses into life within the region’s highland communities.

Continue to the summit of Doi Inthanon, the highest point in Thailand, where cooler air, cloud forest and sweeping mountain views create a world far removed from the city below. End the adventure at one of the park’s most powerful and breathtaking waterfalls, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Northern Thailand’s remarkable natural landscape.

Begin the morning working with your team on your Global Futures Action Project. Build on what you have learned, explore different ideas and begin shaping a creative and practical response to your challenge.

Later, visit Free Bird Café and learn how this cafe is combing amazing food with social impact initiatives into the community.

In the afternoon, swap ideas for action with an energetic Muay Thai class. Learn the fundamentals of Thailand’s national sport from experienced instructors, challenge yourself and enjoy a fun filled session designed for all abilities

Today involves a journey for over 2 hours further north as our local Thai team guide you to one of our close partner traditional highland communities.  Meet community members, learn about their history and explore how traditional ways of life are adapting in response to social, economic and environmental change.

Take part in a locally led workshops and discover community projects focused on crop farming, livelihoods and long-term sustainability. Through conversation and hands-on activities, gain a deeper understanding of the community’s experiences, ambitions and hopes for future generations.

Head out of Chiang Mai to experience one of the region’s most unusual natural attractions, the famous Sticky Waterfalls. Surrounded by forest, these cascading falls flow over mineral-rich limestone that creates a naturally grippy surface, allowing you to climb directly over the rocks and through the rushing water. Spend time exploring, cooling off and enjoying a fun outdoor experience with your group. Thi is an unforgettable and uniquely Northern Thai experience.

In the evening, experience the excitement of Muay Thai as you watch skilled fighters compete in Thailand’s national sport. Feel the energy of the crowd and discover the traditions, discipline and ceremony behind one of the country’s most celebrated cultural experiences.

Discover Chiang Mai’s creative side with a visit to Baan Kang Wat, a charming community of independent artists, makers and small local businesses. Explore its leafy courtyards, browse handmade crafts and see how traditional inspiration is being reimagined through contemporary Thai art and design.

Learn from one of our social enterprise partners about their business model and approach to combining business with local impact.

Continue the experience with a traditional umbrella-making workshop. Learn about the skills and craftsmanship behind Northern Thailand’s famous paper parasols before decorating your own colourful design to take home as a unique souvenir.  Free time in the afternoon to continue your project and explore Chiang Mai.

Gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture and Buddhist life through an informal conversation with local monks. Ask questions, exchange perspectives and learn about Buddhist beliefs, daily monastic life and the role temples continue to play within Thai society.

Later, slow the pace with a guided yoga session designed for all abilities. Focus on movement, breathing and mindfulness as you relax, reflect and recharge after the adventures of the programme

Return to Gateway Foundation to present your team’s response to the Global Futures Action Project. Bring together the knowledge, perspectives and experiences you have gained throughout the programme and share your ideas directly with the organisation.

Hear feedback from the Gateway team, learn which elements of your response could have the greatest value and reflect on how your thinking has developed. This is your opportunity to turn learning into action, celebrate what you have achieved together and contribute fresh ideas to a real organisation addressing important social challenges.

Today is a big adventure as you journey into the mountains to visit ChangChill, an ethical elephant sanctuary pioneering a more responsible approach to elephant  conservation.

Observe elephants behaving naturally from a respectful distance as they roam, forage and interact within their forest environment. Meet the local team, learn about the individual elephants in their care and explore the complex challenges surrounding elephant welfare, conservation and tourism in Thailand.

Discover how ChangChill is helping to create a more sustainable future for elephants and the communities who care for them, without riding, bathing or human interaction.

Spend your final morning in Chiang Mai with a leisurely explore of the wonderful Coconut Market for gifts, then enjoy some free time to revisit your favourite spots. In the afternoon, come together for a group debrief to reflect on your experiences, your Action Project and what you’ll take forward. Finish the programme with a farewell dinner in Nimman, celebrating the friendships and experience you’ve taken together.

After breakfast, check out and depart at any time for your flight home or onward travels in Thailand.

Say goodbye to your team and leave with the memories, new friendships and lessons that will stay with you long after the journey ends.

Included

Welcome & Orientation

• Airport pickup when arriving within our recommended arrival times
• Programme welcome and briefing
• Cultural orientation covering Thai customs, traditions and language
• Team-building activities and preparation for the programme ahead
• Two nights at a rural lodge near the Huai Lan community

Accommodation

• Comfortable hotels in Chiang Mai, usually twin-share.
• Countryside Lodge accommodation during the orientation
• Think Pacific Programme Leaders staying alongside the team throughout

Meals

• Two meals per day as standard, usually breakfast plus lunch or dinner
• Welcome and farewell dinners
• Traditional Lanna cultural dinner
• Meals during specified community and rural experiences
• Participants should budget separately for meals not included

Culture, Adventure & Wellbeing

• Rural community experience in Huai Lan
• Traditional Thai cooking experience
• Buddhist temples and Chiang Mai Old City
• Traditional welcome ceremony
• Lanna crafts, food and cultural activities
• Doi Inthanon National Park and waterfalls
• Sticky Waterfalls
• Introduction to Muay Thai
• Monk chat and insight into Buddhist life
• Baan Kang Wat artisan community
• Traditional umbrella-making workshop
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the Monk’s Trail
• Responsible elephant experience at ChangChill
• Chiang Mai markets, cafés and independent exploration

Learning & Development

• Payap University workshop
• Visits with locally based impact organisations
• Workshops with community partners
• Insight into Thai society, sustainability and community development
• Exploration of responsible tourism, enterprise and environmental issues
• Global Futures Action Project
• Team response to a local partner organisation
• Project feedback, reflection and programme debrief
• Development of confidence, teamwork, adaptability and intercultural communication

Support & Safety

• 24/7 support from Think Pacific Programme Leaders
• Experienced local guides and Thailand-based partners
• In-country management and pastoral support
• Programme briefings, risk assessments and regular check-ins
• Support throughout activities, excursions and transfers
• Final programme reflection and debrief

In-Country Travel

• In-country transport throughout the programme
• Airport pickup at scheduled arrival times
• Transfers between accommodation, activities and programme locations
• Transport throughout Chiang Mai and the surrounding region
• All transport during the Northern Thailand adventure

Pre-Departure Support

• Email and telephone support
• Dedicated UK Programme Coordinator
• Comprehensive online preparation portal
• Live pre-departure webinars
• Group communication and personal guidance
• Cultural, travel and programme preparation
• Certificate of Completion

Not Included

The following items are not included in your programme fee, but our team will provide guidance and support before you travel:

• International Flights — typically around £700–£1,000, depending on your departure airport, travel dates and when you book.
• Travel Insurance — typically around £50–£100. We’ll provide guidance on the level of cover required.
• Visa or Entry Requirements — requirements and any associated costs depend on your nationality and the rules in place when you travel. Many UK passport holders may be eligible for visa-free entry for short visits.
• Vaccinations and Travel Health Costs — costs vary depending on your circumstances and the advice you receive from a qualified healthcare professional.
• Meals Not Included — two meals per day are provided as standard. You’ll need to budget for one additional meal on most days.
• Personal Expenses — including drinks, snacks, laundry, a local SIM or eSIM, souvenirs and optional activities.
• Independent Travel — any accommodation, transport or activities arranged before or after the programme are not included.

Spending Money

You’ll mainly need spending money for a small number of meals, drinks, snacks, laundry, a local SIM or eSIM, souvenirs and other personal purchases.

As a guide, we recommend budgeting around £200–£300 for the full 18-day programme. You may wish to bring more if you plan to shop, join optional activities or continue travelling in Thailand after the programme.

This programme is open to anyone aged 18+, with most participants aged 18–24.

The majority of our participants are university students, but we also welcome graduates, gap year students or anyone looking for a meaningful summer experience.

Global Futures is designed as a university global mobility programme and is eligible for funding through our large network of long term university partners. See our Funding Guide for more information on available grants and support for your university.

The programme is particularly suited to students who want to:

• Experience another culture more deeply & authentically.
• Build confidence travelling internationally
• Explore sustainability and global issues
• Develop employability and interpersonal skills
• Meet local organisations and changemakers
• Challenge themselves through adventure
• Become more globally aware
• Add meaningful international experience to their CV
• Meet new people and experience Bali as part of a team

You’ll stay in simple but comfortable locally run hotels and a rural countryside lodge. All accommodation is carefully selected for its safety, suitability and connection to the programme experience and our staff stay in the same accommodation.

For much of the programme, you’ll stay in comfortable hotel in Chiang Mai, providing a convenient base from which to explore the city, visit local organisations and take part in the programme’s cultural and learning activities.

Students will usually share twin rooms but can be up to four participants per room. Accommodation typically includes modern bathroom facilities, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and communal areas where you can relax and spend time with the rest of the team.

Think Pacific Programme Leaders stay in the same accommodation throughout, providing ongoing guidance and support.

At the beginning of the programme, you’ll spend time at a comfortable rural lodge close to the Huai Lan community.

Surrounded by forest, farmland and countryside, the lodge provides a peaceful setting for your programme briefing, cultural orientation and initial team-building activities. You’ll stay in shared participant rooms and come together for group meals, workshops and social activities.

Its location also allows you to spend time with members of the local community, experience a traditional welcome ceremony and gain an early introduction to rural life, culture and traditions in Northern Thailand.

Breakfast is served each day at your hotel or lodge. For lunch and dinner, you’ll visit a wide selection of restaurants and cafés throughout the programme. Exploring Northern Thailand through its food is a highlight of the experience, from local favourites and market dishes to meals shared with your team.

You’ll have opportunities to try new flavours, and your leaders can help you find options that suit your tastes.

We collect dietary requirements and allergies before departure and share them with our Thailand team and meal partners.

Think Pacific collaborates with numerous universities around the globe to deliver student mobility and enhance employability opportunities. There are various scholarships and grants for students through partnerships with individual university departments and governments. Students are encouraged to explore the possibility of scholarships and bursaries for our projects.

To discover if funding is available at your university or in your region, please reach out to us at info@thinkpacific.com for personalised assistance and information.

Our programmes can often be used as a formal placement or contribute towards academic credit as part of your degree.

If you’d like to explore this, contact info@thinkpacific.com. We’ll be happy to discuss the programme with your university, confirm any existing partnerships we have in place, and provide the information your institution may require.

From the moment you join, we’ll help you feel prepared, informed and excited for the journey ahead.

Pre-Departure Portal

Access your step-by-step preparation hub, including flight and visa guidance, packing lists, accommodation information, health and safety advice, cultural preparation and your final travel guidance. You can also watch videos from our overseas teams.

Speak to Our Team

Our team is here to support you throughout your preparation. Call us on 0113 335 9919 or email info@thinkpacific.com during office hours with any questions.

Meet Your Team

Connect with fellow participants before you travel as we add add you to a private group with your teammates.

Live Pre-Departure Webinars

Join live sessions with the Think Pacific team to ask questions, understand what to expect and get ready for your programme.

Global Skills Programme

Complete short online modules in areas such as culture, sustainable travel and global leadership, helping you arrive with the mindset and knowledge to make the most of your experience.

What We’ll Help You Prepare For

You’ll receive clear guidance on accommodation and facilities, packing, food and dietary requirements, cultural expectations, programme structure, health and safety, money, independent time, the Action Project and your final itinerary.

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Your safety and wellbeing are at the heart of every Think Pacific programme. Each experience is carefully planned with comprehensive risk assessments, crisis management procedures, pre-departure preparation and detailed in-country briefings.

Throughout your programme, you’ll be supported by experienced local and international staff, with 24/7 guidance and pastoral support available from arrival through to departure. Our teams also work closely with local partners and management staff to ensure programmes are delivered safely, responsibly and to recognised industry standards.

Chiang Mai is a welcoming, popular and well-established destination for international travellers and students. As with any overseas experience, there are local risks and cultural differences to be aware of, which is why we provide clear guidance, local knowledge and ongoing support throughout the programme to support you.

Learn more about our Health, Safety & Support approach →

Global Futures is designed to be exciting, immersive and rewarding. It also asks you to adapt to places, routines and ways of life that may feel different from home.

You’ll travel as part of a team, share accommodation, try unfamiliar foods and adjust to the heat and humidity. Some days involve longer journeys to reach mountain communities, national parks and other remarkable places. Activities may include walking and other physical challenges, so expect busy days and moments when you need to step outside your comfort zone.

You’ll meet people whose experiences and perspectives differ from your own. Listen with curiosity, respect local customs and follow your leaders’ guidance when visiting communities, partner organisations and cultural or religious sites. Plans may change around weather or local priorities, so flexibility matters too.

Take care of yourself along the way: drink plenty of water, pace yourself and ask your leaders for support when you need it. By embracing the unfamiliar and supporting your teammates, you’ll return home with new perspectives and greater confidence, independence and adaptability.

The 18-day Global Futures itinerary shown here is our plan for summer 2027 and gives you a clear picture of what to expect. Occasionally, weather, local events, community ceremonies or partner availability may require us to change an activity or its timing. If that happens, we’ll provide a similar experience that meets the same high standards and supports the programme’s learning goals.

Global Futures invites you to experience Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand with curiosity, respect and an open mind. We ask everyone to take responsibility for themselves, look out for their teammates and respect the communities and organisations that welcome us.

That means listening to programme leaders, following local cultural guidance and making thoughtful choices throughout the journey. Global Futures is a zero-alcohol programme, helping us create a safe and inclusive experience for everyone.

We encourage every participant to:

1. Approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity.
2. Value different cultures, experiences and perspectives.
3. Communicate respectfully with the people they meet.
4. Recognise that complex challenges rarely have simple answers.
5. Contribute positively to their team.
6. Reflect on what they experience and how their views develop.
7. Act responsibly in the communities they visit.
8. Consider sustainability and ethics when exploring new ideas.
9. Keep learning, questioning and growing.

Through time with community hosts and partner organisations, cultural experiences and the Global Futures Action Project, you’ll leave Northern Thailand with more than memories. You’ll gain confidence, new perspectives and a deeper appreciation of what you can learn by listening to others and stepping beyond what feels familiar.