Culture & Expectation
During your Think Pacific project, it is essential that you are prepared for living in a new city, culture and community. In the topics below, we are hoping to provide the start of your learning about Thai Culture. Setting you up for success when you first arrive and giving you the hints and tips to be a culturally sensitive tourist and Think Pacific participant from the get go!
An Appropriate Approach to your Project
Culture
It is our biggest privilege to be invited into Chiang Mai and the local communities of the city and an honour to work alongside such inspiring local partners and organisations. It is paramount that all TP participants share that respect and appreciation for the Thai culture and customs. We strive to have the highest standards of cultural exchange in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
To achieve this goal, we ask you to join the project with a learning mindset, adopting a humble approach to appreciating cultural differences and nuances. This not only puts you in the most effective position to genuinely learn, we believe it is essential for conducting your project ethically and ensuring as effective and sustainable impact on project as possible.
Think Pacific participants are sensitive, respectful and hence highly regarded in Thailand. We ask you to join your project with a passion to learn, removing any ego and manifesting a genuine curiosity and thirst to understand Thai life.
This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in every aspect of life. Take an active interest in local customs, values, religious beliefs, ceremonies and cultural practices. By the time you leave, you will have certainly learnt a great deal about Thailand and no doubt about yourself!
Mindset and Your Project
How do I genuinely and effectively do good in the world? If you, along with countless other previous participants, interns and global learners, have been asking yourself this question, and want to explore a fun little model that might provide a starting point for the answer, watch this video and use the following prompts for further discussion:
- The video talks about personal development and global development being interlinked. Do you agree?
- How have you seen these links in your own life?
- Which of the 4 quadrants (knowledge & skills, attitudes & empathy, thoughtful action and daily choices) do you most associate with “doing good in the world”?
- Why? Is there a quadrant you think most important?
- What do you think is meant by a “learning mindset”?
- Why do you think this is in the center of the model?
- Is there anything missing from the model presented? How would you answer the question yourself?
Top Tips:
- Everyone’s experience is different – Embrace your unique experience and be grateful for such an authentic opportunity
- Be respectful around the shared accommodation e.g. being clean and tidy, turning off lights/aircon
- Be proactive with activities
- Come with a thirst to listen and learn (set goals that are related to learning about culture, what do you hope to achieve?)
- Be sensitive with conversation – Never talk openly to others about ‘basic conditions,’ ‘negative differences,’ or diet in Thailand – it can easily be overheard by the community, it may easily be misconstrued and quickly cause offence
- Don’t openly display valuables or leave items lying around the accommodation – keep your personal belongings in your bag
- Never force your views, opinions and your own way of life upon your hosts. Remember when things work differently and understand biases on both sides (fundamental in any meaningful exchange!)
Where in Thailand are we staying?
Our projects are based in Chiang Mai, the most northern city in Thailand.
What is the accomodation like?
More information to come!
Who will live in the accommodation?
The volunteer team, your project leaders and accommodation staff will be staying in the building.
Will the staff speak English?
Yes, the accommodation staff will be able to communicate in basic English. English levels between staff will of course vary, and we encourage you to learn some basic phrases in Thai to support you to interact with everyone you come in contact with!
Will I be staying with other people?
Yes, in the accommodation you will be required to share a bedroom with your teammates during your placement. This will vary from twin rooms to larger rooms with a maximum of 6 beds.
We understand this may be a new living situation for most participants, and we ask that you are considerate of other participants’ personal space. We will ensure that rooms are allocated by gender; if you have any requests or concerns about this please do let us know and we will do our best to meet your needs.
Will I share a bathroom?
Yes, you will share a bathroom with your peers. There will be 1 bathroom per 2-6 participants. This will be separate to the bathroom that the family accesses.
Are rooms allocated based on gender?
Yes, rooms are allocated by gender as female or male rooms. If this does not meet your needs, please discuss this with a Think Pacific team member before you arrive in Thailand so the team can make the right adjustments.
Can I make a preference for who I stay with?
No, rooms are allocated by the Think Pacific staff team based upon the placement time table and other operational elements. We understand you may know someone who is joining the same placement as you, which is great, but we would recommend that you stay separately to ensure you have your own experience and meet other team members. Your friendship can also bring the wider team together and be an added bonus to the team dynamic.
If you have a specific request for this please let us know.
What happens if I need to stay in my own room?
Due to the structure of the placement, and large group sizes, we ask all team members to share rooms with their teammates, which can vary from twin rooms to large dormitory rooms. If this does not meet your needs, please discuss this with a Think Pacific team member before you arrive in Thailand so the team can make the right adjustments.
Where can I store my medication?
We ask that you store your medication safely (in original packaging) with your belongings during your stay. If you need to keep this in a cool place, we suggest you bring a cool sealed container with you for this purpose.
What if I have a dietary requirement/allergy?
Please let the Think Pacific team know before you arrive in Thailand. This information will then be communicated to the Think Pacific team in Thailand who will ensure the relevant people and caterers are informed about your dietary requirement or allergy. We recommend that you inform the team/homestay owner again when you arrive in Thailand to ensure they are aware of who you are, and your requirements for your stay.
What meals are provided in the accomodation?
You will have breakfast and dinner provided for the days that you are in the accomodation. Breakfast will include fruits, bread and james, with tea/coffee. Dinner will be a selection of Thai meals, including Pad Thai, Currys and other authentic dishes.
What if I do not like spicy food?
We ask the staff to ensure meals are plain, and spicy sauce/chilli can be provided on the side for participants to add in as they wish.
Will there be Wi-Fi available?
Yes, there is Wi-Fi available in the accommodation for you to use messaging apps, make calls via the internet, and research your projects.
What happens if I don’t like the person/s I am sharing with?
During your placement you will meet lots of different people, and it is important that you maintain professional relationships with your peers. We do not ask you to be the best of friends with everyone, but it is important that you maintain the professionalism of the placement and try to work through your differences. If you have any major concerns or challenges, you can of course, speak with a Think Pacific staff member who will support you.
Are there shops/restaurants local to the accommodation?
Yes, there are several small supermarkets, cafes and restaurants surrounding the accommodation, and within 10 minutes walking distance. The restaurants and cafes sell a combination of local and international foods, and there are also local cafes where you can buy local food.
What are the important things to know about Thai culture?
Thai culture is rich and deeply rooted in traditions and rituals. Understanding and respecting Thai culture can enhance your experience when visiting Thailand. You will learn more about the Thai culture during your briefing and over the duration of your placement, including traditional dance, music and clothing, temple etiquette, ceremonies and offerings . We would always encourage you to do some of your own research prior to arriving in Thailand.
Some Cultural Tops Tips to remember:
- Dressing modestly – especially around temples and elders
- Don’t disrespect or bad-mouth the Monarchy
- Don’t touch peoples heads
- Be respectful when taking pictures in temples and of the monarchy
What is the main religion in Thailand?
The dominant religion in Thailand is Buddhism, with approximately 95% of the Thai population identifying as Theravada Buddhist. This deeply influences the culture, traditions, festivals, and moral values in the country. Temples (wats) are central to community life, and monks hold a respected position. Many Thais incorporate animistic practices and beliefs alongside Buddhism, such as spirit worship and rituals for good fortune.
Thailand’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion, but Buddhism holds a prominent position in society and government. There’s also a very small percentage of Muslim population -about 4 to 5%- predominantly in the southern provinces.
Will I have to participate in religious ceremonies?
No, you do not have to participate in any religious ceremony. You may be invited to join or observe religious ceremonies in the community but this is always optional and you are able to decline, without causing any offence. You do not have to explain the reasons for this, and we encourage you to speak with staff if you ever feel pressured to do so.
What languages are spoken in Thailand?
The official language spoken in Thailand is Thai. Regional dialects include Northern Thai, Southern Thai, and Isan. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and urban centres, but may be less so in rural regions.
Do I need to cover tattoos?
We ask you to please cover any visible tattoos when visiting or engaging with project partners. Wearing long sleeve shirts/blouses can cover arm tattoos. If you have a tattoo in a place which is difficult to cover with clothing, we recommend you purchase tattoo covering makeup, or cover the tattoo with a small plaster/bandage. You do not need to cover tattoos when in the accommodation or community areas.
Do I need to remove piercings?
We ask you to please remove any facial piercings, and replace them with a clear retainer when engaging with or visiting project partners. You do not need to do this when in the community or accommodation area.
Why do I need to cover tattoos/remove piercings?
By covering tattoos and removing piercings, you’re demonstrating an understanding of these cultural norms and showing respect for the professional and social environment. This is especially important in professional sectors where appearance plays a significant role in maintaining a reputation. We are viewed as professionals in a working context in Thailand, and we want to uphold high standards of professionalism.
Is Thailand safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?
Thailand is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Asia, with a vibrant and welcoming culture for travellers. However, there are nuances to keep in mind to ensure a safety
- Thailand has a long history of acceptance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya are known for their LGBTQ+ scenes, with many bars, events, and communities.
- While Thai society is generally open-minded, acceptance can vary in more conservative rural areas. Public displays of affection, regardless of orientation, are uncommon in Thai culture.
- Homosexuality is legal, and there are anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation in some areas of life. Same-sex marriage was very recently legalised, making the country the first in South East Asia to recognise same-sex unions
- Thailand is known for its visible and accepted transgender community. While transphobia exists, it is less overt compared to many other countries.
If engaging in sexual activities while in Thailand, practise safe sex, and carry necessary protection (e.g., condoms). Be aware of your sexual health, and seek medical attention if needed. While Thailand is LGBTQ+ friendly, it’s essential to be aware of local customs and attitudes and to exercise discretion, especially in more conservative or rural areas. Staying in tourist areas, being respectful of local customs, and connecting with LGBTQ+ networks can enhance your travel experience in Thailand.
What is the weather like?
Projects in 2025 will take place during the Rainy Season, which goes on roughly from June to October.
- Temperature Range: 25-34°C
- Rainfall: Heavy rainfall, often in the form of short but intense downpours, particularly in the afternoons or evenings. Northern and Central Thailand (e.g., Chiang Mai, Bangkok) typically experience the bulk of their rain during the height of the monsoon season. Although monsoons can be disruptive, they usually involve periods of intense rain followed by clearer skies.
- Rain can disrupt outdoor activities and roads can also become flooded in urban areas like Bangkok. Trains and public transport may also be disrupted by flooding.
When is the dry/rainy season?
Thailand is characterised by three seasons:
- Hot Season (March to May)
- Rainy Season (June to October)
- Cool Season (November to February)
What meals are provided in the accommodation?
You will have breakfast and dinner provided in the accommodation for the duration of the project. Breakfast will include fruits, bread and jams, with tea/coffee. Dinner will be a selection of Thai meals, including curries, noodle and rice dishes.
*You will purchase your own lunches each day, with the exception of Saturdays where this is included in the project cost and will be provided on your Saturday Activity.
What if I do not like spicy food?
We ask that the meals are plain, and spicy sauce/chilli can be provided on the side for participants to add in as they wish.
What if I have a dietary requirement/allergy?
Please let the Think Pacific team know before you arrive in Thailand. This information will then be communicated to the Think Pacific team in Thailand who will ensure the relevant people and caterers are informed about your dietary requirement or allergy. We recommend that you inform the team again when you arrive in Thailand to ensure they are aware of who you are, and your requirements for your stay.