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Exotissimo Travel: Making a Difference in Thailand

As Thailand continues to grow and develop, there is growing concern that the ancient traditions and crafts as well as the spectacular natural environs will be affected. Exotissimo is passionate about preserving and ensuring the well being of Thailand's unique culture and environment and, to that end, works with several charities in these areas. Additionally, we aim to provide a better future for Thailand's youth and team up with organizations to aid education and health programs for children.

Baan Kingkaew Orphanage

Opened since 1966 in Chiang Mai, Baan Kingkaew has been providing a home for orphaned children aged between 3 months and 6 years old. The center draws on its dedicated staff of nannies, kindergarten teachers and a healthcare team from the Chiang Mai University to take care of the children. Baan Kingkaew now supports 50 needy children.

How to help:

• Drop in the orphanage and help the nannies feed or play with the kids
• Donate supplies such as food, stationery, toys and books
• Provide a monetary donation

What your money can buy:

• US 80 can support the needs of a child for a month
• USD 100 can feed 50 children for a day
• US 960 can sponsor a child for a year  

While in Chiang Mai, join our Baan Kingkaew Orphanage day trip to help support this program.  

Population and Community Development Association

Thailand's foremost non-governmental charitable organization, Population and Community Development Association (PDA) was founded in 1974 to tackle a broad range of issues such as family planning, rural development, water resource management and environmental conservation. PDA's Cabbages and Condoms restaurants were set up to provide financial support for the organization's social programs. 

How to help:

• Provide financial support for PDA activities
• Enjoy a meal at Cabbages and Condoms restaurants, which are located in Bangkok and Chiang Rai

PDA and/or its Cabbages and Condoms Restaurants can be visited on our Chiang Rai and the Far North Thailand tour

Community-based Tourism along Andaman Coast

Thailand's tsunami-ravaged Andaman coast is home to several community-based tourism initiatives. Ban Talae Nok (BTN) village is a fine example in which a group of women widowed by the tsunami came together to establish handicraft cooperatives to supplement their incomes. The BTN Soap Cooperative provides interactive workshops in making herbal soap handicrafts. In addition, Exotissimo Thailand has a 5D/4N North Andaman Tsunami Relief Volunteer Program that combines a BTN homestay (including teaching English to children and participating in a mangrove rehabilitation project) with a beach break.

How to help:

• Volunteer your services such as teaching English to village kids at BTN
• Purchase handicrafts made by BTN Soap Cooperative
• Participate in a BTN homestay  

For travelers wishing to partake in post-tsunami rehabilitation efforts, add our Community Connection day trip to your southern Thailand tour.