Volunteer Vacations - FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Is Nong Khai safe?

  Yes! Although Thailand has seen recent political change it remains a very safe destination. Crimes against visitors are very rare, especially in the rural non-tourist areas where you are welcomed as special guests. If you take the same level of precautions with yourself and your belongings as you do back home, then your stay should be trouble free. Vacations to Teach has English speaking staff available 24 hours a day should you require any assistance.

Do I need to have teaching qualifications or experience?

  No. Although any previous experience would be beneficial, it is not required. Most of the volunteer placements involve assisting the local teachers in the classroom and helping with other activities: enthusiasm is all you need. When you first arrive in Nong Khai you will receive an induction course on teaching methods, classroom management and Thai classroom culture. Staff members with many years of teaching English as a foreign language are always available to help you with lessons plans, ideas for activities, etc. Read more about volunteer work here.

Do I need a work permit?

  No, but you must have a Non-Immigrant type O visa. We will provide you with the documentation required to obtain this visa from your nearest Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate. Please note that it is illegal to do any type of work on a Tourist Visa. When applying for the visa you will also be required to submit a Police Clearance Report from your home country.

Do I need travel and health insurance?

  We recommend that you take out a policy to cover the length of your travels.

Nong Khai Daymarket

Are there good hospitals in case of emergency?

  Yes. In Nong Khai city there is the Wattana Hospital and short drive away in Udon Thani there is AEK International Hospital.

What health precautions should I take?

  Check with your local doctor for what vaccinations you may need. Anti-malarials are generally not required for those working in the city, however those teaching at our more remote sites should consult with their doctor regarding a course of anti-malarial tablets. In the evening we suggest you wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers so as to cover as much as your skin as possible. Whilst some locals may tell you the water is drinkable and that you can even drink water from The Mekong, there is plenty of bottled drinking water available so no need to run the risk of an upset stomach. Local pharmacies stock an excellent selection of medications and there is a branch of Boots Chemists in Udon Thani. English is widely spoken within the health care community in Nong Khai.

Is there an age limit?

  No. Vacations to Teach welcomes applications from any age group.

Nong Khai Old Province Hall

What type of accommodation will it be?

  Accommodation for the volunteers is generally in large houses, although homestays are also available. You will have your own bedroom with a fan and there will be a communal kitchen, bathroom and living room. All houses have electricity and running water.

Do I need to have teaching qualifications or experience?

  No. Although any previous experience would be beneficial, it is not required. Most of the volunteer placements involve assisting the local teachers in the classroom and helping with other activities: enthusiasm is all you need.

Can I wear shorts and flip-flops in the classroom?

  Teachers in Thailand are held in high regard by the rest of society and as such you are expected to dress in a presentable manner. However, that doesn't mean you need to wear a suit and tie! For men, short-sleeved shirts, slacks and closed shoes are acceptable. Women should wear a blouse and skirt or long trousers.

If you volunteer with Vacations to Teach, you get a view like this.

Can I stay longer once I have finished my initial teaching period?

  Yes, see the section on fees for the cost of additional months. Our local staff will assist you in obtaining any visa extensions that you may need. Please make sure you bring a copy of your Police Clearance Report with you.

What should I bring?

  Thailand is a tropical country so you should bring thin and loose fitting cotton clothes, and larger ladies should bring a supply of under garments. Shorts, T-shirts and sandals are the norm for daywear (men and women) and casual pants, short sleeve shirts (men and women), and simple dresses and skirts (women) ideal for night times. Clothes in the markets are remarkably cheap so you should pack light, although please remember that you are expected to be smartly dressed in the classroom.

School children

 

Please note it is illegal to do any type of work without the correct visa.

Skylab "Tuk-Tuk"

Big Smile

 

Volunteer with Vacation to Teach and make a difference.

School children

KKU Campus