TREK FOR GOOD KHAO SOK JUNGLE & COASTAL FOREST TREK

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1 TREK FOR GOOD KHAO SOK JUNGLE & COASTAL FOREST TREK

2 Welcome Thank you for choosing to support the children and communities in Thailand. We hope that your journey will not only change their lives, but yours also. You may have many questions, some doubts and even a few fears, but believe us when we say that all of this achievable and we ll be there to help every step of the way.

3 About the trek The trek through the jungle and coastal forest region of Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is an amazing, and for many, a life changing experience. Due to the close-knit nature of the team you undoubtedly form bonds with other group members as we support and encourage one another through to the end. There will be stunning scenery, adventure, laughs, good times, personal challenges and a very rewarding journey. At the end of the trek we will arrive back into Baan Tharn Namchai for a celebration dinner with the children. Experienced guides will lead you on a breathtaking expedition trekking through the jungle and amidst stunning coastal scenery of Southern Thailand. Trip highlights Spending time with the beautiful children of our Baan Tharn Namchai home A village homestay Cultural activities Delicious food Access to tracks seldom travelled by tourists A night on floating bungalows A unique insight into the wildlife and natural environment of Thailand Trekking on the beautiful Andaman coast What to expect After arriving in Thailand, your experience will begin with the very reason behind participating in this challenge the children. You will have the chance to connect with the children and staff at our Baan Tharn Namchai home before setting off the following morning to Khao Sok. From there we begin our trek into the breathtaking natural environment of the jungle. Each day there will be at most 2-3 hours hiking before lunch and 2-3 hours after lunch, up to about 15kms per day. It can be slow going in the jungle as these are paths not often travelled by tourists. On some days, we will arrive at camp and spend the afternoon exploring waterfalls, caves and wildlife. Each day, delicious western friendly Thai food will be prepared by our experienced guides. In the last days of the trek we will experience the beauty of Laem Son National Park on the Andaman Coast. And at Ban Talae Nok we will immerse ourselves in local cultural activities and a village homestay. We will continue our journey homeward bound arriving by long tail boat at the northern tip of beautiful Koh Kho Khao. As you trek through the jungle you ll undoubtedly be in awe of the beautiful view from the mountain top. On the final day we will conclude our trek roadside paying an emotional visit to the tsunami memorial before walking in to a warm welcome at Baan Than Namchai. The night will continue with a wonderful dinner celebration and a well deserved touch of luxury with accommodation at a beautiful hotel.

4 The basics Fundraising and costs Participants of the trek are required to fundraise AU$5,000 to qualify. 100% of donations you receive will go directly towards the children and projects that Hands supports in Thailand. Inclusions Shared accommodation 15/05/17 to 23/05/17 (inclusive) All meals from dinner of 15/05/17 to breakfast on 24/05/17 (inclusive) Porter to carry your main luggage (limit of 12kgs) An official trek t-shirt, hat and 1 pair of walking socks Individual fundraising page Australian based trek coordinator English speaking Thai tour guides Gala celebration dinner with the children of Baan Tharn Namchai at the five star Pullman Hotel, Khao Lak on the last night of the trek.

5 FAQs Will I get any assistance fundraising? Absolutely! Our team at Hands Across the Water are here to support you along the way. We have a major raffle to support your efforts plus plenty of tried and true methods of both raising awareness and raising funds. We also have dedicated events and marketing staff to assist you, for example organising online tickets sales for your event. Can I pay for the whole fundraising amount myself? Part of our aim is that through your fundraising efforts, you raise awareness and spread the important message about the work of Hands Across the Water. We hope that you will feel a real sense of achievement by reaching your target through promoting the cause. How much of my raised funds will go to helping the children? We are very proud to say that 100% of any donations you receive will go to directly supporting the children. If we organise an event on your behalf, then ticket sales will first offset any costs such as the venue hire, with all profits then going directly into your fundraising. What s not included in the cost of the trek? Your flights to and from Phuket, transfers to and from Khao Lak, travel insurance, massages and incidentals are not covered by the trek registration fee. When do I have to pay? When you express your interest in the trek you will need to pay a nonrefundable deposit of AU$500. The balance payment will be due in January. Monthly payment plans are available. Please contact Jenny at finance@handsgroup.org.au if you would like to arrange a payment plan. What will the weather be like? The weather in May will be in the high 20s to mid-30s most of the days. As it is a tropical climate there is likely to be showers during some of the days.

6 Suggested packing list Suggested packing list (a First Aid Kit will be carried by the leaders) large backpack with water proof cover waterproof inserts for backpack light backpack (15-20 litres) swimsuit hand torch sleeping bag liner soap tooth brush and tooth paste snacks + communal snacks personal medication head lamp water purifiers light rain poncho 1 jumper or jacket 3 pairs walking socks (one is provided Ziplock bags (various sizes) travel washing line groundsheet pain relief Voltaren shampoo toilet roll water bottles large Bushmans brand spray with 40% Deet 1 large shammy towel sunscreen 1 long sleeved top deodorant (roll on) utility knife (optional) Stingose plasters 1 pair thongs/flip flops/sandals modest clothing for Muslim home Vegemite, peanut butter, herbal tea, sugar satchels (optional), 1 pair of sturdy light hiking shoes antiseptic wash ear plugs (optional - it helps combat snoring!) antiseptic gel e.g. Solugel 1 toilet roll water shoes about 4,000 baht for the time on the trek, to purchase crafts, drinks, lunch gift for your homestay family (e.g. t-shirts, crayons, colouring books) 3 quick drying sets of clothes (including long pants with zip off legs, short sleeved shirt, long sleeved shirt) 1 small sweat towel to attach to the outside of backpack

7 TREK FOR GOOD CONTACT DETAILS Any questions, don t hesitate to us at team@handsacrossthewater.org.au We are always happy to help!