Trip Dossier. Information Pack

Transcription

1 Trip Dossier Information Pack

2 Thailand Jungle Trek with WVS Dog Shelter Visit 27 October 7 November 2018 About Thailand The Kingdom of Thailand offers an irresistible combination of breath-taking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, exquisite cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. From the lush jungles of Chiang Mai and the verdant limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, to the pulse pounding bazaars of Bangkok and the tranquil villages moored along the Mekong River, the land of smiles offers something for everyone. The WVS Project In 2015 WVS were made aware that a dog shelter they supported in Chiang Mai, Thailand was facing closure and the future of the dogs there were in severe jeopardy. WVS took over the running of the shelter and set up a dedicated International Training Centre (ITC) to help treat the animals of Chiang Mai as well as providing free veterinary training to Thai vets. Many of the dogs that are brought to the shelter have been mistreated or suffer from illness or severe injuries which require immediate veterinary care. The veterinary centre works hard to improve animal welfare standards and proactively implements programmes where they provide spay and neutering clinics which prevents even more at risk animals being born. Once a dog has recovered, they are taken to the dog shelter next door where the team provides on-going care and enrichment until their forever home can be found. Finding the perfect home for these dogs is key and the team visits the prospective owners home to assess suitability for rehoming. The team also provide guidance and training to owners taking on a shelter dog plus follow up support and guidance once the dog has been rehomed. Since WVS took over the shelter, they have rehomed over 80 dogs in the local area. For the dogs that are not immediately suitable to be rehomed, there is New Hope, an area just 10 minutes away from the ITC and shelter. This is a dedicated area which focuses on behavioural training and trains dogs with challenging behaviour to modify it, which further increases the likelihood of that dog being rehomed successfully.

3 Trek Overview This 5-day trek takes you far off the beaten track and into the beautiful hills of Northern Thailand in the Mae Hong Son area. Passing through remote Karen tribal villages and staying in local accommodation each night will give you an authentic insight into the lifestyle of the ethnic minority people who live in the area. The trek is graded challenging. How tough is it? The trek is rated challenging for someone of a good fitness level due to the hot and humid climate and uneven terrain. You have to carry your own backpack containing your spare clothes, toiletries and water. This could weigh 10kg when packed so please ensure you train with this in mind. An ideal candidate for the trek would be someone who enjoys trying something new, experiencing different cultures and leaving their comfort zone. You must be prepared to carry a daypack weighing around 10kg on 4 of the trek days. Who accompanies us? You will be accompanied by professional English-speaking local guides who have an excellent knowledge of hiking and culture in the region and are first aid trained. You will also be accompanied by a Different Travel Company tour manager, and a WVS staff member who together will support you and make your challenge memorable. What s the terrain and scenery like? The terrain will vary throughout the 5 days but in general it is undulating and on rough uneven ground. There are some steep sections but your guides will support you all the way. The elevation ranges from m and underfoot the trails are stony, uneven and occasionally slippery depending on the weather conditions. The route offers an interesting variety of scenery as you pass beautiful lush rice terraces, cross shallow rivers, ascend into evergreen, mixed deciduous and bamboo forests and enter remote Karen villages. You will cover approximately 10km per day which will take around 5-8 hours. The itinerary is subject to change depending on the weather and, particularly, rainfall. What is the weather like? Temperatures are linked with the weather conditions but you can expect highs of 32 C during the day, dropping down to 19 C at night. In October, which is towards the end of the rainy season, weather conditions will vary and can be

4 unpredictable. In general you can expect hot, partly cloudy days with a 60% chance of rain and fairly high humidity (between 50-80%). It s important to be prepared for all weather conditions and temperatures so ensuring you have the correct kit, such as waterproof dry bags to protect the kit in your daypack and a lightweight poncho. When the sun comes out it can feel very hot so wearing sunglasses and a hat, and keeping well hydrated is crucial. Please note that the above climate details are based on historical averages and may differ due to climate change and the unpredictable nature of the weather. We cannot be held responsible for weather conditions which differ to this. and buffalo live underneath the house at night. The main house is laid out over one upstairs level usually with 2 rooms, 1 for cooking and 1 for sleeping. There is also usually a large veranda which is used for socialising, preparing food, weaving, and so on. Staying with Karen people gives you an incredible opportunity to learn about their traditional lifestyle, culture, food and language. Where do we stay? In Bangkok and Chiang Mai you will stay in a hotel with en-suite facilities, 2 people to a room. During the trek you will stay in traditional Karen tribe homestay accommodation, 2-4 people per home. Karen houses are simple stilt homes built with wood or bamboo and thatched roofs made of grass. The Karen families animals, such as pigs, chickens Where will we sleep? You will sleep in the bedroom area of the homestay. There may be 2-4 trekkers sharing each homestay sleeping area. You are strongly advised to bring ear plugs so you can block out the inevitable snoring which will otherwise disturb your sleep. Please try some earplugs in advance so you know you are comfortable using them these really are essential. You are provided with a thin mattress, pillow, blankets and a mosquito net. Some people like to bring their own silk or cotton sleeping bag liner for additional warmth and comfort but this is totally optional. Slip-on sandals such as Crocs, pumps or trainers are advised for use around the village as shoes are not to be worn inside, and your hiking boots will be muddy from walking. Flip flops or Crocs are very handy for when using the bathing facilities.

5 What are the bathroom facilities like? The bathroom facilities are very basic and located in a small outhouse building near the homestay. Buckets of water will be supplied for washing and you will need to bring your own towel and biodegradable toiletries (Lush cosmetics have a great selection of natural products). Do not expect hotel standards. We recommend a pair of flip flops or Crocs for use in the shower, and also a small pack of baby wipes to freshen up during the trek day. What is the trek food like? During the trek, breakfast and dinner will be eaten at the stilt house you are staying in. Lunch will be packed and eaten along the way. The food provided is delicious traditional Thai meals. You will have plenty and the food is freshly prepared and delicious. Thai food isn t spicy but if you like your food with a kick, chilli or chilli sauce is often available if you ask. Typical dishes include soup, rice, fresh vegetables, meat, eggs, fruit etc. Produce is usually grown and reared by the local families. Plates, mugs and cutlery are provided and you may be able to purchase soft drinks or snacks at the village shop depending on availability (payable locally). What about toilet facilities? There will be squat toilets at each village, and a water bucket which you use to flush. Toilet paper is usually provided but you are recommended to bring your own supply (1-2 rolls). Toilet paper must not be flushed but put into the bins provided. The sewer pipes are not large enough to cope with toilet paper and if you attempt to flush it, you will block the pipes and make the facilities unusable for everyone else. During the trek you will need to pack up any toilet paper you use to dispose of properly at the village. NEVER leave toilet paper or other litter (including fruit peels, seeds and nut shells) on the trail. How do I train for this? It is crucial that you train, including plenty of hills and carrying an equivalent weight backpack, to ensure your best chance of enjoyment and fast recovery from each day s exertions. Training may include hill walking, running, cycling, swimming, gym workouts, boot camps etc. You can download a number of free apps which help you train and track your progress. E.g. MapMyRide, C25K (couch to 5k run), MyFitnessPal. If you attempt to complete the trek without training it will make each day more difficult than necessary and will hinder your experience and the experience of your teammates.

6 Will I receive advice and support on training? In addition to supplying you with training tips and hints, The Different Travel Company has a link with online personal training company Brightside Personal Training, who offer a great value online training package for those who may not have access to fitness advice, tailored to their requirements: The best training for trekking in the mountains is hill walking. Is there an age limit? You must be 18+ to participate on this trek unaccompanied. It may be possible to participate if you are 16 or 17 years old but you will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit. How much does it cost? There is a 275 registration fee (payable at the time of booking) then you are asked to fundraise a minimum of 3,285 for WVS. Medical health declaration We require a medical form to be completed by everyone upon registering, and any preexisting conditions, medications used and other medical issues must be noted and (if relevant) signed off by your GP. Any conditions that develop must be declared and a new medical form completed and signed. What is included? Trip includes: Flights from London (including current taxes and charges), all local transfers and transport, all accommodation (hotels in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, traditional Karen homestay on trek), all meals, all entrance fees, conservation fees and trek permits, expert English-speaking local guides, UK tour manager. Trip does not include: Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, trek gear, souvenirs etc.), travel insurance, tips, Thai visa if required, vaccinations or medication required, transport to/from UK airports etc.

7 How will I raise the sponsorship required? Most people find that this is far easier than they imagined. You will receive dedicated fundraising support from WVS including providing you with a fundraising pack and support planning a calendar of fundraising which will work for you and fit in around your lifestyle. In the meantime here are some suggestions for how you could raise your sponsorship. Non-uniform day at local school supermarket bag-packs Car boot sale/ebay auction Quiz night Sponsorship - friends, family Host parties and charge entry Ask 5 people to raise Dress down day at work- 150 Lunch money donation Donate your skills - ironing, babysitting, gardening, DIY Karaoke night Sponsored beard-shave/leg wax Total 3,500 How do I sign up? Complete the booking form and this, with a copy of your passport, to Carly@wvs.org.uk or post your full application to: Carly Redwood Worldwide Veterinary Service 14 Wimborne Street Cranborne Dorset BH21 5PP Once your place is confirmed you will receive a training guide, fundraising pack and much more! Is the trip ATOL protected? This trip is operated by The Different Travel Company (ATOL 6706) for WVS. The Different Travel Company Ltd. is a company registered in England, number All the flights in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:

8 Itinerary Day 1 (Saturday 27 October): London - Bangkok Depart London on an overnight flight to Bangkok. Day 2 (Sunday 28 October): Bangkok Upon arrival in Bangkok you will transfer to your central hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Depending on flight times there may be some time to explore this bustling and exciting city. Day 3 (Monday 29 October): Bangkok Chiang Mai Mae Hong Son This morning we transfer to the airport with our guide for the short flight to Chiang Mai. On arrival we will transfer by road to our hotel in Mae Hong Son (approx. 6 hours), stopping for lunch en-route. This afternoon is at leisure before gathering together for a trek briefing. Day 4 (Tuesday 30 October): Trek day 1: Mae Hong Son Huai Hee After breakfast we set off for our first day s trek. To reach the trail there is a short drive (approx. 1.5 hours) in 4WD s from where we begin hiking through the Ban Ham Hoo Valley up to 1,650m to enjoy the beautiful scenery and views. Some parts of the trail are quite steep and narrow as we trek through different types of forest. Along the way we learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Karen people and look out for wild orchids. This afternoon we reach the Karen village of Huai Hee where we meet our hosts for the next 2 nights. The people of Huai Hee are known for their conservation of wild orchids, protection of the forest and producing handmade, naturally dyed weaving. Trekking: approx. 5 hours / 8 km. Day 5 (Wednesday 31 October): Trek day 2: Huai Hee Doi Pui Huai Hee Huai Hee village lies at the base at the Doi Pui Mountain, the highest peak in Mae Shong Son Province at 1,685m. Today s goal is the summit. This trek passes waterfalls and some beautiful viewpoints, and your guides will help you gain a deeper insight into the conservation efforts of the Karen people and their careful use of natural resources. After reaching the summit we stop for our traditional packed lunch before returning to the village where there may be an opportunity to see how the Karen cook rice, before enjoying a meal and spending time with your host families. Trekking: approx. 6 hours / 10 km. Day 6 (Thursday 1 November): Trek day 3: Huai Hee Huai Tong Kor Today we pack our rucksacks, enjoy breakfast and say farewell. Our trek starts along a road from the village before joining the trail back into the lush mountainous area of Huai Tong Kor, where we will stay tonight. This village is home to blacksmiths, herbal medicine gurus, spiritual leaders, singers and sword dancers. There is a huge waterfall over 150m high close to the village and you can learn about the traditional water management methods to irrigate the paddy fields. This evening we have the opportunity to see traditional sword dancing before staying with your hosts for the evening in their traditional homes. Trekking: approx. 8 hours / 11 km

9 Day 7 (Friday 2 November): Trek day 4: Huai Tong Kor Huai Kung After breakfast we set off into the Mae Samad River Valley, stopping to visit a large waterfall on the way. There are some stream and river crossings today so be prepared take your boots off for a refreshing wade across. We arrive at the small Buddhist village of Huai Kung this afternoon, which will be our home for the night. The village is located on the river and is a wonderful place for swimming. The villagers rely on the river for fishing in addition to hunting game and rice farming. You will enjoy a traditional meal together this evening before relaxing and getting to know your village hosts. Trekking: approx. 6-7 hours / 11 km Day 8 (Saturday 3 November): Trek day 5: Huai Kung Mae Hong Son This morning we depart the village for our final day of trekking. We continue through the Mae Samad River Valley with further river crossings before reaching some beautiful and diverse landscapes, including teak, bamboo and red wood forest before arriving at Pabong Village where we say farewell to our trek support team. From here we transfer to Mae Hong Son (approx. 1 hour drive) and check into your hotel. Trekking: approx. 6 hours / 10 km Day 9 (Sunday 4 November): Mae Hong Son - Chiang Mai Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning before returning back to Chiang Mai (approx. 6 hours drive), stopping for lunch en-route. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai you will check into your hotel and have time to relax for the rest of the day before dinner. Days (Monday 5 - Tuesday 6 November): WVS projects, Chiang Mai The next 2 days you will enjoy visits to WVS projects including the International Training Centre (ITC) and dog shelter where you will learn all about the important work WVS does in the area. On the Tuesday evening there will be a celebratory farewell dinner with traditional dancing and musical performances. Day (Wednesday 7- Thursday 8 November): Chiang Mai - Bangkok - London Depending on flight times you will have some free time after breakfast before transferring to the airport for the flight home, via Bangkok, arriving Thursday morning. N.B. This itinerary is complex and details may change due to unusual weather patterns, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the set itinerary however we cannot be held responsible for changes that might occur outside of our control. In all such circumstances your guide and tour manager will have the final say in the interest of the health and safety of the group. Adventure travel is often unpredictable so flexibility and an open mind is recommended.