Conservation on a Tropical Island in Thailand

  Thailand

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: 2 - 12 week placements throughout the year

Description: Be part of it with i-to-i!
Our goal is to achieve 400 years of combined volunteering all over the world by the end of 2008.

So far we have achieved 325 years which when broken down means we achieved the following:

- Over 5500 children cared for on our community projects around the world
- A minimum of 13,000 children and adults taught English in schools and community centers
- Hundreds of animals protected including Turtles, Pandas, Elephants, Monkeys and more
- At least 80 homes and structures built for families and communities in need
- More than 8000 trees planted which are enough trees to offset the CO2 emissions of over 2,000 cars

Will you help preserve this piece of paradise?

This project offers a unique opportunity for keen conservationists to live and work on one of Thailand's most stunning and famous islands - Koh Tao. Situated just off the southern cost of Thailand, Koh Tao is regarded as one of Thailand's best kept secrets boasting spectacular sites, miles of white sandy beaches, lush jungle and world class diving opportunities. Working on the island, willing helpers are needed to preserve their stunning surroundings whilst educating future generations to do the same. Volunteer on Koh Tao and you will not only have the opportunity to support a vast range of conservation activities, but you will also play a part in helping to conserve this slice of paradise for years to come.

Find out more about i-to-i, watch their short video here: http://video.i-to-i.com/site-videos/video.html

Highlights: What were the highlights of your trip that you couldn't wait to tell your friends about?

"The whole experience was amazing. I fell totally in love with the island, the people were fantastic, the weather was fab and it was like a home away from home....only on a tropical island! The 'Save Koh Tao' festival was very special as we got to work (and party) with the local community while helping to educate people about environmental issues on the island. Summer Camp with the kids was also great fun. Check out the photos on the Secret Garden website!" (Roisin Graham)

Qualifications: You do not require any specific skills or knowledge, but you will need to be ready to take on a number of tasks that may be required of you, and to get dirty in the process! You must be prepared to get involved as it is a hands on approach. General fitness and lots of enthusiasm will definitely enhance your experience.

Cost in US$: US$ 1390.00 for 2 weeks, US$ 200.00 for every week thereafter

* Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately US$50 per week)

* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if youre arriving early!

* Training: In-country orientation and Online TEFL course

* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: The project needs volunteers to support the conservation efforts on the island and help educate the future generations on the importance of protecting the island's ecosystem. Much of the work at this project is dependent on having the necessary labour and without volunteers, the battle against irresponsible tourism may be lost to the detriment of the island's future.

Age Range: 18 yaers old and above

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: Founded in 1994, i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 15,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 300 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994