I've been trying to think of a different way to see Asia and in particular Thailand and have joined a charity trek into the Thailand jungle for the charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer in March 2009.

Has anyone else done anyhting like this before? Is this a good way to see the 'real' Thailand away from all the tourist and tourist traps?

I'm very excited about this trek and hopefully it will be a really unique experience in aid of a very worthy cause ...

quote:

Breakthrough Breast Cancer in March 2009

Hi Holly,

You should be excited — Thailand's a lot of fun.

I've trekked in the north on three different occassions. Each fun in their own right.

I googled around to read about this trip and found some information here.

This looks like your standard three or four day trek with requisite raft and elephant ride. This is pretty much the standard itinerary.

To be honest, it appears that this won't be much different than what you would book in Chang Mai or Chang Rai.

Visiting the Karen tribe is interesting, but it's hardly an 'authentic' experience — a lot of tourists trek through these areas year-round.

That's not to say you wont have a great time — you likely will! Each time I've trekked, the guides have been awesome and made it a lot of fun.

Anyway, that's my 0.02 cents — it's a worthy cause, to be sure. In my estimation, however, it wont be to far removed from what your average tour would offer.

Tell me more about it — how many in your group, et al.

Ask the organizers which trekking company they are using — as they are likely booking through a local company.

I once used company and they were excellent. In my opinion, the best in Chang Mai.

Mountain jungles are muddy, hilly, and full of insects. They are full of strange tall trees and vines, and filled with sounds all through the night. They are full of animals that your guide can see, but somehow you cannot, especially snakes and iguanas. They like to hide in plain sight.

It is an exhilarating experience for the first time no matter how 'tame' people say it may be. Pack lighter than you think you should, for weight becomes a big issue if you take too much. Bring at least two liters of water with you, or make sure the guides carry it for you. You may sweat far more than you knew you could, depending on your metabolism. Guides never seem to sweat. It's a professional secret, I think.

Travelling on a subtropical river is also exciting, and not to be missed. It's better if its a paddle boat rather than a noisy motorboat.

The heat can be exhausting. Pace yourself if you can, and eat as much as you can. It can also be calorie consuming if you walk all day in a humid hot environment.

Have fun!!!!

PS. Where is the 'real' thailand? The jungle is certainly one part of the much vaster realms to explore.

I would go elsewhere, I found the trekking in Thailand to be a slow walk from one village market to another, not very inspiring!