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CONSERVATION

SOUTHEASTASIA

ADVENTURE

ANIMAL

OPERATION GROUNDSWELLwww.operationgroundswell.com

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The summer of your life is about to begin. This package will get you stoked and fill you in on everything you need to know about Operation Groundswell and your region.

CONTENTS

3 OUR APPROACH

4 A LETTER FROM YOUR PROGRAM LEADER

5 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

6 THAILAND COUNTRY PROFILE

7 CAMBODIA COUNTRY PROFILE

8 GETTING IN & OUT OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

9 TRAVEL HEALTH & MEDICINE

10 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

11 WHAT TO PACK

12 PACKING LIST CONTINUED

13 MONEY MATTERS

14 CULTURAL DO’S AND DO NOT’S

15 THAI FOR DUMMIES

15 KHMER FOR DUMMIES

16 WHO WE’RE WORKING WITH

17 KNOWING STUFF MAKES YOU SMARTER

18 FINAL CHECKLIST

WE’re sparking a

movement of

globally active &

socially coNScious

BACKPACKTIVISTS.

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OUR APPROACH

Operation Groundswell is a collaborative organization. It’s in our DNA. Which is why over the past couple years, we’ve sat down with over fifty people close to OG to ask them which values best represent the organization. Together we built what is now called the Backpacktivist Manifesto: a working document that we will use to inform everything we do, both abroad and right here in our home communities.

Here are the values that every backpacktivist should strive for:

» Prepared to change: the most important quality in a backpacktivist is the ability to reflect and adapt.

» Full life livin’: squeeze the sweet nectar out of

every opportunity the world throws at us!

» Conscientious: adhering to local traditions and customs allows us to understand the value of cultures different from our own.

» Respect: make an effort to understand all people...even the ones we don’t get along with.

» Humility: a backpacktivist may look silly searching for words in a new language, but the very attempt connects us to locals on a whole different level.

» Solidarity: a backpacktivist stands in solidarity with all peoples, regardless of race, gender, or class.

» Group-focused: leverage the power of a group to develop a deeper understanding of the world around us and of ourselves.

» Thirst for learning: the road is the best classroom and a backpacktivist is searching for truth.

» Leadership: we are training the next generation of positive and diverse leaders.

Backpacking with a purpose is about being conscious and critical of our impact on the communities that we travel to.

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A LETTER FROM YOUR PROGRAM LEADER

SUA S’DEI/ SA WAT DII!

Congratulations on being accepted to Operation Groundswell’s Southeast Asia: Animal Conservation program! It’s official: you have now committed to an amazing adventure of wandering through Cambodia and Thailand with a crew of unique and passionate individuals looking to experience the world in a whole new way! We sincerely hope you are stoked for what this program has to offer because we most definitely are.

From the unbound chaos of Bangkok and Phnom Penh to the rural countryside and jungles of Cambodia, this trip is definitely going to open your eyes to a whole new way living. Don’t be surprised if this trip is just your first of many to this fascinating corner of the world. You’ll fall in love with the food, views, people, smells, temples, and elephants. Even crossing the street is an endeavor in itself. We will see amazing places, be introduced to interesting people, and have the opportunity to explore ideas of sustainability and conservation. We’ll learn, laugh, and struggle together as these adventures unfold one step at a time.

As your program leaders, we know the organizations we will be working with and where some of the coolest local spots to explore are. Just like you, we too are lifelong learners and explorers; we are in this together! The bus will inevitably break down and we may be tested by a variety of insects. Some plans may change, as nothing is written in stone. The best part though, is that we are a team of ethically conscious and curious travellers. We’ll work together, play together, learn

together, eat together….we’ll learn to say “mai pen rai” (no worries!) and go with the flow. Welcome to Southeast Asia and welcome to the team!

While Southeast Asia is a prime destination for many foreigners, Operation Groundswell prides itself on bringing backpacktivists – not your typical backpacker or tourist – to this magnificent part of the world. Our program will take you down the path less wandered and offer opportunities you could not find with any other organization or by yourself. Working closely with incredible in-country organizations, we are excited for you to meet our partners, who over the years have become friends of OG’s.

In the weeks you spend in Southeast Asia, you likely won’t be “changing the world,” but you’ll most certainly be changed by it. OG’s mission is to plant seeds of inspiration in each of you to become conscious global citizens of this stunning world. And we will have a heck of a lot of fun while we are at it!

In the meantime, make sure you go through this program package carefully and get excited for an adventure like no other!

Love,

Sidney

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THE SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE IS ABOUT TO BEGIN. HERE’S EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

BANGKOK, THAILAND ORIENTATION

Each of you will be picked up from the airport and brought to our guesthouse in this amazingly diverse, bustling, and vibrant city. It’s a great place to shake off the jet lag and start to explore. Highlights include the annual OG scavenger hunt, temple hopping, eating street food on every corner, and learning some Thai from kids living in the Klong Toey slum.

PHETCHABURI, THAILANDWILDLIFE FRIENDS FOUNDATION THAILAND

At a wildlife sanctuary run by the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) in the countryside we’ll be hanging out with elephants! We’ll meander through the forest alongside these gentle giants as we learn about their vulnerability. Of course, we will also be helping out around the project, doing any jobs that keep the elephants happy.

BATTAMBANG, CAMBODIA OCKENDEN

From Bangkok we head about as deep into rural Cambodia as you can, to the Teuk Poh Permaculture Education Farm. It’s visited by hundreds of farmers who learn about permaculture and sustainable farming practices in a country where available lands are rapidly being depleted. We’ll get our hands dirty by day and listen to stories of the country by campfire at night!

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA ASIA’S HIDDEN GEM

After roughing it in the countryside, we head to Phnom Penh, where we’ll introduce you to all the hidden secrets of this booming city as well as its tragic recent history.

Our time in Phnom Penh will be topped off with a day volunteering at “Free the Bears”, an NGO that prioritizes the conservation of the endangered Asiatic Black Bear to ensure a more sustainable future.

YOUR PROGRAM ON A GOOGLE MAP

Here is the itinerary for the five weeks that we will be together! In the age of Google, we decided that an interactive map is the only way to roll. Feel free to play around with it, make it your browser’s homepage, and share it with your friends and family. Soon enough we’ll be on the ground doing that route for real.

View your map at http://bit.ly/1Ju0Ko7.

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5 INCREDIBLE WEEKS. 1 PAGE.

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THAILAND COUNTRY PROFILE

Capital: Bangkok

Population: 67 million

Major languages: Thai (official), Lao, Yawi, Chinese dialects, and the languages spoken by the hilltribes (Lahu, Akha, Hmong, etc.),

Major religion: Theravada Buddhist (official) 94.6%, Muslim 4.6%, Christian 0.7%, other 0.1%

Life expectancy: 71 years (men), 76 years (women)

Monetary unit: Baht (B)

Time Zone: UTC +7:00

The Kingdom of Thailand has, over the last five decades, become one of the world’s foremost tourist destinations. No surprise, since Thailand seems to have it all: bustling city life in Bangkok, idyllic beaches and islands in the south, a rugged and culturally diverse northern region, world heritage sites and nature parks, a warm tropical climate, delicious and abundant food, a laid-back lifestyle, and a smile around every corner.

While Thailand is a modern and industrialized society – with an economy largely based on market driven agriculture and the industry/services sector – Thais still adhere to deep-rooted traditions, customs, and norms. Buddhism, as the official religion, is a particularly strong cultural force. Monks are deeply revered, karma

is paramount, and wats (Buddhist temples) are central spaces of religious and social convergence. Belief in spirits is also pervasive, as attested to by the “spirit houses” (ancestral worship shrines) found outside many homes. Thais are also very family-oriented; a large number of people working in Bangkok, for example, are actually from villages elsewhere in the country and have flocked to the capital to raise money for their families.

A respect for social hierarchy and the concept of “face” (the avoidance of confrontation and embarrassment) form the backbone of Thai social interactions and is something we, as visitors, must be acutely aware of. With the importance of religion, family, and hierarchy in mind, it is easy to understand why the Thai King receives such profound affection – he is seen as the protector of Buddhism, the father of the country, and the symbol of unity and stability.

While Thailand has tremendous beauty, a fascinating culture, and some of the most hospitable people in the world, it is important to be aware of some of the major problems facing Thai society: political instability and corruption, inequalities between the urban elite and the large rural population, a booming illegal economy (including one of the world’s largest sex trade industries and human trafficking), a decades-long Muslim insurgency in the south, and the marginalization of hilltribes in the north.

These issues will certainly take time to improve, but positive change is being generated from the ground up all around the country.

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THAILAND IS NOT WHAT YOU MIGHT EXPECT. HERE ARE THE DETAILS.

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CAMBODIA COUNTRY PROFILE

Capital: Phnom Penh

Population: 14 million

Major languages: Khmer (official) 95%, Vietnamese, South Chinese dialects, French, English

Major religion: Buddhist (official) 96.4%, Muslim 2.1%, other 1.3%, unspecified 0.2%

Life expectancy: 60 years (men), 65 years (women)

Monetary unit: Riels (KHR)

Time Zone: UTC +7:00

While less developed and poorer than neighboring Thailand, the Kingdom of Cambodia’s tremendously rich culture and hospitable people have captured the hearts of just about everyone we know who has spent time there. This little country has a lot to offer. The main draw for tourists are the spectacular temple ruins of Angkor located in Siem Reap. In fact, Cambodia’s tourism industry is almost entirely centered on visitation to this World Heritage Site. Angkor is also an important national symbol (it’s on the flag!) and the Khmer are immensely proud of their cultural heritage.

Still a predominantly rural society, 77% of the population lives in the countryside, while Cambodia’s urban population is rapidly growing.

Similar to Thailand, Theravada Buddhism is the main religion and forms an integral part of the Khmer society. Family, respect for hierarchy, adherence to tradition, and the concept of “face” are fundamental aspects of life in Cambodia. And much like Thailand, the food is amazing – curries, fish amok, fresh fruit, bamboo juice, delicious sandwiches, and tarantula delicacies!  Cambodian society faces a myriad of challenges. The severe level of corruption at all levels of government is a major contributor to the current illegal economy (funded through human trafficking, drugs, and guns), environmental degradation (especially deforestation), and the internal displacement of people, which has led to serious human rights abuses. Cambodian youth are vulnerable and frequently exploited. With limited access to education, drug abuse and crime are rampant and street kids and orphans are common sights.

As unique phenomenons and wary landmarks, the remaining unexploded landmines are a legacy of three decades of warfare. These landmines affect 8 of every 10 rural Cambodians, but are not an issue for travellers, though we ask you make sure not to go too far off the beaten path. This is just one of the many scars from Cambodia’s tumultuous modern history.

Cambodia is still a nation recovering from a genocide that killed almost 2 million people and severely eroded Khmer culture. Still, the Khmer have an unparalleled resilience that is delightfully infectious. Despite recent tragedies, Cambodians smile and stand proud of their country. ‘Grin and bear it’ takes on a whole new meaning in a nation in the midst of rebuilding.

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CAMBODIA IS NOT THE COUNTRY THAT YOU MIGHT EXPECT. HERE ARE THE DETAILS.

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GETTING IN & OUT OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

PASSPORTSYou will need a valid passport with an expiry date of no less than 6 months after your estimated time of return. If you have not done so already, you should immediately begin the process of acquiring/renewing your passport.

For Canadian citizens applying for a passport, visit: www.ppt.gc.caFor U.S. citizens applying for a passport, visit: www.state.govFor Australian citizens applying for a passport, visit:www.passports.gov.au

For all others, please check with your government’s travel agency to clarify requirements.

VISASYou are responsible for having all the proper visa requirements and though your program fee does not cover visa costs, your program leaders are there to answer any questions if a pre-trip application is necessary. Canadian, American, and Australian nationals get a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Thailand. You do not need to acquire a visa in advance – it is all done as you go through customs when you arrive in Bangkok. For Cambodia, visas cost $30 USD, to be paid upon entry at the border crossing. Be sure to have the exact amount ready and an extra passport photo. We advise that you confirm your visa requirements directly with your embassy.

For all other nationalities, please confirm your visa requirements directly with your embassy.

FLIGHT INFORMATIONWith years of experimenting on how to arrange flights, Operation Groundswell has found that participants often find cheaper flights by booking on their own. What we want to stress is that you must arrive into Bangkok, Thailand on January 13, 2016 (as close to noon as possible, Thai time). The official end date of the program—a.k.a. the date we will drop you off at the airport to go home - is February 17, 2016 (as close to noon as possible, Thai time).

We suggest checking Kayak, Orbitz, Cheapoair, Google Flights and other flight sites to get the cheapest rate.

If you are an American student, we have a partnership with StudentUniverse to offer you the some of the most affordable airfare options. Click here to look for flights.

If you are Canadian and you would rather the personal touch of a travel agent, you can get in touch with Alan Borenstein at Flight Centre. He is a past program leader and currently books all our program leader’s flights. You can reach him toll-free at 1-877-815-4906 or send him an email at alan.borenstein@flightcentre.ca.

NOTE: If you arrive before the program begins, you will not be under the auspices of Operation Groundswell. We cannot guarantee that anyone will meet you at the airport or arrange your  accommodations. You will be entirely responsible for yourself until the first day of the program. Check all flights with your program leaders before you book them!

**IMPORTANT**You will receive an email (if you haven’t already) with a link to fill out your flight information. It is imperative that you fill this out so that we can arrange pickups on the first day of the program.

WHERE WILL WE BE SLEEPING?In the cities and towns, we’ll be sleeping in hostels and guesthouses. Accommodations are going to be basic but comfortable. Over the last few years we’ve come to know which guesthouses are good and which ones aren’t, so don’t worry. While we are in remote areas (particularly with the Teuk Poh Permaculture Farm) we will stay with local families in homestays or basic volunteer facilities. Think bamboo floors, mosquito nets, and farm animals – but don’t fret, it’s a definite bonding experience!

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SLEEPING. EATING. GETTING AROUND. SPEAKING. PLAYING. WE LIVE LIKE THE LOCALS FOR THE MOST REAL EXPERIENCES.

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TRAVEL HEALTH & MEDICINE

STAYING HEALTHY ON THE GROUND

Staying healthy on your program is one of the most important aspects of enjoying an Operation Groundswell experience. With the proper preparation beforehand and careful attention on the program, you can minimize most health risks while still having a great time. Operation Groundswell expects you to meet with a travel doctor or your GP (if he or she is comfortable advising), before leaving your country of origin. You must be up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations and equipped with any necessary medications for travel in Southest Asia. We advise you to bring a copy of your itinerary to your appointment or send it to your doctor beforehand. While we provide a lot of recommended information here, the travel doctor will know what you absolutely need at the time of departure according to which region(s) you’re traveling to.

Operation Groundswell requires your doctor’s signature on a personal medical history form stating that you are both physically and mentally cleared for participation in the program. Operation Groundswell does not discriminate against physical or mental conditions or disability. We simply want to make sure that you are fully aware of the risks and challenges of the program, that we are aware of any previous medical conditions, and that we have the capacity to support you while you’re abroad! This form will be sent to you two weeks after your deposit has been paid.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Operation Groundswell requires you to purchase travel health insurance for the duration of your time abroad. It’s important to make sure you find the insurance plan that suits your needs.

At the minimum, participants generally get basic medical insurance to cover them for any medical emergencies that occur while they’re abroad. We recommend shopping around on sites like squaremouth.com, which will list a variety of options and compare their coverage. The cost will depend on the extras you get on top of medical (covering lost or stolen baggage, electronics, etc.)

If Operation Groundswell must cancel a program due to low numbers, OG will be happy to relocate you to another program. If you would rather cancel than relocate, OG will reimburse your full program fee but is not responsible for refunding any flight cost or other costs associated with the program. You decide if you’d like to insure your flight, buy a flexible ticket, or buy separate flight insurance through your airline.

KEEPING US IN THE LOOP

Two weeks after paying your deposit, you will receive an email with:

» A copy of the personal medical history form that your doctor must sign

» A personal link where you can upload the signed copy

**We require this form at the latest a month before your pro-gram starts.

A month before your program starts, you will receive an email with a link for you to provide your:

» Emergency contact » Travel insurance » Flight information

The links you will be sent are live forms, so you can fill out a portion of the information when you have it and continue fill-ing it out once you’ve booked your flights, etc. closer to the program date.

**IMPORTANT**The above information is required for participation in every OG program.

REGIONALLY RELEVANT MEDICINE

Hepatitis A & BRecommended for all travelers.

TyphoidRecommended for all travelers.

RabiesFor travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, or at high risk for animal bites, or involved in any activities involving contact with bats.

MalariaSpeak with your travel doctor about getting malaria pills. We will be spending quite a bit of time in areas where there is a risk of contracting malaria.

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HEALTH & SAFETY AREOUR TOP PRIORITY.

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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

STAYING SAFE ON THE GROUND

As a well-established and experienced volunteer-abroad organization, Operation Groundswell takes active precautions to keep you safe and secure while overseas on your program. We take travel safety very seriously. Each section of your program undergoes a standardized risk assessment. Your program leaders do a dry run of your program before you arrive to confirm the nearest medical facilities and potential risks. At least one program leader on each program has taken a Wilderness First Aid course and is fully certified by Wilderness Medical Associates.

Each program checks in daily with our Toronto headquarters to relay important information and ensure the health and safety of participants. Our Programs Director reads regional travel warnings daily and is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies on the ground.

With that in mind, it is important to remember that every OG program prides itself on taking you directly into the experience of living in that region. Pick pocketing, purse snatching, and various types of scams are the most common forms of crime confronting visitors. Those who limit their display of jewelry and handle their cash discreetly reduce their vulnerability to crime. Participants are advised to carry limited amounts of cash for this reason.

Thailand and Cambodia are relatively safe and quite used to large number of visitors. If you use common sense and caution then you will have a great trip. Protests in Bangkok are a general safety concern, but foreigners are rarely targeted and the incidents are generally quite isolated to specific areas, which makes it easy for us to prepare and avoid if the need should arise. Southeast Asia can be just as safe as any place in Canada or the United States; it is just about being vigilant to your surroundings and being aware, smart and not taking unnecessary risks.

OG and its local partners are familiar with these risks and will take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of its participants. This includes maintaining an effective flow of information and using the knowledge of our wonderful partners, local contacts, and officials. Equally, OG program leaders will project an inclusive, respectful, and non-partisan image. They will be running through the entire program prior to your arrival to ensure that everything is safe and secure. Nevertheless, program logistics will remain under review and the itinerary flexible to unforeseen developments. Learn more about our safety protocols visit http://operationgroundswell.com/programs/safety/.

**IMPORTANT**There are also a variety of safety precautions that we require you to undertake prior to and immediately upon arrival in Bangkok.

First, team members should read government travel advisories for Thailand and Cambodia.

NOTE: Keep in mind that government advisories provide a countrywide assessment of risks and we will provide more region-specific information in the pre-program meetings that each team will have with their program leaders in April.

Second, all Canadian participants are required to register with Consular Services Canada as a “Canadian Traveling Abroad.” This will allow the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to contact us in case of an emergency.

Please make the required registration for your trip at http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/registration.

Those traveling with a U.S. passport should register at https://step.state.gov/step/.

Those traveling with an Australian passport should register at www.smartraveller.gov.au/

For all other nationalities, please find your country’s consular services to see if there is an option to register as a traveler abroad.

STAYING IN TOUCH

Internet will be available periodically for you to email home. Telephone access will be limited. Buying a local cell phone can be a more cost effective way of keeping in touch. Your team will be blogging throughout the program so pass on the link to family and friends: www.operationgroundswell.com/journal/. Additionally, both your program leaders have locally serviced cell phones for emergency use. They will be in regular contact throughout the summer with OG’s Programs Director. In case of emergency, please ask your family or next of kin to call OG’s main line at 1-888-422-0164. From there, they will be connected directly to one of our on-call Program Coordinators.

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HEALTH & SAFETY AREOUR TOP PRIORITY.

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Remember: The rule of thumb is always to pack as lightly as possible!

WHAT TO PACK

SUPPORTING LOCAL

Buying clothing in Thailand and Cambodia is extremely cheap and easy to do. Don’t worry about bringing too little because you’ll inevitably end up buying clothing while you’re away. This helps support the Thai and Cambodian economies and will also help you fit in with locals!

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

» Passport (valid beyond 6 months from the start date of the program)

» Extra passport photos (if you have them) » Copies of passport/tickets/credit cards (you want

extras in case you lose a document) » Customer service numbers for credit cards/

insurance » Proof of vaccinations

BACKPACK & DAYPACK

Because we’re not wheelie-baggers, we’re backpackers! We recommend going to an outdoor adventure store and getting a pack fitted to you. Most people should only need a 45-65L pack. Try a bunch on and compare prices to find one that is right. You could also borrow from a friend!

It is also important to bring a daypack for short trips and daily use. Also, you’ll probably want to have room in your bag so you can pick things up along the way like weavings, coffee, or books.

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PACK YOUR BAG, THEN REMOVE HALF OF IT AS YOU PROBABLY WON’T NEED MOST OF IT.

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PACKING LIST CONTINUED

ESSENTIAL ITEMS

» 1 bath towel (quick-dry adventure towels are the lightest)

» Flashlight (headlamps are popular and recommended)

» Min. 1L reusable water bottle » Medication/EpiPen if you need it

GENERAL CLOTHING

» 4-5 pairs of underwear » 3-4 pairs of socks » 1-2 pairs of shorts (please keep them knee length

to avoid unwanted attention and mosquito bites where the sun don’t shine!)

» 3-4 t-shirts/tank-tops (revealing clothing isn’t your best bet, but we also know that it gets damn hot during the day. Just try to keep a balance.)

» 1 pair of jeans or khakis and a nice shirt/polo for when we meet community leaders/important folk

» 1 light fleece/sweater or a longer sleeve shirt as it can get cold on bus rides (Thais love to blast the air conditioning and the jungle can get chilly at night)

» 1 waterproof jacket » A hat to protect you from the sun » A bathing suit (modesty is your friend!)

Buying clothing in Thailand and Cambodia is extremely cheap and easy to do. Don’t worry about bringing too little because you can purchase more if you find you need it. You want to aim to find clothing that is comfortable & breathable!

We also like to remind everyone that Thai and Cambodian culture has a different standard for what constitutes “appropriate” clothing. Especially when we are out in more remote areas we will need to be conscious of what we wear (i.e. no short shorts and no tank tops). The same goes for all Buddhist temples – going into a temple with uncovered shoulders and revealed legs is considered inappropriate. Just remember to be respectful of other cultures!

SHOES

If you buy new shoes, break them in before the program - blisters suck!

» 1 pair of sturdy hiking boots/trail shoes (for work and trekking around)

» 1 pair of sandals (flip flops/thongs for the shower and flip flopping around)

» 1 pair of comfortable casual/dress shoe if your hikers are too intense for day wear

PERSONAL HYGIENE & TOILETRIES

» Regular hygiene items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream, etc. (Note: these are all readily available in smaller quantities and at a cheaper price if you would rather buy them down there. Another good option is bringing small quantities to begin with and refilling once in-country)

» Vitamins, painkillers, cold medicines, etc. » Toothbrush and toothpaste » 1 extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts/

contact solution (if required) » Tampons and pads (it is always a good idea to

bring more than enough tampons) » Bug spray and after bite » Sunscreen and lip balm » Immodium/Pepto Bismol (you will want this!) » One round of prescription medicine for travel

diarrhoea (i.e. ask the travel doctor you will visit) » If you have asthma and you need a puffer,

absolutely bring it, even if you rarely use it. Same goes for allergies and EpiPens – bring your meds if you need ‘em!

» Any prescriptions that you need (refrigeration is not always an option so please check with your program leaders in that case)

NOTE: All program leaders are equipped with First Aid Kits, so though it is useful to have basics like Advil or Tylenol, you don’t need to pack a pharmacy. There will be a medical form sent out closer to the program start time so you can outline and specific mental or physical health problems.

OTHER NICE-TO-HAVE ITEMS

» Sleeping liner or sheet » Sleeping pad (optional, but might come in handy

at the permaculture farm if you don’t want a bamboo mat!)

» Watch (fairly cheap and water-resistant/proof) » Pajamas/earplugs/eye mask » Money belt/discreet wallet » Camera (no need for a computer as we will have

computer and internet access in most places) » Journal/pens » Deck of cards » Books about the Pol Pot regime, sustainable

travel, or permaculture » Ziplock bags for your books/documents » If you’re a picky eater, need comfort food, or are

particular about your nutrition: Peanut Butter, Nutella, Fruit-to-go’s, Protein Bars

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MONEY MATTERS

IT’S EASY TO GET AROUND RELATIVELY INEXPENSIVELY ON AN OG PROGRAM. WHAT YOU SPEND IS REALLY UP TO YOU.

The program fee covers the costs of accommodations, three meals a day, transport, and excursions. It does NOT cover any personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, or whatever you choose to do for your Independent Travel Time. For these cases, you will want to bring some spending money.

Based on past experiences, people have generally spent around $400 - $500 beyond that which is covered by the program fee. We recommend that you bring some cash with you, though it is easy to withdraw from ATMs (usually with a $5 transaction fee) in most areas we go to.

MONEY TIPS

» Leave any traveler’s cheques at home. They are problematic to cash or exchange.

» Debit is the best option. ATM/ABMs are widespread and can dispense up to $200 USD equivalent. There is a transaction charge of approx. $2.50-$5.00 USD, but they are the most convenient and safest option. It is advisable to communicate with your bank before departure to determine their level of accessibility.

» Visa is the most widely accepted credit card. Do your best to have a chip card that is PIN ENABLED to have it work in ATMs. Make sure that the PLUS sign is on the back of your card so that it works in international ATM locations.

» Call your bank and inform them of your travel plans so they don’t place a hold on your account when they see money being withdrawn in a foreign country (you do NOT want this to happen!)

» While Thailand and Cambodia are cheap for Western standards, if you don’t watch what you spend it DOES add up so keep track of your personal budget.

» US dollars are used as official currency in Cambodia. » There will be a safety talk before the program, but

money in large amounts, Interac/credit cards, etc. will NOT be carried in any one location and we recommend using money belts/discreet wallets.

CHANCES ARE SOMETHING IN the BUSY LOCAL MARKETS WILL CATCH YOUR EYE.

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CULTURAL DO’S AND DO NOT’S

Be a cultural chameleon, and do what you can to show as much courtesy and interest in the local culture as possible. Do as the locals do and try to follow these basic rules while in Southeast Asia! Being aware and sensitive to your surroundings is the first step towards being a traveler and not a tourist!

DO...

» Always make sure to show respect for the King, especially in Thailand where images of their beloved King is found on stamps (so don’t lick them) and on money (so try not to crumple it).

» In Southeast Asia, the people greatly believe in social harmony and something called the concept of ‘face’. At all times, you should avoid embarrassing yourself or others for the sake of social harmony. Keep your cool and everything will work out in the end (mai pen lai!).

» Keep displays of affection private. » Remove shoes upon entering homes and temples. » Observe temple dress codes (basically no knees

or shoulders showing). » Dress modestly. Try and avoid walking around

sleeveless or without a shirt on, no matter how hot and sweaty you are.

» Review what it means to be a “backpacktivist” on the OG website – you should strive to be all of these things!

DO NOT...

» DO NOT make fun of or criticize the king (Thailand has very strict les majeste laws).

» Don’t get angry or frustrated, or at least try to avoid “heated” situations. Remember this when you are dealing with pesky scam artists or people on the streets trying to sell you things – getting upset will only make the situation worse.

Thais and Khmers are deeply Buddhist. Make sure to follow these guidelines so as not to offend anyone.

» In Buddhism, the head is sacred while the feet are seen as dirty. In Southeast Asia, showing someone the bottom of your feet is the same as giving someone the finger.

» Never touch someone on the head. » Don’t put your feet up on chairs or tables or bags. » Don’t point your feet at people or sacred images. » Don’t step over people or things when avoidable. » Don’t wear shoes upon entering homes and

temples. » Be sure to observe temple dress codes (basically

no shorts or tank tops).

Women, a couple of extra don’ts for you when it comes to interacting with monks:

» Don’t come into direct contact with them. » Don’t pass anything directly to them. » Don’t touch them. » Don’t touch their belongings. » Don’t sit or stand next to them. » That being said, don’t be afraid of them. They

are allowed to talk to women, so long as it is in a public and group setting! Be sure you are dressed modestly. You can smile and say hello, just don’t jump up to shake hands or give them a hug!

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THE BEST WAY TO FIT IN IS TO DO AS THE LOCALS DO.

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THAI FOR DUMMIES

Hello:Sa wat dii

How are you?Sabai dii mai?

Please: Ka ru naa

Thank You: Khawp khun ka (female)/Khawp khun kup (male)

You’re welcome/no worries: Mai pen rai

Sorry (forgive me): Ko toht

Yes/No: Chai/Mai Chai

Stop: Yut

Go awayBai si

How much: Tao rai

Nice to meet you:Yindii tii dai rujak

KHMER FOR DUMMIES

Hello:Sua s’dei

Please: Sohm

Thank You: Aw kohn

How are you?: Sok-sabai

Goodbye: Lia suhn hao-y

Sorry: Somh toh

Yes: Jaa (female)/Baat (male)

No:Te

How much: Nih th’lay pohnmaan?

(Very) delicious: Chnaang (na)

LIVING IN THE LANGUAGE.

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WHO WE’RE WORKING WITH

SIKKHA ASIA FOUNDATIONwww.sikkha.or.th

Sikkha Asia Foundation (SAF) provides education programs for poor and disadvantaged children by incorporating community libraries, mobile libraries, portable mini-libraries, kindergartens, student dormitories, and study grants. We’ll be vising Sikkha’s community library in the Bangkok slum of Klong Toey. We’ll engage with the kids who will teach us some basic Thai and show us another side of the city. It’s here where we’ll have the unique opportunity of seeing what community-based development can really look like.

WILDLIFE FRIENDS FOUNDATIONS THAILANDhttp://www.wfft.org/

Located in the Petchaburi province of Thailand, the WFFT is working to rescue wild animals from places where they are maltreated and/or neglected and help them to spend the rest of their lives in a sanctuary as close to the natural environment as possible. Beyond the hands-on wildlie rescue, WFFT also raise awareness against the cruelty of animals, prevent hunting, and promote conservation of all natural resources – fauna and flora alike.

>>

TEUK POH PERMACULTURE EDUCATION FARMwww.evolutioninmotion.org

Evolution in Motion is a collective dedicated to empowering marginalized communities with creative strategies to cultivate abundant landscapes providing food, shelter, medicine, income, and habitat. Through hands-on education and project facilitation, we work to sow the seeds of food sovereignty, ecological sustainability, and community resilience. Their Teuk Poh Permaculture Education Farm is visited by hundreds of farmers year round to learn alternative farming methods. We will join Cambodia’s permaculture action team on improving the centre for farmers who are only able to visit for a short time to benefit as much as possible. This is about as deep into Cambodia as you can get!

we are socially conscious youth that want to contribute to the communities that host us with open arms.

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KNOWING STUFF MAKES YOU SMARTER

RESOURCES BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

This section is meant to provide further information on the region that cannot be covered in this program package. These are extra resources that you may draw upon to learn more about the places that you will be travelling, current/relevant issues in these places, as well as media such as films and music which may help paint a cultural picture.

**If the links don’t work, just copy and paste them into your browser!

BOOKS

When the War Was Over: Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge Revolution by Elizabeth Becker

First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers by Luong Ung

Cambodia’s Curse: The Modern History of a Troubled Land by Joel Brinkley

History of Thailand by Chris Baker & Pasuk Phongpaichit

The Road of Lost Innocence by Somaly Mam

The Damage Done: Twelve Years of Hell in a Bangkok Prison by Warren Fellows

The Beach by Alex Garland

FILMS

Enemies of the People (2009)

The Killing Fields (1984)

The Beach (2000)

Mekong Full Moon Party (2002)

Bangkok GIrl (2005)

YOUTUBE CLIPS AND MUSIC

Traditional Thai luk-thung music www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQmjJjpRHm8

A Thai song that has a little fun with travellers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXsV_ZKHcm4

Tiny Toones, an OG non-profit partner focusing on arts-based education for marginalized children, performing their own song “Anakut”:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvV_2neaOaA

Dengue Fever - a Californian band with a Khmer singer that blends psychedelic rock with Cambodian pop www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQYOGkCk2DA

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>>

TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO OPEN YOUR MIND AND SOAK UP EVERYTHING YOU CAN.

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FINAL CHECKLIST

Make sure you’ve got everything covered with our handy dandy checklist!

¨ Make sure you have a valid passport! You must have a passport valid 6 months after your expected date of departure.

¨ Make an appointment with your travel doctor ASAP and make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations (sometimes it can take up to three weeks to get these). Fill out your medical history form and make sure your doctor signs it.

¨ Book your flight! You are responsible for booking your own flight but once you’ve found it, check the exact details with your program leader before booking.

¨ Get travel insurance.

¨ Fill out the emergency contact, travel insurance and flight form, and upload your medical history form (link will be sent via email. Contact us if you do not receive it by the month leading up to your program).

¨ Pay your 2nd and 3rd installment.

¨ Meet your team in your final pre-program meeting!

¨ Sign online waiver (will be sent to you via e-mail).

¨ GET EXCITED!!!

>>

Final checklist for the adventure of a lifetime.

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GET READY

SUMMER.

BACKPACK

PURPOSE

ALL OF THE PHOTOS IN THIS BOOK ARE

MEMOrIES CAPTURED BY OG ALUMNI

WITH A

THIS

TO