Diving and Conservation in Thailand

I spent 4 weeks taking part in the Conservation project in Thailand with Projects Abroad. From the moment I arrived, I found a staff member waiting in the airport. On our way back to the volunteer complex, she explained many sights that we passed, and gave me clear expectations for what would happen when I arrived - we will go over some paperwork, I'll take you to your room, here is your PADI instruction booklet to learn by this day, etc. My diving instructor couldn't have been more helpful. He demonstrated a variety of skills, and helped coach us through the more challenging skills if we struggled. He provided immense support so we could experience diving in the beautiful water and help continue the mission of the project.

The work we did each week felt meaningful, though I wish I could have stayed longer than 4 weeks. Our weekly tasks always involved dives and data collection, but alternated between beach clean-ups, tree planting, school visits, animal excursions, and so on. The staff members were knowledgeable before, during, and after each activity by providing integral workshops to prepare us, testing us and answering our questions during, and reflecting on our performance and brainstorming new solutions to the problems we faced.

I always felt safe walking around the town, and we had an easy time finding transportation. Many people in the towns spoke English, and many restaurants had English menus as well. We had plenty of free time on the weekends to go on our own excursions together, which helped bond all the volunteers. The staff encouraged us to have fun during both work and play.