Come with Nothing, Go Home Rich: Mekong Expedition 2017

At first, this program seemed daunting; coming with only a small carry-on for 25 days halfway around the world? Sounds crazy, especially in a culture where checking a large suitcase for a week's getaway at a resort is the norm. But on this trip I not only used every single item I packed, which was a first for me, but I also came home with so many more experiences than I would have had with a checked suitcase.
One of the highlights of the trip was definitely visiting the local markets, particularly the ones hidden from tourists. Although the stench of the meat sitting out in the sun will never leave me, neither will the feeling of experiencing local life when bargaining to buy towels, t-shirts, and crocs. I felt most like a local in those markets, wandering through the alleyways surrounded by local food. I was able to get all of the necessities at these markets, the first of which I visited on the second day, so anyone concerned about the lack of necessities from home will soon find satisfaction with a whole new bag filled with clothes.
The village life is primarily focused on the service, which consists of two three hour sections each day. Prepare to work with a lot of cement in the sun for hours on end. Despite this description, service days were some of the most memorable because sometimes the local children will come and join you to assist in your service. At one point we had about 40 children in an assembly line bringing sand up a hill.
This program allows you to experience a variety of tourist attractions as well, such as the White Temple, the Black House, night markets, a mountain and waterfall, and wonderful Thai massages. Flexibility is required on this trip however, as the itinerary can change quickly. As you bond with a small group of people you grow accustomed to the exotic fruits, squatty potties, and bucket showers that soon feel normal to you.
I highly recommend this program to adventurous students who enjoy connecting with others, the satisfaction of hard work, and immersing themselves in a completely foreign culture. The rewards I reaped from this program were truly priceless and I would have been unable to experience what I did anywhere else in the world and for that I am grateful.