Wat could be better? Teaching English In Doi Saket

During December of 2012, I Volunteered with Gap Guru and taught English too novice Buddhist Monks in Doi Saket, near Chiang Mai. From the moment I collected from the Airport by David and Nid (Gap Gurus Coordinators in Thailand,) i was made to feel welcomed at and home in a country i had never visited before! I cannot stress the how great it was to have friendly faces to speak too when you do not know anyone else in the country. Their hospitality, along with Pi Gaye (The housekeeper,) ensured that i was well fed, and prepared for my experience teaching.
The teaching itself was a truly magical experience. The novice monks were all exceptionally friendly and interested in everything I had to say, and despite limited English, were eager to ask questions about my life in Britain. As my time with the children progressed it was amazing to see the impact my lessons were having, with the novices learning English at an astounding rate. During my downtime at Wat Nong Bua (the temple I was teaching at) i had the rare opportunity to chat with monks in their homes. Learning the way of life of these people and the dedication they have to Buddhism was a humbling experience, and it is surely something i will never forget. The location of the temple, shrouded by exotic trees with a lake filled with Coy Carp was just stunning, and i could have spent my time with Gap Guru just relaxing in the temple grounds enjoying the peace and tranquility of rural Thailand.
When not teaching, David and Nid ensured I was up to speed with all things Thai. I sampled local cuisine (try raw pork or frog!) David also took to a Muy Thai fight, which is the national sport of Thailand. I honestly felt like i had connected with the people and culture by the end of my time with Gap Guru. I could rave on about my time there for hours, but it is something you have to experience first hand!