Everyone at the centre has from day one been very nice and helpful with everything. The sisters, all of the Thai staff and the other volunteers have always been very friendly and ready to help you with everything such as everyday questions, a visit at the dentist, travelling advice and introduction to new food etc.

Every morning we have a morning meeting at the children centre which is located about 10 minutes on bike from the women centre. All bikes are not working perfectly and in the beginning the way to the children centre can seem a bit hectic because of the traffic and the fact that they drive on the other side of the road from what I was used to in Denmark.

The content of every meeting differs from day to day. Some meetings are very interesting and we have some good discussions, other meetings can seem less important to you.

The women and the teaching

The women at the centre are the best pupils you can wish for. Their positive attitude and gratitude to you as their teacher makes the teaching at the centre a very pleasant experience. There is no need to worry if you do not have any teaching experience. Just as long as you are willing to help the women the best way you can. You will get a folder for each theme that you will teach and the material will help you create the content of your classes. Not all folders are up to date so it is a good thing to be a little critical about the material and use what you think the women will learn the most from. The women do accept everything you give them, they are very grateful that you come to work at the centre as a volunteer and they often express that to you. 

Pattaya

When I came here in January it was my first time in Thailand and it was a bit of a chock to come to Pattaya, I have only heard good things about Thailand, but Pattaya does show a negative side of the country. There are go go bars almost everywhere and older falang men with younger Thai girlfriends. Before I came I was told that I would see that a lot here, but I was still surprised. And it made we want me to help the women at the centre even more.

After some time you get used to the surroundings in Pattaya, but make trips out of town to Bangkok, Koh Samet etc. It is nice to see other parts of Thailand and experience the culture elsewhere.

I have really enjoyed the teaching at the centre and my stay in Thailand. I have met nothing but smiles and happy faces here. Meeting nice people, teaching motivated pupils, enjoying the nice weather and food really makes this a fantastic experience. I would recommend it to anyone who considers coming here.

Louise Svendsen, May 2008