With David Messiha
Taking a trip to Thailand has gained a whole new meaning; the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is now offering a chance to make it meaningful. TAT introduces a new campaign called the Little Big Project aimed at attracting and inspiring compassionate worldwide travelers to take a volunteer vacation to Thailand.
During your trip to Thailand you will have the chance to make a difference in the lives of others, you’ll be amazed how little things can make a big difference. If selected to participate, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a number of volunteer projects, but remember this isn’t just a trip to lend a helping hand, getting there is a competition.
Read on to learn more about the Little Big Project.
How the Project Works – During the course of the volunteer vacation, teams of two, one overseas finalist and one Thai finalist, will pair up to volunteer for a project of their choosing. Projects include, but are not limited to, the Save Elephants Nature Park outreach where volunteers will help operate the park, shadow Veterinarians and have one-on-one time with Thailand’s majestic creatures. Community development along the beach in Phang Nga is a wonderful opportunity to help coastal communities flourish. Here, volunteers will help plant mangroves, assist with sea grass conservation and have the chance to immerse themselves in village life during a home stay. These are just two of the five life changing volunteer adventures you can embark on!
Once you decide which project is right for you, you must submit a one-minute video explaining why you believe you have what it takes to make a difference. TAT also wants to hear what your big plans for the project are! Submit your video to our website, http://www.thelittlebigprojectthailand.com/, before May 17th, 2013 and be sure to ask your family and friends to vote for you!
How the Judging Process Works – The panel of judges from TAT and the Media will make their decision based on your passion for volunteering and your overall plan for the project itself. Input from Internet voters, your family, friends and anyone interested in your project counts for 40% of the votes, while the decision from the TAT/Media judges will account for 60%.
If you become a finalist for the Little Big Project, TAT will notify you via email with information on your itinerary and assignment. Information will also be posted on the official website, www.thelittlebigprojectthailand.com, on May 27th, 2013.
Your Mission in Thailand – Once you and your team member are selected, you will venture to Thailand to begin working on your volunteer project of choice for a total of two weeks. During this two weeks you will be asked to share your experiences using blog posts, videos, photos and travel stories in order to inspire others to learn more about Thailand and volunteer tourism. The two finalists paired up will compete with other teams to create the best social media experience for viewers. Be sure to also ask your family and friends to vote for your campaign as this means you could win the Little Big Project!
More on What You Will Win – The team with the highest votes will win a grant of $5,000 USD to donate for continued funding of their project. Additionally, you will receive a hotel voucher valued at $500 USD for your personal enjoyment. Both members of the team with the highest votes will receive an Apple gift card valued at $1,000 USD.
So what are you waiting for? Seize the opportunity to win a trip to Thailand while doing something beneficial for the planet and humanity. This is your chance to show that you have what it takes to become a volunteer tourism hero making a difference. For more information visit www.thelittlebigprojectthailand.com
