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Calgary French & International School

​​Immersion and Discovery: Thailand in 9 Days

​​Immersion and Discovery: Thailand in 9 Days

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As part of CFIS’s Global Programs, a group of students embarked on an unforgettable nine-day journey through Thailand. These trips aim to expand students’ horizons, foster cross-cultural understanding, and inspire new perspectives on global challenges.

In Thailand, students experienced a rich blend of cultural immersion, sustainability education, and hands-on activities, gaining invaluable insights into local traditions and global issues.

  • Sustainability Lessons at Payap University:
    Students engaged in discussions on sustainable development and social business, meeting with Antoinette Jackson, the founder of SuperBee Wax Wraps, a social enterprise replacing single-use plastics. They also created their own beeswax wraps.
    • Reflection: “We learned how our generation can create a better future. It inspired me to start thinking about sustainability in my own life.” – Liseli
  • Cultural Connections in Chiang Mai:
    At Royal Prince College, students cooked Pad Thai, created arts and crafts, and played basketball with their Thai peers. A visit to a rural village offered a quieter, more intimate glimpse into Thai life, where students explored local farming and cultural practices.
    • Highlight: “The village children sang us a blessing—it was so moving to feel that connection despite the language barrier.”
  • Elephant Conservation and Eco-Innovation:
    At an ethical elephant reserve, students fed elephants, learned about their care, and made paper from elephant dung at the Elephant PooPoo Paper Park.
    • Memorable Moment: “Seeing how well the elephants were cared for made me so happy. It’s incredible to think of the difference ethical tourism can make.” – Dahlia
  • Cultural Immersion and Reflection:
    A trek to mountaintop temples, a walk along the Monk’s Trail, and participation in traditional Hmong community activities rounded out the trip.
    • Final Day Highlight: “Painting elephant statues at Elephant Parade Land was a fun way to end our journey—it felt like we were leaving a piece of ourselves behind in this beautiful country.” – Kuba

Throughout their nine-day adventure, students broadened their understanding of sustainability and cultural diversity, creating lifelong memories and deepening their appreciation for global citizenship.