Thailand Cultural Experience 2025 – by JG Garon

FMU’s International Programs assisted in creating the “Thailand Cultural Experience 2025” spring break trip. Ten students were selected through an application process to join FMU Professors Dr. Lori Turner, Dr. Matt Turner, and Dr. Polly Hasseldon in a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, in Southeast Asia.

Upon arriving in Thailand, after 36 hours of travel, the group checked into the hotel and spent the afternoon exploring the area. That evening, they walked together to the Night Bazaar Market, one of the largest in Chiang Mai. They were able to purchase crafts and souvenirs from many different vendors and try local Thai cuisine for the first time.

The trip was full of tremendous adventures. On the first day, Dr. Matt Turner took the students on a tour of the Old City, where they spent the day visiting Temples and learning about the history of Chiang Mai. The group was able to find local food on every street and freshly picked coconuts or roasted coffee on every corner. A tour of Doi Ithanon National Park brought the group through trails and waterfalls up to the highest point in Thailand. The summit featured a breathtaking lookout between two Royal Pagodas honoring the late King and Queen.

In addition to the wonderful hikes, the group visited Chai Lai Orchid Elephant Sanctuary. At the sanctuary, the group was given the chance to feed the elephants and make elephant medicine. They spent the afternoon swimming with elephants and enjoying a Thai Barbeque. A trip to Doi Suthep at sunset allowed the group to visit what is deemed the “Holiest Spot” in Thailand. At Wat Phra That, at the top of Doi Suthep, the group watched as monks gathered to participate in their daily ceremonies and blessings.

The group was able to witness the beautiful Thai culture across all of Chaing Mai, including Spirit Houses and lanterns hanging everywhere they could. Visiting a traditional Thai-Lanna village allowed students to enjoy the peaceful nature surrounding the communities and gave students the chance to get local souvenirs that supported these communities. They enjoyed eating lunch family style and spent their last evening together at a Thai-Lanna Cultural dinner, seated traditionally, on the floor.

For me personally, travelling with FMU allowed me to step out of my comfort zone safely. I had never travelled outside of North America before, and a flight literally around the world seemed daunting. Being with a group of new friends was comforting; knowing that we were all excited and ready to go on this adventure together helped to ease all our concerns. Looking back on this trip, I know it was the best experience of my life so far. It opened up my perspective of the world and showed me that making new friends, even in foreign countries, is possible. I plan to continue to travel, especially to experience more of Asia, and hope that many students are willing to take the risk to go abroad too.