A trip that dives deep into rural communities

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE

By exploring communities like Suan Pa and Pha Mee through Local Alike, you help to support responsible tourism led by the local community members, and fuel sustainable livelihoods. It also helps to foster cultural exchange  and encourage the preservation of traditions.

Seventy per cent of the money from each booking goes to the local community, while the remainder goes to Local Alike. Both contribute five per cent of their revenue/profit to a fund that is used to support community education, environment and livelihood improvement initiatives.

As of 2019, Local Alike has worked with 100 villages in 42 provinces and created over 2,000 part-time jobs.

Getting there

The best place to begin your journey is Chiang Rai, northern Thailand. There are now direct flights from most major cities in the region.

Consider spending a night in Chiang Rai town, as the tours begin very early in the morning. Most of the villages are about an hour’s drive from there and a pick-up service from your hotel is included in the tour package.

Both Pha Mee and Suan Pa cannot be found by searching their names on Google Maps but we have indicated their coordinates on our map. 

https://localalike.com/

Pha Mee Village, Chiang Rai

Suan Pa, Chiang Rai

Traveller's Notes

The temperatures in the highlands vary from hot and humid days to cooler evenings, so pack accordingly — bring warm layers to keep the chill away and comfortable walking shoes for the jungle treks.

The best months to visit are between November to February. Avoid the rainy season between May and October.

With the Myanmar border close by, turn off the auto time zone adjustment features on your devices to avoid switching to Myanmar time, which is 30 minutes behind Thailand time.

Please ask the locals for permission before taking their photographs as some believe that the camera captures their souls.

Accommodation can be quite basic so come prepared to enjoy the rustic way of life. Bring your own toiletries if you are particular.

The people of the hills take great pride in their cuisine, so please be gracious and accept their kind offers during meal times. Although, it is unlikely you would refuse the offer since the food is so delicious!

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