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The summer of your life is about to begin. This package will get you stoked and fill you in on everything you need to know about OG and your region.

CONTENTS

3 OUR APPROACH

4 A LETTER FROM YOUR PROGRAM LEADERS

5 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

6 THAILAND COUNTRY PROFILE

7 CAMBODIA COUNTRY PROFILE

8 GETTING IN & OUT OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

9 TRAVEL HEALTH & MEDICINE

10 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

11 WHAT TO PACK

12 PACKING LIST CONTINUED

13 MONEY MATTERS

14 CULTURAL DO’S AND DO NOT’S

15 THAI FOR DUMMIES

15 KHMER FOR DUMMIES

16 WHO WE’RE WORKING WITH

17 KNOWING STUFF MAKES YOU SMARTER

18 FINAL CHECKLIST

WE’re sparking a

movement of

globally active &

socially coNScious

BACKPACKTIVISTS.

OG Southeast Asia Cities and Sanctuaries l 3 >>

OUR APPROACH

Operation Groundswell is a collaborative organization. It’s in our DNA. Which is why over the past couple years, we’ve sat down with over fifty people close to OG to ask them which values best represent the organization. Together we built what is now called the Backpacktivist Manifesto: a working document that we will use to inform everything we do, both abroad and right here in our home communities.

Here are the values that every backpacktivist should strive for:

» Prepared to change: the most important quality in a backpacktivist is the ability to reflect and adapt.

» Full life livin’: squeeze the sweet nectar out of

every opportunity the world throws at us!

» Conscientious: adhering to local traditions and customs allows us to understand the value of cultures different from our own.

» Respect: make an effort to understand all people...even the ones we don’t get along with.

» Humility: a backpacktivist may look silly searching for words in a new language, but the very attempt connects us to locals on a whole different level.

» Solidarity: a backpacktivist stands in solidarity with all peoples, regardless of race, gender, or class.

» Group-focused: leverage the power of a group to develop a deeper understanding of the world around us and ourselves.

» Thirst for learning: the road is the best classroom and a backpacktivist is searching for truth.

» Leadership: we are training the next generation of positive and diverse leaders.

Backpacking with a purpose is about being conscious and critical of our impact on the communities that we travel to.

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A LETTER FROM YOUR PROGRAM LEADERS

SUA S’DEI / SA WAT DII!

Congratulations on being accepted into what will be one of your life’s most epic and rewarding adventures! It’s official, you have now committed to an amazing adventure of wandering through Cambodia and Thailand with a crew of rad and passionate individuals looking to experience the world in a whole new way!

From the unbound chaos of Bangkok to the tranquility of the villages tucked away in the countryside by ancient ruins, this trip will open your eyes to a whole new way of life and living. The monks, the pad thai, the temples, the smiles, the tuk-tuks, the beaches, the hustle and bustle matched only by the calm and serene – we are addicted to this part of the world and can’t wait to share it with you this summer!

Yes, we have a plan. Yes, we know where we are going (most of the time…) Yes, we know what not to eat, who we will be working with, and where the coolest temples and best pad thais are to be found. That being said – the bus will break down. We will try and be tried by a variety of insects. Yes, we will change our minds. And no, nothing is written in stone. We’ll learn to say “mai pen lai” (no worries!) and go with the flow. Welcome to Southeast Asia and welcome to the OG family; this is our trip and we will make it a great journey together!

With this part of the world being a prime destination for many foreigners, Operation Groundswell prides itself on bringing travelers and not tourists to this magnificent region. While many backpackers visit these countries, our program will take you down the path less wandered and offer you opportunities you simply won’t find with any other organization or by yourself. Working closely with incredible in-country partners, we are stoked for you to meet the dedicated game-changers who, over the years, have become our friends.

In the weeks spent in Southeast Asia, you may not be able to “change the world”, but you’ll most certainly be changed by it. Our mission is to explore, educate and engage, but above all, to learn. We know it’s a lot, but read through this package carefully and check out some of the suggested books, articles, websites, and movies we’re throwing your way. The more you know, the more you’ll want to know… trust us! So read up and get ready for the best summer of your life!

Sincerely,

Lyndi & Sidney

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THE SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE IS ABOUT TO BEGIN. HERE’S EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

BANGKOK, THAILAND ORIENTATION

Each of you will be picked up from the airport and brought to our guesthouse near Khao San Road, the world-famous backpacker’s Mecca. You’ll acclimatize by trying local cuisine, picking up the basics of Thai bargaining, and touring local historical sites. We’ll explore the loveable chaos of Bangkok through a citywide scavenger hunt!

BANTEAY CHHMAR, CAMBODIA COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM PROJECT

We will visit the CBT project, a local organization dedicated to preserving a huge 800-year old temple located in the vicinity of the village as well as developing a sustainable local tourism economy. We will be staying with local families in a homestay, eating local, and visiting farms. Welcome to a Cambodian sanctuary!

BATTAMBANG AND SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA TEUK POH PERMACULTURE EDUCATION FARM

We will get even deeper into rural Cambodia to learn about permaculture and sustainable farming practices in a country where available lands are rapidly being depleted. We’ll get our hands dirty as we make improvements to an educational farm that is visited by hundreds of farmers all year round. Battambang is also home to Cambodia’s “Cirque de Soleil” and an epic bat cave. PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA LEADERSHIP RETREAT

A home to OG for the last couple of years, we’ll get to see the best of what Phnom Penh has to offer. Visiting the infamous Khmer Rouge Killing Fields, we’ll learn about genocide. Later we partner with Tiny Toones and embark to Sihanoukville, located by the ocean, for a leadership retreat with some of the most inspiring people you’ll ever meet.

YOUR PROGRAM ON A GOOGLE MAP

Here is the itinerary for the six weeks that we will be together! In the age of Google, we decided that an interactive map is the only way to roll. Feel free to play around with it, make it your browser’s homepage, and share it with your friends and family. Soon enough we’ll be on the ground doing that route for real.

Simply plug this link in your browser:http://goo.gl/dxugyS

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6 INCREDIBLE WEEKS. 1 PAGE.

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THAILAND COUNTRY PROFILE

Capital: Bangkok

Population: 67 million

Major languages: Thai (official), Lao, Yawi, Chinese dialects, and the languages spoken by the hilltribes (Lahu, Akha, Hmong, etc.),

Major religion: Theravada Buddhist (official) 94.6%, Muslim 4.6%, Christian 0.7%, other 0.1%

Life expectancy: 71 years (men), 76 years (women)

Monetary unit: Baht (B)

Time Zone: UTC +7:00

The Kingdom of Thailand has, over the last five decades, become one of the world’s foremost tourist destinations. No surprise, since Thailand seems to have it all: bustling city life in Bangkok, idyllic beaches and islands in the south, a rugged and culturally diverse northern region, world heritage sites and nature parks, a warm tropical climate, delicious and abundant food, a laid-back lifestyle, and a smile around every corner.

While Thailand is a modern and industrialized society – with an economy largely based on market driven agriculture and the industry/services sector – Thais still adhere to deep-rooted traditions, customs, and norms. Buddhism, as the official religion, is a particularly strong cultural force. Monks are deeply revered, karma

is paramount, and wats (Buddhist temples) are central spaces of religious and social convergence. Belief in spirits is also pervasive, as attested to by the “spirit houses” (ancestral worship shrines) found outside many homes. Thais are also very family-oriented; a large number of people working in Bangkok, for example, are actually from villages elsewhere in the country and have flocked to the capital to raise money for their families.

A respect for social hierarchy and the concept of “face” (the avoidance of confrontation and embarrassment) form the backbone of Thai social interactions and is something we, as visitors, must be acutely aware of. With the importance of religion, family, and hierarchy in mind, it is easy to understand why the Thai King receives such profound affection – he is seen as the protector of Buddhism, the father of the country, and the symbol of unity and stability.

While Thailand has tremendous beauty, a fascinating culture, and some of the most hospitable people in the world, it is important to be aware of some of the major problems facing Thai society: political instability and corruption, inequalities between the urban elite and the large rural population, a booming illegal economy (including one of the world’s largest sex trade industries and human trafficking), a decades-long Muslim insurgency in the south, and the marginalization of hilltribes in the north.

These issues will certainly take time to improve, but positive change is being generated from the ground up all around the country.

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THAILAND IS NOT THE COUNTRY THAT YOU MIGHT EXPECT. HERE ARE THE DETAILS.

OG Southeast Asia Cities and Sanctuaries l 7

CAMBODIA COUNTRY PROFILE

Capital: Phnom Penh

Population: 14 million

Major languages: Khmer (official) 95%, Vietnamese, South Chinese dialects, French, English

Major religion: Buddhist (official) 96.4%, Muslim 2.1%, other 1.3%, unspecified 0.2%

Life expectancy: 60 years (men), 65 years (women)

Monetary unit: Riels (KHR)

Time Zone: UTC +7:00

While less developed and poorer than neighboring Thailand, the Kingdom of Cambodia’s tremendously rich culture and hospitable people have captured the hearts of just about everyone we know who has spent time there. This little country has a lot to offer. The main draw for tourists are the spectacular temple ruins of Angkor located in Siem Reap. In fact, Cambodia’s tourism industry is almost entirely centered on visitation to this World Heritage Site. Angkor is also an important national symbol (it’s on the flag!) and the Khmer are immensely proud of their cultural heritage.

Still a predominantly rural society, 77% of the population lives in the countryside, while Cambodia’s urban population is rapidly growing.

Similar to Thailand, Theravada Buddhism is the main religion and forms an integral part of the Khmer society. Family, respect for hierarchy, adherence to tradition, and the concept of “face” are fundamental aspects of life in Cambodia. And much like Thailand, the food is amazing – curries, fish amok, fresh fruit, bamboo juice, delicious sandwiches, and tarantula delicacies!  Cambodian society faces a myriad of challenges. The severe level of corruption at all levels of government is a major contributor to the current illegal economy (funded through human trafficking, drugs, and guns), environmental degradation (especially deforestation), and the internal displacement of people, which has led to serious human rights abuses. Cambodian youth are vulnerable and frequently exploited. With limited access to education, drug abuse and crime are rampant and street kids and orphans are common sights.

As unique phenomenons and wary landmarks, the remaining unexploded landmines are a legacy of three decades of warfare. These landmines affect 8 of every 10 rural Cambodians, but are not an issue for travellers, though we ask you make sure not to go too far off the beaten path. This is just one of the many scars from Cambodia’s tumultuous modern history.

Cambodia is still a nation recovering from a genocide that killed almost 2 million people and severely eroded Khmer culture. Still, the Khmer have an unparalleled resilience that is delightfully infectious. Despite recent tragedies, Cambodians smile and stand proud of their country. ‘Grin and bear it’ takes on a whole new meaning in a nation in the midst of rebuilding.

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CAMBODIA IS NOT THE COUNTRY THAT YOU MIGHT EXPECT. HERE ARE THE DETAILS.

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GETTING IN & OUT OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

PASSPORTS

You will need a valid passport with an expiry date of no less than 6 months after your estimated time of return. If you have not done so already, you should immediately begin the process of acquiring/renewing your passport.

For Canadian citizens applying for a passport, visit:www.ppt.gc.caFor U.S. citizens applying for a passport, visit:www.state.gov

For all others, please check with your government’s travel agency to clarify requirements.

VISAS

You are responsible for having all the proper visa requirements and though your program fee does not cover visa costs, your program leaders are there to answer any questions if a pre-trip application is necessary. Canadian and American nationals get a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Thailand. You do not need to acquire a visa in advance – it is all done as you go through customs when you arrive in Bangkok. For Cambodia, visas cost $30 USD, to be paid upon entry at the border crossing. Be sure to have the exact amount ready and an extra passport photo.

For all other nationalities, we advise that you confirm your visa requirements directly with your embassy.

FLIGHT INFORMATION

With years of experimenting on how to arrange flights, Operation Groundswell has found that participants often find cheaper flights by booking on their own. What we want to stress is that you must arrive into Bangkok, Thailand on May 27, 2015. The official end date of the program—a.k.a. the date we will drop you off at the airport to go home - is July 5th, 2015.

We suggest checking Kayak, Orbitz, Cheapoair, Google Flights and other flight sites to get the cheapest rate.

If you are an American student, we have a partnership with StudentUniverse to offer you the some of the most affordable airfare options. Click here to look for flights.

If you are Canadian and you would rather the personal touch of a travel agent, you can get in touch with Alan Borenstein at Flight Centre. He is a past program leader and currently books all our program leader’s flights. You can reach him toll-free at 1-877-815-4906 or send him an email at alan.borenstein@flightcentre.ca.

NOTE: If you arrive before the program begins, you will not be under the auspices of Operation Groundswell. We cannot guarantee that anyone will meet you at the airport or arrange your  accommodations. You will be entirely responsible for yourself until the first day of the program. Check all flights with your program leaders before you book them!

**IMPORTANT**You will receive an email (if you haven’t already) with a link to fill out your flight information. It is imperative that you fill this out so that we can arrange pickups on the first day of the program..

WHERE WILL WE BE SLEEPING?

In all major cities, we’ll be sleeping in backpacker guesthouses. Air-con will be a luxury but fans are a must. Accommodations are going to be very basic: dorm or semi-private rooms with shared bathrooms. While in Banteay Chhmar, we will be staying with host families in a homestay. At the permaculture farm, we’ll relax on traditional Khmer beds, which are basically wooden tables by our standards. A sleeping pad is a good idea if you are sensitive. Mosquito nets are provided in all necessary locations.

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SLEEPING. EATING. GETTING AROUND. SPEAKING. PLAYING. WE LIVE LIKE THE LOCALS FOR THE MOST REAL EXPERIENCES.

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TRAVEL HEALTH & MEDICINE

STAYING HEALTHY ON THE GROUND

Staying healthy on your program is one of the most important aspects of enjoying an Operation Groundswell experience. With the proper preparation beforehand and careful attention on the program, you can minimize most health risks while still having a great time. Operation Groundswell expects you to meet with a travel doctor or your GP (if he or she is comfortable advising), before leaving your country of origin. You must be up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations and equipped with any necessary medications for travel in Southeast Asia. We advise you to bring a copy of your itinerary to your appointment or send it to your doctor beforehand. While we provide a lot of recommended information here, the travel doctor will know what you absolutely need at the time of departure according to which region(s) you’re traveling to.

Operation Groundswell requires your doctor’s signature on a personal medical history form stating that you are both physically and mentally cleared for participation in the program. Operation Groundswell does not discriminate against physical or mental conditions or disability. We simply want to make sure that you are fully aware of the risks and challenges of the program, that we are aware of any previous medical conditions, and that we have the capacity to support you while you’re abroad! This form will be sent to you two weeks after your deposit has been paid.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Operation Groundswell requires you to purchase travel health insurance for the duration of your time abroad. It’s important to make sure you find the insurance plan that suits your needs.

At the minimum, participants generally get basic medical insurance to cover them for any medical emergencies that occur while they’re abroad. We recommend shopping around on sites like squaremouth.com, which will list a variety of options and compare their coverage. The cost will depend on the extras you get on top of medical (covering lost or stolen baggage, electronics, etc.)

If Operation Groundswell must cancel a program due to low numbers, OG will be happy to relocate you to another program. If you would rather cancel than relocate, OG will reimburse your full program fee but is not responsible for refunding any flight cost or other costs associated with the program. You decide if you’d like to insure your flight, buy a flexible ticket, or buy separate flight insurance through your airline.

KEEPING US IN THE LOOP

Two weeks after paying your deposit, you will receive an email with:

» A copy of the personal medical history form that your doctor must sign

» A personal link where you can upload the signed copy

**We require this form at the latest a month before your program starts.

A month before your program starts, you will receive an email with a link for you to provide your:

» Emergency contact » Travel insurance » Flight information

The links you will be sent are live forms, so you can fill out a portion of the information when you have it and continue filling it out once you’ve booked your flights, etc. closer to the program date.

**IMPORTANT**The above information is required for participation in every OG program.

REGIONALLY RELEVANT MEDICINE

Hepatitis A & BRecommended for all travelers.

TyphoidRecommended for all travelers.

Yellow feverRequired for travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area in Africa or the Americas.

RabiesRecommended only for travelers who will be at high risk for animal bites or who will be coming into contact with bats.

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HEALTH & SAFETY AREOUR TOP PRIORITY.

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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

STAYING SAFE ON THE GROUND

As a well-established and experienced volunteer-abroad organization, Operation Groundswell takes active precautions to keep you safe and secure while overseas on your program. We take travel safety very seriously. Each section of your program undergoes a standardized risk assessment. Your program leaders do a dry run of your program before you arrive to confirm the nearest medical facilities and potential risks. At least one program leader on each program has taken a Wilderness First Aid course and is fully certified by Wilderness Medical Associates. Our program leaders are proficient in local languages (where it is necessary) and have met and discussed safety concerns with our local partners.

Each program checks in daily with our Toronto headquarters to relay important information and ensure the health and safety of participants. Our Programs Director reads regional travel warnings daily and is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies on the ground.

With that in mind, it is important to remember that every OG program prides itself on taking you directly into the experience of living in that region. Pick pocketing, purse snatching, and various types of scams are the most common forms of crime confronting visitors. Those who limit their display of jewellery and handle their cash discreetly reduce their vulnerability to crime. Participants are advised to carry limited amounts of cash for this reason.

Thailand and Cambodia are very safe and quite used to huge numbers of foreigners. If you use common sense and caution then you will have a great trip. Protests in Bangkok and Phnom Penh are a general safety concern, but foreigners are rarely targeted and the incidents are generally quite isolated to one area in the city, which makes it easy for us to prepare and avoid if the need should arise. Southeast Asia can be just as safe as any place in Canada or the United States.

OG and its local partners are familiar with these risks and will take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of its participants. This includes maintaining an effective flow of information and using the knowledge of our wonderful partners, local contacts, and officials. Equally, OG program leaders will project an inclusive, respectful, and

non-partisan image. They will be running through the entire program prior to your arrival to ensure that everything is safe and secure. Nevertheless, program logistics will remain under review and the itinerary flexible to unforeseen developments. To learn more about our safety protocols, visit http://operationgroundswell.com/programs/safety/.

**IMPORTANT**There are also a variety of safety precautions that we require you to undertake prior to and immediately upon arrival in Bangkok.

First, team members should read government travel advisories for Thailand and Cambodia.

NOTE: Keep in mind that government advisories provide a countrywide assessment of risks and we will provide more region-specific information in the pre-program meetings that each team will have with their program leaders in April.

Second, all Canadian participants are required to register with Consular Services Canada as a “Canadian Traveling Abroad.” This will allow the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to contact us in case of an emergency.

Please make the required registration for your trip at http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/registration.

Those traveling with a U.S. passport should register at https://step.state.gov/step/.

For all other nationalities, please find your country’s consular services to see if there is an option to register as a traveler abroad.

STAYING IN TOUCH

Internet will be available periodically for you to email home. Telephone access will be limited. Buying a local cell phone can be a more cost effective way of keeping in touch. Your team will be blogging throughout the program so pass on the address to family and friends: www.operationgroundswell.com/journal/. Additionally, both your program leaders have locally serviced cell phones for emergency use. They will be in regular contact throughout the summer with OG’s Programs Director. In case of emergency, please ask your family or next of kin to call OG’s main line at 1-888-422-0164. From there, they will be connected directly to one of our on-call Summer Coordinators.

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HEALTH & SAFETY AREOUR TOP PRIORITY.

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Remember: The rule of thumb is always to pack as lightly as possible!

WHAT TO PACK

SUPPORTING LOCAL

Buying clothing in Thailand and Cambodia is extremely cheap and easy to do. Don’t worry about bringing too little because you’ll inevitably end up buying clothing while you’re away. This helps support the Thai and Cambodian economies but will also help you fit in with locals!

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

» Passport (valid beyond 6 months from the start date of the program)

» Extra passport photos (if you have them) » Copies of passport/tickets/credit cards (you want

extras in case you lose a document) » Customer service numbers for credit cards/

insurance » Proof of vaccinations

BACKPACK & DAYPACK

Because we’re not wheelie-baggers, we’re backpackers! We recommend going to an outdoor adventure store and getting a pack fitted to you. Most people should only need a 45-65L pack. Try a bunch on and compare prices to find one that is right. You could also borrow from a friend!

It is also important to bring a daypack for short trips and daily use. Also, you’ll probably want to have room in your bag so you can pick things up along the way like weavings, coffee, or books.

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PACK YOUR BAG, THEN REMOVE HALF OF IT AS YOU PROBABLY WON’T NEED MOST OF IT.

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PACKING LIST CONTINUED

ESSENTIAL ITEMS

» 1 bath towel (quick-dry adventure towels are the lightest)

» Flashlight (headlamps are popular and recommended)

» Min. 1L reusable water bottle » Medication/EpiPen if you need it

GENERAL CLOTHING

» 4-5 pairs of underwear » 4-5 pairs of socks » 1-2 pairs of shorts (please keep them knee length

to avoid unwanted attention and mosquito bites where the sun don’t shine!)

» 3 - 4 t-shirts/tank-tops (revealing clothing isn’t your best bet, but we also know that it gets damn hot during the day. Just try to keep a balance.)

» 1 pairs of comfortable pants or shorts for hiking, treks, or other physical activity

» 1 pairs of jeans or khakis and a nice shirt/polo for when we meet community leaders/important folk

» 1 longer sleeve shirts as it can get cold at night and it’s good to layer

» 1 light fleece/sweater or a longer sleeve shirt as it can get cold on bus rides (Thais love to blast the air conditioner)

» 1 waterproof jacket (a shell that you can layer a sweater underneath is probably the best!)

» A hat to protect you from the sun » A bathing suit (modesty is your friend) » Sunglasses

Southeast Asia is quite a modest culture, but also very vogue and fashion forward. In the cities you will find that tank tops, shorts, and summer dresses are totally appropriate, whereas in the country side, short shorts or revealing tank tops will attract a great deal of negative attention. Our goal is to be a cultural chameleon. In the cities, you can get away with most attire. In Banteay Chhmar and Teuk Poh Permaculture Education Farm, you will want to be wearing comfortable, loose clothing that protects you from the sun and heat. Modesty is your friend in these places. When working with Tiny Toones, funky but not revealing or risqué clothing is the direction. On the beach during the retreat, you’ll have to swim in board shorts and a tank top since bikinis are not in Cambodian culture, but on the tourist, southern beaches of Thailand anything is fair game! There is no right answer here. Be flexible! There is lots of cheap, light clothing available in Bangkok so don’t worry! Mai pen lai!

SHOES

If you buy new shoes, break them in before the program. » 1 pair of running/walking shoes (for work and

touring around) » 1 pair of sandals (flippy floppies for the shower)

PERSONAL HYGIENE & TOILETRIES

» Regular hygiene items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream, etc. (Note: these are all readily available in smaller quantities and at a cheaper price if you would rather buy them down there. Another good option is bringing small quantities to begin with and refilling once in-country)

» Vitamins, painkillers, cold medicines, etc. » Toothbrush and toothpaste » 1 extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts &

contact solution (if required) » Tampons and pads (it is always a good idea to

bring more than enough tampons) » Bug spray and after bite » Sunscreen and lip balm » Immodium/Pepto Bismol (you will want this!) » One round of prescription medicine (i.e. diarrhoea

meds – ask your doctor) » If you have asthma and you need a puffer, bring

it even if you rarely use it. Same goes for allergies and EpiPens

» Any prescriptions that you need (refrigeration isn’t always possible so please check with your program leaders if you require it)

NOTE: All program leaders are equipped with First Aid Kits, so though it is useful to have basics like Advil or Tylenol, you don’t need to pack a pharmacy. There will be a medical form sent out closer to the program start time so you can outline and specific mental or physical health problems.

OTHER NICE-TO-HAVE ITEMS

» Sleeping liner or sheet » Sleeping pad (optional, but might come in handy

at the permaculture farm if you don’t want a bamboo mat!)

» Eye mask/ear plugs for light sleepers » iPod/MP3 player or an unlocked phone if you have

one (but be aware that these are targets for theft) » Watch (fairly cheap and water-resistant/proof) » Money belt/discreet wallet » Digital camera » Journal/pens » Books (hostels/guesthouses often have ‘take one,

leave one’ books, no need to bring a library) » Ziploc bags for your books/documents » If you’re a picky eater, need comfort food, or are

particular about your nutrition: Peanut Butter, Nutella, Fruit-to-go’s, Protein Bars

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MONEY

IT’S EASY TO GET AROUND RELATIVELY INEXPENSIVELY ON AN OG PROGRAM. WHAT YOU SPEND IS REALLY UP TO YOU.

The program fee covers the costs of accommodations, three meals a day, transport, and excursions. It does NOT cover any personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, or whatever you choose to do for your Independent Travel Time. For these cases, you will want to bring some spending money.

We recommend that you bring $50-$100 USD (don’t carry too much cash). You can conveniently change your cash into regional currency at the airport or an in-country currency exchange.

Past participants find that they spend around $500 on personal expenses, shopping, and ITT. This number varies based off individual styles of travel. Bangkok is a shopaholic’s paradise! It is easy to travel cheap in the region, but if you seek western luxuries, you will find things add up fast. Be smart! Go local!

MONEY TIPS

» Leave any traveler’s cheques and Canadian money at home. They are problematic to cash or exchange.

» Debit is the best option. ATM/ABMs are widespread and can dispense up to $200 USD equivalent. There is a transaction charge of approx. $2.50-$5.00 USD, but they are the most convenient and safest option. It is advisable to communicate with your bank before departure to determine their level of accessibility.

» Visa is the most widely accepted credit card. Do your best to have a chip card that is PIN ENABLED to have it work in ATMs. Make sure that the PLUS sign is on the back of your card so that it works in international ATM locations.

» Call your bank and inform them of your travel plans so they don’t place a hold on your account when they see money being withdrawn in a foreign country (you do NOT want this to happen!)

» There will be a safety talk before the program, but money in large amounts, Interac/credit cards, etc. will NOT be carried in any one location and we recommend using money belts/discreet wallets

CHANCES ARE SOMETHING IN THE BUSY LOCAL MARKETS WILL CATCH YOUR EYE.

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CULTURAL DO’S AND DO NOT’S

Be a cultural chameleon and do what you can to show as much courtesy and interest in the local culture as possible. Do as the locals do and try to follow these basic rules while in Southeast Asia! Being aware and sensitive to your surroundings is the first step towards being a traveler and not a tourist!

DO...

» Always make sure to show respect for the King, especially in Thailand where images of their beloved King is found on stamps (so don’t lick them) and on money (so try not to crumple it).

» In Southeast Asia, the people greatly believe in social harmony and something called the concept of ‘face’. At all times, you should avoid embarrassing yourself or others for the sake of social harmony. Keep your cool and everything will work out in the end (mai pen lai!).

» Keep displays of affection private. » Remove shoes upon entering homes and temples. » Observe temple dress codes (basically no knees

or shoulders showing). » Dress modestly. Try and avoid walking around

sleeveless or without a shirt on, no matter how hot and sweaty you are.

» Review what it means to be a “backpacktivist” on the OG website – you should strive to be all of these things!

DO NOT...

» DO NOT make fun of or criticize the king (Thailand has very strict les majeste laws).

» Don’t get angry or frustrated, or at least try to avoid “heated” situations. Remember this when you are dealing with pesky scam artists or people on the streets trying to sell you things – getting upset will only make the situation worse.

Thais and Khmers are deeply Buddhist. Make sure to follow these guidelines so as not to offend anyone.

» In Buddhism, the head is sacred while the feet are seen as dirty. In Southeast Asia, showing someone the bottom of your feet is the same as giving someone the finger.

» Never touch someone on the head. » Don’t put your feet up on chairs or tables or bags. » Don’t point your feet at people or sacred images. » Don’t step over people or things when avoidable. » Don’t wear shoes upon entering homes and

temples. » Be sure to observe temple dress codes (basically

no shorts or tank tops).

Women, a couple of extra don’ts for you when it comes to interacting with monks:

» Don’t come into direct contact with them. » Don’t pass anything directly to them. » Don’t touch them. » Don’t touch their belongings. » Don’t sit or stand next to them. » That being said, don’t be afraid of them. They

are allowed to talk to women, so long as it is in a public and group setting! Be sure you are dressed modestly. You can smile and say hello, just don’t jump up to shake hands or give them a hug!

THE BEST WAY TO FIT IN IS TO DO AS THE LOCALS DO.

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THAI FOR DUMMIES

Hello:Sa wat dii

Please: Ka ru naa

Thank You: Khawp khun ka (female)/Khawp khun kup (male)

Sorry (forgive me): Kor toht

Yes: Chai

No: Mai Chai

Stop: Yut

Go awayBai si

How much: Tow rai

Water Nam

Beer: Bee-a

KHMER FOR DUMMIES

Hello:Sua s’dei

Please: Sohm

Thank You: Aw kohn

Goodbye: Lia suhn hao-y

Sorry: Somh toh

Yes: Jaa (female)/Baat (male)

No:Te

How much: Nih th’lay pohnmaan?

Boiled water: Tuhk ch’uhn

Delicious: Ch’ngain

LIVING IN THE LANGUAGE.

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WHO WE’RE WORKING WITH

BANTEAY CHHMAR COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM (CBT)www.visitbanteaychhmar.org

Banteay Chhmar, a sprawling temple complex in northwest Cambodia, is one of the most important archeological sites from the Angkor period. The World Monument Fund considers it one of the most endangered sites worldwide. Since 2008, Global Heritage Fund has been working with partners on the ground, including Banteay Chhmar Community-Based Tourism (CBT), a local cooperative organization, to develop a sustainable local tourism economy. Through site restoration and initiatives to develop tourism services and infrastructure, GHF is building local capacity to harness tourism as an enabler of economic and social development. We will aid them in their mission.

TINY TOONESwww.tinytoones.org

A groundbreaking organization, Tiny Toones is reaching some of Phnom Penh’s most underprivileged youth through hip hop, break dancing, education, and art. They provide a safe, positive environment for at-risk youth to channel their energy and creativity into arts and education, empowering them to build self confidence, aim for better employment possibilities, and feel supported pursuing their dreams. We will be working with the leaders and peer mentors of Tiny Toones to host a staff leader retreat in an effort to help develop skills in conflict resolution, problem solving, and team building. This is our fifth year running the leadership retreat!

>>

OCKENDEN CAMBODIAwww.evolutioninmotion.org

Evolution in Motion is a collective dedicated to empowering marginalized communities with creative strategies to cultivate abundant landscapes providing food, shelter, medicine, income, and habitat. Through hands-on education and project facilitation, we work to sow the seeds of food sovereignty, ecological sustainability, and community resilience. Teuk Poh Permaculture Education Farm is visited by hundreds of farmers year round to learn alternative farming methods. We will join Cambodia’s permaculture action team on improving the center for farmers who are only able to visit for a short time to benefit as much as possible. This is about as deep into Cambodia as you can get!

we are socially conscious youth that want to contribute to the communities that host us with open arms.

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KNOWING STUFF MAKES YOU SMARTER

RESOURCES BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

This section is meant to provide further information on the region that cannot be covered in this program package. These are extra resources that you may draw upon to learn more about the places that you will be travelling, current/relevant issues in these places, as well as media such as films and music which may help paint a cultural picture.

**If the links don’t work, just copy and paste them into your browser!

BOOKS

When the War Was Over: Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge Revolution by Elizabeth Becker

First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers by Luong Ung

History of Thailand by Chris Baker and Pasuk Phongpaichit

The Road of Lost Innocence: The True Story of a Cambodian Heroine by Somali Mam

The Beach by Alex Garland

NEWS

Bankgkok Post www.bangkokpost.com

Cambodia Daily www.cambodiadaily.com

Phnom Penh Post www. phnompenhpost.com

FILMS

The Killing Fields (1984)

Comforably Lost (2012)

Same Same But Different (2010)

Enemies of the People (2009)

YOUTUBE CLIPS

Angkor BBC Documentary www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN46a_PjKFM&feature=fvwkrel

Inside the Khmer Rouge www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAQlf2c50tg&feature=related

A Perfect Soldier Trailer www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo8-w2KlQrw&NR=1&feature=fvwp

Tiny Toones: A Fresh Start www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qhgBNlYlNc

Songs by Tiny Toones http://vimeo.com/63025741

I love you Thailand https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXsV_ZKHcm4

MUSIC

Klap Ya Handz Cream of the Krop (Khmer hip hop)

Gobshite Phnom Penh

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>>

TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO OPEN YOUR MIND AND SOAK UP EVERYTHING YOU CAN.

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FINAL CHECKLIST

Make sure you’ve got everything covered with our handy dandy checklist!

¨ Make sure you have a valid passport! You must have a passport valid 6 months after your expected date of departure.

¨ Make an appointment with your travel doctor ASAP and make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations (sometimes it can take up to three weeks to get these). Fill out your medical history form and make sure your doctor signs it.

¨ Book your flight! You are responsible for booking your own flight but once you’ve found it, check the exact details with your program leader before booking.

¨ Get travel insurance.

¨ Fill out the emergency contact, travel insurance and flight form, and upload your medical history form (link will be sent via email. Contact us if you do not receive it by the month leading up to your program).

¨ Pay your 2nd and 3rd installment.

¨ Meet your team in your final pre-program meeting in April!

¨ Sign online waiver (will be sent to you via e-mail).

¨ GET EXCITED!!!

>>

Final checklist for the adventure of a lifetime.

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GET READY

SUMMER.

BACKPACK

PURPOSE

ALL OF THE PHOTOS IN THIS BOOK ARE

MEMOrIES CAPTURED BY OG ALUMNI

WITH A

THIS

TO