F A Q

When can I go?
All year round except for the long summer break , which is between the end of March and mid-May. We will finalise specific dates with you after your successful application.

How much does it cost to be an English teaching volunteer in Surin?
surinvolunteers.org does not charge you any administration fee whatsoever for introducing you to the Surin Education Service Area Office and giving advice on teaching and working in Surin.

As a volunteer, you will be expected to pay for your own flights to Thailand, your domestic travel to Surin, your visa costs and your living and accommodation expenses once based in Surin.

How do I apply to be an English teaching volunteer in Surin?
Please see the Apply to be a volunteer section and follow the instructions.

What do I need to bring?
The weather is warm all year round in Surin, so bring summer clothes and a winter top for the occasional chilly evening. Bring smart casual summer clothes for teaching (shorts and shirt). Bring a waterproof jacket if coming in the rainy season (June to October).

You will also need a sheet sleeping bag, mosquito net, repellent, English language books, small medical kit and plenty of sunblock, although it's probably cheaper to buy this on arrival. Surin has plenty of pharmacies selling Western toiletries and medicines, but if you are particularly attached to a certain product, it's probably best to stock up before you come.

Do I need any vaccinations and precautionary medicines before I travel to Thailand?
Yes. You must ensure that you have had all necessary vaccinations for travel to Thailand. Please ask your doctor for the latest advice.

What if I take regular prescribed medicines?
Please bring a sufficient supply with you to last the duration of your stay.

Do I need a visa?
Yes. Visas are easily obtained from the Thai embassy in London and we will send you a letter of introduction to ensure your successful application.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Ensure that you have adequate insurance to cover both medical expenses and personal possessions prior to your arrival in Thailand. If you intend to travel in Thailand and/or South East Asia, please ensure your insurance covers you for the length of time you intend to travel and the countries you intend to travel within.

Where will I be met?
You will be met on arrival in Surin by Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province. Mr Chatchai will be happy to help you arrange your connection from Bangkok to Surin, by plane, train or bus. This is a great opportunity to explore Bangkok for a few days prior to your arrival in Surin.

Where will I live?
Accommodation will be arranged prior to your arrival by Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province. Your living quarters will be simple, clean and practical, and you may be required to share a room with another volunteer. This will be discussed with you prior to your arrival in Surin.

Who will look after me?
Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province, will be always be on hand to help you find your own feet.

What sort of food will I find in Surin?
There's a large array of both Western and Thai cuisine in Surin, as well as Khmer dishes too. You can eat extremely cheaply at Surin's night market, where a nutritious meal and a fresh fruit shake will cost you as little as 30 Baht (50p).

What sort of nightlife will I find in Surin?
Surin has numerous bars and nightclubs, whether you're looking for local bands, karaoke or just a quiet drink. There are also several 24 hour convenience stores.

How many hours will I work?
Volunteers work three to four hours a day, five days a week.

How long can I stay for?
The minimum placement period is four weeks. The longest placement period is six months. If you are a qualified teacher, there is no minimum placement period.

Who will I be teaching?
Students in primary education, who are 7 to 12 years old.

Who will train me in teaching techniques?
Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province, will organise an ongoing program of teacher training for you. This will be in conjunction with several of the local school teachers, which will let you quickly progress to organising your own lessons.

How can I stay in contact with friends and family at home?
Surin has numerous internet cafes and it is also inexpensive to buy a Thai SIM for your mobile phone that will let you make international calls. Texting from Thailand to the UK is relatively cheap.

How will I be able to access my bank account?
Surin has numerous banks and ATMs, so it's easy to access your funds at any time.

Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province, will be able to assist during any emergency. He will already be in receipt of your next of kin details from your application, and so will be able to contact friends and family at home on your behalf if required.

What if I decide teaching is not for me?
If you really are not enjoying your time in Surin, Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province, can assist in organising your journey home.

What happens if I fall ill during my time in Surin?
Surin has two main hospitals and numerous general practitioners who can treat all common ailments. Mr Chatchai, Education Supervisor for Surin province, will be on hand to help translate if required. In the extremely unlikely event that you need to be evacuated back to the UK, your medical insurance should cover you for this eventuality.

Where can I find information about Thailand?
We recommend you buy either the Lonely Planet Thailand or Rough Guide Thailand for a full overview of the country. You may also wish to consult the British Foreign And Commonwealth's Office website for current advice about travelling in Thailand.

How can I book trips whilst in Surin?
Surin has two travel agents who will be pleased to assist you with all your travel requirements.