Each week, you’ll step beyond the classroom and into Southeast Asia’s vibrant streets, ancient temples, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Our hands-on field studies blend adventure with academic exploration, allowing you to engage directly with culture, history, and sustainability.
For Fall 2026 we will also be going to Vietnam!
Based in Chiang Mai, each excursion is designed to bring your studies to life—blending academic depth with unforgettable real-world experiences. From urban streets to remote villages, you’ll gain firsthand knowledge of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultural and environmental landscapes while engaging in meaningful, on-the-ground learning.
Each week, we take learning beyond the classroom with immersive field studies that connect you directly to history, culture, and environment. These excursions offer hands-on experiences, engaging discussions, and a deeper understanding of the people and places that define Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Weekly Field Studies & Excursions
Exploring Ancient City & Temples
Wander through Chiang Mai’s Old City, where ancient temples and city walls reveal stories of the Lanna Kingdom. Visit historic sites like Wat Chedi Luang, study intricate temple murals, and observe how Buddhism continues to shape Thai society.
Street Food & Culinary Arts
Dive into Southeast Asia’s vibrant food culture by exploring bustling street markets, sampling regional specialties, and learning the art of Thai cooking in hands-on workshops. Examine the fusion of tradition and innovation in Thai cuisine.
The Culture of Coffee: From Mountain Farms to City Cafés
Thailand’s coffee culture is booming, from small upland coffee farms to world class cafés. Travel to coffee farms in Northern Thailand to learn hands-on about sustainable growing practices, how to roast, grind and prepare the perfect cup of coffee, and then explore the rise of specialty cafés and Thailand’s mark on the global coffee scene.
Buddhism in Everyday Life: Rituals, Monks & Meditation
Gain a deeper understanding of Buddhism’s role in Thai culture by visiting sacred temples, speaking with monks, and learning about the cultural practices of meditation. Learn how religion influences art, architecture, and social values.
Street Art & Contemporary Creativity in Thailand
Explore Thailand’s thriving street art scene, where murals and graffiti tell stories of social change, political movements, and modern identity. Engage with local artists to understand the fusion of traditional aesthetics with contemporary expression.
Handicrafts, Textiles & Silverwork: The Artisans of Thailand
Learn from master artisans preserving Thailand’s rich traditions of weaving, silver-smithing, and handicrafts. Learn about the role of craftsmanship in Thai identity and the challenges of globalization and sustainability.
The Forests, Waterfalls & Wildlife of Northern Thailand
Hike through lush national parks, discover hidden waterfalls, and explore Thailand’s biodiversity. Visit an elephant sanctuary to learn about conservation efforts and the complex relationship between elephants and Thai culture.
Traditional & Contemporary Music: From Folk to Pop
Experience Thailand’s musical heritage by engaging with folk musicians and contemporary artists shaping modern Thai music. Learn about traditional instruments and trace the evolution of Thai pop, indie, and hip-hop.
A Visit to a Northern Thai Village: Traditional Life & Organic Farming
Travel to a Northern Thai village to experience traditional life and organic farming firsthand. Live with and learn from local farmers, help prepare meals, take care of the gardens, and learn about the cultural traditions shaping these communities.