Thailand Offers 'Eco-Friendly' Holidays With Host Families

Thailand Offers Eco-Friendly Holidays With Host Families A community-based tourism scheme is enabling tourists to stay with host families on one of Thailand's beautiful tropical islands.

Guests stay in one of 25 family homes on Koh Yao Noi, which is about an hour's ferry journey from the major tourist destination of Phuket, reports Andrew Spooner, writing for The Guardian.

Much of the money spent by visitors goes directly to the host families, while the tourists get to enjoy an authentic taste of Thai life as part of their holiday.

"About 80 per cent of your money is given directly to the host family," Bang Bao, co-ordinator of the homestay club, told the news provider.

"It can really make a lot of difference over a year," he added.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand states that the country is renowned for its friendly and welcoming people and is a nation which blends fascinating ancient traditions with urban modernity.


Destinations News posted on 12/11/2008 10:06:44