The Experience: Looking to get away from the cities and see what life for tribal Thai people is really like? Lawa Community Homestay enables visitors to have an authentic experience of hill tribe culture. The Kanawutikorn family is part of the Lawa tribe, which is one of the oldest tribes in this part of Thailand. Come and learn about how the Lawa live—cook the local foods, take a lesson on weavi
ng fabrics, lend a hand on the local farms, or perhaps learn how to forage for food from the jungle. You are also invited to take part in the local traditions and ceremonies of the Lawa people, including celebrations for newborn babies, weddings, and parties recognizing the elderly. A nearby silversmith provides an incredible opportunity for you to take lessons in crafting your own pure silver jewelry, and beautiful items are available for purchase. Foreigners who wish to teach English are very welcome to do so in the local primary school, for periods of time as short as one day or as long as one term. There is so much to do and see, but plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beautiful, lush mountainous surrounds. Visitors can come for any period of time they wish—you may stay for just one night, or even one year! How to get to Ban Laoop: from Chiang Mai or Mae Hong Son, take the 170 bus to Mae La Noi. From Mae La Noi, the Kanawutikorn family can bring you to Ban Laoop, which is 25 kilometers away. If you travel by motorbike or car, the family can give you directions. About the Kanawutikorn Family: Jom (“Mom”) is the spirited, energetic mother and head of the family. She will welcome you with open arms and help you experience the village life. Noi (“Dad”) will teach you some Thai, and show you to the farm if you would like to work. Jan (21) is the oldest daughter, currently studying to be a nurse. She will answer your questions on Facebook. Om (19) is the second daughter, currently studying to be a chemistry teacher. Ann (15) is the third daughter, in 11th grade, who wants to be a doctor when she grows up. Dom (12) and Email (7) would love to play with any young children who would like to visit with their families. Dom enjoys football and carpentry, and Email likes to sing songs, dance and practice her ABCs! What to expect. Ban Laoop is rich in natural scenery and generous people, however it is free of many modern amenities found in nearby cities. Electricity is available in your room, but cooking is done by wooden stove, and showers are usually with cold water only. The family shares everything we have, and you are welcome to be a part of every aspect of our daily life, but you can also enjoy the privacy of your room as you wish. There are no large businesses in the village, however there are a few small shops where you can buy bottled water, snacks, and toiletries. There is also a post office and a small clinic with doctors on site, and free Wi-Fi available a short walk away at the local church. We suggest that if you prefer any special foods, you can buy them at the 7/11 in Mae La Noi before coming up to the village. What do we eat? The Lawa food draws upon ingredients which are largely local and organic. Rice is the staple grain, and is typically served with every meal (yes, even breakfast!). Vegetable dishes such as pumpkin, greens, banana leaf, jackfruit, beans, mushrooms and tomatoes can be found at each meal. Fish, egg, chicken, and pork are eaten at some meals. Vegetarians and vegans are very welcome and easily accommodated! How Much? There is no firm fixed price for your stay in the family home, however, we appreciate contributions similar to what you would pay in a local hotel (~550 baht per person per night). This is inclusive of meals and the opportunity to be guided around the local village culture. Questions? Please get in touch with us today so we can help you prepare your trip to our wonderful home. We hope to see you soon! Contact:
Kanawutikorn Family
111/2 Laoop Village
T. Haay Hom
A. Mae La Noi
Mae Hong Son
58120
Email: janjira—[email protected]
Or, you can contact Melissa at Hill Tribe Homestays and she can help you with all the arrangements! Past Guests Have Said…
“In my seventy years of life this has been the most delightful day I have experienced”
-Singapore, 2011
“The best thing on my trip so far. I loved to see all the villages, how you communicate with each other and how close the family members are to each other”
-Germany, 2013
“Thank you so much for a wonderful experience. You honour us with your gracious hospitality, loving family and welcoming spirit. I shall remember this experience and your whole family for the rest of my life”
-Australia, 2013
“We definitely will recommend our guide and this homestay especially to all our friends”
-Israel, 2016
“I have lived in Thailand for 16 months now…that being said, staying with your family and experiencing your ways of life ranks as one of the best experiences I have ever had in Thailand”
-Thailand, 2013
“Your smiles and laughter are contagious and we will never forget meeting you”
-Colorado, USA 2012
Past Guests Have Come From…
Australia (every state!), USA, Canada, England, Ireland, Germany, Estonia, Singapore, Israel, France, Switzerland, India, The Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, and many more!
