Hi, I'm Mark.

I used to be an Auditor for an Educational Quality Assessment, University Lecturer and School Principal, but now I run a Children's Home in a quiet town in Phayao. There are 8 boys ranging from ages 6-14 years old. I speak fluent English, but the boys know only a few English words.

We run outreach projects to help needy families. We collaborate with hilltribes, churches and other members of the local community.

There is also a Church on our grounds. We meet every Sunday, but you don't have to join us.

I am trained in Thai massage and would be happy to offer you a session if you're interested! My home features a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave — feel free to cook whatever you like. I also have a sauna and a water heater available for your use. 

I would truly appreciate a little help with housework from time to time. Also, if you’d like to support my local children’s community, any donations are very welcome!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I would like to host international travellers who have a heart to help children and the local community. You can experience local Thai life away from the big city. Enjoy activities with us and maybe see hilltribes, elephants and forest people, depending on how long you stay and what we're doing.

I also like to talk to international guests. Before I started on Couchsurfing, I have hosted travellers from the UK, Germany, Japan, Singapore, The Netherlands, The Phillipines, Canada and America.

Interests

• cooking
• eating out
• fishing
• swimming
• massage
• church
• farming
• sight-seeing
• helping
• charity
• thai massage
• elephants
• share experiences
• helping others
• thai culture
• thai language
• thai cooking

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Started the Foundation.
Brought a medical team to the village.
Run a radio station.

Teach, Learn, Share

I like to talk to international travellers, giving them an experience that they won't have in bigger cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

We are close to Phayao city, which has a beautiful lake. The whole province is engulfed in hills, with national parks and waterfalls. Food grows naturally around the province on trees.

If you'd like learn how to give a Thai massage then I can take you with my friend; she is a professional masseuse.

You can learn Thai too.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Five rooms are available.
If you come alone with someone then you can have a private room with your own bathroom.
Up to 20 people in the large dormitory.
Sauna next to the private room.
You can go swimming, play football, games or dancing with the children.
You can help them to learn some English.
If you have any other way of helping or having fun, you are free to do so.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Netherlands, Singapore