"On Friday we woke up at 6 am and went to the city for alms-giving. Every morning monks walk around and people give them stuff. So we bought these little pre-made kits that they sell on the street (water, snacks, a flower, incense) and we gave them to the monks. You stand at the edge of the street and wait for a monk to come, bow, then kneel and put your stuff in his basket and then he chants something at you and walks away, and then you stand up. It was an experience."
- Alyssa, Goucher College
Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a charming city with roots dating back to the 13th century. It is the second largest city in the country, but in many ways it remains a small town, attracting visitors for its historical charm, dramatic mountain backdrop, hundreds of temples, and friendly people of diverse cultural identities. In Chiang Mai, you will enjoy exploring rich cultural sites, sampling Thai cuisine, browsing exquisite handicrafts at the Night Bazaar, observing festivals and traditional performances, and experiencing the warmth and graciousness of the Thai people.
You have the option of living either in Payap University's beautiful, newly completed Paradornparp International House (PIH), or with a Thai host family for the semester. PIH accommodates both international and Thai students, and offers a meal service. IPSL students choosing to live in PIH are encouraged to also experience an optional 2-week homestay with a Thai family, which will be arranged by program staff at Payap.