By 'legitimate visa' Anita Ingram is referring to a Non O visa (volunteering) this would mean you'd have 90 days to find something. I'm couldn't tell you anything about the extension of such visa as I'm not aware of anyone holding it.
yes. Although it's not a case of getting in trouble but the fact that there's no one to manage and organise it. If you wrote down your requests in Thai and visited some local temples you may find a way but I really doubt it. The language barrier alone plus that it would mean people/monks would have to take time out of what they do to direct you. The best thing to do would be to go to the temple and ask them where the sweeping brush is and begin. Tell them you'd like to play 'Monk golf' with a πThey'll understand that. πApart from temples the only other DIY volunteering opportunities would be to help soi dogs or find a local soi dog rescue. There's a big one in Koh Samui (Google soi dogs Koh Samui) There aren't many more opportunities here. Again, good luck and let us know how it goes. I live in rural Isaan and run an English Camp/Gaming Club. I'm on a low budget but I try to give the local kids a chance to have fun learning English and get to do things they probably can't afford to do (gaming, camping and making western food) If you ever find yourself in rural Khon Kaen I wouldn't say no to some help π
There aren't many volunteering opportunities in Thailand unfortunately. Volunteering here is a natural part of Thai culture. Helping each other is something done without question and doesn't employ organisations to manage it. The only opportunities I can suggest are on islands like Koh Samui who have a large expat population. They do beach clearing and recycling of waste washed up on the beach. Go there and maybe enquire about any other opportunities. Tbh I don't know if this still exists as it was something started by local expats and not 'registered' as such. If you volunteering need is for the purpose of a volunteer visa (although there is such a thing) it is still early in development with little to no opportunities to 'legally' possess it. Good luck
Rayong is quiet and has beautiful beaches. Not touristic and you never see youth apart from really young with family. Because of its location it's easy (If you desired) to taxi to Pattaya or get to Bangkok. With it's huge tranquil beach front youll find many photo opportunities if your into that type of thing. Alternatively there's Korat which doesn't have the beaches but makes up for it with many water parks for fishing and eating out, Malls and some amazing markets (save one). It's style is slightly Western with familiar coffee shops littered around the centre with lots of museums, galleries and some fascinating history. There's a few falang but most will be teachers and there's the odd bar that opens until pub hours but no loud music or nightclubs. Korat is said to be the 'new Bangkok' and with its growing development and aeroplane restaurants Korat tries to be unique. I've lived in both and would recommend Rayong for a retiree and Korat for someone whom likes a little hustle bustle and chilling in coffee shops. Good luck