Children Of The Forest

One of the reasons I am so proud to call Koh Lanta home is because of how generous the local residents can be.

First Day on the Beach

This year for the 12th year running, Children of the Forest have given 50 stateless children a holiday to remember on Koh Lanta. Children of the Forest is a fabulous charity, which gives these kids from Burma, who are stateless and as such have no access to healthcare, schooling and legal rights in Thailand.

Sanuk paid for their long trip to the island.

Their journey from Sangklaburi (about 3 hours north from Kanchanaburi) takes 2 days and the Swedish school on Lanta raises the funds to ensure they are delivered safely, fed and have somewhere to stay for this long trip.

Whilst they are here, many businesses and residents give time, money, accommodation and tours to the children.

Scubafish provided a Snorkelling Trip

Andaman Sunflower Resort (next to us on Koh Lanta) have provided free accommodation for 12 years and provide any meals not offered by other restaurants.

First Time Snorkelling

Scubafish took them all on a wonderful snorkelling tour on their boat,

Greek Taverna

The children got their first taste of Greek food at the Greek Taverna and they danced the night away with dinner at Global Local Lanta.

Enjoying the pool at Laguna Beach Club

 Rattana Resort and Laguna Beach Club gave them access to their pools. Time for Lime, gave them beach toys and cooking classes.

Time for Lime

Cooking Class at Time For Lime

I was asked to help Kandi Lounge provide a chilled afternoon with snacks, pool and cartoons.

Pool at Kandi Lounge

It is a privilege to help with this special holiday and it is humbling to see how lovely and polite these kids are despite the harshness of their short lives. 

Fun on the Beach

Tomorrow these kids take the long journey home, we wish them a safe journey home and look forward to seeing them again next year.