A bit about the Prem Centre

Prior to coming to Thailand this year we had several weeks of concern about sending our girls and staff to go on the Thailand Experience due to the political upheaval. The news reports and travel advice were cold comfort to worried parents and there was legitimate concern. Now that we are here, and thank Buddha, I am so glad that we came and I thought I would let you all know how amazing the Prem Centre is and how safely secured it is; nestled in the the mountain foothills of northern Thailand. The school was established 10 years ago and is spread over 90 acres and the Prem is 25 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. In fact we are actually in the province of Chiang Mai, but in the town of Mae Rim.

The Prem is actually like an oasis in the middle of the remote part of Mae Rim- patrolled by 24 hour security guards to boot! We are surrounded by rice paddies, modest village homes and green, green jungle. The girls have access to a little 'Milk Bar' like shop, a restaurant, swimming pool, sports facilities, laundry services and a cafeteria. Their rooms are serviced by cleaners everyday and they have living rooms and bathrooms off their bedrooms.Their apartments are all in a cluster, facing one another, so another friend is only a stones throw away- either upstairs, downstairs or across the courtyard. It's a regular Melrose Place (am I showing my age?)

The staff are so beautiful- in fact the Nurse- Mong, who is on 24 hour call, has been an angel and we will be buying her a little present to thank her for all of her care with the girls who have had a complaint large or small. The gardeners, security guards, kitchen staff and cleaners all greet you with a "Sawa dee kah/korp" and a stunning smile. The Prem Group leaders, who guide us around, are very knowledgeable and patient. Many of them have made a great impression on the girls and activities are always left with a genuine thank you from the girls and sometimes even a hug. It certainly feels like a safe and warm place to be.