Good morning.

Today, I'm not here to review a tourist attraction.

Instead, I'm here to share my positive experience as a volunteer with Volunteers for Dad at Sanam Luang.

It's a simple way for anyone to do good for the King.

I'd like to invite you all to join me in doing good deeds.

Follow along! :)

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My friends and I, a group of three, had been planning for several days to volunteer as **'jit-arsa'** at Sanam Luang during the period when the public paid their respects to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace.

However, I am unsure how to assist. Where should I begin?

Seeking information, I came across the "Thammasat University Volunteers for Dad Volunteer Coordination Center," which serves as a central hub for recruiting volunteers regardless of gender or age. The center connects volunteers with various organizations in need of assistance and facilitates their participation in diverse tasks and projects.

When the information was ready, we agreed to go on Saturday, November 5th. We took a day off from work to volunteer at the Sanam Luang field. We arranged to meet there around eight o'clock because the center opens at nine.

We will meet at the Victory Monument at 6:45 AM on Saturday, November 5th to take the free shuttle bus to Sanam Luang. As the bus schedule is uncertain, with an estimated frequency of once per hour, we aim to avoid missing the 7:00 AM departure.

We waited at Rajavithi Pier, and soon an air-conditioned bus arrived to pick us up. Buses run frequently, so there's no need to worry about missing one.

Other islands also have cars available, details as follows:

Shuttle Services for the Royal Cremation Ceremony

1. Metropolitan Police Bureau

• Route: Victory Monument (Rajavithi Hospital side) - Sanam Luang
• Service hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Start date: October 18, 2016 onwards

2. Traffic Police Division + Private Buses/Vans

• Route: Victory Monument (Rajavithi Hospital side) - Sanam Luang
• Service hours: 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM, departures every hour
• Start date: From today onwards

3. Traffic Police Division + BMTA (Buses)

• Route: Victory Monument (Phaya Thai Road island) - Sanam Luang
• Service hours: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM
• Start date: From today onwards

4. Royal Thai Army Headquarters

• Route: Victory Monument (BTS Station side) - Sanam Luang
• Service hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Start date: From today onwards

5. Royal Thai Air Force

• Route: Victory Monument (BTS Station side) - Sanam Luang
• Route 1: Lam Luk Ka (Khlong 7) - Phahonyothin - Victory Monument - Phahonyothin - Si Ayutthaya - Ratchadamnoen Nok - Democracy Monument - Sanam Luang
• Service hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Start date: From today onwards

Free shuttle bus and boat services are available to Sanam Luang. Other routes are also available.

(The source and other bus routes can be checked at http://www.realist.co.th/blog/รถฟรีไปสนามหลวง).

The morning traffic was light, and the car ride was short. We arrived at the Ratchagosin School. The sky was partly cloudy, but it was a good start to our day of doing good deeds for our father.

We strolled around Sanam Luang to Thammasat University's Sri Burapha Hall, Tha Phra Chan campus, in case we needed to register beforehand.

The officer instructed me to arrive at nine o'clock. At nearly eight o'clock, I walked into the Sanam Luang field, passing through the security checkpoint and showing my identification card. I then went to find something to eat to replenish my energy.

Upon entering, I was impressed by the mutual assistance among everyone. We queued to receive breakfast served in small banana leaf containers, consisting of rice with pork stew and fried fish cakes. After a light breakfast, we proceeded to other food stalls. After finishing our meal, we disposed of our waste, ensuring proper segregation for easier management. While the crowd was still manageable in the morning, it was starting to grow. The queue for paying respects to the late King was already getting longer.

At half past eight, I walked back to the front of the assembly hall to wait. There were many people waiting to be volunteers, both from faculties and in small groups or individuals.

Initially, my friends and I pre-registered on the website and received volunteer numbers. However, the staff still required us to fill out a paper form for registration. (Therefore, if you attend, you can directly fill out the paper form without pre-registering online.)

After completing the registration form at 9:00 AM, volunteers queued to register with the officials. They received a number and a volunteer card valid for one day. Subsequently, they proceeded to the assembly hall to await their assigned tasks. A wide range of tasks were available, including shuttle bus and sanitation vehicle attendants, medical assistants, traffic wardens, kitchen staff, and waste collection volunteers.

We waited for about fifteen minutes. Then, the officer called for 40 volunteers for the mobile garbage collection unit. The three of us immediately went down (because we were afraid of not getting the job done, haha).

The group then descended to a small room below to receive a briefing on proper waste sorting and collection methods. The speaker explained that an average of 80 tons of waste accumulates in Sanam Luang each day, with the amount reaching 200 tons on weekends. (That's a lot!)

The Importance of Waste Separation in Bangkok

Proper waste separation significantly reduces waste volume and facilitates efficient management by Bangkok authorities. The "Three Musketeers" waste separation team plays a crucial role in this process, ensuring the city doesn't become overwhelmed by garbage.

This team operates in groups of three, each member responsible for a specific category:

1. General waste: Non-recyclable items like food scraps, plastic bags, and tissues.
2. Recyclable waste: Materials like paper, plastic bottles, and metal cans that can be processed and reused.
3. Food waste: Organic materials like fruit peels, vegetable scraps, and eggshells that can be composted.

By effectively separating waste, the "Three Musketeers" contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable Bangkok.

Once ready, the staff will distribute equipment, including transparent garbage bags, gloves, hats, and name tags indicating the type of waste each person is responsible for. When ready, we will begin. As a mobile garbage collection unit, we must 'walk' to every corner as a team of three. Do not separate under any circumstances. If one friend wants to go for lunch, the other two cannot work. We go together, and we rest together. The volunteer mission to collect garbage starts at ten o'clock in the morning.

In reality, the public should be responsible for sorting their own waste. We will provide guidance on which waste should be placed in which of the three bags provided: (1) general waste, (2) recyclable waste, and (3) food waste. Many frequent visitors to Sanam Luang understand the concept of waste separation, so there is no need for extensive explanation. However, the majority of Thais still lack a thorough understanding of waste separation. Due to the large volume of waste generated by various individuals, we will collect the waste and assist with sorting it, which is an enjoyable process. Initially, the process may be slow as we are still unfamiliar with waste separation, but we have since become experts.

Note: If you read this post and are going to Sanam Luang, please separate your waste before throwing it away.

As we walked, we saw many mobile garbage collection units. We also picked up garbage around Sanam Luang and at the end of the queue for people to pay their respects to the Royal Funeral Pyre. It was extremely hot there, but everyone helped out as much as they could. People were constantly handing out food, drinks, candy, cold towels, and inhalers. Wherever there was food, wherever there was garbage, we went in immediately to keep Sanam Luang, which is like the front lawn of our father's house, clean at all times.

When the garbage bag is almost full, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) staff will come and change the bag for us. Actually, when the garbage bag starts to get full, we should take it to any of the ten disposal points around Sanam Luang. All the garbage collectors, both volunteers and BMA staff, smile at each other. I feel really good seeing Thai people helping each other. It's a feeling that can't be valued.

We worked until around 1 pm, exhausted from the sun, so we went to rest, drink water, and eat lunch at the Thammasat Volunteer Kitchen of the Thammasat University Volunteer Coordination Center for Volunteers for Dad.

A special food stall will be available for volunteers today, offering a menu of green curry with rice noodles, omelets, canned fish salad, sour curry, and hot dogs.

After finishing your meal, you are required to wash your own plates and bowls to reduce waste, which is a great idea.

"As I reflected on the day, I realized how much waste we generated. We went from booth to booth, eating and discarding our trash. I roughly estimated that I produced at least 10-15 pieces of garbage that day. After filling our stomachs, we continued…"

In the morning, we walked around the area further away from the Grand Palace, or to the left. In the afternoon, we walked to the area closer to the Grand Palace, or to the right. There were fewer food stalls because it was the queue where people were lining up and preparing to enter the tent in front of Wat Mahathat. Therefore, there was less food and drink available. Everyone was preparing to enter, and there was less garbage accordingly.

After the ceremony, we walked out of Sanam Luang and headed towards the tents in front of Wat Mahathat, which were relatively deserted. As we continued walking, we noticed chairs arranged for the public to sit and wait before entering the Grand Palace. Everyone maintained a respectful demeanor. While there was some litter, it was not excessive. We continued walking until we reached the entrance of Wiseschaisri Gate, where there was a small garden. We met a kind person who was making and distributing black ribbons. The ribbons were beautifully crafted. We chatted with them for a while, and they told us that they had skipped work to make the ribbons. We were deeply touched by their dedication.

After paying our respects, we turned right and walked along Thanon Phra Lan to the front of Silpakorn University. There were no volunteers collecting garbage in this area, only a few Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) staff and a handful of garbage bins. The only people present were citizens who had already paid their respects at the Royal Crematorium. Food and snacks were being distributed nearby, and as expected, there was a lot of garbage. Tourists visiting the Grand Palace were also diligently collecting and separating garbage. If you are volunteering, be sure to stop by and collect garbage in this area or around Sanam Luang.

We continued walking until we reached the gate of Wimanmek Palace, where we could see the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the site of the royal funeral of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Seeking permission from the officers at the palace gate, I paid my respects and 'bowed' there instead. I believe it was the closest I could get to paying my respects to the royal remains that day. That was good enough for me.

We continued collecting until 3:30 PM, when a new group of volunteers gradually arrived in large numbers. We decided to conclude our volunteer work for the day and return another time.

Volunteers' Schedule at the Waste Management Center

Morning:

• 9:00 AM: Volunteers arrive and begin their work.
• Throughout the day: Volunteers continue working until the afternoon.

Afternoon:

• 1:00 PM: Volunteers who want guaranteed work can stay until the evening.
• After 1:00 PM: Volunteers can start working and continue until late evening.
• Late afternoon: Some volunteers begin leaving due to the hot weather.

Evening:

• Late evening: Volunteers who started in the late afternoon can continue working until late evening.

Work Duration:

• The center does not enforce a minimum work duration, but requests at least 1 hour of service.
• Volunteers who leave before completing 1 hour are asked to inform the center.

Returning Equipment:

• Before leaving, volunteers must return their waste sorting tags to the center.
• These tags will be reused for future volunteer activities.

We walked alongside the National Museum, Bangkok, which offers free admission. However, it was closed at 4 pm today, so we only saw the Royal Carriages Exhibition Hall.

This is my first time visiting this place. I am amazed by the exquisite beauty of the royal chariots that were used in the royal funeral procession. Fortunately, there was a knowledgeable guide who provided insights and fascinating details that I had never known before.

I haven't seen everything yet. I'll definitely come back next time. Anyone interested can visit for free until January 31, 2017.

Walking past, I saw the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's garbage truck parked around Sanam Luang. I saw the officers separating the garbage into different sections. Recycled garbage like plastic bottles was placed on top, while general garbage was collected in the garbage truck. Seeing this, I felt very good that at least it helped reduce the amount of garbage and made it easier for the BMA staff to manage the garbage. It shows that what we did today was not in vain.

At 4:30 p.m., walk to the shuttle bus stop near the lottery office to catch a free ride back to Victory Monument. Buses run frequently but may be crowded and lack air conditioning. Alternatively, opt for the air-conditioned bus, but be prepared for longer queues.

Completing a day of service as a provider, volunteer, or community worker.

Despite the heat and fatigue...

However, the happiness I felt is indescribable.

The experience of volunteering with my father today was truly invaluable.

The feeling of satisfaction is indescribable because I was able to help others.

The mutual love and respect among the Thai people is evident.

With one heart, we have done good deeds to dedicate to our beloved father.

If given the opportunity, I would definitely volunteer again in the future.

While I am considering trying other jobs, I am still drawn to the role of a mobile waste disposal unit.

Let's invite friends who are interested to volunteer together. There are still many people who need help at Sanam Luang. Try using one day off to be a giver. I guarantee that you will receive the same happiness (heart) as I did.

Don't forget to share your volunteer experiences on other pages. I want to hear more!

#HungryTraveller

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Interesting tidbits

• It is recommended to bring minimal personal belongings. A small backpack or a crossbody bag is ideal, prioritizing agility for volunteer work.

• Long pants or jeans are highly recommended, as well as comfortable sneakers for all-day walking. On sunny days, a hat, sunglasses (and arm sleeves) are also a good idea.

• No need to worry about food and drinks, as they will be distributed around Sanam Luang. You don't need to bring any. Just eat enough, as it would be a waste if you have leftovers.

• In that area, there are volunteer motorcycle riders who offer free services. Feel free to use their services; they are happy to help, no matter the distance. Just ask them.

• Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the venue. However, due to the hot weather, you may not need to use them frequently. Despite drinking plenty of water, most of it will be lost through perspiration. I only used the restroom twice that day.

• It is recommended to bring a small bar of soap or liquid soap, as some bathrooms may not have soap. Fortunately, one of the participants had made small scented bars of soap and was handing them out, so I was able to use one.

• When picking up trash, be careful not to get carried away, as the trash bag may leak if it is pierced by a skewer. Your shoes may get dirty (it has happened before).

• Volunteers should register daily to be included in the center's database.

• If you want to help collect garbage but haven't registered at the center, it's recommended to use 'clear bags' instead of black bags. This will make it easier for Bangkok officials to manage and they will be able to see what's inside the bag. This is for everyone's safety, as black bags could be mistaken for suspicious objects. If you can also separate your garbage, that would be great, as there is a lot of garbage every day (and I mean a lot!).

• Volunteer cards are not privilege cards or bragging cards. We have to queue for food like everyone else. But fellow volunteers who distribute food, when they see that we are volunteers too, often ask, "Have you had a drink? Have you eaten yet?"

• While queue-jumpers and people taking food home are common sights, let's not get angry. As long as we don't behave like that, it's fine. Let's all strive to do good. :_)

• Donations of items can also be made directly to the center. The center will then distribute the items to organizations in need. A list of needed items can be found on the center's Facebook page.

• Do one good deed for your father, and Thailand will be a much better place to live. Start today.

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The center is located at the Si Burapha Hall, Thammasat University, Tha Phra Chan.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, starting from October 19, 2016 onwards.

For inquiries, volunteering, or employment opportunities, please contact us through the following channels:

Contact numbers: 091 8142076 (for donations), 02 6133908, 095 4797034 (for inquiries)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/volunteersfordad

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @volunteerfordad

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Past Travel Reviews by Hungry Traveller

[[Samed Nang Chee]] Here.. with a panoramic view of Phang Nga Bay: https://th.readme.me/p/2372

[[[ Exactly. . . Exactlyyyyyyyyyyy ]]] : https://th.readme.me/p/2405

Surrender your body. Leave your heart. Here at Similan.

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Original Text:

สิงคโปร์ไม่ได้มีแค่สิงโตพ่นน้ำ ตอนที่ 1 :: Underground Crossing ที่ Fort Canning Park :https://th.readme.me/p/2459

Singapore is more than just the Merlion. This series explores hidden gems and lesser-known aspects of the city-state. Part 1 delves into the Underground Crossing at Fort Canning Park, a historical site with a fascinating past.

Notes:

• The original text is in Thai.
• The translation is concise and maintains the original meaning.
• The tone is simple and informative.
• The link to the original article is preserved.

Singapore is not just about the Merlion: Lone tree at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park: https://th.readme.me/p/2672

Singapore is more than just a water-spouting lion. Part 3: Unique and expensive views at the southern end of Marina Bay... with Marina Barrage Cove https://th.readme.me/p/2794

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Ep.1 ǀ Cebu, Philippines: Falling in love at sea level (3 islands, 6 days, 5 nights with a budget of 19,xxx) ǀ Let's go canyoneering!

Link: https://th.readme.me/p/3734

Ep.2 ǀ Cebu, Philippines: Dive into the wonders of the underwater world (Swim with whale sharks and let your heart wander at Sumilon Island) :: https://th.readme.me/p/3763

Ep.3 ǀ Cebu, Philippines: Falling in love at sea level (The end) (Panglao Island, Bohol One Day Tour)