We booked a two day trip with Hilltribe Holidays, based in Mae Sariang which included an overnight stay in the village of La Up (high in the mountains outside Mae Sariang) with a Lawa family.

We went with our two children, aged 6 & 7, and we had a fantastic time. Our guide for the trip was Janjira, eldest daughter of the family we stayed with. Janjira showed us around her own village, and three neighbouring villages. We got to meet a local silversmith, a family who grow coffee, visit the local school (although there were no children as it was a weekend we visited), and we visited an agricultural centre which seems to be working wonders in growing crops in the mountains.

Best though, was the time we spent with the homestay family - who were incredibly welcoming and generous. We had lunch, dinner and breakfast eating traditional food with the family, and we slept in their living room. I have given 3/5 for rooms and sleep, not because we were in any way disappointed (far from it) but simply because you have to be aware that this is a homestay and not a hotel. Therefore, be prepared to sleep on the floor (on bedding & sleeping bags) and this is a rural community, so there are dogs and chickens that will probably wake you up fairly early. All of this is sharing the family's way of life - and is part of the experience.

Our children and the children from the family we stayed with got on very well, and we think this is one of the most enjoyable and valuable experiences we have shared with our children.

Mel from Hilltribe Holidays was also extremely helpful before the trip. All in all, something we will remember for a very long time - a truly special experience.