Costs of course will vary depending on the time of year, and other factors that are impossible to forecast.  The following is a rough cost of what someone should expect if they are planning on a short term missions trip:

Airfare: (as of June 25 2009)  Los Angeles to Chiang Mai is $975  Atlanta to Chiang Mai is about $1500

Hotel: About 500 baht ($14) per night per room which includes air conditioning, hot water, and often includes a Western breakfast (2-4 people can stay in a  room).

Spending Money:  Depends on your tastes.  Normally we try to allot at least one "tourist" day for every week spent in ministry.  Typically you should expect to spend about $30-$50 per day of sightseeing (can vary depending on your tastes)

Food:  Local food will cost about $6 per day (less if breakfast is provided at the hotel).  Western food will typically cost about $3-$10 per meal; for comparison, a Big Mac combo meal costs 95 Baht (about $2.75).

Transportation:  ministry transportation will be provided.  Vehicles (with drivers) are available for local rental at a rate of about $25 per day.

For United States passport holders, there are no visa fees and no need to apply for a visa if coming for one month or less (other countries should check with Thai immigration authoities).  As you can see, Thailand is remarkably cheap considering it is literally half way around the world.  Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?  Contact us soon for more information.