Thanks to Grand-ma, Dia and the children, we spent three wonderful days.
Their warmth and humanity was very powerful. There was no need to speak the same language.
I strongly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fulfilling human experience, rich in ancestral traditions.
An experience never to be forgotten.

My boyfriend and I went there and we felt inlove with Akha, Jem, his beautiful girls and his whole family. They were welcoming, friendly and warm, always helping and authentic. We talked to the local monk who was teaching us how to meditate, played with the kids, learned about Akha culture, ate their amazing food and slept as close to the jungle as we wanted to. Looking forward to meeting them all again :) Blessings and love

I did an incredible amount of research to find a home stay where the payment would go directly to the people that were working so hard to give you a real - not contrived hilltribe experience. Most in Chiang Mai are tours that pocket most of the money and don't benefit the people giving you the experience. Chiang Rai is much better and closer. Jems and his family (Akha), with the computer booking support of their dear friend Julie have put together an unforgettable true experience where you live, learn and stay an Akha way of life. From the walks in the fields and forests learning what is eaten and used, to cooking over open fire and learning handicraft, this is a true home stay. An evening of song and dance is also enjoyed on longer stays with family friends dressed in their traditional Akha clothing. The grass thatched, woven walled bungalow you stay in is basic with a 1 inch bed pad with sheet/blankets, clean and safe. The bathroom is NOT in your room but a very basic sit over urinal down the hill. So if you can't handle such basics and are squeamish about bugs (noise of bugs) and food you can't identify, this isn't the experience for you! BUT if you are open minded, eager to learn, and can appreciate this simple way of life and the love of the people that comes with it..I highly recommend!
A taxi can be arranged to pick you up right at the airport of Chiang Rai with a stop at the White Temple and will take you to the village center where Jems will meet you....and you meet many in the village if late in the day :)
This is an experience that really makes you appreciate the little things in life and puts a smile on your face. The countryside and views from your bungalow area are outstanding!