TEL: 0091-9958895893
Email : volunteeringactivity@hotmail.com
Web : www.volunteeringactivity.org

Frequently Asked Question

     
  Nepal FAQ's
     
  1 What kinds of volunteers do you work with?
  2 Volunteering Activity: We work with any individual, universities and colleges, other organizations and clubs, church groups, youth groups, and families to arrange for meaningful volunteer experiences

  3 Are there any special items that I should bring that I may not have thought of?
     
  This will vary depending on what non Volunteering Activity activities you want to participate in (trekking, whitewater rafting, etc.) and how much you need to be comfortable during your placement. With the exception of medicine, first-aid-kit and high-tech trekking gear, you can buy everything that you would need for your placement in Kathmandu (likely cheaper than in your home country). Here are a few suggestions:

 
. Sleeping Bag.
. Hiking boots
. Treves/ flip flops
. Fleece jacket (during winter months).
. Light-weight cotton clothing (see Program Guide and Volunteer Room for details)
. Waterproof jacket (a fold-away windcheater is fine)
. (Women) Sarong (or you can buy a lungi cheaply in Nepal)
. Mosquito repellent
. Sun cream
. Water purification tablets and/or water filter
. First aid kit
. Flashlight
. Penknife
. Books about your country
. Photos of your family / friends / home (essential!)
. Small presents for your family from your country
. A few examples of your local currency
. Ipod/Laptop/Music/Portable music player
. Basic Learner's English/Nepali/English dictionary - for simple definitions (buy a Nepali dictionary on    arrival in KTM)
. Magazines
. Colored pencils and pens, drawing books, stickers
. Inflatable globe
. Books on teaching English/English Grammar for your referenc.
   
  4 Is Nepal safe?  
     
  Our answer to that is yes Nepal is safe to travel in, not only is it safe but it's place for fun, amazing and incredibly beautiful.

Over the last ten years Nepal has experienced problems with infighting between the government and the Maoists due to conflicting ideas and political disagreement. Though it's a fact that cannot be hidden that people got killed during this conflict, there is no record of any tourists or travelers being injured, killed or involved in anyway. All people in Nepal have a strong belief that guests are equal to god; every Nepal abides by this and offers the warmest of welcomes to all visitors into Nepal.

As of September 2007, there has been a cease fire and peace agreement made between the parties involved. This peace has been upheld, or though there have been a few minor hiccups along the way. People should be aware that Nepal is a developing country and sometimes things do get out of hand. A lot of the bad press Nepal receives is unjustified media hype.

Overall, travelling to Nepal contains no more risk than travelling in other places of the world, in fact as a traveler you are much safer in Nepal than in some European countries and South American places as the threat of, kidnap, pick pocket, robbery, rape etc is almost no existent.

If you compare Nepal to many other tourist destinations where tourists have been DIRECTLY targeted like Egypt (Luxor), Spain (Madrid train bombings), Bali (nightclub bombing), India (5 star hotels shooting in Mumbai), Kenya (Mombasa bombing) etc, these places have all bounced back and people continue to visit, but for some reason, Nepal, where no tourists have ever been targeted by Maoists or Nepalese, suffers from an awful image problem that seems to exaggerate the situation beyond the reality of it. There is of course the chance that tourists might be in the wrong place at the wrong time and be injured or worse, but this is no different than in many places in the world (Madrid perhaps) but in Nepal, Maoists have gone out of their way to not injure or target tourists and Nepalese remains welcoming and hospitable. The few incidents that have occurred with tourists, where accidental or incited by the tourist themselves, but these remain isolated incidents. So if you can stand the occasional strikes (okay frequent) and other third world problems that plague Nepal as with many other developing countries, then Nepal is still an amazing place to visit, despite all this.

All the major tourist areas of Nepal are policed and patrolled and we have are own branch of the tourist police to assist travelers and keep them safe should a situation arise.

As with any safety, precaution is the first rule. Though we are confident that while in Nepal you will not have any problems, there as some basic things you can do to stay safe. Avoid being near demonstrations, return to your hotel early in the evening if you can, do not carry expensive gadgets when traveling, avoid wearing jewelries and other extravagant wears, use a guide from a trusted travel agent or tour operator, do not talk openly about politics, about the king, about the Maoists while you in public places - After all, all you should be talking about is beautiful Nepal and the amazing adventure you are having here. The above advice is good common sense you should undertake while travelling in any country.

  5 What is the program duration?  
     
  Our volunteer opportunities start on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month and run throughout the year for 2 to 12 weeks.

  6 What age do I have to be a volunteer?  
     
  You must be at least 18 years old to be a volunteer and you should be in good health; there is no upper age limit.
     
  7 Do I have to speak a foreign language?  
     
  Volunteers on our short-term (2 to 3 week) programs do not need foreign language skills. Those volunteers interested in participating on one of our long-term programs need to have intermediate language abilities in the spoken language of the program country. Orientation will include an intensive introduction to Nepali language and you will learn Nepali language quickly.

  8 Why should I pay a registration fee?  
     
  The registration fee is required to help run the organization (office space, computers, Internet, supplies and staffer salaries). Volunteering Activity maintains one central office at Kathmandu and a field office outside Kathmandu. It has international office in the US to run the coordinated program. Part of the fee goes to maintaining these offices. Furthermore, we have been running school construction and renovation project in Chitwan to offer more schooling opportunities for children of Nepal. We are also developing some conservation projects. The remaining money of the program directly goes to support these programs

  9 How can I make my payment?  
     
  All payments have to be made at the beginning of the volunteer program in Nepali or you can make in advance with wire transfer or Pay pal.

  10 Do I need travel insurance?  
     
  As with any overseas traveling, health insurance is recommended. Please obtain necessary health and travel insurance before coming to Nepal. Talk to your travel agent about this or search on the internet to see what offers are available, and make sure you look into the details of the policy. Find out if it covers airfare in case of a medical emergency.

  11 Will there be someone to pick me up from airport?  
     
  One of our representatives will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. Please do not forget to send your detailed flight itinerary in advance.

  12 How much extra money do I need?  
     
  We manage food and accommodation for volunteers from the first to last day of program so there will not be need of more money for the basics. In general, things in Nepal are a lot cheaper than in developed nations. You may need some extra money if you plan to take part in activities outside the organization or if you just want to buy some souvenirs. You must also remember the visa fee, which can range from $30-60 depending on the length of stay. There is also an airport tax, which you pay upon your departure of Nepal. This can range from $15-25.

  13 Will I have communications access?  
     
  This all depends on your placement. Almost all placements will have access to a post office. If you are in a city placement, you can have phone and e-mail access. However, this information will all be given to you before your departure to Nepal.

  14 Can I bring my cellphone from my home country?  
     
  Please bring your cellphone. You can use most mobile handsets with a local SIM card in Nepal. Moreover, cellphones are available for a cheap price in Nepal.

  15 Can I work and travel with other volunteers?  
     
  We allow people to come with a friend or even in a large group. You sometimes may be placed in different location situated within 1-2 miles. We can place any volunteer near another volunteer already working in the field. Please note that volunteers of the opposite sex are not allowed to stay in same room unless they are a married couple.

  16 Is it possible to change placement if I get dissatisfied?  
     
  Volunteering Activity will seriously consider the request of volunteer for the change of placement to meet the expectation of volunteers. We cannot change the position without genuine reasons.

  17 What about vaccinations and medication?  
     
  This all depends on what vaccinations you already have and what country you are coming from. We suggest that you consult a doctor from your country before you arrive. Some vaccinations are needed as much as 2 months before arrival to Nepal. Volunteering Activity does not cover liability and insurance of volunteers. Therefore, volunteers must have appropriate insurance before joining the program. However, you should consider the following vaccinations:

 
. Hepatitis A & B
. Diphtheria
. Tetanus
. Yellow fever
. Rabies
. Tuberculosis
. Malaria tablets
   
  Are Volunteering Activity programs only for International volunteers?

  We mobilize national volunteers along with international volunteer as their counterparts.
     
  18 Where is the arrival and departure point?  
     
  Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal, so all international flights arrive and depart from there. Our representative will meet you at the airport.

  19 Emergency Contact  
     
 

You have three parties available to you 24/7 in case of emergency, health-related or otherwise: Volunteering Activity staffers, your host family, and your program supervisor. Make sure to have contact information for all three parties before you arrive. If you cannot find our representative at airport or if your flight details change, please go directly to Hotel Eden located 6 miles from the airport. It is reasonably priced hotel with moderate standards. Please call our office from the hotel.

 

     
  India FAQ's
     
  1. Who is a Volunteer?
 
  Any individual who is sympathetic and kind enough to work for the benefit of the people around us without expecting any material reward is rightly called a volunteer. Every person has been a volunteer once in a while in his/her daily life. You certainly are a volunteer when you help some old women cross the busy road or when you try to save a drowning person. Now, when you participate in the program of Aim abroad, you are going to do the same with a wider purview and with a more meaningful purpose.

  2. What do I need to qualify for a volunteer program?

  No particular educational qualification or skill is necessary to work as a volunteer. All you required to have are the enthusiasm to work for your fellow human beings, a child's curiosity to learn new skills, keenness to learn from new society and culture. However, you should have normal health and energy. Aim abroad, nevertheless, looks your resume for your skills, volunteer experiences, travel experiences, your interests and preferences. This information makes our decision easy to suggest you a particular program that suits you the best.
     
 

3. What kind of volunteer work is available?

 

 
  Please see the options listed in India program and choose accordingly.

  4. What is the duration of the volunteer program?

  The normal duration of the volunteer program would be around 3 weeks. However, if you are interested to stay for more time, Volunteering Activity would make necessary arrangements to extend the duration up to SIX months. Home stay / Cultural exchange are suitable for those who want to stay for a longer period of time.

  5. What do I do in the free time?

  You have a plenty of things that you could do in your free time. You can visit temples and forts in and around Delhi. You can also interact with local people and learn about their arts and crafts. Our local staff will give you suggestions about the places to visit. On the other hand, some volunteers would prefer not to travel and stay within the village to know the people and their lifestyle more intimately. However, it all depends on your personal taste.

  6. I cannot speak English. Can I become a volunteer?

  Of course! Certainly. Speaking English or any foreign language is not necessarily important. While in your work as a volunteer you are supposed to speak Hindi with the local people. Volunteering Activitygives you proper training about Hindi speaking to the minimum level of daily communication. This is enough to get through your regular transactions. You will also be given enough guidance about the local lifestyle, tradition and culture. However, A minimum understanding level of English language is required to communicate with the staff of Volunteering Activity and with your team mates.

  7. What are the living arrangements at the time of volunteering?

  We have host families and residential arrangements in Delhi, Jaipur and Bangalore. Hostel in Palampur and Home stay in Dharamsala.

  8. Can I come with friends or with my spouse?

  Yes, Couples and groups are invited. But it should be noted that Volunteering Activitydoes not give any guarantee to provide private accommodation for couples in rural areas. Elder children who are independent will be considered on a case by case basis.

  9. Is India safe?

  Volunteering Activity always ensures you that you are placed in safe environments while volunteering in India. Often, India is a country termed as having "unity in diversity," since millions of visitors travel to India annually. India is safe, except for a few places like Jammu and Kashmir, which is 1200 kilometers away - far from our placement sites. There are some instances of petty crime in big cities, but crime is rare in rural areas.

Be careful with beggars, frauds, theft, and crowd in India. Theft is quite common in places visited by tourists. More likely, a thief will pick your pocket or break into your room. There is little culture of muggings in India.

  10. What is the program duration?

  Our volunteer opportunities start on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month run throughout the year for a period of 2-12 week.

  11. What age do I have to be a volunteer?

  You must be at least 18 years old to be a volunteer and you should be in good health; there is no upper limit.

  12. Why should I pay for registration fee?

  The registration fee is required to run the organization (office space, computers, Internet, supplies and Staffs). New Hope has country office in India and international office in USA to run the coordinated program. Part of the fee goes to maintaining these offices. The remaining money of the program directly goes to support the programs.

  13. Are Master, Visa and other cards accepted?

  Nowadays, there are ATM services in most of the cities in India, which will be open during the day. There are also several banks and money exchange services. You can bring Master card, American Express, Visa card, cash $/ Euro or travelers checks, these all are accepted. However, facilities may be limited outside major cities. Traveler's checks may also be difficult to exchange in small towns and villages, and we advise participants to have cash on hand. You may exchange money at the airport or at a bank.

  14. Do I need travel insurance?

  Our program does not cover liability and insurance for our volunteers. Therefore, volunteers must have appropriate insurance before joining the program. Please obtain necessary health and travel insurance before coming to India. Talk to your travel agent about this or search on the internet to see what offers are available, and make sure you look into the details of the policy. Find out if it covers airfare in case of a medical emergency.

  15. What Should I bring for myself?

  This will vary depending on what activities you want to participate in and how much you need to be comfortable during your placement. With the exception of medicine and first-aid-kit, you can buy everything that you would need for your placement in India. Here are a few suggestions:

 
. Sleeping Bag.
. Waterproof jacket (a fold-away windcheater is fine)
. Mosquito repellent
. Sun cream
. Water purification tablets and/or good quality water purifier
. First aid kit
. Flashlight (torch)
. Penknife
. Books about your country
. Photos of your family / friends / home
. A few examples of your local currency
. Colored pencils and pens, drawing books, stickers
   
  16. Will there be someone to pick me up from airport?  
     
  You need not be worry about airport pick-up. One of our representatives will be waiting for you at the airport terminal. He will be holding a sign with your name on it. Please do not forget to send your detailed flight itinerary in advance.

  17. What happens, if I want to arrive earlier than the program begins?  
     
  You can arrive several days earlier or even up to a week early for your project, however, you will be responsible for these arrangements (including accommodations and food), and must still meet the Coordinator at the airport on the designated date.

  18. How much extra money do I need?  
     
  We manage food and accommodation for volunteers from the first to last day of program so there will not be need of more money. It depends on how much you want to expend. You may need some extra money if you plan to take part in activities outside the organization or if you just want to buy some souvenirs. You must also remember the VISA fee, which is $60 US dollars for 180 days and 300 Indian currencies for airport tax.
     
  19. Will I have communications access?  
     
  Internet cafés, telephone booths and post offices are available in most localities and around the project where you will be placed.

  20. Can I bring my cell phone from my home country?  
     
  Please bring your cell phone. You can use most mobile handsets with a local SIM card in India. Moreover, cell phones are available in cheap price in India.

  21 Is it possible to change placement if I get dissatisfied?  
     
  New Hope will consider request of volunteer seriously for the change of placement to meet the expectation of volunteers. We cannot change position frequently without genuine reasons.

  22. Who will drop me off at the airport?  
     
  New Hope does not offer airport drop service. You will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in India or your home stay family will be more than happy to assist you with this.

  23. Vaccinations and Medication  
     
  This all depends on what vaccinations you already have and what country you are coming from. We suggest that you consult a travel doctor from your country before you arrive. (NOTE: Some vaccinations are needed as much as 2 months before arrival to India). New Hope does not cover liability and insurance of volunteers. Therefore, volunteers must have appropriate insurance before joining the program. However, you should consider the following vaccinations:

 
. Hepatitis A & B
. Diphtheria
. Tetanus
. Yellow fever
. Rabies
. Tuberculosis
. Malaria tablets
   
 
 

24. Clothes and Climate in Placement Areas

 
     
  Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their projects. Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No high shorts and tank tops please. We suggest female volunteers not to wear short skirts in villages. Indian people dress modestly, and girls cover most of their bodies. Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket / sweaters).

The climate of India is most pleasant between the months of October and March, when much of the country enjoys temperate, blue skies as well as fresh air. In the northern part of India, from December to late February, the nights turn chilly, and a sweater or jacket is required. By mid-March, the days start getting warmer, and from late April, the temperature in central India becomes too hot for comfortable travel. In May, the dust and thunderstorms precede the monsoon season from June to August.

 

25. Emergency Contacts

 
     
  You have three parties available to you 24/7 in case of emergency, health-related or otherwise: New Hope staff, your host family, and your program supervisor. You will have contact information for all three before you arrive. If you failed to get our representative at airport or if your flight changed suddenly, please book a prepaid taxi that is available inside the arrival lobby and go to hotel or the hostel. Please call our office from the hotel.

 

26.Visa Information

 
     
  Volunteers should have visa before they proceed to India. Volunteers should apply for tourist visa which is hassle free and easy. Do not apply for volunteer visa. It takes time and need to supply so many documents.

  FAQ - Dharamsala  
   
  Where do I arrive?  
   
  You arrive to Delhi International Airport. From Delhi, you can take either flight or bus to Dharamsala. Our local coordinator will be awaiting you in Dharamsala to pick you up either at the airport or bus station depending on your arrival details.

  Where do I stay when I arrive? Do I get orientation?  
     
  You will stay at our hostel. If you arrive before the program starts, we charge US$20 per extra day. Every volunteer gets orientation upon arrival.

  How do I go to Dharmasala? Who is responsible for transportation?  
     
  You can go to Dharamsala either by flight or bus. Both options are available everyday. Airfare costs around US$100 for one way and US$20 for the air condition Volvo Bus. Volunteers are responsible for the transportation. We will guide you and help arranging taxi if required.

  Who takes care of me in Dhamarsalal?

  Our local coordinator. The coordinator will have all the information about you before you arrive there. He welcomes you. He provides you orientation. He will introduce you with the host family and project. He is there to look after volunteers 24/7. We request our volunteers to share any issues or problems to the local coordinator so that he can solve your problems right away.

  What can I do it free time?
     
 
You can do the following in free time. Please see below with cost details.
     
1) PARAGLIDING AT BIR BILLING   110 USD
     
2) Manali trip(1 night/2days)   135 USD
     
3) MANALI TRIP(2 NIGHTS/2DAYS)   185USD
     
Amritsar  1  day trip (golden temple)   99USD
     
5) Amritsar 2 day/1 night(golden temple and bagha border)   150USD
     
YOGA   (5 DAYS)   8 USD
     
Trekking   US$20 a day
     
  Can I communicate with my family?  
     
  Yes, upon arrival. This is because we fix the host family 2 weeks before the volunteers arrive. We have many host families; however, you can call to our country coordinators before you come to India. They are always ready to prove more information.

  Is it safe?  
     
  Yes, Dharamsala is a safe place. It is also called mini- Tibet. Dalai Lama lives there. It is also known as holy land due to him. Majority of the populations are Tibetan refugees. They love peace as they follow Buddhism. Dharamsala is also a tourist destination for Indians and foreigners. The temperature is mild cold, tea garden and White Mountains are other attraction. On the other, we have local staff there to make sure volunteers are all right. We never had any problems in the past. Volunteers' safety is our first concern.

  What will be my food and accommodation during my stay?  
     
  VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITY will make appropriate provision for your food, room and supervision during the time your volunteer. During the first week of language and cultural immersion program, volunteers stay in VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITY's hostel in Delhi where cooks will prepare a variety of Indian food (Nan, curry, dal, chapatti, rice and pickle). During volunteering programs, volunteers stay in project hostel or with a host family. In both the places you'll be offered a clean, simple, and safe accommodation and local foods 3 times a day and served 3 local meals a day. While with a host family, you'll have the opportunity to learn about local culture and you'll find a warm and welcoming environment. VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITY's staffs will visit or call volunteers while volunteering in every two-four week to check your progress and inquire if you're satisfied and happy.

  Do I need to bring any items along my trip?  
     
  You can bring personal medicines, a sleeping bag, and toiletries paper. Light warm clothes in winter and long sleeved cotton shirts & trousers in summer. Please do not forget to bring mosquito repellent.

  Any other suggestions to me:  
     
  We request all volunteers to bring cell phone. You can buy sime card upon arrival at the airport or anywhere in India. Please bring unlocked cell phone. Mobile connectivity is excellent in all India. This helps volunteers to be connected with the people in India as well as back home.
     
 
     
  Sri Lanka FAQ's
     
  Why should I pay for registration fee?
 
  The registration fee is required to run the organization (office space, computers, Internet, supplies and staffer salaries). Volunteering Activity has international office in USA to run the coordinated program and we have country offices in different countries where we run our programs. Part of the fee goes to maintaining these offices. The remaining money of the program directly goes to support the projects.

  How could I make my payment?

  All payments have to be made after your placement is confirmed. We do not accept monthly installments. If you want to stay longer than your committed period, you have to inform us and pay accordingly. Payment can be done either by wire transfer or by credit card.
     
  Is the program fee tax-deductible?

 
  PVolunteering Activity is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. The program fees and all expenses related to your volunteer program, including airfare, are tax-deductible for US taxpayers. However, any amount given by donors for your specific volunteer program is not tax-deductible for the donors. Please consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation.

  Are MasterCard, Visa and other credit cards accepted?

  Nowadays, there are ATMs in most big Sri Lankan cities, which are open during the day. There are also several banks and money exchange services. You can use MasterCard or Visa credit cards, cash (US dollars or euros) or travelers checks.

  Who organizes my flights?

  You will have to arrange your flights to and from Sri Lanka since you are not charged for airfare.

  Do I need travel insurance?

  As with any overseas traveling, health insurance is recommended. Please obtain necessary health and travel insurance before going to Sri Lanka. Talk to your travel agent about this or search on the Internet to see what offers are available, and make sure you look into the details of the policy. Find out if it covers airfare in case of a medical emergency.

  What should I bring for myself?

  This will vary depending on what activities you want to participate in and how much you need to be comfortable during your placement. With the exception of medicine and a first-aid kit, you can buy everything that you would need for your placement in Colombo (likely cheaper than in your home country). Here are a few suggestions:

 
. Sleeping Bag.
. Hiking boots
. Waterproof jacket (a fold-away windcheater is fine)
. Mosquito repellent
. Sun cream
. Water purification tablets and/or good quality water purifier
. First aid kit
. Flashlight (torch)
. Penknife
. Books about your country
. Photos of your family/friends/home, etc.
   
  What should I bring for kids in project?
 
  There is no obligation to bring gifts for project but it would be appreciated, if you bring any gifts. You could bring toys, books, chocolate, pencils, etc.

  Will there be any volunteers present during orientation time?

  Volunteering Activity receives 5-10 volunteers a month (depending on season). Most long-term volunteers join the language and culture program. We offer language and culture program in fixed dates to make a small group. Usually there are between 3 and 10 volunteers at the orientation.

  What are the existing conditions of my placement?

  You are provided with food and accommodations; your program fee covers them. During the training, you will stay at hostel in Galle with other volunteers. We offer food and accommodations from the first day of the program to the last day. Local food thrice a day is provided for you while training and volunteering. You are advised to buy your own bottled water once you arrive in Sri Lanka. For the volunteers who arrive earlier or who want to stay longer, it is not possible to offer accommodations and food, but we will help volunteers to find a quality, inexpensive place to stay.

The living conditions of the placement depend on the area. One should not expect luxurious accommodations with cozy bed, hot showers and a bathroom like in your home country. You will be placed within a family setting with your own room having electricity. Our host families are mostly educated, well respected in society, and experienced with international volunteers. Some members of host families may speak English.

  Will there be someone to pick me up from airport?

  One of our representatives will be waiting for you at the airport holding a sign with your name on it. Please do not forget to send your detailed flight itinerary in advance.

  Will I have time to explore Colombo during my language and culture program?

  You will have plenty of time to explore Colombo and Galle during orientation. As a part of the language program, we offer a tour.

  Do I need extra money?

  We manage food and accommodation for volunteers from the first to last day of the program so there will not be need of more money for basic necessities. Most things in Sri Lanka are inexpensive. You may need extra money if you plan to take part in activities outside the organization or if you just want to buy some souvenirs. You must also remember visa fees depend on the length of stay. There is also an airport tax, which you pay upon your departure from Sri Lanka.

  Will I have communications access?

  This all depends on your placement. Almost all placements will have access to a post office. If you are in a city placement, you can have phone and e-mail access. However, this information will all be given to you before your departure to Sri Lanka.

  Can I work and live with other volunteers?

  We allow people to come with a friend or even in a large group. You sometimes may be placed in different location situated within same area. We can place any volunteer near to another volunteer already working in the field. Please be reminded that volunteers who are of the opposite sex are not allowed to stay in same room unless they are a married couple.

  Is it possible to change placement if I get dissatisfied?  
     
  You need not be worry about airport pick-up. One of our representatives will be waiting for you at the airport terminalVolunteering Activity will seriously consider the request of volunteer for the change of placement to meet the expectation of volunteers. We cannot change position without genuine reasons.

  What happens if I decide to return home before the placement is over?  
     
  Once the volunteer makes a decision and pays for the program fee, upon receipt of invoice, Volunteering Activity does not refund any program fee under any circumstances. Nevertheless, if the volunteers have unavoidable circumstances (such as illness, death of in the family etc) may request to leave the program, we will consider to return 30% of the host family cost, if volunteer have taken part in more than 30 days of the program. No refund will be given for participating in a program for fewer than 30 days.

  What about vaccinations and medication?  
     
  This all depends on what vaccinations you already have and what country you are coming from. We suggest that you consult a doctor before you depart. Volunteering Activity does not cover liability and insurance of volunteers. Therefore, volunteers must have appropriate insurance before joining the program. However, you should consider the following vaccinations:
     
 
. Hepatitis A & B
. Diphtheria
. Tetanus
. Yellow fever
. Rabies
. Tuberculosis
. Malaria tablets
   
 
  Are Volunteering Activity programs only for international volunteers?  
     
  We mobilize national volunteers along with international volunteer as their counterparts.

  Visas  
     
  If you are planning to travel Sri Lanka after or before volunteer programs, you will need extra money. Sri Lanka is a cheap place for shopping and travel. Gifts for family and friends can be bought in Colombo. It is possible to get hotel room in $10-$15 per night in Colombo.

  Where is the arrival and departure point?  
     
  Bandaranaike International Airport at Katunayake, around 30 kilometers north of Colombo, is the international airport in Sri Lanka, so you will arrive and depart from there. Our representative will meet you at the airport.

  Clothes and Climate in Placement Areas  
     
  The climate in Sri Lanka is tropical. Highland areas are cooler and more temperate, and coastal areas are cooled by sea breezes. There are two monsoon seasons, which occur from May to July and December to January. Lightweight clothes and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings.

     
 

Emergency Contact

 
     
  You have three parties available to you 24/7 in case of emergency, health-related or otherwise: Volunteering Activity staff, your host family, and your program supervisor. Brimng contact information for all three parties before you arrive. If you fail to meet our representative at airport or if your flight details suddenly change, please take a taxi to a hotel. Please call our office from the hotel.

  What are the characteristics of good volunteer?  
     
  Ifyou have attributes like independence, patience, a sense of humor, tolerance willingness, flexibility, self-motivation and open-mindedness, you get the most out of your stay in Sri Lanka.

     
         
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