Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in India
- India is one of the poorest countires in the world, with 2 thirds living in poverty.
- According to UNICEF, about 25% of children in India have no access to education, with higher rates of girls not attending school.
- 43% of childen under five years are underweight and around 61 million children are stunted due to malnutrition.
- Even though there is a law about no child labour under age 14, it's estimated by aid agencies, that there could be up to 65 million children aged 6-14 working.
WHAT does Cultural Week Involve?
- Become comfortable with your new surroundings and settle in before your project starts
- Explore the local areas- walking tours, cultural excursions, temple visits, cooking classes, language lessons & yoga lessons
- Meet your fellow volunteers and make friends before your project
- Become immersed in local life by practicing your new language skills with the locals!
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Organisation & Charity
- Over 30 Years Expertise Globally
- Low Program Fees - From US$295
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: CULTURAL ORIENTATION WEEK
LOCATION: GOA
START DATES: WEEKLY
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS)
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required
Overview
This program is an essential step to prepare you for your stay in India by immersing you in the vibrant lifestyle and culture of the Goan people. It offers you a unique opportunity to gain insight into the vast diversity of Indian culture through various engaging activities.
Activities:
- Learn the local language
- Cook Indian cuisine
- Participate in daily yoga sessions
- Discover the history and more
Cultural Experiences: This program also highlights the local flora and fauna. You’ll visit a renowned bird sanctuary, participate in pottery workshops, and explore historic monuments of significance. A visit to the local market and a spice plantation will further enhance your hands-on cooking lessons.
Immerse Yourself: These activities are designed to fully integrate you into Goan life, allowing you to experience its rich culture and hidden beauty. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage in fun, relaxing, and recreational activities with other participants after a long day of the program.
Highlights
- Orientation on history and culture
- Local language lessons
- 5-day beginners yoga course
- Visits to local markets
- Spice plantation tour
- Pottery workshop
- Beach visits
- Ayurvedic massage
- Henna hand painting with local children
Note: All transportation will be via public transport to give you an authentic local experience.
Location
Goa, Kerala
The beach goers destination with the right mix of infrastructure and order coupled with that crazy un-ordered Indian charm. Goa is a really fun destination, with plenty of party goers and a relaxed funky vibe great for the free spirited types who want a more ‘westernized’ taste of India!
Project Tasks
- Learn about the local language, culture and norms
- Interact with the community and other volunteers
- See some local sights and get to know your new surroundings
Food & Accommodation
Enjoy riverfront volunteer accommodation in Goa. The house offers a swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms (2-4 shared single gender), solar-powered showers, Wi-Fi, and balconies with river views. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from markets, shops, and restaurants, it is also close to Coco Beach (4 km) and a 20-minute drive from Sinquerim Beach. With 24/7 coordinator support, enhanced security, and modern amenities.
You will be provided with three meals a day on weekdays and two meals per day on weekends. Our centres mainly serve a mix of Western and Indian food, consisting mainly of vegetarian dishes including rice and vegetables, and provide you with safe filtered drinking water. You may occasionally be served non-vegetarian food.
Please do not drink water out of taps like you might do at home. We advise you to drink only bottled water while you are outside the centre, unless our staff advises otherwise. You can also use the kitchen facilities to cook for yourself or eat out at any of the local restaurants.
Please inform us of any allergies you may have or any dietary requirements, so that the team leaders and coordinators are prepared and special arrangements can be made for you.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Standard Projects
- Cultural Orientation Week, Goa
- *Buddhist Monastery Teaching, Darjeeling
- Community Construction, Darjeeling
- Hospital Internship, Goa
- Sports Coaching, Udaipur
- Kindergarten & Outreach School, Udaipur
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1 Week - $435
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2 Weeks - $595
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3 Weeks - $875
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1 Month - $1095
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2 Months - $2150
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3 Months - $3250
- Private rooms in Goa & Darjeeling cost additional $100 p/week. No private rooms in Udaipur.
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
Testimonials...
FAQ
If you want to gain a head start on your projects and feel comfortable in your new surroundings, before you begin, this week is a fantastic way to do just that! It gives you time to adjust before your project begins, to explore the local area and to learn more about the culture and customs. This can greatly help you to communicate with the locals on your projects.
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Dabolim International Airport (GOI). You must arrive between Sunday 00:00 to 24:00 on Sunday.
If arriving outside the pickup times we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and another fee for a private transfer.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to accommodation, it takes 45 minutes by road.
Monday
Begin your journey with a welcome orientation, paperwork, and a basic Hindi language lesson which will help you interact with locals and understand their culture throughout your stay. In the afternoon, explore the historical Fort Aguada, a Portuguese marvel with stunning sea views and witness a breathtaking sunset at Sinquerim Beach. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner at Green Lion Centre.
Tuesday
Your Yoga Journey Begins – Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by an insightful session on Indian history and culture. Learn the art of making traditional Indian chai (Tea) and embark on a tour of the Old city of Goa, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus. Immerse yourself in the world of spices at a spice plantation tour and stroll through the colorful Latin Quarter of Fontainhas. End the day with another delightful dinner at Green Lion Centre.
Wednesday
Begin the day with a yoga session and indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic head massage. Spend the afternoon exploring the famous Anjuna Beach, shopping at the flea market. Return to Green Lion Centre for dinner.
Thursday
A Serene End to Your Yoga Retreat – Start your day with a yoga session and learn the art of pottery-making with a local potter. Interact with the local community and get a henna tattoo at the slum outreach project. Conclude the day with a Bollywood movie night at your home.
Friday
Begin the day with a final yoga session and embark on a birdwatching expedition at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Explore the bustling Mapusa Market and learn to cook traditional Goan dishes.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***
Monday
Begin your journey with a welcome orientation, paperwork, and a basic Hindi language lesson which will help you interact with locals and understand their culture throughout your stay. In the afternoon, explore the historical Fort Aguada, a Portuguese marvel with stunning sea views and witness a breathtaking sunset at Sinquerim Beach. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner at Green Lion Centre.
Tuesday
Your Yoga Journey Begins – Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by an insightful session on Indian history and culture. Learn the art of making traditional Indian chai (Tea) and embark on a tour of the Old city of Goa, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus. Immerse yourself in the world of spices at a spice plantation tour and stroll through the colorful Latin Quarter of Fontainhas. End the day with another delightful dinner at Green Lion Centre.
Wednesday
Begin the day with a yoga session and indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic head massage. Spend the afternoon exploring the famous Anjuna Beach, shopping at the flea market. Return to Green Lion Centre for dinner.
Thursday
A Serene End to Your Yoga Retreat – Start your day with a yoga session and learn the art of pottery-making with a local potter. Interact with the local community and get a henna tattoo at the slum outreach project. Conclude the day with a Bollywood movie night at your home.
Friday
Begin the day with a final yoga session and embark on a birdwatching expedition at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Explore the bustling Mapusa Market and learn to cook traditional Goan dishes.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***
Here are some things you can do when visiting Goa, India:
Beach Hopping: Goa is famous for its stunning beaches. From the vibrant nightlife of Baga Beach to the serene beauty of Palolem Beach, there’s a beach for every mood.
Water Sports: Try your hand at thrilling water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, banana boating, and windsurfing, available at many of Goa’s beaches.
Goa Carnival: If you’re visiting during February, don’t miss the colorful and lively Goa Carnival, featuring parades, music, dance, and cultural performances.
Historical Sites: Explore the rich history of Goa by visiting ancient forts like Aguada Fort and Chapora Fort, as well as historical landmarks like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Embark on a scenic trek or take a jeep safari to witness the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls,
cascading from a height of over 300 meters amidst lush greenery.
Cruise on the Mandovi River: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Mandovi River, offering stunning views of the Goan coastline, live music, and entertainment, especially during sunset.
Wildlife Sanctuaries: Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary to spot a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and exotic bird species.
Spice Plantations: Take a guided tour of one of the spice plantations in Goa, where you can learn about various spices, herbs, and traditional farming techniques, followed by a delicious Goan meal.
Anjuna Flea Market: Browse through the colorful stalls of Anjuna Flea Market, offering a diverse range of goods including clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Additional Requirements
The following are further necessary in order for both the participants, local staff and everyones involved to have a meaningful, enjoyable and safe culture experience..
- Older participants or over 65 years are required to have a medical clearance as proof of their physical fitness as they may perform various activities.
- Participants below 18 years old need a signed parental consent as proof of involvement of their children for the program. If possible, accompaniment by an adult is highly advised.
- Due to the length and active nature of this program and as there are lots of outdoor activities under the heat of the sun, a decent level of fitness is required.
- Excellent time management and self – organizing and strong desire to take on new challenges and learn as much as possible.
- You are advised to purchase travel and medical insurance prior to your arrival.
- Have completed or recommended the following vaccines: Polio, Hepatitis A, Diphtheria/Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis.
Additional Equipment
Personal belongings such as:
- There is a lot of walking and exploring, so bring along comfortable shoes so you can move comfortably and easily.
- Bring Personal toiletries such as basic soap, shampoo, toothpaste and towels.
- Bring also hat, sunglasses to protect from the heat of the sun particularly during the beach day.
- You may also bring extra toiletries, towels, extra clothes, swimming attire, extra foods during beach day.
- An environmentally friendly sunscreen or lotion is also advised to protect you from the heat of the sun and please carry with you preventive agents during outdoor activities, such as mosquito repellents for insect bites or other insects that may irritate your skin.
- Moreover, bring Medicines with you especially if you have to take specific medicines on a regular basis as well as other medicines for headaches and stomach aches.
- Refillable water bottles and hydration packs to stay hydrated throughout the day particularly during exploration and outdoor activities.
Dress Code:
- India is a Conservative Country, please wear modest clothing covering knees and shoulders. Loose and long clothing is both respectful and tends to keep you cooler in hot climates. Cover up as much as possible in the spirit of the local culture to avoid embarrassment.
- Your clothes must not be too short, too tight, or too revealing. Kindly make sure your shoulders and legs are covered.
- It is completely fine to wear western clothes as long as they fit the local standards.
- Be thoughtful of the graphics, symbols or text printed on your clothing and avoid wearing clothing styles that might be inappropriate most especially when visiting temples, monasteries and schools during your spare time.
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: IN – Holidays – All Programs
India is an eclectic and intoxicating cultural experience like no other! Home of the famous Taj Mahal, the Himalayas, the sacred Ganges river, and over 1 billion people of varying languages, cultures and beleifs, India is sure to push you to the boundaries of your comfort zone.
IVI is focused on establishing sustainable employment and education through volunteering efforts in India. Children in some of the regions we service have not had basic nutritional background. Over 950,000 newborns per year in India die from infections. Education about health for families provides a strong foundation for self-care in the communities we service in India.
India’s climte ranges from tropical down south to alpine up in the northern mountain regions.
From April until the start of October is summer, and in most places in India, is very hot. In June the monsoon rains start in Kerala down south, and move inland. Further north and in the rural areas of Rajasthan, it can get pretty cold from December to January- sometimes as low at minus 5 degrees!
Be prepared for some hot temperatures but if in the Sikkim region, bring along some warmer clothing as it can get cold in the mountains.
India is a country FULL of culture! From the beautiful colours, different religions, ancient traditions and the smells of spices- India is a country like no other. It’s the the second most populous nation after China, with over 1.2 billion people.
The most prominant religions are Hinduism and Buddhism and around 13% of the popualrtion are Muslim. Because there are so many religions, India celebrates a large number of festivals throughout the year. Some of these include Diwali, Holi, Eid and Good Friday.
In India, the cow is considered to be a Holy animal and you will see cars either driving around, or simply waiting if a cow is in the road holding up traffic! In some parts of India it is forbidden to eat meat or drink alcohol.
You will see many temples in India, as well as colourful clothing, particually the sari’s that the local women wear, and many cultural dance shows and activities.
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IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
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