Detours Abroad: Projects in Vietnam

  Vietnam

• All Other Areas in Vietnam: 
Hoi An

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: Orphanage Work, Teaching English

Volunteers in Vietnam have the option of care work or teaching English in an orphanage. There are two orphanages in Hoi An where volunteers are based. The children at one orphanage are aged 12-18 and require basic English lessons. Alternatively, at the second orphanage, many have physical disabilities and require feeding, bathing, walking and entertaining. In both orphanages, the most important work that the volunteers can do is care, comfort and entertain the children. Simple outings to the beach are always fun and appreciated.

Hoi An is a delightful town in central Vietnam. Wonderful old colonial buildings combined with the bustling riverside market make it a perfect place to explore and enjoy. Just 4km from central Hoi An is famous China Beach, perfect for a spot of relaxing. Volunteers join the local way of life and use a bicycle to get around town.

Highlights: The spectacular scenery and highly cultured people make Vietnam a fascinating place to visit. Vietnam has a diverse climate because of the range of altitudes and latitudes, but the entire country lies is primarily tropical.

Northern Vietnam is home to many distinct hill tribes, some of which remain untouched by Vietnamese and Western influences. Hanoi is a beautiful city with much colonial influence still in evidence. To the east of Hanoi is the spectacular Halong Bay, with over 3,000 islands rising from the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. It is one of the natural marvels of Vietnam and has been designated a world heritage site.

In central Vietnam, Hoi An and Hue are beautiful towns with much history to explore while further south is the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City and further still, the Mekong Delta. Vietnam is a country that is undergoing rapid change and modernization after decades of strife.

Qualifications: Any special skills you have will be gladly received. It is essential to bring enthusiasm and an open mind. Bring a smile, commitment and a desire to meet the local people. The key to a successful volunteer experience is a desire to be involved.

Cost in US$: From $1950 for 4 weeks

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Vietnam Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Detours Abroad's Mission Statement: Detours Abroad brings people and communities together by allowing travellers to immerse themselves in local communities where in turn they make a contribution through volunteering their services. Detours Abroad organises volunteer placements from 2-12 weeks in a variety of developing countries. These include Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Borneo, China, Peru and Ecuador. Volunteers assist in three areas - education, health and administration, community services including construction, care work and community development.

Year Founded: 1996