Vietnam Mountain Charity Challenge / Voluntourism / Bespoke Group Trips Possible

  Vietnam

• Hanoi: 
Hanoi

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: April 2009, plus any dates available for bespoke group requests

Description: Discover the unique cultural diversity and magnificent rugged scenery of northern Vietnam on this thirteen-day challenge. Scale the heights of Vietnam's tallest peak and encounter colourful hill tribes on your charity trek before returning to Hanoi, the leafy capital with its tree-lined boulevards and colonial villas, where you have the volunteer opportunity to spend four days improving the lives of children at an orphanage.

Highlights: Vietnam, and in particular the rugged north, is an area of stunning natural beauty. The terraced hill sides and lush valleys surrounding the small town of Sapa are home to a multitude of colourful ethnic peoples. Sapa itself is a mere 9km from Mount Fansipan, Vietnam's tallest peak, where you will spend three full days trekking 3,143m to the summit as well as visiting vibrant markets and village communities.

Following the climb, spend time at an orphanage outside Hanoi which is in desperate need of renovation and assistance. Established in 1990, the orphanage provides a home for 43 children aged between 1 and 15 who come from disadvantaged agricultural communities. In many cases the families cannot afford to feed, clothe or educate the children and so are forced to abandon them.

With limited assistance from the local government, the orphanage relies heavily on donations and sponsorship.

One of the major projects we are hoping to achieve is the refurbishment of a derelict room to be used as a library/relaxation room for the children. This involves plastering, repainting, shelving, constructing cupboards and units, sewing cushions, making curtains etc. Other worthwhile tasks include refurbishing the bedrooms, creating sports and playground facilities and a vegetable garden.

Qualifications: This is a bespoke group challenge trips that can be tailored to your group needs - please get in touch with your request and requirements.

No specific skills, education or certifications are necessary - just a desire to do something different and make a difference. However, as several days will be spent hiking at altitude, which is a physical challenge, a good level of fitness and physical ability is required.

Cost in US$: $2650 approx

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Anyone can be eligible: Our challenges are for anyone who wants to use their time to have a great time and do something positive, altruistic and with a meaningful purpose, as well as potentially raise funds for their charity of choice.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Vietnam Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 10 - 16

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Phone Interview

Different Travel's Mission Statement: We are a volunteer and adventure travel and tourism group specialist, set up in the wake of the Asian Tsunami on 26th December 2004, offering bespoke group challenges and volunteer opportunities to work alongside local people on international development projects abroad combined with responsible travel and great accommodation. We make sure we work to meet the needs of the communities who welcome us into their world - and at the same time offer our travellers amazing experiences which will stay with them a lifetime.

Year Founded: 2004