Your Life in Sri Lanka
Once you arrive in Sri Lanka, our in-country staff will meet you at the airport. You will have the chance to rest and get familiar with local staff and volunteers. Helping Abroad provides an orientation that comprises of an introduction of the local country, history, safety, rules, project information and a Q&A session. After the orientation you will be transferred to your accommodation, which will typically be in our home base. Volunteers working in the elephant project will live in a volunteer house at the project site.
Our home base in Sri Lanka is located in a safe and central neighborhood with nearby access to Internet cafés, restaurants, local bus stations and supermarkets. The home base is meant to be a home away from home with various bedrooms (which may be shared with another volunteer) and community areas including a kitchen, television, hammocks, Internet access, running water and “western-style” toilets. Three local meals a day will be provided. Vegetarians may request special meals in their application.
Volunteers in the elephant project will live in a volunteer house (bungalow or jungle cabin) where mosquito nets, clean linens and towels are provided. You will share a room with another volunteer. There are shared facilities such as “western” style toilets, a basic kitchen, outdoor showers, washing machine, lounge area and library. An onsite restaurant provides volunteers with three local meals a day.
Volunteers in Sri Lanka will have free time during their volunteer project including weekends. Helping Abroad does not organize activities during volunteer free time, but our local staff and in-country coordinators are always available to assist you to make plans to explore Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise and there are endless opportunities for travel and exploration. Volunteers can visit ancient cities such as Colombo, Kandy, Negombo, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Dambulla or relax and enjoy hiking, biking, beaches, and pristine nature. As the original soul of Buddhism, volunteers in Sri Lanka can also join their host families or local friends in various cultural and religious activities. From sunbathing on beaches to riding elephants through lush nature, Sri Lanka offers an abundance of opportunities for everyone.
In-country support, safety and comfort are Helping Abroad’s top priorities for their volunteers. Our staff is reliable and ensures that volunteer experiences are meaningful, rewarding and captivating. Our staff in Sri Lanka is consistently in contact with our volunteers and regularly makes visits to projects and/or accommodations. Furthermore, they are always available by phone/email. Volunteers will have an in-country coordinator to assist them with any question, concern, or emergency 24/7. Helping Abroad staff will constantly make sure that your volunteer experience meets your expectations and that your time in Sri Lanka is cherished. No matter what, you will always feel like you have a team behind you to support you in any way necessary.
All volunteers will receive a pre-departure packet including details about the country, your program, food/accommodation, in-country contact information, what to bring, health information, etc.
