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Brilliant 4.72rating (255)
  • Sustainable Cities And Communities

Building & Construction

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Work alongside local builders
  • Help to renovate and restore local buildings
  • Paint and decorate schools to make it a nicer environment

Highlights

  • Work alongside local builders
  • Help to renovate and restore local buildings
  • Paint and decorate schools to make it a nicer environment
  • Repair desks and chairs for the childrens classroom
  • Improve living facilities for the local community
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help to renovate temples, schools, and other structures in beautiful Laos. Many of the community buildings in this historic city require significant improvement.

    Overview
    You will assist in enhancing the cleanliness and hygiene of local schools and kindergartens by supporting the team in rebuilding and renovating their bathrooms. Your efforts will directly benefit the community by creating a pleasant and healthy environment for children to study in.

    This ...

    About the program

    Overview
    You will assist in enhancing the cleanliness and hygiene of local schools and kindergartens by supporting the team in rebuilding and renovating their bathrooms. Your efforts will directly benefit the community by creating a pleasant and healthy environment for children to study in.

    This program focuses on improving the local community’s infrastructure through various renovation options. You will be involved in a range of activities, from painting and renovating school and temple walls to repairing furniture like chairs and tables. Additionally, you will work on improving the roads leading to local schools, kindergartens, and community areas, depending on their current state.

    Volunteering alongside local workers towards a shared goal is an enjoyable experience, and you will learn a lot about Laotians and their meticulous efforts in keeping their community and environment clean. Your support will contribute to their efforts, making a significant difference.

    Location
    Luang Prabang is a picturesque city situated in the northern region of Laos, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and serene Buddhist temples. Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Mai, and Wat Visoun are some of the most famous temples in the city, offering stunning examples of traditional Lao architecture. The lively night market, where visitors can sample local street food and browse through a wide range of local handicrafts, is also a must-visit attraction. Additionally, the city is a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and visiting the Kuang Si waterfalls, making it a well-rounded destination for travellers seeking cultural, natural, and culinary experiences.

    Project Tasks
    • Improve the facilities of local schools, temples and community buildings
    • Develop your teamwork skills through practical work
    • Assist local workers and engage with the community

    Typical day

    Monday to Friday – 3-4 hours a day
    • Breakfast
    • Working in the placements
    • Lunch
    • Working in the placements
    • Dinner
    *Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 

    Typical day

    Monday to Friday – 3-4 hours a day
    • Breakfast
    • Working in the placements
    • Lunch
    • Working in the placements
    • Dinner
    *Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 

    Free-time activities

    Explore the ancient city of Luang Prabang: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful blend of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and traditional Laotian buildings. Walk along the Mekong River, visit the night market, and see the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

    Learn about Laos’s ...

    Free-time activities

    Explore the ancient city of Luang Prabang: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful blend of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and traditional Laotian buildings. Walk along the Mekong River, visit the night market, and see the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

    Learn about Laos’s history: Visit the COPE Visitor Centre in Vientiane to learn about the effects of the Vietnam War on Laos and the ongoing problem of unexploded ordnance. The National Museum in Luang Prabang is also a great place to learn about the country’s history and culture.

    Take a boat ride on the Mekong River: The Mekong River runs through Laos and is a major source of transportation and commerce. Take a scenic boat ride to see the stunning landscape, visit small riverside villages, and experience the local way of life.

    Trek through the Laotian countryside: Laos is known for its beautiful natural scenery and trekking is a great way to experience it. Explore the countryside, visit remote villages, and see stunning waterfalls and rice paddies.

    Explore the Plain of Jars: The Plain of Jars is a unique archaeological site located in central Laos. It consists of thousands of large stone jars scattered across several sites. The jars date back to the Iron Age and their purpose is still a mystery. Exploring the Plain of Jars is an unforgettable experience and a must-see for history buffs.

    Visit the Kong Lor Cave: The Kong Lor Cave is a spectacular limestone cave located in central Laos. It is over 7 kilometres long and includes a river that runs through it. Visitors can take a boat ride through the cave and witness stunning rock formations and underground waterfalls. This is a great activity for adventure seekers.

    Relax in the 4000 Islands: The 4000 Islands, also known as Si Phan Don, is a picturesque archipelago located in the southern part of Laos. Visitors can relax on sandy beaches, swim in the Mekong River, and take boat rides to see the famous Irrawaddy dolphins. This is a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

    Attend a traditional Baci ceremony: The Baci ceremony is a traditional Lao ritual that is often performed for special occasions such as weddings or to welcome guests. The ceremony involves tying strings around a person’s wrist to symbolize good luck and prosperity. Visitors can participate in a Baci ceremony and learn about Lao culture and customs.

    Experience the Night Markets: Laos is famous for its vibrant night markets, where visitors can find a variety of local food, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Some of the best night markets are located in Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Pakse. This is a great way to experience local culture and mingle with the friendly Lao people.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Program fees include:
    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at 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

    Airport Pickup at Luang Prabang International Airport

    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 Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ). You must arrive between 8:00 to 22:00 on Sunday. If arriving on the Saturday, we charge an additional fee for the extra night’s accommodation.

    If arriving outside the pickup times, you can either make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this) or you can book a private transfer for an additional fee.

    Accommodation

    The accommodation is located on the main road of the world heritage town surrounded by a beautiful mountainous view next to the Mekong River. The accommodation is easy to reach the local night market, and the town centre, which is a few mins walk. Rooms are shared dorms with up to 4 people of single gender. Included are wifi, hot showers, air-con, fans, and a laundry facility at an extra cost.

    You can find simple groceries and beverages sold in two local restaurants located next to the accommodation. There are also shops and a local market located 3 minutes and 10 minutes away respectively, by foot. There is also a pharmacy and local clinic located less than 5km away.

    There is a lake-side makeshift restaurant just for us, where you can enjoy the evenings and order Western or Laotian food at reasonable prices.

    *Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.


    Private Room Upgrade: please contact us directly for options and pricing

    *Please note: Upgrade prices can change, so please check the price with us first


    Food & Beverages

    We offer a variety of local Laotian dishes. Participants may find that the cuisine is quite different from what they are used to at home, as there are very few Western dishes served. Local dishes can sometimes be adapted to accommodate vegetarians but can be a bit challenging with other dietary restrictions. Please inform the local team of your specific needs and they will do their best. However, please consider that it may not be possible to meet those personal tastes or guidelines every day to your satisfaction. In instances like this, we do suggest, bringing some of your own items to supplement the food being served.

    In addition, 3 meals are provided every day of the program scheduled at 8am for Breakfast, 12pm for Lunch, and 6:00pm for Dinner and on weekends only brunch and dinner.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Luang Prabang. We assist you to find cheap flights to Laos. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Laos provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Laos you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Laos. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Program starts every Monday. Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $595 per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
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    School Construction

    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Laos > Luang Prabang

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    255
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Community  >  Construction in Laos
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