When should I apply for the volunteer/internship programs in Bolivia ?

We are able to offer placements as per your convenience year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least one month in advance (if applying during the summers, volunteers are encouraged to submit their application at least two months in advance). In the event that interested individuals require expediting of their application (within less than two months' time), they are encouraged to contact Global Crossroad's offices for further information.

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Bolivia who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request. Upon receipt of your finalized placement details, this information is then immediately sent to you.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 2-3 weeks – occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact Global Crossroad's offices prior to submitting their application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Usually, the only documentation required is the completed application form which can be found online ( http://www.globalcrossroad.com/apply.php). Applicants have the option to either submit their application online or download the application from the website and submit the completed form to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices either by post or fax.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Bolivia-based volunteer programs?

The only qualifications are:

• An open mind and a willingness to teach others as well a passion for helping those in need.

• Enthusiasm for living abroad and meeting new people.

• Be in good health.

Visa Information

Most of Western European, North and South American countries, Australia and New Zealand only need a passport to enter. Upon entry, you will be given a tourist visa entitling you to a stay of 90 days in the country. If for any reason you are only given 30 days, you can easily extend to your stay to 90 days at the immigration office.

It is a suggested that participants have a photo-copy of their passport containing their photo and passport number, along with proof of their international travel insurance, airfare, and traveler's checks' serial numbers to prevent any loss of important information.

For more information pertaining to visa requirements, visit www.projectvisa.com.

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers acquire the appropriate visa in their home country BEFORE arriving in-country to avoid any unnecessary hassles at the airport.

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer projects in Bolivia ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Bolivia is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicants.

What are the daily schedules of the projects?

Project schedules vary for each project in Bolivia . Most volunteers participate in their respective/assigned projects from Monday to Friday for 4-6 hours a day. Most volunteers have the weekends to themselves where they can see the local sights and explore Bolivia on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Global Crossroad's volunteer projects in Bolivia are located in the following towns/cities:

Santa Cruz is currently Bolivia 's largest city with an area of 370.621 square kilometers, which represents 34% of the country's territory. Located in the mid-eastern part of Bolivia at an altitude of 416 meters above sea level, the prevailing climate is tropical. Santa Cruz can be very hot in summer, with temperatures perfect for swimming and other summer activities. The city center of Santa Cruz has retained is colonial charm. The main streets of the city are structurally organized in circles of concentric rings, which are radially intersected by avenues that run towards the center of the old city, where the main square is located.

Cochabamba is Bolivia 's second largest city, located in the centre of the country, with an area of 55.631 square kilometers, in a valley of the Andes Mountains . It enjoys beautiful weather year-round and has therefore gained the nickname “City of the Eternal Spring.” The area has been populated for many thousands of years by indigenous peoples, according to soil analysis and archeological evidence.

La Paz houses the Bolivian government headquarters. It is 3.627 meters above sea level, which is quite high for a city, and therefore the weather in La Paz is colder than in the rest of the country. Home to Lake Titicaca , the “highest” lake in the world, it is a destination for adventurers around the world. The city has a rich pre-Spanish heritage, and still echoes with the history of the Incan empire.

What is the language spoken in Bolivia ?

Bolivia has four official languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, and Tupi Guaraní. The latter three languages are ancient vernaculars native to pre-Colonial Bolivia .

When are the Bolivia-based projects available?

Literally, the projects are open year-round and volunteers are encouraged to apply anytime at their convenience.

How long can I volunteer in Bolivia ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Bolivia ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

Most volunteers should arrive in Bolivia at the La Paz International Airport , which is at 4.000mts, so visitors will have to take precautions against altitude sickness. Some flights also arrive at Santa Cruz , depending on the program .

When should I arrive in Bolivia ?

We suggest that you arrive the day before your program begins.

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

You will be picked up at the airport, but you must send your travel itinerary to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Bolivia , so that we may send it on to our local representative in Bolivia . You will be picked up by a staff member or our in-country coordinator who will be holding a sign with your name written on it, awaiting your arrival outside of the airport. In case no one is there, you can call the in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange immediate accommodations. You will be supplied with all contact information in-case of the rare instance that you are not picked up. Make sure you look carefully for your pick-up, as it will be extremely busy outside of the airport.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

• Contact Global Crossroad's Bolivia In-Country Coordinator from the airport, informing him/her of the possibly-delayed arrival time; the In-Country Coordinator will check the status of your flight before your arrival time to ensure your pick up.

• Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

• Call/email the In-Country Coordinator upon arrival in Bolivia so that he/she can make take the necessary steps to ensure a prompt pick-up.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport if I did not see Global Crossroad representative in the airport?

In the event that your arrival time is changed/delayed, requiring you to stay overnight in a hotel (or if you failed to meet Global Crossroad's local representative at the airport), you should hire a taxi at the airport who will take you to a hotel designated in your placement details/pre-departure information (and do remember to request a receipt from the driver). ALSO: make sure that you call Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator BEFORE boarding the taxi. Participants are advised to contact Global Crossroad's Bolivian In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know their whereabouts.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

• Make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (passport, visa, clothes, insurance, identification, etc.)

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses – up to $50 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

• Prepare your mind and spirit for the duration of time you have committed as the cultural shock may be so intense that you may even want to quit the week following your arrival.  

If I want to arrive earlier than when the program begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

In most cases, you will have to cover all expenses incurred by earlier arrival, but our Bolivian In-Country Coordinator can usually provide assistance in booking hotel rooms and even domestic travel at a reasonable price.

When should I depart from Bolivia ?

Unless the volunteer prefers to stay on in South America to travel, we suggest they depart on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

All volunteers will depart from Viru-Viru International airport or the La Paz International Airport , depending on your program.

Who will drop me off at the airport?

Global Crossroad does not provide airport drop-off services. Participants are required to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport upon completion of their respective project. This is usually a simple process which Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Bolivia (or host family) will be more than happy to assist volunteers in arranging. If participants require assistance in this matter, they are encouraged to discuss the matter with either their host family or In-Country Coordinator. NOTE: from experience, at the completion of their respective project, we find that volunteers are usually familiar with the area and are more than comfortable with arranging their own return-travel to the airport.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, you may, but please note that this service is usually charged and/or calculated on an hourly basis. So, do not leave your luggage at the airport for an extended amount of time.

Living Accommodations Information

Who will arrange my accommodations and what are they?

Accommodations are arranged by Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Bolivia . The living conditions of the placement will all depend on the area you are assigned to. We try to get the volunteers the closest possible home stay to the location the project. All home stays have facilities nearby such as supermarkets, pharmacies, internet, etc. Although a beautiful, friendly place, you should not expect luxurious accommodations in Bolivia . You will be placed within a welcoming family setting, and you will have your own room with a shared bathroom. In some of the home stays, there may be someone who speaks English. Our host families are educated, well-respected people.

Are singles rooms available?

Yes, in most cases, participants have their own room unless requesting to stay with another volunteer. Occasionally, participants may have to share a room with another volunteer.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Yes, but participants are required to inform Global Crossroad's Bolivian Coordinator of this prior to arrival so that he/she can make the appropriate accommodations before hand.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This usually depends on the exact placement (i.e. date, project location) and your preference in this issue.

What are the bathroom facilities?

In most cases, volunteers share a bathroom with their host family. Specifics pertaining to bathroom facilities will be included in placement details.

What are the laundry arrangements?

Laundry is usually done by the volunteer with laundry-washing facilities provided in their living accommodations/host family.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Bolivia uses 220 volt, 50 cycle electricity in most locations (110 volt, 50 cycle in La Paz , in old parts of the city, and a few other areas). You may require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Plugs are either the 2 pronged flat type found in the US or the 2 round prongs. Bring an adaptor just in case.

What are the local cuisines? Who manages food?

You will have your 3 meals a day with your host family, and generally the meals will consist of the following:

Breakfast: a piece of bread, a cup of tea or coffee, a fruit.

Lunch: meat with rice or pasta and potatoes or salad and sometimes a typical Bolivian food, some families are used to having soup as well.

Dinner: it will be very much the same as lunch, but without soup.

Can you supply special diets?

Global Crossroad can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Occasionally, in the event that you require a special diet, you are responsible for your own meals. Participants are strongly urged to inform Global Crossroad of any special dietary needs prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

Tap water in Bolivia is not safe to drink. Host families can provide participants with boiled water. Also: volunteers may purchase bottled water throughout the day.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details. Note: this should not be expected in ALL accommodations as Bolivia is a developing country.

Will bottled water be provided?

No, if participants require bottled water, they are responsible for obtaining it themselves.

Health and Safety

How safe is Bolivia ?

There have been numerous reports of women tourists being drugged and raped during jungle excursions from Rurrenabaque . All tourists should be careful when selecting a travel guide and never accept medication from unverifiable sources. If possible, try to take "radio taxis" or private cabs by calling them since there have been some incidents at night of fake cabs taken from the streets that are used to steal their occupants. It is a good idea to register with the consulate of your country of residence upon entry into the country.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

More about Travel Safety to Bolivia

International travel does present risks, especially with the threat of international terrorism. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings and advisories in many countries for U.S. travelers. These travel advisories and warnings change frequently as situations in each country change. We suggest that all volunteers consult their own governments before participating in a Global Crossroad program. These links provide travel information:

British Foreign Office Advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/

American State Department Advice
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Australian Government Advice
http://www.dfat.gov.au/

Canadian Government Advice
http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html

What are other safety issues in Bolivia ?

Petty crime does exist in Bolivia , especially in and around the major cities. However, serious crimes against foreigners are relatively rare. Petty crimes, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, do occur (especially in crowded areas such as stations, markets, shopping areas, sight-seeing destinations, etc.). Additionally, there are frequent instances of false taxicabs in which passengers have been robbed. So, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possessions in public places.

Following are some precautions to avoid potential problems:

• Do not show off your wallet or valuable goods in public

• Keep enough money for immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box/safe at your hotel

• Always keep valuables in a safety deposit box/safe at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room

• Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you going out strolling

• Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"

• Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag.

• Ensure that you aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived

• Be particularly cautious about your possessions in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railways, bus stations, or on trains and buses.

• Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.

• Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups.

• Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.

• Any disputes should be reported to your local guides for resolution.

• Avoid traveling in any areas or sites that are not open to foreigners.

• Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to Bolivia 's laws and codes of ethics and/or morals .

What are the principle health risks?

Some parts of Bolivia like La Paz (3650), Potosí (4010), Oruro (3950) and the Lake Titicaca region are high altitude, so adequate precautions against " sorojche, " or altitude sickness , should be taken. At local pharmacies they sell sorojchi pills that are supposed to help with complication stemming from high altitudes.

However, severe cases of high altitude sickness can be treated at the High Altitude Pathology Institute at Clinical IPPA http://www.altitudeclinic.com . This Clinic has the most advanced technology including a hyperoxic/hypoxic adaptation chamber. In addition, the sun's ultraviolet rays are much stronger – up to 20 times stronger – than at sea level. A sunhat, sunglasses, and skin protection (sun block or long sleeves) are advised.

• Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for those who plan on spending time in the Bolivian Amazon. It must be taken 10 days prior to the person's arrival into the country if the visitor plans to visit rural areas.

• Malaria prophylaxis is recommended if the visitor plans to visit tropical-rural areas.

• As a preventive measure, taking the following vaccines is recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Tetanus, Diphtheria and Measles Booster-Vaccines.

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. It is suggested that insured participants pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim for reimbursement upon return to their respective home countries. Occasionally, for larger expenses, the insurance company may be able to arrange direct payment to the hospital or medical provider. 

Who do I contact in case of a health-related emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. Participants can obtain information pertaining to medical assistance through a number of channels:

• Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator;
• Assigned host-family;
• Your respective country's embassy in Bolivia – participants are greatly encouraged to obtain and maintain contact information for their respective embassy; keeping it on their person for easy access.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

No.

What are the sanitary conditions in Bolivia ?

• Be prepared and never expect a clean public toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet.

• Bolivian toilets generally do not do well when flushing large amounts of items or feminine hygiene products (i.e. tampons) so do not flush them. Rather, throw them away in the trash can (which is usually located close to the toilet).

• In some areas/restaurants, toilet systems are old and have very narrow plumbing and get blocked easily. In these cases, a small basket is usually placed beside the toilet (for used toilet paper).

• Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper (depending on the class of hotel).

What vaccinations are required?

This depends on which country you are traveling from - it is best to consult a travel doctor as soon as you book your placement.

Global Crossroad STRONGLY suggests volunteers follow the Center for Disease Control's travel advice ( www.cdc.gov) or consult a travel doctor.

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit card are accepted?

Sizeable towns have cajeros automaticos (ATMs which dispense bolivianos in 50 and 100 notes and sometimes US dollars as well). Though it is sometimes difficult acquiring change for notes larger than BOB10.00 outside big cities, most banks are able to break larger bills.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

Often called pesos, bolivianos are extremely difficult to unload outside the country. Watch out for mangled notes: unless both halves of a repaired banknote bear identical serial numbers, the note is worthless. Be aware, too, of circulating counterfeit banknotes.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

As a rule, visitors fare best with US dollars, the only foreign currency accepted throughout Bolivia , although Euros are getting easier to change. Currencies of neighboring countries may be exchanged in border areas, airports, and at certain La Paz casas de cambio (currency exchange houses). All casas de cambio are able to change US dollars and traveler's checks. Changing traveler's checks in smaller towns is often impossible.

Source: www.lonelyplanet.com

How much money should I bring with me?

Of course your accommodations and meals are covered by Global Crossroad, but your personal expenditure is really your decision. You need to think about souvenirs and perhaps travel during the weekends, or when your placement has ended.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe – therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to Bolivianos. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange.

Communications

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

All contact information (i.e. phone numbers, email addresses, location addresses) will be provided to participants in their pre-departure/placement details which is supplied prior to departure.

How do I contact my host-family once I arrive in Bolivia ?

International Direct Dialing within Bolivia is available in most cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from the many phones found in urban areas, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. You will be near all communication facilities, such as internet, telephone and post office. The exception may be in some conservation projects. However, information on all local facilities and proximity of banks, shops, etc., will be given to you before you arrive in Bolivia .

Are internet services easily available?

Yes, in most urban areas. Internet cafes are available in some of Bolivia 's major cities, although the cafes can be very noisy as they are a popular venue for the youth to play online games and for students to do work.

How can my family members contact me?

Upon settling into your assigned host-family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived at the airport.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

Yes, but it if it does work in Bolivia , your local communications will be very expensive. For this reason, we recommend that, upon your arrival, you change your cell phone SIM-card and number to a local one (usually costing approximately US $5).

Culture and Religion

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Bolivia ?

Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their projects. Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No high shorts and tank tops please.

What should I know about Bolivian religious conduct?

Bolivia respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord. Approximately 95% of Bolivians are Roman Catholic, with the other 5% being Protestant.

How do I respect the Bolivian people?

Be more inclusive, have an open mind and show respect of other cultures. Bolivian culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Bolivian people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to share in their culture. You may even be asked to join your host family at their local church for services – this is up to you and you do not have to attend the services if you do not wish.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Bolivia ?

Since much of Bolivia is located on the Altiplano, above an elevation of 4000 meters, weather is particularly impacted by elevation. If you are planning to visit the jungles, then the best time would be from April to October, since the rainy season is from November to March – often bringing insects and mosquitoes. As for the rest of the country, it does not rain much in the Altiplano, so timing is not a crucial factor when traveling to Bolivia .

During the summer between June - July, nights tend to be clearer is the best time to visit Salar de Uyuni, as the salt lake is even more impressive under the clear blue skies. The busiest months are between May-September. Most of the festivals are observed during the rainy season, such as the big carnivals in February.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters). Volunteers who are traveling to Bolivia in the winter months, or are volunteering at one of the more mountainous locations, should be prepared for very cold weather. A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Rainfall

Average Daily Temperature

Official Bolivian Holidays

Jan 1: New Year's Day
Feb 27: Carnival
Apr 14: Good Friday
May 1: Labor Day
Jun 15: Corpus Christi
Aug 6: Independence Day
Nov 1: All Saint's Day
Dec 25: Christmas Day

What about tipping in Bolivia ?

Formal tipping is generally about 10%, when the service has been good.

Materials to Bring

• Camera
• Sleeping bag
• Books about Bolivia
• Mosquito net
• Toiletries
• Electricity adapter/converter
• Sunglasses
• Walking shoes (for work and travel)
• Towel

NOTE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.