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

We are able to offer placements on the first and third Monday of each month year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least one-two months in advance , but if you want to expedite your application within less than 2 months of time, please contact our office for more 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 Cambodia who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 1-3 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 Cambodia-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

Any traveler to Cambodia can stay on a tourist visa (20 US $) or a business visa (25 US $) for one month. The visas can be obtained at the Cambodian Embassy in your country or at the Pochentong International Airport in Phnom Penh upon arrival. The tourist visa can be extended for one month (40 US $) and the business visa can be extended for a maximum one year (for 3 months 80 US $, for 6 months 160 US $ and for 12 months 290 US $).

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers acquire tourist 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 Cambodia ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Cambodia 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 Cambodia . Most volunteers participate in their respective/assigned projects from Monday to Friday, totaling about 20-30 hours per week. Most volunteers have the weekends to themselves where they can see the local sights and explore Cambodia on their own.

Where are the projects located?

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

Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia , in government as well as culture, economy, population, and tourism. It is located at the meeting of three rivers, and has enjoyed an ancient and rich history. A darker area in its history came in the 20 th century, when Phnom Penh was plagued by decades of war. Since then, the city has enjoyed a renaissance, as the economy booms and tourism increases.

Note that placements are also made throughout the country, in various towns and villages. You'll receive this type of information in your placement details.

What is the language spoken in Cambodia ?

Khmer, or Cambodian, is the official language of Cambodia . Influenced by Sanskrit as well as Vietnamese and Thai, it was spoken in the ancient Khmer empire, which was the ruling power on the Indochinese peninsula for hundreds of years.

When are the Cambodia-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 Cambodia ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Cambodia ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

Phnom Penh Pochentong Airport is the major international airport in Cambodia , so all international flights arrive and depart from there. Our representative will meet you at the airport and will introduce you to the host family and the host organization.

When should I arrive in Cambodia ?

Volunteers should arrive in Cambodia the day before their projects start, which is usually on a Sunday. If you come in earlier to Cambodia , you will need to arrange a place to stay and a return to the airport on Sunday to be picked up.

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 our Cambodia in-country Coordinator and to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Cambodia (we'll pass it on to the Coordinator). 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 our in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange the accommodations immediately. 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?

• Try to call our Cambodia In-Country Coordinator from the airport and inform him/her of the possibly-delayed arrival time.

• 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 our Cambodia In-Country Coordinator once you arrive in Cambodia so that he can help with a pick-up accordingly.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport if I did not see Global Crossroad's local 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 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 Cambodia In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know their whereabouts.

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

Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (Passport, clothes, and documents)

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $100 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

• Get your mind and spirit ready for the duration you have committed to, as the cultural shock may be so strong that you may even want to quit the next week after 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 Cambodia In-Country Coordinator can usually provide assistance in booking hotel rooms and even domestic travel at a good price.

When should I depart from Cambodia ?

We suggest that participants depart from Cambodia on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

All volunteers will depart Phnom Penh Pochentong Airport .

Who will drop me off at the airport?

GC does not offer airport drop service. You will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in Cambodia or the staff at the family house will be more than happy to assist you with this.

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?

During your stay in Cambodia , you may live with a host family. The families are very friendly and hospitable and look forward to learning more about the volunteer's culture and country. They offer clean but simple accommodations, which include private rooms and shared bathrooms with cold water and a fan. Most of our host families are educated, well-respected people who have experience with international students. Also, some members of your host family may speak English. While you will have breakfast in small restaurants or at work, they'll serve Cambodian food for lunch and dinner. In the case of you having special eating requirements (e.g. as a vegetarian or vegan), we would recommend staying in a guest house, as meat is the basis of most Cambodian food.

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?

Sure, we can accommodate friends or partners who want to volunteer together. But we can't guarantee that you will work in the same organization or that you will stay with the same host family, but you will live in close vicinity to one another. Please remember that two different genders of volunteers are not allowed to stay in the same room unless they are married couples. In this case it is better to arrange a private apartment so that you will have complete freedom.

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

This usually depends on the exact placement (i.e. date, project) 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 volunteer with laundry-washing facilities provided in their living accommodations/host family.

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

Yes. Please not that you must bring an adapter, as well as an electrical voltage converter that will allow a normal 110-volt American appliance to take 230 Volts AC at 50 Hz.

Electrical plug details

The adapter:

Or

What are the local cuisines? Who manages food?

Khmer cuisine is a culinary mix of different influences. You will find Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian and French flavors. The basic food is rice, together with meat, fish, eggs or vegetables. But noodle soups or fried noodles are also common. The food is often spicy, but not as hot as Thai food. If you like you can try traditional dishes like tarantula, cockroach, ants and beetles! Everywhere in Cambodia you will find baguettes, a relic from the French colonial times, as well as a wide range of exotic and delicious fruits you have probably never seen before.

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 need prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

No, you should not drink the tap water in Cambodia . Bottled water is ubiquitous and very inexpensive though, so you should have no trouble.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details.

Will bottled water be provided?

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

Health and Safety

How safe is Cambodia ?

Cambodia is a safe and friendly country, with the usual exception for large cities late at night, particularly Phnom Penh , and unobserved luggage or wallets. Bag snatching, even from those on bicycles and motorcycles, is a problem in Phnom Penh . Be discreet with your possessions, especially cash and cameras, and as always, take extra care in all poorly lit or more remote areas.

Cambodia suffers from a legacy of millions of land mines left during the war years. However, to tourists, land mines present a minimal to nonexistent threat, as all areas near populated areas have been thoroughly de-mined.

Source: wikitravel.org

More about Travel Safety to Cambodia

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 the principle health risks?

Basically, every country in the world has potential health concerns and Cambodia is no exception. It is common sense to be aware of some major health concerns if you travel to Cambodia for the first time. In the following, you will find some of the major health risks for your Cambodia trip. Do be careful!

Most medical services in Cambodia are not up to Western standards, and the rest are few and far between and very expensive. Should you become seriously ill or injured while in Cambodia , evacuation to Thailand or Singapore will be the most likely result. Because this can be incredibly costly, adequate insurance coverage is an absolute must while in Cambodia .

AIDS: Exists in Cambodia and every country in the world. The things to avoid are well known. The blood supply is not as safe as at home.

Hepatitis A and B: Very common due to less than ideal food storage, handling and cooking.

Malaria: Mostly in more regions and away from cities.

Dengue Fever: Common throughout Cambodia .

Rabies: You should remain aware of and away from non-domestic or freely roaming dogs in Cambodia .

Typhoid: Consider a vaccination for long stays and if you are an adventurous eater.

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Be sure to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to Cambodia . Global Crossroad is not staffed by medical professionals. What we do is provide recommendations. Besides the vaccinations listed above, be aware that food preparation may differ from western standards, and that again, tap water is unsafe to drink. Moreover, be sure to wear insect repellant and take anti-Malarial medication if you are traveling in rural Cambodia ! Cambodia has been through decades of war, and the effects still linger with deserted mines littering much of the countryside. Some people estimate that there may be as many as several million deserted mines in Cambodia . For this reason, you should be very careful not to step off of marked paths when in the country, and be certain to heed mine warnings.

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. It is suggested that you pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed back home after the medical expenses such as doctor's visits, medicines, etc.

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 country's embassy in Cambodia – 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?

The amazing diversity and unique flavors of Khmer cuisine will probably make it difficult for you to resist the tempting novelty of the street vendors! Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases.

What are the sanitary conditions in Cambodia ?

• Be prepared and never expect a clean or western-style toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet.
• Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

What vaccinations are required?

No vaccinations are required for entrance into Cambodia , but you should go over the above recommendations for vaccination with your doctor.

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

Money

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

Credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master and Visa are accepted at the local large hotels or tourist stores. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks from ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction.

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

The Cambodian riel is the official currency, oftentimes US dollars and Thai bhats are also accepted. The exchange rate generally about 4000 riel to one US dollar.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all major international credit cards, including JCB, Diners Club and MasterCard, are accepted in the main establishments, although outside Phnom Penh , facilities may be limited. Traveler's checks may also be difficult to exchange in small towns and villages, and travelers are advised to have cash on hand.

How much money should I bring with me?

Global Crossroad manages accommodations for volunteers from the first to the last day of each program, so it is not necessary to carry large sums of money. You'll need some money (around $1 a day) for transportation to your working place and some extra money if you plan activities outside of our organization, or if you want to buy some souvenirs. You must also remember the visa fee (20 US $ for four weeks) when you enter Cambodia and the airport tax (25 US $), which you pay when you leave the country. Most credit cards e.g. Visa, Master Card, American Express etc. are accepted in most hotels and shops, and you can withdraw cash from ATM machines as well. Whilst traveling around the country you will find there is a wide variation in prices. Guest house rooms vary from around $5 a night right up to $30 and above, and for a meal in a restaurant you will pay anything between 5 US$ and 10 US$.

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 riels. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange. Without receipts, you will not be able to exchange Cambodian currency back to any other currency upon your departure.

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

When your application is received, we will begin working on your placement. Once those details are finalized, you'll receive a packet that includes information like how to contact the In-Country Coordinator.

How do I contact my family once I arrive in Cambodia ?

International Direct Dialing from Cambodia is available in most well-populated areas. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. Internet cafes are available in Phnom Penh , although they can sometimes be noisy as they are a popular spot for the youth to play online games. You can use any type of communication to call back home.

Are internet services easily available?

This all depends on your placement. In Phnom Penh you will have access to e-mail, telephone and the post office. Unfortunately, the communication (internet, international phone call) is limited and very expensive in the provinces.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Cambodia at the airport.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

This depends on your service provider. Contact your provider to find out how to get service in Cambodia .

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

Cambodia is quite conservative. Volunteers are expected to respect the local custom, the traditional rules and maintain a proper dress code. Women should not wear shorts, mini-skirts, strap shirts or halter tops. Suitable dresses are T-shirts, cotton shirts, long skirts or pants. It's also necessary to cover the shoulder and your knees. The most practical clothing items for men are T-shirts and long pants.

What should I know about Cambodian religious conduct?

Cambodia respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord.

How do I respect the Cambodian people?

Cambodia has had a rich yet troubled history – so visitors must tread carefully around issues of politics and history. More specifically, try to be as sensitive as possible when speaking to native Cambodians about their past or visiting memorial sites. Be aware that Cambodians have suffered under several different outside influences, from French colonialism to the Vietnam War, to the reign of Pol Pot. If you choose to travel throughout the region, you may end up visiting sites such as the infamous “Killing Fields,” and please keep in mind that these are not tourist destinations to anyone except outsiders. They represent horrifying crimes against humanity and visitors should approach them with somberness.

Be more inclusive and show respect of other cultures. Cambodian culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Cambodian people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You can go with your host family on outings in they ask you to or invite them along with you to go on an outing. Simply helping your family do household chores will be another bonding experience that you can enjoy. Here are some other tips to help you adjust to Cambodian culture:

•  be friendly and modest at all times and to everybody
•  be respectful to elders, there is a strong social hierarchy
•  speak in a low and friendly voice, emotional overreaction is impolite
•  pay attention to a well-groomed appearance, dirty or torn clothes are not cool, in Cambodia they are disrespectful
•  before entering a house or a temple you have to take off your shoes
•  to point your finger or to point with the naked sole of your foot to somebody is extremely impolite
•  don't touch the head of someone, even with children this is not allowed
•  for a woman it is prohibited to touch a monk or the dress of a monk
•  Cambodians often avoid saying "no", therefore it's necessary to know that "yes" or "maybe" sometimes means "no!"

Smoking is not prohibited but as a volunteer you are considered as a role model for students and children. Therefore, you should show good and well-mannered behavior. For those who smoke, they may do it in a way that doesn't disturb anybody. It is assumed that smoking is prohibited in the house of your host family and in your office. It is the same with drinking alcohol. Don't do it in public areas or in the community with students or children, please go to a pub or a bar.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Cambodia ?

Cambodia 's temperatures range from 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F), and the country experiences annual tropical monsoons . Southwest monsoons blow inland bringing moisture-laden winds from the Gulf of Thailand and Indian Ocean from May to October. The northeast monsoon ushers in the dry season, which lasts from November to March. The country experiences the heaviest precipitation from September to October with the driest period occurring from January to February.

Source: wikipedia.org

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters). A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Rainfall

Average Daily Temperature

Official Cambodian Holidays

Jan 1: New Year's Day
Jan 7: Liberation Day
Feb 2: Maek Bochea (Death of Buddha)
Feb 18-20: Chinese New Year
Mar 8: International Women's Day
April 14-16: Khmer New Year
May1: Visakha Bochea (Birth of Buddha)
May 1: Labor Day
May 5: Bonn Chrott Preah Nongkoal (Royal Plowing Ceremony)
May 13-15: King Sihamoni's Birthday
June 1: International Children's Day
September 24: Constitution Day
October 10-12: Bonn Pchum Ben

What about tipping in Cambodia ?

Though tipping is not expected, it is greatly appreciates since the instance of poverty in Cambodia is much higher than in your home country.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) is generic information. Please do not use FAQ as a sole travel guide (as it may not be correct). Travel information and situations abroad change constantly so please consult global crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.

Materials to Bring

.  Camera
.  Sleeping bag
.  Mosquito repellents and net
.  Insect repellents
.  Sunscreen
.  Some books of Cambodia
.  Map of Cambodia
.  Toiletries
.  First-aid kits
.  Flash light
.  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.