What are the living conditions of my placement?

The living conditions of your placement will vary depending on the area to which you are assigned. One should not expect luxurious accommodations in Togo. Our projects are located in the rural area, so the living conditions are very basic. Global Crossroad will try its best to provide good, clean accommodations to our volunteers. We will place volunteers with host families; most families speak English and are well experienced with foreign volunteers.

When I'm packing for Togo, what should I remember to bring?

You may want to bring special items such as mosquito repellent or a mosquito net, binoculars, camera and film, walking shoes, sunscreen, traveler's checks, cash and/or credit cards, swim suits, casual clothes for nightlife and fine dining, copies of your favorite Togo travel guide, sandals, sunglasses & hat, necessary medications, rain jacket, and seasonal clothes.

Can I change my volunteer placement if I get dissatisfied?

Global Crossroad will consider the request of a volunteer for a location change, but we will only change the placement if the reasons for the request are genuine or if the placement collapses due to unavoidable circumstances.

Will I have enough time to explore Kpalimé during my volunteer program?

There will be plenty of time for you to explore Kpalimé and the other places of Togo during orientation. Also, Global Crossroad offers full-day guided tours of Kpalimé as a part of the language program.

How will I get to headquarters from the Airport?

When you arrive in Togo International airport, Lomé, one of our staff members will be waiting for you at the airport terminal. He will be holding a sign with your name on it, so there will be no confusion. Please do not forget to send your detailed flight itinerary so this arrangement can be made.

How much extra money should I bring?

Volunteers will be provided with room and board from the very first day to the last day of the program. Therefore, you won't need any money to pay for these expenses. However, if you are planning on taking part in activities outside of the organization, or if you just want to buy some souvenirs, you will need to bring extra money in order to do so. On a side note, you must also remember the visa fee, which varies depending on the length of stay and mode of entry. There is also an airport tax, which you pay upon your departure from Togo. This can cost around $25 (U.S.). You will want to determine the amount of extra money you are to bring based on these factors.

What forms of communication will be available for me to access in Togo? Will there be internet, telephones, and post offices available?

This all depends on your placement; however, almost all of our placements are close to the major cities where volunteers will have easy access to phone, the Internet, and post office.

Can I bring a friend with me to volunteer, too? Will it be possible for us to stay together?

We allow people to come with friends or even in large groups. In the unlikely situation you are placed in different homes, they will be located within walking distance. Also, we can place any volunteer near another volunteer already working in the same field, if he/she wishes.

What vaccinations will I need for Togo?

In Africa, malaria is the major problem; volunteers are highly encouraged to get a malaria vaccine before leaving for Togo. Global Crossroad suggests that you consult a travel doctor from your country before you depart. Volunteers are recommended to immunize for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, influenza, and polio (NOTE: Some vaccinations are needed as much as 2 months before arrival in Togo).

What kind of food should I expect while I'm volunteering?

Global Crossroad manages food and accommodation from the very first day to the last day of the program in collaboration with the local host families involved. Togo foods include rice, fufu, pulses soup, seasonal vegetables, and meat occasionally. Due to monetary constraints, for the volunteers who arrive earlier or who want to stay longer, it is impossible to offer extra accommodation or food. In this case, Global Crossroad will help volunteers find a good and cheap place for food and accommodation

What would happen if I decided not to stay for the entire duration of the program?

Once the volunteer makes a decision and pays for the program fee, upon receipt of invoice, Global Crossroad will not refund any program fee under any circumstances.

How can I get a visa?

All volunteers are advised to contact the Togolese High Commission or Consulate before travel to Togo. Most Western passport holders receive 30 days visa stamp upon arrival. If you decide to stay longer than this, you may extend your visa after you arrive. Extension is obtained from the immigration department, and requires (4) photos, and a fee, which varies depending on the length of stay.

What do I need to know about travelling and sightseeing in Togo?

If you are planning to travel in Togo before or after our volunteer programs, you will need some extra money. But don't worry; Togo is an inexpensive place for shopping and travel. If you want to buy gifts for family and friends, you can buy them from any souvenir place in Togo. You can change your major currencies and traveler's checks at the airport or other exchange agents in the city.

Where will I fly to, and how long will it take to get to my host site?

Volunteers are requested to make their destination Lomé International Airport. Our representative will receive you at the airport.

What is the best time to travel in Togo?

Togo has a tropical climate, with rainfall and temperatures varying by altitude and distance from the sea. There are two distinct seasons: rainy and dry. April-August is rainy, and September-March is ideal for travel.

Do I need to be able to speak a foreign language in order to join the program?

In Togo, people speak French and little English, so communication should not be a problem. For volunteers interested in exploring local language and culture, Global Crossroad organizes a 2-week extensive language and cultural program.

Will the program provide any sort of insurance or liability for the volunteers involved?

Our program does cover insurance for our volunteers. Please contact us for more details.

Safety

International travel presents risks for travelers, 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://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/sos/warnings-en.asp

Global Crossroad is not responsible for any damage resulting from your negligence in failing to take appropriate travel advice offered by your home country.