Sinhalese Language & Culture (1 week-optional): $250
This week-long language and cultural immersion program features an informative and fascinating package which helps our volunteers to prepare for a successful, enriching volunteer experience. Participating volunteers learn basic Singhalese phrases and verbs which help them to feel comfortable as well as to more optimally understand the Sri Lankan ways of life. Volunteers also experience a multitude of immersion opportunities while visiting some of Sri Lanka 's most spectacular, awe-inspiring sites and memorable, often life changing attractions.
First week
Day 0:
Airport pick-up and transfer to Galle (approximately four [4] hour drive from Colombo)
- Program: Language and Culture Immersion
- Start dates:1st and 3rd Mondays of each month
- Departure and End Point: Colombo International Airport , Colombo
- Language RequirementsKnowledge of English
- Accommodation/Meals:Host family/hostel with Sri Lankan food three times a day Activities: Learning basic Singhalese language
- Language Lesson Hours: 3-4 hours a day
Day 1:
Orientation program begins covering general information on the fascinating history, cultures, and customs of Sri Lanka . Volunteers will embark on brief visit to Global Crossroad's Tsunami Reconstruction Project to observe the much-needed humanitarian work done by Global Crossroad in Sri Lanka .
Day 2:
For approximately four (4) hours, volunteers will participate in local, Singhalese lesson course. After 2:00PM, volunteers will set off for the beaches Galle beaches to further explore and experience the enduring beauty that is Sri Lanka .
Day 3:
Singhalese language lessons continue. In the afternoon, volunteers will venture on a hike through local villages, all-the-while exploring the beautiful landscapes, local farming system, local ways of life, and, most importantly, the people of Sri Lanka .
Day 4:
Village Tour & Experiences (3 hours)
You will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Sri Lankan village of Galle and get a glimpse of authentic village life. Take a ride in an ox cart, wander through the fields, take a ride on a catamaran, get to know the villagers, and try your hand at cooking authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Village Tour Sri Lanka gives you a behind the scenes look into traditional village life for a unique and unforgettable Sri Lankan experience.
Day 5:
Singhalese language program continues. In the afternoon, participants are given the opportunity to view a movie in local theater - further immerging themselves in their surrounding culture.
Day 6:
Singhalese language lessons continue. In the afternoon, volunteers will have the opportunity to visit the local fisherman village, in effect further grasping and comprehending the Sri Lankan culture by observing and understand the daily life of the fishermen's families of Sri Lanka .
Day 7:
Volunteers will embark on a tour of the city of Galle , the one-time chief port of Ceylon . Galle is famous for its handmade lace, tortoise shell curios and ebony-carved elephants. Also, volunteers may visit the 90-acre Galle Fort, which was originally founded and constructed by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663. The Galle Fort houses many important Dutch-originated buildings, as well as a Dutch-period museum. Conclusion of language and cultural immersion program.