Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Laos
- Laos is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia, with around 23% living below the poverty line
- Poverty is particularly acute in rural areas, where around 80% of the country's poor reside
- Health issues in Laos include malnutrition, inadequate access to clean water and sanitation, and a high incidence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- Education is a priority in Laos, but access and quality remain a challenge, especially in rural areas.
- A report by Save the Children stated from 2015 to 2020, approx. 28.2% of children aged between 5-17 were engaged in labour.
WHAT is involed in culture week?
- Learn about local culture and customs
- Visit some local sights and a tour around the local town
- Visit temples and take part in cultural activities
- Learn some local language to help you on your project!
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Org & Charity with 33+ Years Experience
- Impactful Projects to Choose From in Laos
- Social Experiences - Sharing with International Volunteers
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: CULTURE WEEK
LOCATION: LUANG PRABANG
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: N/A
Overview
The Culture Week begins with an introduction to Lao customs, language classes, and dos and don’ts. Throughout the week, you will have the opportunity to experience local agriculture practices, take part in handcraft lessons with local artisans, attend cooking classes, swim in stunning waterfalls, explore bustling local markets, and more!
You will also have the chance to discover the ancient historical city and its culturally significant temples, which are unlike any other in Southeast Asia. During the week, you will have a special moment to meet and greet with one of the Laotian tribes, creating unforgettable memories.
To add more variety to your cultural experience, we have arranged a visit to a bear conservation centre, offering a unique and meaningful opportunity. Don’t miss out on this chance to make memories that will last a lifetime during Culture Week!
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
- Learn all about local culture in-depth
- Visit cultural sights and local landmarks
- Immerse yourself in the culture and become settled before your project!
Food & Accommodation
The volunteer guesthouse is situated on the main road of the world heritage town of Luang Prabang and offers beautiful views from its third floor location. It is conveniently located within 3-5 minutes’ walking distance to the night market and the town centre. Rooms are single gender with up to 4 participants per room. There are occasional power outages that can affect the pump which allows the flow of water, so it is important to keep your bucket filled in your bathroom in case this happens. The bathroom facilities are shared with hot water showers and Western-style toilets. Bed linen is provided, but please bring your own towels. The rooms are equipped with fans, aircon and mosquito protection. Private and family rooms are also available for an extra fee, but you need to inform in advance, so we can arrange it.
3 meals are served on weekdays, and 2 meals on weekends. Our program offers a variety of traditional Laotian dishes for participants to enjoy. These local delicacies may be very different from the food that participants are used to at home, as there are very few Western-style dishes served. While vegetarian options are available, accommodating other dietary restrictions may be challenging. Participants are encouraged to inform the local team of their specific dietary needs, and the team will do their best to meet those requirements.
Specialty
Projects
- Culture Week
-
1 Week - $475
-
2 Weeks - $825
-
3 Weeks - $1250
-
1 Month - $1650
-
2 Months - $3350
-
3 Months - $4990
What's Included
-
Accommodation
-
Meals
-
Airport Pickup
-
Local Transportation
-
1 Day Orientation
-
24/7 In-Country Support
-
Project Materials & Equipment
-
Pre-departure Expert Advice
-
Preperation Tools & Checklists
-
Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
FAQ
If you would like the chance to get settled, meet other volunteers, and understand the local culture, then yes! This can make for a smoother transition to your project and to communicate with the locals much better.
- 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
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
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 any time on Saturday or Sunday. If arriving on the Saturday, we charge US$50 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 US$50. Any extra nights are also $50 per night, including meals.
Monday
- Breakfast
- Introduction meeting
- Briefing on Laotian Customs, rules and expectations, health and safety
- Tour around the compound and local area
- Lunch
- Language lesson
- Dinner
Tuesday
- Breakfast
- Visit the local village
- Get yourself busy in handcrafting
- Lunch
- Flower offering at the local temple
- Laotian cooking classes
- Barbeque Dinner at the accommodation
Wednesday
- Breakfast
- Explore the world heritage city including an ancient historical temple
- Visit the Laos local morning market
- Visit a beautiful forest temple
- Lunch
- Take a dip in the famous Kuang Si waterfall
- Visit bear Conservation
- Explore the hill tribe village
- Roam in the night market before heading back to the accommodation
- Dinner
Thursday
- Breakfast
- Introduction and placement orientation
- Lunch
- Start working at the placement
- Dinner
Friday
- Breakfast
- Visit the placement
- Lunch
- Free time
- Dinner
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.
- No extra requirements
Laos is a country in Southeast Asia that is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique culture. The country has been shaped by centuries of influences from neighbouring countries such as China, Vietnam, and Thailand, which is reflected in its diverse architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Laos has a rich and diverse history shaped by various influences throughout the centuries. The Lan Xang kingdom emerged in the 14th century, ruling much of what is now Laos and parts of present-day Vietnam and Thailand. Laos came under French colonial rule in the 19th and early 20th centuries, gaining independence in 1954. The country faced conflict and turmoil in the decades that followed, including involvement in the Vietnam War and a communist takeover in 1975. Despite its challenges, Laos has emerged as a culturally rich country, blending traditional and modern influences, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring Southeast Asian history and culture.
The climate of Laos is tropical, characterized by hot and humid conditions year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from May to October, with heavy rainfall and high humidity levels. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is generally cooler and less humid, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day and dropping to around 15-20°C (59-68°F) at night.
However, it’s important to note that temperatures and climate can vary greatly depending on the specific region of Laos you are in. For example, areas in higher elevations, such as the northern provinces, can be cooler than lowland areas. It’s also important to note that during the months of March and April, the temperature can soar to around 40°C (104°F) in some parts of the country. Overall, travelers to Laos should be prepared for hot and humid weather, especially during the wet season, and should bring appropriate clothing and gear to stay comfortable in varying conditions.
The culture of Laos is a rich blend of diverse influences, including Buddhist, animist, and French colonial traditions. Buddhism plays a central role in daily life, and the country is home to many stunning temples and religious sites, such as the famous Pha That Luang stupa in Vientiane.
In addition to its religious traditions, Laos is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including silk textiles, silverwork, and woodcarvings. Visitors to Laos can explore local markets and villages to discover these traditional crafts, which are often made by skilled artisans using age-old techniques.
Laotian cuisine is also a highlight of the country’s culture, featuring a blend of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors. Popular dishes include laap (a minced meat salad), sticky rice, and papaya salad. Visitors can also try a range of delicious street food, such as khao jee (a type of sandwich made with baguette bread and various fillings) and noodle soups.
The Lao Loum, or lowland Lao, make up the majority of the population and are centered around the Mekong River valley. The Lao Theung, or upland Lao, live in the mountainous regions of the country, while the Lao Sung, or highland Lao, are found in the northern provinces near the border with China.
Despite differences in language and customs, the people of Laos share a deep sense of community and family values, with strong ties to their local villages and communities. Visitors can often participate in local festivals and celebrations, which are an important part of Lao culture and typically involve colorful parades, traditional music and dance performances, and delicious food.
30 Years Non Profit Experience
IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
Affordable Volunteer Travel
We’re not motivated by shareholder profits. Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed.
Safe & Responsible Projects
All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact. All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
Work Experience & University Credits
We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options
Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising
Weekends & Extra Tours
