Participate in a humanitarian project in Laos to construct and renovate various structures.
This program is designed for those who are not afraid to get their hands dirty! You will work in the field of construction and renovation, focusing on infrastructure projects that require the assistance of our partner NGO. Your tasks will involve renovating school equipment such as chairs and tables, painting, and contributing to larger projects such as building walls or toilets in schools. By doing so, you will significantly improve the hygiene and health conditions of the communities.
You will have direct contact with the locals and learn a great deal about their culture and way of life by building relationships with them.
The objectives of this humanitarian project in Laos are to improve the facilities of the local community and develop your teamwork skills through practical work.
On the Monday of your first week on-site, you will participate in our orientation day to familiarize yourself with the surroundings and the local culture. You will attend an introductory meeting covering the house rules, expectations, health and safety advice, lessons on living in Laos, the country’s culture, and language. This will be followed by a tour of the premises and the local area (local shops, SIM card availability, etc.).
Several activities are organized during the week, including a barbecue evening every Tuesday, providing an ideal opportunity to relax and interact with other participants. There is also a movie night at the accommodation every Wednesday. On Thursdays, you will have the chance to enjoy one of Southeast Asia’s favorite activities: karaoke night at a restaurant.
All of our international construction and renovation missions are open to everyone and can also welcome engineers and students as part of a credited internship.
Duration during the week | Budget total mission |
|---|---|
2 weeks | 890 € |
3 weeks | 1130 € |
4 weeks | 1440 € |
5 weeks | 1690 € |
6 weeks | 1990 € |
8 weeks | 2490 € |
10 weeks | 3090 € |
12 weeks | 3720 € |
You will be staying in a volunteer house, with dormitory-style accommodation and a private bathroom.
Meals:
We offer a variety of local Laotian dishes. Participants may find that the cuisine is quite different from what they are accustomed to at home, as few Western dishes are served. Local dishes may sometimes be adapted for vegetarians but can be a bit more challenging for other dietary restrictions. Please inform the local team of any specific needs you have, and they will do their best to accommodate you!
However, please understand that it may not be possible to cater to personal preferences or guidelines every day. In such cases, we suggest bringing your own supplementary food items.
Stores:
You will find basic grocery items and beverages available for purchase at two local restaurants located next to the accommodation.
Culture:
Like its neighbors, Cambodia and Thailand, Theravada Buddhism is the dominant religion in Laos and has a significant influence on Laotian culture, including its language, art, literature, and performing arts.
Laos is a country that has preserved its authenticity and traditions, more so than some of its neighbors who are increasingly modernizing and succumbing to Western influences.
Gastronomy:
The staple food in Laos is steamed sticky rice, believed to be originated in the country. The Laotian population is considered the world’s largest consumer of sticky rice. Galangal (similar to ginger), lemongrass, and padaek (fermented fish sauce) are all important ingredients in Laotian cuisine.
– Minimum age of 18.
– Intermediate English level (minimum B1).
– Copy of criminal record.
– Copy of passport.
Most foreigners obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival in Laos (approximately $50 US fee + one passport photo required). It is important to indicate that the purpose of the stay is tourism. The 30-day visas can be extended twice at the Luang Prabang immigration office (approximately $78 US fee). Our local team will guide volunteers participating in programs longer than 90 days to two visa renewal options: an excursion to Vientiane to enter Thailand via the Friendship Bridge or a round-trip flight to Chiang Mai.
For all international projects, Realstep requires participants to take out travel insurance covering accidents, illness, and repatriation, as well as civil liability for professional activities abroad.
For complete protection while studying or interning abroad, you can take out Cap Student insurance online by following this link Student insurance abroad | Chapka Assurances, which will give you a 5% discount.
If you take out another insurance policy, we will ask you to send us a copy of your certificate in English.
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Our projects are selected to ensure safety. Families benefit from a reassuring environment and supervised activities. The days are designed to include both children and adults, with a flexible pace and shared moments of discovery.
Yes! For families who want to travel together, we offer programs specifically designed to welcome children from 4, 10, or 15 years old, depending on the project. Our program pages indicate whether they are family-friendly, or you can contact our team to learn more.
You’ll stay together in accommodation with private rooms, in shared houses, or in comfortable local hostels.
