Airport Transfer
You should arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (airport code: SGN) on the selected start date. Our program representative will be there at the airport to greet you and you'll be taken to the volunteer house. You'll be provided with further details once you book your Ho Chi Minh city volunteering trip with us, in your Pre-Departure Guidebook.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City will be provided at a volunteer house, located 12km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport and 6km from District 1. It has 4 floors with 4 bedrooms, 2 terraces, a living room, kitchen, and 3 bathrooms. It can accommodate 12-16 volunteers, though typically only 4 per room. The house is spacious, cool, and located in a quiet, clean area. Rooms have air conditioning, fans, and private bathrooms. Amenities include Wi-Fi, a washing machine, fridge, and storage.
Orientation
You'll be arriving on a Sunday and have your Orientation on Monday. Before you start working at the project site, you'll have a detailed Orientation Session where the local team will provide you with all the necessary information about volunteering in Ho Chi Minh City. All your doubts regarding the Vietnamese culture, greetings, locations, transportation, safety, and volunteer placements will be given during the orientation.
Meals
An assistant is provided in the volunteer house for cooking and cleaning common areas. Two main meals are served daily (lunch at 12:00 PM and dinner at 7:00 PM), while breakfast is self-prepared before volunteers go to work. Volunteers should inform the cook about food allergies or dietary preferences.
Breakfast is self made and generally consists of toast, coffee, tea, eggs and some fruit. Lunch is taken at the volunteer house or also offered at some project placements. A typical dinner at the volunteer might feature options like pork, fish, beef, or chicken, accompanied by tofu or egg, a selection of vegetable dishes, rice, and some soup.
If you're keen to explore local flavours, you'll find numerous cafes and amenities nearby. For a more vibrant experience, you can easily hop on a bus or taxi to the bustling Old Quarter in Hanoi, where countless dining options await!
During Your Free Time
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has plenty to offer during your free time! The city is vibrant, diverse, and full of energy, so there’s always something to discover! Some of the recommended options for volunteers include :
Visit Historical Sites:
War Remnants Museum: Offers a deep look at the Vietnam War and its impacts
Cu Chi Tunnels: A historical site showcasing the underground tunnels used during the war
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A beautiful French-colonial cathedral in the heart of the city
Saigon Central Post Office: An architectural gem built during French colonial times
Explore Markets:
Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market with souvenirs, local foods, and textiles
Binh Tay Market: A more local market in Cholon (Chinatown) for authentic Vietnamese goods
Cultural Experiences
Saigon Opera House: Attend a performance or simply admire the French colonial architecture
Jade Emperor Pagoda: A beautiful and iconic pagoda with intricate details
Mekong Delta Day Trip: Take a day trip to explore the Mekong River, local villages, and floating markets
Visit Parks and Rivers: