Description

Going to China is like entering a totally new world. The culture, people, environment, smell, taste and sounds are completely different than the Western world. China is rapidly growing its economical, political, social, and cultural ties to the rest of the world, especially with the recent 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Cultural Embrace by API offers you a fascinating chance to experience the modern and ancient traditions of the Chinese customs through our "Discover China", a wonderful blend to volunteer, travel, and partake in cultural and adventure travel activities.

* Orientation & Culture Week (Fengyan)
The Orientation Week will take place in our regional center located in Fengyan village, with a group of participants from different parts of the world. During this time we will also engage in the following activities: Basic language lessons, learning about do's & dont's in China, team building activities, introduction to China and the local culture. Furthermore we will do some local sightseeing, such as visits to the local markets, day trips to nearby towns and visits to ancient temples.

You will have time to meet the local people, taste the delicious foods, and learn about the Chinese customs. During this period, you will also be informed about the program and project details.

* Village Experience (Fengyan)
Our Volunteer China Program will give you the chance to make real friends among students, teachers and the local villagers. Located in the heart of Guangxi Province, spend weekly periods in Fengyan with Volunteering options to: Teach/Tutor English and Sports Coach; Farm in the forest with fruit trees (Oct-Dec); Assist with eco/environmental projects to help clean and preserve the environment of the village.

* Teaching/Tutoring (Fengyan or Sichuan)
Work with local schools and community centers in the area. Teach and tutor the students in English and other subjects; or be a sports coach and teach the children to improve their team-building skills.

* Orphanage Assistance (Fengyan or Sichuan)
Assist a local community center/orphanage filled with children younger than 6 years old. Lend a hand with some chore work, such as: cleaning, washing, or watering the garden; or play, tutor, and be a positive role model to the children.

* Trekking
We will see the most adventurous side of China. Experience the quietness of the Dali Mountains, trek and over-night stay in a temple in the Chicken Foot Mountain (3240 meters high) and observe the harvest of rice, corn and tobacco in the autumn, wheat and bean in the spring. We will also visit the Shang Qing Village in Bin Chuan and do another trek through the mountains into the lake village Shuang Lang. The itinerary will be adapted to the season. (+USD460/week)

* Tai Qi
Study and live at a Tai Qi training school with a local Master located in Yangshuo, Guangxi. Your M-F training will teach you more about posture, hand and foot work, relaxation and power. Please note it takes about 6 months of focused training to be a Tai Qi master. (+USD460/week)

* Rock Climbing/Outdoor Adventure
An amazing way to experience what Yangshuo, China have to offer. Rock climbing, caving, kayaking, hiking, absailing, zip-lining, and swimming are just a few fun activities combined in weekly program. Recommended for physically fit participants. (+USD460/week)

* Cycling & Tour
Embrace Yangshuo on wheels! Explore and experience the beauty of the Big Banyan, Moon Hill, the Yulong Bridge, the Li River, Dragon Cave. Also, enjoy a variety of lessons such as paper crafting, calligraphy, TaiQi, and other Chinese cultural activities. (+USD460)

* Panda Program
Volunteers are needed to play a part in safeguarding the future of these cute buddies. The Giant Panda is one of the most delightful and captivating of animals, yet is also one of the most endangered species in the world. The best scientific estimates place the total number of all pandas at only about 1600. The panda is one of the cutest, most magnificent, adorable animals on the earth giving joy to adults and children alike. Volunteers will stay in a hotel within the Panda reserve that is walking distance to your volunteer work station. The hotel is relatively basic and run by the local villagers. Rooms are shared 2-4 people, with an attached bathroom that has 24-hr hot water. (USD460/week)

* Chengdu Culture & Tour
Learn more about the local Chinese culture in Sichuan Province. Explore the beautiful and historical scenic spots, such as: Leshan Giant Buddha, EMei Mountains, Huanglongxi Ancient City, etc. (~USD460/week)

Highlights

Volunteering in China Offers:
* An unforgettable experience helping and improving Chinese communities
* A chance to broaden your perspective and worldview
* A chance to participate in and learn local cultural activities (e.g.: language, crafts, dancing)
* Memorable travel experiences with the chance to see exotic sites you have always dreamed about
* The ability to make lifelong friends from around the globe
* A valuable work experience that strengthens your resume, exhibiting your diligence, independence, and intercultural experiences
* A great way to develop and support your self-confidence and interpersonal skills

Qualifications

* You must be at least 21 years of age.
* Dedication to the full term of commitment . Most projects' duration is 1 week to 12 months.
* Enjoy providing a service and working with others in a challenging environment.
* Open to foreign cultures and living abroad
* High level of responsibility

Intern Types

• Development

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Visit website for current pricing

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Volunteer Placement Prior to Departure
Cultural Embrace by API pre-arranges your volunteer project before you leave home to ensure an easy and hassle-free transition to your new life abroad.

* Housing
Basic, clean, and comfortable housing will be included with at least 2 meals per day, 6 days a week are included.

* Visa Assistance
Cultural Embrace by API will assist you with information to obtain a visa (if necessary), but we have no control nor the ability to provide government issuance and/or visa availability.

* Medical, Life and Travel Insurance
Medical and life insurance is provided for all participants during the program term. This insurance coverage includes medical evacuation and repatriation, as well as 24-hour support services for medical and travel issues.

* Arrival Pick-Up and Transfer
We will arrange an airport pick-up and transfer for you upon arrival.

* Arrival Orientation
Receive training and orientation upon arrival from our local

* Cultural Embrace by API Kit
Useful tips, advice, and information to prepare you for the amazing adventure of living and working abroad.

* Full-time Representation
Cultural Embrace by API provides representation in the United States and your host country prior to, during, and after your placement.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

You must be at least 21 years of age.

This Program is open to

American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application
• Other
• Phone/Video Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Transcript
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

2 weeks-1 year

Cultural Embrace by API's Mission Statement

Our mission is to encourage people to recognize and appreciate cultural diversity. We believe that visiting a place firsthand allows one to truly experience the authenticity of a culture and develop his/her own impressions. Our goals are to provide quality service and opportunities for people to explore their world and enlighten their eyes, mind and heart. Traveling is a reciprocated flow of communication and interaction between people...the more you seek, the more you learn. "Discover the Similarities - Share the Differences"