Volunteer in China
Location
China: Chengdu, Yangzhou, Yantai
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, espeically following the 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.
Cultural Embrace by API takes you on an unique exploration of Fengyan, a lovely city near Guilin and Yangshuo in Guangxi Province. Fengyan area attracts many local Chinese and foreign visitors. Guilin is known for it's beautiful scenery that many famous Chinese poets and artists reflect upon in their works, and Yangshuo is often referred to as the "Backpackers' Paradise" in China due to it's beautiful natural scenary, comfortable year-round temperature, laid-back, and relaxed atmosphere. We have created a program for you to spend at least two weeks absorbing the local culture, providing community service, and traveling to fascinating sites and locations in China.
Cultural Embrace by API partners with local humanitarian and travel organizations to share knowledge about the people and cultures of China. The initial orientation week will be located in Fengyan, Guangxi. You will learn basic language lessons, Chinese cultural habits and lifestyles, and visit local sites and markets. Then you have the options to volunteer within a local village (teaching English, assisting with farming, environmental conservation projects, etc) or in Szechuan at the giant panda conservation program. Or consider substituting or adding more weeks to trek in Dali, China, or visit Beihai beach. We will tailor your time in China to ensure that you will maximize your time with what you are interested in, with a safe and memorable adventure!
Highlights
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 & don'ts 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 overnight 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. (+$460/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. (+ USD 460/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. (+ USD 460/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. (+USD 460)
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. (USD 460/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, E'Mei Mountains, Huanglongxi Ancient City, etc. (USD 460/week)