Volunteer in Construction in Renovation-Luang Prabang, Laos

I was nervous I wasn’t in the best of shape to do the construction and renovation project (I work 9-5 at a corporate desk job these days) but love to help with home renovations in my free time. Turns out I had nothing to worry about. They didn’t want us to push ourselves too hard working. The lifestyle was so much slower and relaxed than I’m used to back home. Most people could probably do this construction/renovation project with little to no prior experience. I felt so much better after a day of painting and making bricks than I do after a day at my desk. It was peaceful work (aside from the screaming children at the school).

My favorite moment from the volunteer experience was feeling like I was a part of the Laos community. Spending 12 weeks volunteering, I was very familiar with the local team, the rotation of volunteers however unexpectedly also the people of Luangprabang. Being greeted with smiles from the school children everyday, having bars know my drink order, even by the morning market butcher knowing what cut of pork i wanted, often without being able to understand one another. This familiarity and feeling like i was part of the community was amazing. The biggest impact my volunteering trip had on me was the new friendships with fellow volunteers and the local team that I will keep forever. The Laos teams' passion about their projects is matched by their care and gratitude towards their volunteers. Exceptionally hard working to improve the lives of the Laos people and grow their projects. The accommodation was safe, clean and satisfactory for our operation. The geographic location was close to all the volunteer projects but also walking distance to the town so we had plenty to do and see throughout the program. For first timers, don't think too hard about the outcome of your time spent volunteering. I think we all do something like this for different reasons and there will be many surprises along the way. But the certain outcome is a new perspective, wether of yourself, your home country or the place you served. Offering your time and skills without any expectation of anything back is the most selfless things you can ever do and with this, no matter what, you will grow positively as a person.

Had the best couple weeks volunteering- learnt heaps about the awesome culture, had many awesome adventures, and had an incredible time constructing/renovating at a primary school. The food was amazing, and the locals were so helpful, welcoming, fun, and super funny! Loved every minute of my experience, and would reccomend it to anyone willing to put in hard work and immerse themselves in the culture.