Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the duration of the tour?

Tours may vary.  Typically, a house build tour lasts ten to twelve days depending on the size of the group and the number of houses/toilets you wish to build/fund.

 

Where will I be based?

All tours including house builds are based in Siem Reap, Cambodia. On these tours you will stay in the Heartprint Community Support Center - Heartprint House. The center offers a peaceful, relaxing way to enjoy your time and immerse yourself in the Khmer lifestyle.

 

Who can attend a tour?

Anybody and everybody. We can offer packages for groups or individuals, young or old. It’s purely up to you how much you get out of your tour.

 

Why volunteer?

To serve! But you’ll have the chance to learn new skills, a new language, a new culture, make new friends, to change your life and others. You will be part of a team that shares mutual values and goals - the desire to improve the lives of others. Through helping to build a house/toilet/well, you are creating a future for a family. Many families barely survive on a day-to-day basis and it is no surprise that they do not have the funds to build a house. These families are currently living in make shift houses that provide very little shelter, leak during rain and are unsafe and unsanitary for their children. Building a house for a family provides for them a sense of pride as well as a good night's sleep and reduces illness and injury. By participating in this tour you can be the change that these people truly need in their lives; helping them to escape a life of disease and squalor.

 

Are there any prerequisites?

There is no prior experience necessary; all you need is a can-do approach. You can be as hands on as you like as you work alongside our experienced Khmer builders; providing moral support or learning new skills as you are guided along in the build. We will show you how to use the tools and you will work alongside Khmer builders that will guide you along the way. You can choose at what level you participate.

 

Can I organize my own group?

You most certainly can. In fact, we encourage it. Travelling with friends or families, colleagues, sports team or school group can be a very rewarding experience that will provide you with stories you’ll share together for a very time.

 

How much will it cost?

Tour prices vary depending on the length of your stay, the size of your tour group and what you choose to include in your package. To check our upcoming tour costs or you would like a quote for your group contact us today.

 

When can I go?

House Build tours are offered all year round. If you have a group, you can choose your own time to travel as long as it fits into our schedule. If you are an individual, you will need to choose from one of the tour dates advertised.

 

Do I have to make a donation?

All of our volunteering tours require some kind of donation including a cash component; this helps with the purchase of building materials and supplies needed for house/toilet/wells. At all times you will remain in control of your donation and will be involved in the purchasing of materials or passing on of cash directly to the builders. If you are hoping to bring donations with you from home, we are able to recommend useful items. Otherwise, some people prefer to purchase items in-country as it is not only a cheap option, but also saves on luggage space and benefits the local economy.

 

Will I be required to purchase medical/travel insurance?

It will be your responsibility to purchase a medical/travel insurance policy. We do not allow anyone to come on tour without a current medical policy. We can guide you through this if needed.

 

Do I have to book my own flights?

If you need help with organizing flights, we can assist for a small administration fee. Ask us for a quote if you would like to include flights.

 

Can I pay my tour off?

Some tours may be eligible to pay in installments, please note however we do not allow any person to attend a tour unless they have paid the full amount. Installment plans must be adhered to at all times. You may receive a discount in some circumstances if you pay the full tour cost up front.

 

Will I need immunization?

Please consult your country’s public health department travel immunization office or family practitioner for vaccination policies and recommendations. The U.S. Department of State Travel Bureau also has vaccination recommendations for travel abroad.

 

How much money should I bring?

This is a personal preference.  We are happy to discuss on group information calls or contact us directly and a Kindredhouse team member will get back to you.

 

What should I pack?

We provide a general pack list on our website.  See Resources.

 

For other questions and concerns, please contact us and a Kindredhouse team member will get right back to you!