Volunteering in Nepal Kathmandu

1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I have previously traveled to Nepal and saw the great need the country was in. I really enjoyed being in Nepal and thought I would definitely be back.

What program: Dental Programme

Why this program: As a nearly qualified dentist, I was curious about dentistry in other countries and wanted to experience a different side of dentistry. I also wanted to help at the need community with the skills I had.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

Program: The challenges the dentists take on at the hospital some of these cases are complicated but there is no other option but to take on the case.

Host Family: To see how similar the host family is to my own family in terms of culture. My family is from West Bengal, India.

Country: The lack of infrastructure outside of the main tourist areas.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

Program: Communication barriers between the patient and me. It was difficult to get an accurate history even with someone translating for me.

Host Family: Everything was smooth. No difficulties.

Country: The bumpy road to and from the hospital.

Go Abroad To Nepal

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: Bring easy to wash and quick dry clothing.

Sightseeing: Don’t try and see everything. Take things slowly. Nepal has little infrastructure and it is difficult and tiring to get to and from places quickly.

Donations: Sponsor a child here if you can!

Laundry/internet: Learn how to hand wash. Buy a sim card of data is a live saver when trying to find the places.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

a.- City/town: Getting around town and using the public transport system is difficult.

b.- Weather: Winter time is colder than it seems. The houses have no insulation.

c.- Local People: Very friendly and always willing to help.

d.- Tours: Can’t comment as did not do any tours.

Gap Year Nepal

6. Personal Paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

The ABV experience is more than just the “Dental Volunteering” you sign up for. You are exposed to an honest view of the country that you would fail to me if you were on the standard tourist trail. Personally, I found this experience humbling and it has motivated me to make charitable work a significant part of any life. I look forward to being back in Nepal sometime soon.

7. How would you describe your: 

Accommodation: Comfortable. Had all the necessities and fast internet.

Meals (favorite): Simple Nepali dishes are easy to digest and delicious.

Security: Keep all your belongings close to you. Try and not take a bag if you are using public transport.

Host family: Lovely people. All my needs were met.

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

Program: Meeting all the dentists at the hospital. Have made some friends for life and will definitely be visiting them in the future.

Host Family: Learnt a lot about the Nepali way of life from the Host Family.

Country: Nepal has many issues but it is on the way to solving them.

Volunteer Nepal

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: Picked up from the hotel on time. Taxied to host family’s home.

Orientation day: Detailed all the information required for an enjoyable and safe stay.

Daily Support: Supported me for everything I wanted to do plus give me valuable suggestions. Helped to organize many extra activities I wanted to do.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

Very detailed information given via email.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 

Yes

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Volunteer Nepal

1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I chose Nepal because when I was looking to volunteer in Asia this was the only country offered that I had yet to see. I also knew that it was a country with a very rich culture that I really wanted to experience, somewhat different from other parts of Asia.

What program: I volunteer as an assistant English teacher at the school.

Why this program: I chose this program because it was something I knew I could do and it would help others. I sometimes tutored people in French at my university so I knew I could handle it. Also, I love children and I wanted to do something with them, hence the school.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

Program: I was very surprised by the way people interacted with each other at the school. Students are very respectful of teachers, but more importantly, they seem really eager to help those in needs, be it, teachers or fellow students. The teachers also showed patience, understanding, and comfort for those students who really needed it. I also received a lot of help, not just from teachers but also from students.

Host Family: Again, I was surprised at the willingness to help that the host family displayed. I thought that once we were here we may have to figure things out for ourselves, but the host family has been very helpful in answering questions, organizing travels or explaining cultural aspects of life.

Country: Although the country itself is very poor, I was surprised to find the people here are much happier than many of us back home who have far better conditions. Here people who have less are willing to help out in any situation and ask for nothing in return. They make efforts to speak your language even if they know very few words and they smile even if you are unable to help.

Gap Year Nepal

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

Program: Some teachers will hit the children, either for misbehaving or sometimes just for not knowing the answer. For me, it was hard sometimes to sit there and do nothing while a child is crying after being hit. It’s even harder when the teacher sees you correcting some mistakes on the kid’s homework or sees that the kid did not complete and hits the child.

Host Family: I don’t really have a lot of complaints about the host family. The only thing is that I am used to eating smaller meals whenever I’m hungry so it was hard sometimes to eat during dinner or breakfast, but I didn’t want to waste too much food.

Country: As a white person, you really get noticed in the country. Sometimes it leads to unpleasant things like getting followed or getting called on. People just assume you don’t know anything and treat you as such which can be uncomfortable.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: For girls, dress with pants and none revealing shirts, it’s the best way not to attract too much attention. Bring sandals and flip-flops as they are practical to put on and remove because you will often have to take off your shoes and besides, feet are easier to wash than sneakers.

Sightseeing: There are a lot of great sights in Nepal and in Kathmandu. If you are staying long enough and bought some extra money, do not hesitate to ask your host family what you see outside of the capital. Even just the drive there is well- worth the time and money.

Donations: Bring some donations, at the school they really like pencils, flashcards, book or just some games. If you are like me and didn’t have time to get some before coming, you can always buy some things here. People will appreciate all the help they will get. You also bring books for the library.

Laundry/internet: For laundry, bring some detergent, it will be easier. Or, if you are not staying long, just bring enough clothes to go on. For the internet, while it is there at the school and in the host family, do keep in mind it’s not always reliable. Download what you want to have before coming.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

a. – City/town: Kathmandu is very, very big and the roads are mostly pretty bad, so if you want to see the city while you are here keep in mind that it may take the whole day and be patient. The sights are usually worth the wait. Also, be well-rested, sleeping in the care is not usually an option.

b. – Weather: I came here during monsoon season, but the weather is not half as bad as I expected it to be. Most of the time, tropical rains hit in the afternoon and during the night. There is always mud everywhere but at least temperatures are cooler and you can sometimes enjoy some sun in the morning.

c.- Local People: While many locals don’t really speak English, they are always willing to help you, so if you’re not sure how to get off the bus or where to go just try to show them what you need and they’ll help. Some uncomfortable experience with the locals so my best advice is if you get called on, just ignore it and keep going confidently (even if you aren’t confident)

d. – Tours: For any tour, you may want to take, just ask your host family beforehand, they will tell you what you might need to know and help you organize it. I would recommend traveling with another volunteer just because it’s easier and more fun and they may know about things you didn’t think about. I would definitely recommend seeing Chitwan, Pokhara, Bandipur, Lumbini and Mustang, you can book a Private car if you want to go there, and it’s very convenient.

Go Abroad Nepal

6. Personal Paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

Volunteering in Nepal was an eye-opening experience for me. I got to see how people make do with whatever is available rather than complain about what they don’t have. I had a lot of fun at the school. A lot of teachers do not speak English that well (including English teachers) but they still make an effort to try and communicate.

The kids really don’t know any English but they also do their best and try to play with me or show me some of their culture (like dancing) which is always very fun. Although at first, I doubted I would be able to make much of an impact, I got to see little things once in a while that they’ve picked up along the way: like giving back something that I lent them or stopping fights in the classroom which is really heartwarming. The homestay is also very comfortable; the host family was very welcoming and other volunteers on site were a great help to get used to the very different environment.

Not every day was necessarily easy or gratifying, but the whole trip was definitely worth it. I stayed for 6 weeks which was very long but it gave me a chance to see a lot of places in Nepal other than Kathmandu and that was amazing. The sights even just on the ways are gorgeous and there are so many different, unique places to visit that I never felt bored. I also did the Nepali language immersion which was pretty useful to learn phrases and communicate with the kids especially. I recommend that too.

7. How would you describe your: 

Accommodation: The accommodation was very comfortable, much better than I expected really. Volunteers have their own space; the house is a mix of some local things and more western accommodation so you are not completely out of your depths. There are also often other volunteers here with you.

Meals (favorite): If you’re in Nepal, you will definitely be eating your share of Dal Bhat, a traditional meal that includes rice, lentil soup, some veggies/curries, potatoes, and a roti. It’s very tasty, and since you can have many varieties. I didn’t get bored of eating it every night which really surprised me.

Security: I felt pretty safe for my entire trip. In the house, there really isn’t anything to worry about, to go to the school, it’s always the same routine and I never had an incident that really made me feel unsafe and during my short trips outside Kathmandu, the driver brought us to safe hotels, let us know what was best in terms of sightseeing and was with us the rest of the time.

Host family: The host family was really charming. Although the grandparents don’t really speak English, they often try to communicate and help. The rest of the family speaks English and does mingle with us a little, which is really nice. They are always helpful and provide insight on some of the local culture.

Teaching Volunteer Nepal

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

Program: I really love going by a classroom when I don’t have a class with them and there aren’t any teachers because all the kids come up to me, literally dragging me in the class so I can play with them or they would dance for me, or draw and they’ll ask for smiley’s and stars, it’s too much fun.

Host Family: One time, we had a small cooking class with the host family. We were 5 volunteers and we helped to chop veggies or learned to make plain rice, then we had a big meal with the entire family. It was so much fun.

Country: The country is absolutely gorgeous. Despite the monsoon clouds that hide a lot of the scenery, I was able to see a lot of the mountains and the natural beauty of the place. I don’t think I would have thought to come to Nepal without volunteering, but while I was here I traveled a lot and found some breathtaking sceneries along the road.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: At the airport, the ABV Coordinator was there right when I got off. He brought me directly to an ATM (although I was completely clueless as to how much money to get out and ended up not having enough) and he really helped with as much as possible which was very comfortable since this was my first time traveling alone and my first time in Nepal.

Orientation day: Orientation day really just gave a broad overview of what was life going to be like here. In the end, I do think I learned more throughout the week thought of experiencing it, but in all fairness, I had a 30-hour flight before so I was completely dazed.

Daily Support: Daily support is pretty good if we need anything we just have to ask and for every question the ABV coordinator was able to provide us with a clear answer that made the whole trip a lot easier. Other volunteers at the house were also great support when I needed something so it was great to be sharing a room with them.

Gap Year Teaching

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

The information was pretty complete, although I wish I would have read it more carefully. It has everything that I needed to prepare for the trip, it would be good though to include that it’s possible to go on trips on the weekend so that we could prepare for that.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? Yes

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Nepal Kathmandu Review

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

Full name (first and last): Mark Wohlford Age: 58

What do you do (study or work, where): Oral Surgeon

Where are you from (city and country): Evansvive, indiana, USA

1.1. – Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: My wife is from Nepal and my daughter had never been.

What program: Dental

Why this program: That is my profession.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

Program: The prevalence of caries in children.

Host Family: The host family was very gracious and shared their home.

Country: The economy is expanding. There is construction everywhere.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

Program: The inability to fulfill all the needs of the patients we saw.

Host Family: I had no difficulties with the Host Family.

Country: Roads and Traffic.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: Wear layers and Comfortable shoes.

Sightseeing: Hire a guide at historical sites. This allows you to get more out of your time.

Laundry/internet: Internet was surprisingly good at the host house.

Gap Year Nepal

5. Other things volunteers should know about:

a.- City/town: There is a lot of dust. Be careful if you have respiratory problems.

b.- Weather: March weather is ideal. Not too hot or cold.

c.- Local People: Very little English spoken on the streets.

d.- Tours: Use tour guides.

6. Personal Paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible:

I have volunteered in the United States and in other countries. Nepal is a beautiful country with wonderful people. It was a fabulous experience to share with my wife and daughter. Nepal has changed a lot since my last visit over 20 years ago.

7. How would you describe your:

Accommodation: Very nice facility with a lot of space and privacy.

Meals (favorite): We eat Nepali food at home and enjoyed the quality and Flavors.

Security: I have never felt so safe traveling internationally.

Host family: It was nice to spend meal times with such a nice family.

Dentists Without Borders

8. What was your memory of this trip?

Program: The monastery was a very special place. I was surprised that it functions as a school/ worship/ orphanage

Host Family: Every morning and night we met with the coordinator and planned. He was very flexible.

Country: The Nepalese people are very gracious and friendly.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff, and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: He was available on time with enough space for everyone.

Orientation day: We were well oriented as to the customs and the program for the week.

Daily Support: Everyday food and transportation were excellent.

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Review Nepal Kathmandu

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

Full name (first and last): Manisha Wohlford Age: 20

Full Time Student at Saint Louis University

from: St. Louis, Mo, USA

1.1. – Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I choose Nepal because my mom grew up in Nepal and I hadn’t seen the country yet.

What program: The Dental Program

Why this program: I Choose the Dental Program because I want to pursue a career in dentistry. I liked the idea of doing dentistry with my dad in my mom’s home country.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

Program: I was surprised at the number of cavities in the school children. Only two of the 300 had teeth without cavities to the naked eye.

Host Family: The host family was very kind. They were very pleasant to talk to. They gave us an insider perspective on the current state of Nepal.

Country: This was my first time in Nepal and I was honestly very surprised by the conditions of the roads and the amount of litter. There were not many beggars, this is unlike big cities in India.

Gap Year Nepal

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

Program: I would have liked to spend more time volunteering in schools and monasteries. I was disappointed that we only did this two of the seven days here.

Host Family: I experienced no difficulties with the host family.

Country: I found myself wanting to pick up every piece of trash I saw, I wish there was a way for me to change littering laws in Nepal. Also, the roads were rough.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: Bring a pair of hiking shoes, flip-flops, tennis shoes. Bring Hiking Pants.

Sightseeing: Go to Kapan Monastery, Pashupatinath, and Swoyambunath

Donations: Brings Books for Library.

Laundry/internet: I was not here long enough to do Laundry, but the internet worked well.

5. Other things volunteers should know about:

a.- City/town: Kathmandu is beautiful and Trip advisor is a great source to use to find out places to explore.

b.- Weather: it was warm in March

c.- Local People: The local People are so nice, don’t need to worry much about theft, use common sense.

d.- Tours: I recommend using a tour guide.

6. Personal Paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible:

This was my first volunteer trip, and I think I am now hooked. Seeing the joy on each monk’s face as we did dental exams warmed my soul. I was so overjoyed that I could contribute to their smiling faces. Seeing the amount of dental care the students in the school needed opened my eyes to the importance of dental outreach and began the dialogue in my head about how to serve the world I live in.

Volunteering in Nepal

7. How would you describe your:

Accommodation: Clean and Spacious.

Meals (favorite): I love the traditional Nepali dinner. Aloo Mattar pickle is my favorite.

Security: I always felt safe.

Host family: Very warm, friendly and accommodating.

8. What was your memory of this trip?

Program: There is a lot of dental work to be done in Nepal.

Host Family: We had great conversations.

Country: I Love Nepal and I will be back for certain.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff, and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: The coordinator promptly picked us up from the airport and brought us home.

Orientation day: The orientation was nice, gave a nice overview of what to expect.

Daily Support: Our coordinator helped us plan each day the night before.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to

traveling?

The emails were descriptive. I think future volunteers should learn basic Nepali terms and phrases before coming.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes!

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Volunteer Nepal

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

• Full name (first and last): Dr. Chaitali Minama, Age: 28
• What do you do (study or work, where): MHA Student in TWU (USA)
• Where are you from (city and country): Houston / Texas

1.1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

• Why Nepal: I am Indian Origin. As of my culture it is always good to serve neighbours. Nepal is neighbour country to India. Culture and system are same so wanted to serve neighbours.
• What program: Dental Volunteering Program.
• Why this program: As a profession, I am (Indian) Dentist. I am trying to obtain DDS certification in states and serving under serve country give big opportunities to polish the skills.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

• Program: I did not find anything surprising because I was well prepared for the culture and was aware about the dental health.
• Host Family: They are very helpful, homely feeling. They try their best to help and provide enough information.
• Country: Beautiful country, lots of things to explore. Friendly people and lots to learn from the culture.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

• Program: I found all pretty much smooth, flexible and adaptable.
• Host Family: Getting hot water in such cold weather (December).
• Country: Transportation due to roads are under construction.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

• Clothing: In December or January please bring warm cloths, better boots, and extra pair of blankets. Read about the weather before coming.
• Sightseeing: Nepal is very beautiful country, full of nature. Must go to Boudha Stupa, Pashupatinath temple and Monkey temple (Swayambhunath temple).
• Donations: I made donation like picture books for library and few tooth brush & paste for kids.
• Laundry/internet: 24*7 Internet and also facility to send laundry

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

1. City/town: Roads and Map. 90 % people understand Hindi, 70% young generation speaks English. People are helpful around.
2. Weather: Too cold day in December. Morning and late evenings are more colder than afternoon. Chances of getting Flu, cold and sore throat is very common. Stomach upset is second most common illness happens.
3. Local People: They are friendly and helpful. Try to talk in Hindi or English. Try to avoid late night travel.
4. Tours: I have not done any but heard there are many options available for tours like Chitwan , Pokhara  etc

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

Till now everything went smooth and as I expected. This is life-changing experience for me. I got opportunity to explore my own self. I came to know that love, happiness; smile and help are away from nationality, culture, skin color or language. Love and help do not need communication. I am too much satisfied with my work at dental clinic. Serving local people as Doctor and spreading smile made my days. People here are open and happy to greet you. They are kind hearted and helpful. This experiences a lifelong mark in my life story.

7. How would you describe your: 

• Accommodation: Great, clean, spacious, comfortable, safe, easily accessible for transportation with enough amenities and facilities.
• Meals (favorite): Good food, traditional, definitely hygienic enough to make you feel full, homely felling.
• Security: The accommodation is in good neighborhood. Host family make sure you arrived, try to reach you if you not around. They are responsible as family.
• Host family: Kind hearted, always smiling face, warm welcoming people with cultural support and open-minded. Mrs. Sarita is very caring and friendly. The host father is really helpful and informative. They try to make your stay memorable and comfortable. I never had any issue.

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

• Program: Friendly dental staff and co-dentists. Lots of OPD, many extractions, RCT, scaling, filling, pulpectomy, surgical extraction, CPD, RPD, Crowns and Apecectomy.
• Host Family: Food and their four-year toddler. Their smiley faces and fresh back home food.
• Country: Nature, beauty, roads, fruits, Momos, chicken chowmine, Temples, buses. Orphan house at Jorpati, Rudraksha etc.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

• Airport: the coordinator was in contact with me through messages before I arrived. I found in just at the gate of airport with A Broader View board and my name printed on it. It was very easy to find him in crowds.
• Orientation day: It was very detailed and informative. As he explained with map, power point it was very helpful. The culture, weather, local area, work place everything is covered. Demo till the volunteering site is too much helping.
• Daily Support: They are always in contact through messages. They make sure you are around and safe. They go extra mile to help you and fulfill our needs.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling?

Everything was enough and helpful. Just more about the weather updates and precaution measures for dust & pollution in Kathmandu. Do your own search about the country, weather, keywords and phrases to learn.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 

Yes

Volunteer Nepal

1. Hi Tell us about you:

• Full name (first and last): Jacklyn Chu, Age: 23
• What do you do (study or work, where): Dentistry, Australia
• Where are you from (city and country): Brisbane Australia

1.1. Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

• Why Nepal: Heard from friends that the people are very friendly………………
• What program:  Dental Volunteering

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

• Program: Helpful people.
• Host Family: Feel really good. Sarita is very cooperative; prepare my favourite food and hot water every day.
• Country: Bus is so crowded during the peak hours but easy to adopt because the bus drivers are helpful in guiding us.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

• Program: Program went smoothly but there were limited things that were available for me to do because of the limited time , despite being able to offer a lot.
• Host Family: Cold! But they provided me with extra blankets.
• Country: Air pollution – kept coughing due to construction.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

• Clothing: Long sleeves and pants so you won’t be dirty.
• Sightseeing: Must see the UNESCO sites. Sudhir can tell you more on this.
• Donations: Gloves, masks, books.
• Laundry/internet: Cheap. Sometimes slow 3G.

5. Other things volunteers should know about:

• a.- City/town: Thamel is good. Bring face masks. Food is so good always try new things.
• b.- Weather: Hot in the day. Cold at night, pack adequately.
• c.- Local People: Kind but language barriers – download translator on phone.
• d.- Tours: Didn’t go on tours. Explore yourself enough with your best friend.

Volunteering in Nepal

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible:

Staffs at dental hospital were so welcoming and kind. Bought us food and drinks, introduced us to many good food and phrases to interact with the patients. Did extractions, pulpectomy, fillings, etc. Great if I could have done more but sadly no, due to language barrier. If stayed longer, could have done more. I only stayed for a week.

7. How would you describe your:

• Accommodation: Sarita is very helpful. A lot of privacy at home/room, locker facility  and good family to be with.
• Meals (favorite): Traditional Nepali meal. 3 veg + rice + roti + lentil
• Security: Safe house.
• Host family: Welcoming, considerate, thoughtful.

8. What was your memory of this trip?

• Program: Staffs were really nice.
• Host Family: Nice
• Country: Beautiful architectures (earthquake/constructions/traffic)

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

• Airport: Welcoming, Easy, Fast, Efficient.
• Orientation day: Helped us with SIM card, transport etc. Comprehensive
• Daily Support: Answered all our question. Very Helpful

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling?

Adequate

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Okay!

Volunteer Nepal

1. How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?

They were very thorough in explaining every aspect of my stay from the working condition, to commute, to things to do during weekend. They made me feel like I’m home and not feel home sick.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

The most surprising thing was the fact that I actually found friends of a lifetime. My colleagues actually got me gift and cake when I was leaving which showed me how close we got and also made me really sad to leave them

3. What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

Probably the most difficult thing would be the language barrier since at the dental hospital patients would communicate in Nepali language and I did not know any Nepali. But on the bright side, I would ask dentists and they would translate for me so I did not have any difficulty understanding the situation. I would recommend having Nepali language immersion class.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)

As for the recommendations, I would recommend volunteers to bring clothing especially during hot months and anyways they would be able to buy light, cheap cloths here. So I wouldn’t recommend bringing many suitcases.

4.1 Other things volunteers should know:

• Try to read on sightseeing locations in advance and know how long it would take to get there.
• Always negotiate with the cab.
• Don’t walk late at night …..

5. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):

I loved my stay with the coordinator and his family. They are very caring and helpful and like a second family to me. My work environment was great and people were really friendly. I would definitely come back to Nepal with my family and spend more time here.

Volunteer Reviews

6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?

Everything was perfect. The meals were delicious and as little spicy since I can’t handle spicy food. Also they made me feel very comfortable at home and if I needed to go somewhere they made sure I know my way.

7. What was your memory of this trip?

Great and kind people at work and at home and beautiful nature outside Kathmandu.

8. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?

I received plenty of emails regarding my trip explaining every step of the way and the information. I needed to know about accommodation and condition of living so the emails were very thorough.

9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes.

Volunteering opportunities in  Nepal

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

Full name (first and last): Elok Cheung

What do you do (study or work, where): 5^th year Dental student at Hong Kong

Where are you from (city and country): Hong Kong

1.1. – Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I choose Nepal because I’ve never been to this country and I know that it is very different to my home town. I wanted to learn more about their historical monuments and the way they practice Dentistry.

What program: Volunteering at a Dental Hospital in Kathmandu.

Why this program: As a Dental student I would like to learn more about how Dentistry is practiced in Nepal and whether there are any similarities and differences. Also I wanted to compare public awareness of local people with patients back in Hong Kong and weather the problems they face are similar or not. Moreover I wanted to expand my knowledge from the local Dentists and help treat people in need.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: I found that the most surprising thing is that the way of practice in terms of technique and materials used were rather similar to Hong Kong. Also I was surprised by how friendly the Doctors and staff were and they were eager to get to know us and exchange knowledge as much as we were eager to know them.

Host Family: One of the most surprising things was how generous and selfless our host family was. They would always be there for advice when we needed them and even invited us to participate in their festivals with their family. Although I was miles away from home I felt familiarity and love that this family gave me like I was one of their own.

Country: Definitely the people I did not expect so many people in Nepal to be so friendly. In Hong Kong, it is uncommon to talk to strangers and we held our guards up. However we found to realize that these local strangers would go out of their way to help us and translate for us. I was also surprised at how festive the people were and how much effort they would pay into their preparation and we were captivated by their unique traditions.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: As we came during a festival season. The number of patients who came was much less than expected. So we did not have much practical work to do. But again we get to do some independent treatments.

Host Family: In terms of host family, ABV provided us with a comprehensive guide and we were prepared. I was actually impressed with the facilities here.

Country: The most difficult things we encountered were traffic and pollution. After the big earthquake in 2015 many of the roads were left with bumps and cracks which made the ride rather slow and sometimes uncomfortable. I was also surprised at seeing how many people they can fit into a local micro van as there were people bending over another to get on. However, these difficulties soon became rather endearing and we too found ourselves enjoying our daily transportation. The air pollution in Kathmandu is also quite bad so I would definitely wear a mask when the windows are down.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: As we came in summer, I recommend wearing short sleeve t-shirts and a pair of long, loose trousers. If you would like to purchase local wear there’re many shops where you can do so at an affordable price.

Sightseeing: You should definitely take the Domestic flight to see Mount Everest. It is a breath taking view and it was worth every second of the flight. It was truly one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen.

Donations: Make sure you donate to credible organizations because there’re many people who try to scam you on the streets. You can even bring resources to donate to government hospitals as they do lack certain necessities e.g. gloves, masks etc. Although we did not visit any orphanages during our short stay, you can bring toys and books to donate to them and leave them at the home stay for someone to collect.

Laundry/internet: We mainly hand washed our clothes and the breeze in Nepal means that they dry quickly. The internet at the homestay was fast and consistent, but if you’re worried Sudhir can bring you to buy a phone card with a data plan.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

a.- City/town: Be careful of your personal belongings, especially money because 1000 rupees may not be worth much to you, but it is a lot to some local people. Although it is quite rare to have your things stolen, try not to flash your valuable around.

b.- Weather: The weather is good here most of the time, but roads can get quite muddy after rain. So bring some waterproof and less easily tainted shoes.

c.- Local People: Bring a torch if you plan to walk out at night as there’re not many streetlights. Also we’ve found that you can bargain for better currency exchange rates, so bring bigger bank notes as they can give you good rates, if you have USD 100 or 50.

d.- Tours: If you’re unsure where to go spend your weekend, you can always ask the host for advice. It’s advisable to rent a car for the days as saves you the time of bargaining and find transportation.

Volunteering in Nepal

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

The trip to Kathmandu is one to remember. Throughout these 2 weeks, I have not only grown as a dental student, but as a person. The people we have met here have greatly impacted my experience and I find myself enjoying the stay more and more each day. Perhaps we were not able to do much volunteer work because we stayed for short time , but we gained a lot of insight into the local practices here and We were able to do an extraction case, a minor oral surgery, some scaling and impression, which were enjoyable experiences. We even got to observe an enucleation of cyst, which never seen before.

I found myself looking forward to seeing different procedures and talking to the staff every day. I have never felt such compassion in a community and it is very different to our urban cit life, but I find their laid back way of life refreshing change. For sure, I would like to be back in Nepal in a few years time and I’m looking forward to seeing their reconstruction and development. I wish Nepal and its wonderful people all the best.

Volunteers can also join the Nepalese language immersion course if they would like to communicate better with the patients.

7. How would you describe your: 

Accommodation: Much better than expected! Everything is clean and the rooms are spacious. The toilet is also much cleaner than any ones you can find outside. If there’s anything you need, the host family will try their best to assist you.

Meals (favorite): Chicken butter masala, JU JU Dhau from Bhaktapur & Mutton sha hl karma were amongst my favorites. The home stay also offers western style breakfast in case you’re feeling a little homesick!

Security: I had not felt any sense of danger during my stay here. Especially in the home stay, we didn’t even feel the need to lock away our personal belongings. Although, as mentioned before, try not to flash your valuable around too often in public.

Host family: The best I can ask for! Sudhir and Sarita were always so welcoming and treated us with kindness. They would cook delicious meals for us every day and let us eat before they did. They would always make sure we are safe and we know how to get around the city. Their toddler is also very, very cute!

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

Program: The thing that I would remember most about the program are the Local Dentists and staff who are amazingly friendly. They not only share their own experiences with us, they would also ask about our own practices. We could see their dedication to their profession and we admire their work ethics. The staffs were also very nice and frequently bought us local food to try. Without these generous and kind hearted people, the experience would’ve certainly been very different. I’m thankful for all the fantastic people I’ve met and I hope to keep in contact with them and allow us to show them our country and return the favor.

Host Family: My favourite memory was celebrating Teej (Girl’s Festival) with the family. They took us out to shop for nice dresses and gave us beautiful bangles and taught us their traditional dances. By the end of the night, we were exhausted as we danced the night away. I can feel just how close their families are here and how much they value tradition. This experience was a highlight of my trip and I felt as if I was one of them and I had so much fun.

Country: My favourite memory was seeing Mount Everest on the flight, and also integrating into the local community. As we approach the end of our stay, I look back at all the first time experiences I have had here. After 2 weeks, we’ve slowly changed ourselves and our expectations and we find our difficulties & turn into everyday normal life. I never thought I would be used to the culture here, but I can truly say I will miss this place when I return home. There’s so much I can write about but I can tell you that it won’t be the same from you experiencing if yourself.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: Sudhir was already waiting for us right at the entrance and recognized us before we even stepped out of the exit. Although we arrived late at night, he was very prepared and helped us organize transportation back to his home.

Orientation day: Our orientation day was an unforgettable one. We experienced public transport for the first time and we visited many local temples and main tourist attractions. We got to familiarize ourselves with the city, other volunteers and the hosts.

Daily Support: Sudhir would check up on us every day to make sure we’re fine. We also experienced some difficulties when we went out and needed some advice and transportation and the host family is always just a phone call away.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to

traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

Very detailed and sufficient. They also respond to any enquiries very quickly.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 

Yes, definitely!

Volunteer Nepal:

What Program did you choose and why?

Medical because I want to go into the medical field.

How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?

In one word, I would say excellent. The host family here was incredibly welcoming, helpful and very very nice. They definitely made me feel a part of the family. We got a few emails checking in from a broader view as well which was very nice.

What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

How nice everyone was. Everybody loves talking to us and they were very willing to teach and very helpful.

What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

I would say adjusting to the culture. The food, transportation, and just the overall lifestyle is so different than anything I have ever experienced. I don’t think it was a bad thing by any means but it just took some getting fed to.

Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)

I would say if you are coming in July like I did or just the summer in general don’t bring a big sleeping bag or tons of clothes for cold weather like the packing list says. It is always hot and Im from Idaho.

Other things volunteers should know:

If you are volunteering at the hospital. The list says to bring a white coat or scrubs any color. Nobody at the hospital wears scrubs, just regular clothes and a white coat. If you want do want to wear scrubs the nursing director wants them to be blue.

ABV: we recommend the scrubs or coat as this si what volunteers use to be different from the local staff. Follow the guides.

Volunteer Medical

Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):

Overall I loved my experience here and time spent at the hospital. It was different than what I was expecting, but it definitely exceded my expectations. I did language immersion classes which were very helpful.

How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?

The house here is very nice. I was very comfortable here, felt very safe and sarita the host ‘mom’ is an excellent cook.

What was your memory of this trip?

My memory of this trip is a good one. All of the nice people, great hikes and fun times at the hospital is something I’ll remember forever.

How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?

Overall the information from ABV was very good. The only thing that could I mentioned before the medical stuff I’d recommend not bringing scrubs, you won’t need more than one box of gloves and bring masks (one of each per week) that protect against TB because we’ve not immunized and regular masks don’t protect against that.

Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes.

Volunteer Abroad Nepal

What Program did you choose and why?

Medical Program because as an art student science + health isn’t a subject I get to witness very  often and I was curious to what I might learn.

How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?

The local coordinator and his family were very very kind. We had everything we needed to feel at home and guided us through navigating our daily routine as well as other adventures. Sudhir is a very good map drawer. When we were getting eaten alive by mosquitoes he bought us a bug zapping tennis racket which turned into quite the mosquito zapping game.

What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

May be not the most surprising but the most inspiring the people here in Nepal are the most cheerful, kind trusting people I have ever met. Everyone is so eager to help you find your way if your lost or help you over puddles of mud.

What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

As an art student I didn’t anticipate the gnarly things I would see, I didn’t think I was squeamish around blood. Apparently, I was at first. I had to give myself a few pep talks but after a while you get used to it.

Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)

The thing that I’ve found is on many blog posts on the internet they’ll tell you to bring loose fitting cotton pants and t-shirts but really wear what you wear at manager as long as you’re covering your knees and somewhat of your shoulders.

If you are in the medical program we wore scrubs but it would have been easier just to wear what you want and just put a white medical coat over that.

Other things volunteers should know:

Close to the community hospital where you’ll be working if you were in the medical program. There’s a large stupa you can walk around shop, eat. Its most off the crazy main road of Kathmandu but this place is peaceful and a nice escape.

Volunteer Review

Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):

My favorite part of this trip was getting to know the workers in the hospital as well as others in the community. Every person we met added something more to our trip. For example we had a

very helpful language immersion class and our teacher brought us to her aunt’s house who had three cows all of which they let us name which I thoughts was pretty cool. In the hospital we

Witnessed many surgeries one of which was woman that had a gangrenious toe and I got a front and center view of its amputation as well as her follow ups with the doctors.

How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?

Accommodations, meals and security was excellent. I was more than comfortable. The meals are delicious and as far as security, I never felt unsafe.

What was your memory of this trip?

I wished I could have signed up for a longer stay. I am not ready to leave the friends I have made and there is so much to see in Nepal and I feel I have only experiences a pinch of it.

How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?

The ABV staff was very responsible but a few things to note * Hospital Uniform * Bring masks protecting you from TB, most Americans are not immunized.

Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes! I am more than willing to answer any questions anyone has.