Global Village Program FAQ's

How is a Global Village trip different than a normal holiday?
A Global Village trip is a holiday with a purpose. You will help to build a simple, decent and affordable home for a family in need. The homeowners and other volunteers will be working alongside you sharing your joys and frustrations. You will see another country and culture in a way that no tour group can provide. You will see it through the eyes of those who live there and sometimes struggle to survive there.

A Global Village trip is a true adventure. The adventure is found not only in discovering a different culture or learning a new skill, but also in learning more about yourself and what you can contribute to the world.

Do I need to have any special construction skills?
Anyone can join who has the enthusiasm and motivation to participate in a Global Village trip. No other skills are required. There will be supervisors on hand to show you how to build.

What kind of construction work would I do?
You could be mixing concrete or mortar, laying blocks, making window frames, digging foundations, plastering, painting, or gardening. The work will depend on the local construction techniques and the stage the building program has reached at the time of your trip.

What about sightseeing and time to relax?
Unlike tour groups, our itineraries are not highly structured. Itineraries are balanced with plenty of work, rest and free time. Your HFH hosts offer teams a "backdoor" welcome to their community and encourage teams to visit local cultural "treasures".

Where will I stay? What will I eat?
You will need to have a sense of adventure and be flexible. Depending on the particular trip, accommodation may be in the form of a shared room, a guesthouse, or even a tent! You will also have the opportunity to sample local cuisine. In fact, the evening meal on the last day of construction work is always a memorable celebration. There will also always be a plentiful supply of clean drinking water and we try to cater for specific dietary requirements.

How long is a Global Village trip?
It is approximately 2-3 weeks including travel, construction work and recreational activities.

What is the minimum age to participate?
We welcome applicants aged 18 years, or over. If you are aged between 16 and 18 you may apply but you will need to be accompanied by a parent or adult supervisor (subject to site restrictions).

What is the maximum age to participate?
There is no maximum age. However, you may be required to provide a physician’s statement of suitability.

What about health requirements?
Global Village trip can be physically demanding. Physical disability or a medical condition should not prevent you from taking part. If there is likely to be a problem we will let you know and suggest an alternative (e.g. another trip where medical facilities are more easily accessible).

What about safety on the build site?
Team safety is of paramount importance. We always try to minimize risk but should there be an accident, there will be access to qualified medical consultation and services regardless of your team’s location. Holiday medical insurance is also provided.

What kind of travel documents do I need?
You must hold a valid passport, which has at least 6 months left after you return home. Although you are responsible for obtaining your visas, you will be notified if one is required.

What is included in the cost?
Costs for participating in a Global Village trips are based on a general team member price excluding round-trip airfare. The country of origin and destination chosen determines the price. It includes lodging, food, ground transportation, cultural tours, travel insurance, orientation materials and a donation to Habitat for Humanity.