20th – 27th April
Saturday: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Your build week begins today with your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City! Habitat will arrange your transfer from Ho Chi Minh City Airport to the hotel, where you have time to unpack and unwind. Take yourself on a walk to acquaint yourself with the city before heading back to the hotel for dinner. You will get to meet your fellow volunteers and Team Leader and share your excitement for the week ahead.
Sunday: Introduction to culture and community
After a good night’s sleep the team will depart for the build location of Dong Thap. Once you have checked into you hotel, you will assemble for an introduction and from Habitat for Humanity staff, who will give you a thorough orientation for the week ahead, including construction safety and building tips. After lunch, you will spend the afternoon familiarising yourself with the local community and culture through some activities and visits organised by Habitat. That evening, you’ll enjoy a special dinner with the team. Make sure you have a good rest to prepare for your first day on site the following day!
Monday: Begin construction of the house
Arriving on the build site for your first day of construction, you’ll meet the family whose home you will be helping to construct, and will have the opportunity to learn about their stories. The construction supervisor and local labourers will show you the ropes, and you can get started on the house construction. There will be rest breaks for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, which will all be provided on site. You can stop for a drink of water and a break as often as you need. At the end of the day, you’ll enjoy a team dinner and a well-earned rest!
Tuesday to Thursday: Full days building with your teammates
For the next few days you will see the new house take shape. You will be amazed at how much can be achieved in just one week. From laying bricks to mixing cement and rendering walls, there are plenty of ways to contribute. Each night we will take you to some local restaurants, where you can unwind with the team and get to know one another better. The evenings are a chance to relax and recharge your batteries for the following day’s work.
Friday: The handover ceremony and celebration
The final day of building is an emotional one. You will add the finishing touches to the house and maybe even add some celebratory decorations too. You will welcome the partner family to their new home and reflect together on the contribution that you have all made. You will share a special farewell lunch with the whole team and the partner families. After the ceremony, the team will depart Dong Thap back to Ho Chi Minh City. That evening, you will celebrate the team effort and the end of an incredible week at a special farewell dinner.
Saturday: Global Village concludes
Today you will depart for home or further adventures. You might like to combine your build with travel to other overseas destinations or indulge in some well-deserved R&R. Although your trip has come to a close, you will be left with amazing memories and long lasting friendships that will keep the experience alive.