Madventurer.com

Challenge:

Building

Destination:

*Vietnam, Asia Combos

Departure Dates From:

01/01/1970

Developing education and sanitation facilities in rural areas 

With steamy rainforests, spectacular ruins and idyllic beaches, Vietnam has established itself as a major destination on the backpacker trail but still retains its original character and charm. With great food, friendly people and - with places like Halong Bay - some of Asia's most beautiful scenery, Vietnam will take your breath away.  

Please note that we are only operating bespoke group bookings in 2010 and 2011 in Vietnam.

You will be working in the Moc Chau district, high in the mountains of North West Vietnam. The project is looking to work alongside 3 villages and Moc Chau town who are undertaking Community-Based Eco-Tourism activities, including agro-tourism, in conjunction with SNV (Netherlands Development Organisation). This is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of ethnic minority communities while helping them to develop sustainable lifestyles.

Building

The core of each Madventurer project is the building work in the village. This is the most tangible contribution that a Mad projects makes to the community and forms a focus for the group.

The key to all mad building projects is the partnership between our team and the local community. Aside from the funding, the presence of your team of Venturers can be a great motivator to your new friends in the village as it demonstrates the importance of hard work, showing what can be achieved, even regardless of sex. Initially it can take time for villagers to get used to the idea that Venturers are prepared to work hard - especially girls - and actually want to help with manual labour, so you may find locals trying to do all the work for you. Once you explain that you genuinely want them to teach you the basic skills (e.g. how to mix cement or lay bricks), the partnership will develop, and everyone can get stuck in and work together.

There is a range of building activities that you will be able to get involved in. Those less keen on heavy building work usually take up the lighter, but equally important, work such as painting or plastering.

Further Links 

• Mad Photos 
• Mad Videos
• Full Trip Notes
• Weather Guide from bbc.co.uk
• Money Conversion from Oando.com
• InterHealth Pack - Click this link, register and then have access to a comprehensive health pack.
• Teaching Aid