Cambodia: Nov. 1 – 15, 2014

Overview

The Kids Play Int’l Volunteer Trip is the ideal opportunity to inspire, educate and explore!   On this 14-day adventure we’ll be sharing our love of sports with Cambodian children by volunteering at schools, orphanages and community centers along with visiting the famous archeological site of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom along with the National Museum , Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Museum.

Led by one of our fabulous KPI Olympic Athlete Ambassadors, each day will bring its share of new experiences and adventures.

When you decide to travel with a purpose with Kids Play Int’l, you’re in for a trip of a lifetime. Get ready to be inspired

The Cambodian Spirit “Despite having the eighth wonder of the world in its backyard, Cambodia’s real treasure is its people. The Khmers have been to hell and back, struggling through years of bloodshed, poverty and political instability. Thanks to an unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, they have prevailed with their smiles intact. No visitor comes away without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this enigmatic kingdom.”  – Lonely Planet

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/cambodia#ixzz2GfLF8N1t

Itinerary

Nov 1          Depart U.S.

Nov 2         Arrive Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Nov 3         Volunteer Orientation; Visit National Museum, Walk the Waterfront, Markets

Nov 4         Excursion: Visit Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Nov 5          Drive to Battam Bang; Visit Women’s Center

Nov 6          Volunteer Women’s & Kid’s Center

Nov 7         Drive to Siem Reap

Nov 8          Volunteer at Spitler Secondary School, Read More…

Nov 9         Excursion: Temple Day: Visit the Famous Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and more!

Nov 10          Spitler Community Day

Nov 11          Volunteer: Kurata School

Nov 12        Volunteer: Kurata School

Nov 13          River Trip

Nov 14         Open Day, Departures out of Siem Reap

Nov 15          Arrive Home

Included

Trip Includes:

  • Accommodations
  • Transportation to and from airport, volunteering sites and excursions.
  • Breakfasts

Trip does NOT Include:

  • Airline ticket
  • Travel insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Visa/Passports
  • Any personal incidentals
  • Lunch/Dinners
  • Transport to/from dinner unless specified in itinerary.
  • Bus driver tip to be given at the end of trip.

2015 Trip Leader TBD 

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Jaime is an Olympic Silver Medalist and two-time World Champion in water polo. Visiting Rwanda as an Athlete Ambassador with Kids Play Int’l in 2012 and Trip Leader in 2013, and recently to Cambodia for research, Jaime knew that she wanted to share her experience of  traveling with a purpose and become a Trip Leader for Kids Play Int’l.

Jaime founded Athlete.Yogi.Traveler with her husband, Matt, who will also be leading this trip.

Certified in pilates, yoga, spin, and stand up paddling, she will be combining her passion for fitness, traveling, and inspiring others, to lead you on this unforgettable adventure!

FAQ

[toggle title_open=”What airport do I fly into and out of?” title_closed=”What airport do I fly into and out of?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]We fly INTO Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and OUT Siem Reap International Airport (REP).[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Where is Cambodia?” title_closed=”Where is Cambodia?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Cambodia is located right in the middle of South East Asia and a central southern part of the Indochina Peninsula.  It shares its border with 3 equally amazing countries with the Thailand to the North and West, and Vietnam to the South and East while Laos is at the North. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Do I need a passport/visa?” title_closed=”Do I need a passport/visa?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Yes, a valid passport and Visa are required to enter Cambodia. Visas however, can be obtained upon arrival at the airport for $20 USD.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”How safe is Cambodia?” title_closed=”How safe is Cambodia?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”] We completely understand the question about safety and want each volunteer to feel fully educated and safe while traveling. According to Lonely Planet , “As memories of war grow ever more distant, Cambodia has become a much safer country in which to travel. Remembering the golden rule – stick to the marked paths in remote areas – means you’d be very unlucky to have any problems”. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What type of vaccinations do I need?” title_closed=”What type of vaccinations do I need?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]It is recommended to make an appointment with your physician or a health care provider before leaving on any international trip.

Refer to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website for the most updated list of required and recommended vaccinations. LINK:  http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/cambodia.htm [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What is the currency and current exchange rate?” title_closed=”What is the currency and current exchange rate?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]The Cambodian currency is called Riel. However, most Cambodians use US dollars as well as their own currency. Most all shops and restaurants quote prices in US dollars.  [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What language is spoken in Cambodia?” title_closed=”What language is spoken in Cambodia?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]The official language of Cambodia is Khmer.  [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Do I need travel insurance?” title_closed=”Do I need travel insurance?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]We STRONGLY recommend purchasing travel insurance. If you choose Travelex, you can call 1.800.228.9792.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What is the weather like?” title_closed=”What is the weather like?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Like most of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is warm to hot year round.  We are traveling during the cool and end of the wet season.   Cool is a relative term in Southeast Asia, temperatures will still be in the upper 80’s to low 90’s with high humidity.  By October the frequency of rain is usually dropping off considerably, but it’s still recommended to bring a light raincoat!  [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Any special fitness requirements for this trip?” title_closed=”Any special fitness requirements for this trip?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Our Kids Play Int’l Volunteer Trips are active and do require a general level of healthy physical fitness. However, we are happy to accommodate all fitness levels and interests. We will be walking, wandering, playing the days away! If you have any injuries or special requirements, please consult your physician first. Also, please let us know at the time of inquiry.[/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What is the food like?” title_closed=”What is the food like?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]One of the best ways to experience a culture is to experience the food. However, Siem Reap and Phenom Penh both have a diverse number of restaurants that will accommodate all types of food likes. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”What should I bring?” title_closed=”What should I bring?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]We recommend bringing clothing that you would not mind leaving behind.  You may choose to donate your clothing at the end of your trip. Please avoid bringing expensive, valuable or flashy jewelry. [/toggle]

[toggle title_open=”Do you have a suggested packing list?” title_closed=”Do you have a suggested packing list?” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Oh, do we! Here is a thoroughly extensive list of suggested items to bring. Please note that there are a few required items .

LUGGAGE

*  1 Personal Duffel bag/ Suitcase- please pack conservatively,

*  1 Large Duffel w/ donations to leave behind

*  Small backpack/tote for day to day outings

 

YOU MUST BRING

*  Passport

*  2 copies of Passport/ cc / Travel insurance info

*  Immunization record/ yellow health card

*  Emergency contact information

*  $250 USD Cash Minimum

*  Travel Insurance Card and info (IF purchased)

*  Money Belt or other safe way to carry money

 

CLOTHING – Overall you will need light weight clothing.

*  Tennis shoes/running shoes or sturdy Teva like sandals, Cotton Socks

*  Light Rain Jacket and Sweatshirt

*  Long Skirts or long shorts or Capris (to or below knees) for Women

*  Guys in shorts just above knee is fine

*  Skirts on women and nice pants and a shirt on men are the norms for special occasions

*  light sleepwear

*  T-shirts (tanks/sleeveless are not recommended in rural areas)

*  Volunteer clothes (clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty if we are working on projects in the village, gloves, etc.)

*  Jeans/Pants– going out to dinner at night (casual).

*  Hat and sunscreen!

TOILETRIES

*  Shampoo/ Conditioner/Soap

*  Toothpaste/Toothbrush

*  Lotion, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, nail clippers

*  Antibiotic Hand wipes / Hand Sanitizer

*  Razor, Feminine Products

*  Hair bands, Hair brush

*  BUG REPELLENT

 

SUGGESTED MEDICATIONS   Check with your own personal physician!                                        

*  Personal Medication, vitamins, etc.

*  Cipro

*  Pepto-Bismol/ Tums

*  Anti-itch/ bug bite cream

 

[/toggle]

Fundraise

Kids Play Int’l (KPI) encourages volunteers to begin their volunteering abroad experience with fundraising. Fundraising for your trip not only helps you fulfill your dream of volunteering abroad, it also helps promote awareness of international issues. Every conversation, letter, and event that explains where and why you plan to volunteer shows people your commitment to serving local communities abroad, and broadens communications about international service.

Fundraising can be a fun and creative part of the volunteer abroad experience, and many volunteers who fundraise feel an added sense of fulfillment and dedication to volunteering abroad.

ON-LINE FUNDRAISING, EASY AND MOST EFFECTIVE!

Get Started Now with an easy-to-use and free fundraising site.  Click on one of the options below to start fundraising!

Volunteer ForeverCrowdvanceGoFundMe

IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO INCLUDE

  •  General information about the nonprofit organization you will be traveling with.
  •  Donations are 100% Tax Deductible!
  •  Where you are going, for how long and what you will be doing.
  •  Let people know how much money you need to raise and that their donations are tax deductible.
  •  How you will share your experience during your trip or upon your return.

Hand-written or Formal Emails or letters

Hand-written letters or personalized emails to potential sponsors can also be effective, because it provides a personal touch especially when reaching out to friends and family, employers and work colleagues, or clubs.    A formal letter or email may be best when soliciting clubs, churches or temples, local banks, foundations and charitable organizations in your area, or larger organizations like The Rotary, Lions and Elks Clubs, Junior League, Junior Chamber, and The United Way.   OTHER IDEAS:  Bake sale, Car wash, etc.

FUNDRAISING  101

View Sample Fundraising Letter 

HOW TO BE AN EFFECTIVE FUNDRAISER! 

We recommend that you personalize every email/letter that you write with the recipient’s name.

  1. Make a list of everyone you know and all the local organizations and companies who might be able to donate. This list can include your family, friends, neighbors, contacts, etc., but can also inc  lude people from other aspects of your life, such as your place of employment, worship, school, doctors, teachers, neighborhood groups—anyone you think may be able to help sponsor your trip. Many local organizations or companies are eager to donate to causes like yours, so think outside the box! See if the company you are currently working with is willing to “match” what you are able to raise.
  1. Write out your goals and reasons for volunteering. This will be useful when you are talking to potential sponsors or writing fundraising letters, to explain how a contribution to your volunteer trip will make a positive impact. Learn all you can about issues facing the country and program site you will be visiting, so you can explain why you chose to volunteer there. Stress that this is not a vacation.
  1. Start early and create benchmarks. As soon as you make your deposit to participate on a volunteer trip, develop a fundraising plan and get started. Look at the total amount of money you need to raise, and set periodic goals that serve as benchmarks to keep you on target, for example, “$1,000 by February, $2,200 by June.”
  1. Ask for a specific amount of money. When you say “contribution”, some people are thinking $5, while others are thinking $500. Tell people how much you need, and let them know the total amount that you are hoping to fundraise. You may even want to outline the cost per day of your program (divide your total program fee by the number of days you will be gone.) and ask to be sponsored for at least one day.
  1. Convey a sense of urgency to potential sponsors. This limits their time to forget about giving you a contribution. Give your sponsors a specific date by which to get back to you, preferably at least four weeks before your final trip payment deadline. Put this date in your sponsor request and send them friendly reminders, with a note of how much closer you are to getting toward your goal.
  1.  Recognize your sponsors. Always thank your sponsors; they will appreciate the recognition and praise. Write a personalized thank you note to everyone who contributes. You can also post your sponsors on any of your social media outlets.
  1.  Online BLOG Sites to Get Started: Internet is typically available at most hotels, blogging is a great way to keep people informed about what you are doing during the trip! Here are some suggestions: www.travbuddy.comwww.blogger.comwww.wordpress.comwww.livejournal.com
  1. Host a get-together when you return and invite all your sponsors. A great way to secure funding from religious organizations, civic groups, alumni associations, and educational institutions is to offer to give a presentation when you return. Highlighting your service abroad and what you learned helps people understand how their contributions made a difference. Photos of you working overseas can speak volumes.

Book Now!  Cambodia: 2015 Dates, COMING SOON!

Price: $1999 per person (plus airfare)

  • $500 Deposit to secure your spot on the trip
  • Rate based on double occupancy
  • Single Supplement available
  • Please note: Kids under 18 must travel with parent, guardian, or chaperone.
  • Payment options: CREDIT CARD (additional processing fees apply) or CHECK:  Please make checks payable to Kids Play International and send to: Tracy Evans 1406 W. Meadow Loop Road, Park City, UT 84098.
  •  Questions?  Please Email: info@kidsplayintl.org
Click Here to Register Pay Now