By Teo Jing Wen
CAMBODIA - Before one can become a volunteer in Cambodia, potential volunteers must first apply for a Business (E) visa which lasts for 13 weeks, and go for health vaccinations. The commonly required vaccinations are Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Japanese Encephalitis and Typhoid. It is important to get vaccines as these diseases are easily contracted and fatal.
The Business (E) visa cost USD$1425, inclusive of airport pickup service, basic training, accommodation and transportation to the rural areas. With just US$100 per month, volunteers can get accommodation, food and basic necessities. As volunteers are only required to work for a minimum of four hours per day, they can spend the rest of the day on sightseeing etc. Entertainment and airfare expenditure are not included in the application fee.
From December to April, Cambodia experiences dry spell with temperatures soaring up to 40ºC. Volunteers are encouraged to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration and heatstroke. When teaching, volunteers are required to follow the dress code of short sleeve tops and knee length bottoms.
Volunteers are advised to have a portable first-aid kit to handle emergencies when travelling to rural areas. Such preparations can come in handy as medical aid are hard to come by in rural areas.
Personal gifts, games, storybooks, writing and teaching materials can be included in the packing list.
The volunteer placement organisation will take caution in arranging accommodations for the volunteers, but as street crimes are common in Cambodia, volunteers are advised to stay indoors at night. It is highly recommended to get insurance which covers the aspects of medical, accidents and crime.
For volunteers who require any medical assistance, quality medical facilities can be found in Phnom Penh, such as NAGA Clinic and the AEA International SOS. Despite medical assistance may be provided, volunteers are encouraged to bring along personal medication, as Cambodia faces a shortage of medical supplies. Volunteers are encouraged to remain in good conditions so that they can maximize their Cambodia trip.
Volunteers who wish to extend their stay in Cambodia are required to extend their visas at Phnom Penh Airport. Visa extension of six months to one year costs US$140 and US$260 respectively.
