Spending 6-12 weeks travelling and volunteering in South East Asia gives you the chance to truly embrace the rich culture of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bali. You’ll have the opportunity to dive deep into each country’s history and become part of the local communities. Rather than just passing through, you’ll live in these countries, making a lasting positive impact while immersing yourself in the experience. Volunteer in Asia on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, and choose the trip duration, volunteer projects, and travel experiences that best suit you.
Encounter Highlights
- Travel Across Vietnam, Cambodia & Bali For 6, 9 Or 12 Weeks
- Choose From Childcare, Teaching, Medical & Wildlife Projects
- Support Local Communities & Advance The UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Build Confidence, Independence & Friendships Through Shared Experiences
- Gain Practical Experience While Volunteering Across 3 Unique Destinations
- Enjoy A Structured & Social Group Experience With Support Throughout
- Explore Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Vietnam’s Famous Food, Markets & Scenery
- Discover Cambodia Through Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh & Its Tropical Islands
- Explore Bali’s Rice Paddies, Beaches, Gili Islands, Ubud Town & Mount Batur
- Experience Asian Culture Through Local Food, Temples, Markets & Traditions
Program Map
How It Works
The Real South East Asia Encounter offers start dates throughout the year. Participants can choose the trip duration that suits them best when applying for volunteer work in Asia. Options include 6, 9, and 12-week experiences in South East Asia. All programs begin on the first and third Wednesday of each month, though alternative start dates may be available upon request.
If you select the 6-week option, you'll spend 2 weeks volunteering in each of Vietnam, Cambodia and Bali. For the 9-week Real South East Asia Encounter, you'll volunteer for 3 weeks in each destination. The 12-week program allows you to stay for 4 weeks in each of the three countries.
Volunteers are responsible for arranging their flights to match their country-specific trip dates. You'll need to book your inbound flight to Vietnam at the start of the Real South East Asia Encounter and your outbound flight from Bali at the end of the program.
Additionally, you’ll need to arrange your intermediary flights for your Real South East Asia Encounter. Specifically, you will need to book flights from Vietnam to Cambodia and from Cambodia to Bali, ensuring they match the trip dates. While this may seem a bit complex, the PMGY team is always here to help with any flight-related questions.
Throughout your Real South East Asia Encounter, you'll meet a variety of other travellers and volunteers, with the number and type of people changing as you move from country to country. This will give you the chance to make lasting friendships and share memorable experiences with fellow adventurers!
During the online application process, you can select from any of the standard South East Asia volunteer programs in each country. Please note that some volunteer projects may have limited availability, and you should choose only one project per destination. Some projects may also have additional costs, which will be clearly stated next to the project option during the application process. You can explore all the volunteer opportunities in each destination below. Your 6-12 week adventure will be truly unforgettable!
🇻🇳 Volunteer in Vietnam (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your first stop will be Vietnam, a country described by Lonely Planet as ‘astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling’. With its breathtaking natural beauty and unique heritage, Vietnam quickly becomes an addictive destination for adventure travellers. However, the country still faces challenges, particularly poverty.
Volunteers are essential, and you can choose where you’d like to make a difference. While Ho Chi Minh City is located in the south, we believe the greatest positive impact can be made in Hanoi. As a result, our volunteer programs in Vietnam are based in Hanoi and its surrounding communities.
Whether you’re supporting children at the Friendship Village or teaching English to a community class, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference. There is so much positive work to be done in the vibrant city of Hanoi. You can select your volunteer in Vietnam project during the online application process.
🇻🇳 Volunteer Projects in Vietnam
Vietnam Childcare
Background to the Childcare Program
As a participant on the childcare volunteer abroad program in Vietnam, you will support one of two project types during your time. Volunteers work with a variety of facilities in and around Hanoi, including childcare centres and organisations that care for children and young adults with disabilities.
In Vietnam, as in many developing countries, disabled individuals often lack access to the support they need. Nearly seven million people in Vietnam (approximately 8% of the population) live with disabilities. We partner with projects in Hanoi that offer critical care and assistance to these groups. Volunteers collaborate with local staff to enhance their efforts, improving the opportunities and quality of care provided to the children and young adults.
Volunteering with disabled individuals can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. These projects call for creativity, emotional resilience, and resourcefulness to make a meaningful impact. Through your dedication, you will not only change their lives but also gain an invaluable perspective that will leave a lasting impact on your own. This is a chance to use your skills to truly support others.
In the childcare centres we support, the goal of a volunteer work in Vietnam is to assist with daily caregiving tasks while nurturing the children’s English language abilities, confidence, and communication skills. Volunteers may take on roles such as teaching basic English, organising fun activities, and helping with practical tasks like mealtimes.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Friendship Village – Friendship Village is a living, health, and educational centre supporting children and adults affected by Agent Orange, as well as providing healthcare to war veterans. Founded in 1992 by American veteran George Mizo, the centre aims to repair the damage caused by Agent Orange during the America-Vietnam War. The complex includes two living quarters, two classroom buildings, a health centre, and a vegetable garden where much of the food is grown on-site.
The centre is home to 120 residents aged 4-40, hailing from across Vietnam. Residents face a range of disabilities, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, physical deformities, and severe mental disabilities. Volunteers contribute by collaborating with teaching staff to develop ideas and techniques, structuring lessons, evaluating students, and updating profiles. Volunteers may also teach English to staff, teachers, and residents.
Khanh Tam Day Care Centre – Established in 2006, this centre provides early detection and care for mentally impaired children, supporting around 80-90 children aged 1-12. The centre features four key programs:
Early Intervention: For children aged 2-5, this program focuses on basic skills like communication and social interaction to help integrate them into society.
Primary/Elementary Program: For children aged 6-12, focusing on reading, writing, and basic maths.
School Function Program: For children aged 6-12 who cannot study a standard curriculum.
Living Skills Program: For individuals aged 10-16 to develop essential life skills for the future.
Volunteers begin in an observational role to understand the project and the children’s abilities. Gradually, they take on a more hands-on role, assisting with and running class activities. Volunteers are encouraged to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the centre. Note: This project requires a minimum commitment of 4 weeks.
Morning Star Centre (Sao Mai) – Founded in 1995, Morning Star is a subsidiary of the Vietnam Relief Association for Children with Disabilities. The centre employs 70 staff to care for approximately 150 children aged 1-25, providing education and training to help them integrate into the community. Children here often have developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Autism, and Cerebral Palsy.
Classes are tailored to the children’s needs, with small groups of around 12-13 children and 2-3 teachers per class. Volunteers assist with basic education, motor skill development, play therapy, and physical education.
The centre also offers vocational and pre-vocational courses for teenagers, preparing them for future opportunities. Students gain work experience through initiatives like the centre’s coffee shop and cooking lessons, helping build confidence and independence. Volunteers with relevant experience may observe one-on-one therapy sessions to provide guidance to staff.
Chich Bong Kindergarten – Chich Bong Kindergarten supports children aged 12 months to 6 years by developing their abilities through arts, languages, and various communication methods. It also runs clubs to nurture children’s hobbies and talents.
Classes typically have 15-20 children. Volunteers help improve the children’s English through songs, dance, and fun educational activities. Creative activities like drawing, painting, and handicrafts are encouraged to boost the children’s confidence and communication skills. A local teacher is present to support volunteers as needed.
Rose Kindergarten – Located in Hanoi’s Bac Tu Liem district, this kindergarten supports children aged 2-6 with early years development. Volunteers assist with art, dance, sports, and music classes, as well as basic reading and writing activities for older children. This helps the children become more confident in their English communication skills.
Classes are split into groups, such as a larger class for 2-3-year-olds and a smaller group for older children. Volunteers may assist with feeding, organising games, and leading arts and crafts activities. Local teachers (two per class) are available to help manage the classroom, and a translator is on-site to bridge any language barriers. Volunteers also have the chance to support extracurricular activities, fostering better relationships with the children and staff.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
Each of our Vietnam volunteer programs offers unique expectations and responsibilities for international volunteers. Generally, you will be involved in providing daily care, attention, and interaction to those who need it most. Specific roles for each project are outlined under the ‘Project Placement Examples’ section above, but it’s important to note that tasks can vary. While some projects, such as Khanh Tam and Morning Star, may have adequate materials, they often lack sufficient human resources, making the role of volunteers crucial.
As a childcare volunteer in Vietnam, you will typically work around 5 hours per day, though exact schedules depend on the project location. Most often, participants will volunteer abroad 3 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon, but this may vary depending on the needs of the project.
Transportation to and from your placement will usually be by public bus, with the cost included in your Program Fee. Volunteers are provided with either a bus pass or reimbursement for travel fares on a weekly basis. The bus station is conveniently located around a 10-minute walk from the Volunteer House. On your first day, a member of the local team will accompany you to the project to introduce you to the placement and ensure a smooth start to your volunteer journey.
Vietnam English Teaching
As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam with PMGY, you’ll inspire students to build essential skills for achieving their future aspirations. Engaging with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are vital for future job opportunities. This rewarding project offers international volunteers the chance to teach English in Vietnam, applying their leadership skills in schools and communities across Hanoi.
Background to the Teaching Program
Education is increasingly becoming a priority in Vietnam. Traditionally, agriculture was the main source of employment, but this sector has seen a significant decline. Today, Vietnam’s economy is largely driven by international trade, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This economic shift has created a growing demand for a skilled, multilingual workforce, with English often being the primary language required.
In recent years, access to primary and secondary education has greatly improved, with schools receiving increased funding. The education system now places a stronger emphasis on physical, psychological, social, and emotional growth alongside academic achievement. Recognising the importance of English, the government introduced English language training into the national curriculum in 2010.
PMGY collaborates with a variety of educational establishments, including government high schools, universities, and community education classes. The aim for every childcare volunteer in Vietnam and teaching participant is to create an engaging environment that encourages students to practice English and build confidence. Volunteers are encouraged to keep lessons fun and creative, making the learning process enjoyable and effective for students.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
Community & University Classes – In addition to working with schools in Hanoi, volunteers in Vietnam also contribute to community classes held within local neighbourhoods and nearby universities. These classes cater to four different proficiency levels, with each group attending two sessions per week. Volunteers typically lead two classes per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Each session is split into two parts: the first hour focuses on teaching and understanding English vocabulary and phrases, while the second hour emphasises practising these skills in interactive ways.
The community classes are attended by high school and university students who are eager to improve their English skills but cannot afford private tuition. Many students come from rural areas and move to the city for their education. The primary goal of these classes is to create a lively, engaging environment where students can practise speaking English confidently. Class sizes generally range from 5 to 20 participants, making it a rewarding and personal experience for both students and volunteers.
High Schools – One of the main schools supported by this program is the Nguyen Tat Thanh (NTT) project, a secondary school with over 2,500 students aged 11-18. English language proficiency is becoming increasingly important at NTT. However, local teachers often focus on listening, reading, and writing skills due to their own limitations in spoken English.
Despite being relatively well-resourced, the school struggles to hire enough native English-speaking staff. Large class sizes make it challenging for teachers to provide students with the individual attention they need. As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam, you will play a crucial role in helping students improve their communication skills and confidence. Additionally, volunteers may assist with sports classes such as badminton, basketball, football, and volleyball. Those willing can also dedicate time to helping the teaching staff enhance their own English skills, contributing to the school’s long-term development goals.
Circus and Vaudeville College – Established in 1961, the Vietnam Circus and Variety Arts College is a hub for nurturing and developing both modern and traditional circus performances. As the only professional training institution for circus performers in South East Asia, the college trains students aged 12-17 in a variety of skills while also preserving cultural heritage.
Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the college has trained numerous performers and contributed to the growth of circus troupes across the region. Students balance rigorous performance training with academic studies, often travelling internationally for competitions and performances.
Improving English proficiency is particularly valuable for these students, as it helps them navigate global opportunities. A volunteer teaching English in Vietnam will assist in developing students’ communication skills through interactive tasks and engaging lessons. Preparing lesson plans and materials beforehand is key to delivering successful sessions. Volunteers are encouraged to lead class activities that improve speaking and listening skills, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Students at the college are always eager to learn from international participants, making this a highly rewarding experience. Volunteers are supported by local team members who assist with classroom management, ensuring lessons run smoothly and effectively.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam, you will take charge of preparing and leading your own activities during lessons. Depending on your placement, you may be required to follow an existing curriculum. Effective communication with local teachers and staff is essential to ensure they can support your lesson plans and activities.
On this Vietnam volunteer program, you’ll need to be proactive in leading lessons and engaging with students. Our local team will provide guidance as you plan your classes, offering insights into what past volunteers have taught and what topics interest the students. They will also suggest activities to help you deliver dynamic and enjoyable lessons. No prior teaching experience is necessary to teach English in Vietnam, as long as you are enthusiastic, adaptable, and committed. To optimise learning, the local team aims to group students by their English ability, enhancing the structure and productivity of the lessons.
Each project varies, but a typical schedule for a volunteer teaching English abroad runs from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Thursday. In school placements, volunteers may teach up to four classes each day, with two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Each class lasts about 45 minutes, with a 10-minute break between consecutive lessons, and lunch is taken between sessions. Some classes may have as many as 50 students, so confidence, creativity, and flexibility are invaluable.
For university and community classes, the structure is slightly different. Volunteers who teach English in Vietnam usually lead two classes each day, with one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Each class lasts 2 hours, making a total of 4 teaching hours per day. Volunteers generally work from 9am to 4pm, with a longer lunch break. Each week on the volunteer abroad programs, you will teach four different classes, giving you plenty of opportunities to engage with diverse groups.
Local transport to and from your placement is included in your Program Fee. Most projects are within an hour’s commute from the Volunteer House. Volunteers will either receive a bus pass or be reimbursed for their travel expenses weekly. The bus station is about a 10-minute walk from the Volunteer House. On your first day, a member of the local team will accompany you to introduce you to your placement, and a coordinator will continue to assist you throughout your program.
Vietnam Medical (Medical Students Only)
As a medical volunteer in Vietnam with PMGY, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system. Working alongside local professionals at one of Vietnam’s leading university hospitals, you’ll observe and learn from experienced staff in a dynamic environment. If you’re currently studying a health-related subject at university, this program provides first-hand exposure that will enrich your understanding and support your career development.
Background to the Medical Program
The health status of the Vietnamese population has seen remarkable progress over the last 30 years, reflecting the rapid economic development following the 1986 economic and political reforms. These improvements have led to increased life expectancy and decreased infant mortality rates. However, challenges still remain.
Despite these advances, Vietnam’s healthcare workforce continues to struggle to meet the demands of its population. In 2015, there were only 8 physicians per 10,000 people in Vietnam. This pales in comparison to 28 physicians per 10,000 in the UK and 26 per 10,000 in the US. Even when compared to neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s ratio remains significantly lower, leading to an overburdened healthcare system.
Participants in the medical volunteer abroad program with PMGY are presented with an incredible opportunity to gain valuable experience while furthering their career aspirations. Working within Vietnam’s healthcare system exposes medical volunteers to a variety of interesting and diverse cases, helping to enhance their knowledge and expertise. Beyond professional development, the program also offers a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique culture of this Southeast Asian gem. If you’re considering gap year volunteering, our Vietnam projects are a fantastic way to combine personal growth with meaningful contribution.
Medical Volunteer Placement Example
Viet Duc University Hospital (VDUH) – As part of the PMGY medical program, participants have the opportunity to spend time at Viet Duc University Hospital, one of the most prestigious and long-standing medical institutions in Vietnam. Established in 1906 and later renamed Viet Duc Friendship Hospital in 1973, the hospital has strong historical ties with the Democratic Republic of Germany, reflected in its name and continued collaboration.
VDUH is widely recognised as Vietnam’s leading surgical centre and operates across four key pillars: patient care, scientific research, medical education, and international cooperation. Originally designed to house 430 beds, the hospital has expanded significantly over the years and now accommodates more than 1,500 beds across 26 departments. The facility includes 52 operating theatres and is well-equipped with modern technology for both standard and high-tech procedures.
Medical volunteers placed at VDUH will have the opportunity to observe in a variety of surgical specialities, including Neurosurgery, Orthopaedics, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Emergency Abdominal Surgery, Gastroenterology, Hepato-biliary Surgery, Paediatrics, and Urology. Volunteers may also gain exposure to advanced medical procedures such as robotic surgery, cardiac valve replacements, laparoscopic surgery, pituitary tumour removal, and organ transplants.
The hospital provides an excellent learning environment for medical students. Through shadowing local staff and joining clinical discussions or ward rounds, participants can gain insight into Vietnam’s healthcare system and the day-to-day challenges of medical practice in a busy surgical hospital. Participants should come prepared for an observational role, with the opportunity to rotate through different departments to broaden their understanding of hospital-based care.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Vietnam, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Vietnam, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Vietnam team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – A medical elective in Vietnam is an incredible opportunity to gain firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese healthcare system. Experience the daily life of a doctor in Vietnam as you accompany them on rounds across various hospital departments. Shadow staff on tasks and use your time to learn directly from experienced medical professionals. The medical elective will enhance your knowledge of medical practices in Vietnam and provide insights into the challenges faced within the healthcare system.
Nursing – Immerse yourself in nursing as part of your nursing elective at one of Hanoi’s leading hospitals. Experience a wide range of medical environments by visiting different clinics and units. Observe surgeries, accompany nurses on surgical preparations, and shadow them on their rounds. Engage directly with patients, offering support and helping to transfer them around the hospital when required. This elective provides an invaluable opportunity to expand your learning and gain real-world experience in an international healthcare setting.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a volunteer in Vietnam, you will be placed at Viet Duc University Hospital, where you will participate alongside experienced doctors and medical staff. Your role will be primarily observational, designed to offer an internship-style experience that gives you insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system and local medical practices. This is an excellent opportunity to witness a wide range of surgical and medical conditions in a clinical setting.
During your time at the hospital, you’ll have the opportunity to shadow physicians, attend bedside teaching sessions, and take part in ward rounds and small group discussions. You may also explore a wide range of medical specialties, including Neurosurgery, Neurology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Gastroenterology, Upper Extremity and Sports Trauma, General Orthopaedics, Emergency Abdominal Surgery, Urology, Emergency Medicine and First Aid, Spinal Surgery, Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Oncology, and Organ Transplantation.
You may apply to rotate through up to two departments, though final assignments are determined by the hospital based on your experience and department availability. To make the most of your placement, we strongly encourage you to be proactive, inquisitive, and open to learning. The more initiative you show as a medical volunteer in Vietnam, the more opportunities you are likely to receive during your placement.
Participants on the PMGY Vietnam medical program typically attend Viet Duc University Hospital during standard working hours, Monday to Thursday. Each day involves around four hours at the hospital. While volunteering on Fridays is optional, it’s a great way to maximise your experience. Alternatively, you can use the extra day to explore Vietnam and make the most of your weekend.
Volunteers travel to and from the hospital by public bus, with the cost covered by your Program Fee. You will either receive a bus pass upon arrival or be reimbursed for your travel fares weekly. The bus station is about a 10-minute walk from the Volunteer House, and the journey to the hospital takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. On your first day, a member of the local team will accompany you to introduce you to your placement. For the rest of your program, a coordinator will usually meet you at the hospital each morning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
🇰🇭 Volunteer in Cambodia (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your second stop on your Real South East Asia Encounter is Cambodia. Emerging from years of turmoil and civil unrest, Cambodia now boasts some of the most stunning and undeveloped coastlines in the region. The country is also home to one of the most spectacular temples in the world, Angkor Wat. During your weekends, take the opportunity to explore these iconic sites! Despite its natural beauty and adventure travel opportunities, Cambodia remains one of the poorest countries in the world.
With PMGY, you can contribute to grass-roots development projects in Cambodia, based in a rural community around two hours from Phnom Penh. You can teach English in a community school or help give children a head start at a kindergarten-style project. By volunteering in Cambodia, you’ll be providing disadvantaged young people with the tools they need to secure meaningful employment. You can select your volunteer in Cambodia project during the online application process.
🇰🇭 Volunteer Projects in Cambodia
Cambodia Childcare
Background to the Childcare Program
The early years of a child’s life are critically important, laying the foundation for their future health, happiness, and learning success. As a childcare volunteer in Cambodia, you’ll have the opportunity to think and act creatively. In doing so, you can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of young children within the local community.
Tourism plays a vital role in Cambodia’s economy, and individuals who can speak English with visitors have far greater opportunities than those who cannot. By introducing children to English at an early age, we help set them on a path to developing this essential lifelong skill. Interaction with native English speakers offers an invaluable head start. Our PMGY childcare program in Cambodia supports local children by enhancing their English language skills, improving social integration, and encouraging the development of motor skills.
Every day as a childcare volunteer in Cambodia is unique, and the experience is shaped by what you bring to it. Arriving with plenty of ideas for fun and educational activities will help you make the most of your time and dive straight into the program. Volunteers with children in Cambodia have the chance to get creative and make a significant impact on the lives of young ones in the community. If you’re looking for inspiration for gap year volunteer programs, our projects in Cambodia offer incredible opportunities to make a difference.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Hope Daycare – Our primary program in Cambodia is based in Takeo Province, south of Phnom Penh, the country’s capital. The children participating in the childcare program come from nearby villages. The daycare centre is located on the same campus as our team’s teaching English program for older children and teenagers. The aim is for the younger children to eventually transition into these programmes as they grow, making integration smoother.
Established in 2018, the daycare program operates in a classroom environment and welcomes up to 50 children aged 4 to 7 each day. Many children travel as far as 7km daily to attend, eager to learn, socialise, and enhance their early education.
This rewarding volunteer project focuses on building core English skills, encouraging social interactions, and establishing routines from a young age. As a childcare volunteer in Cambodia, you’ll also organise fun games and playtime activities during breaks outside the classroom. The project has plenty of open space where you can engage the children in ball games and other outdoor activities.
International volunteers are supported by daily itineraries prepared by the local staff. For volunteer work in Cambodia, there’s an on-site office stocked with resources and textbooks to help you plan lessons. Volunteers with children in Cambodia are encouraged to bring creative and engaging ideas to help manage the class effectively.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
On the childcare volunteer abroad program, you’ll prepare, deliver, and lead activities and basic English lessons to support local children. Volunteers with children in Cambodia can expect to spend 3–4 hours per day on the project. Typical working hours for a Cambodia childcare volunteer are from 1–4pm, during which you’ll take on a variety of roles and tasks.
Your day will usually begin with a fun and energetic first hour, featuring songs, games, and basic hygiene routines such as teeth brushing. Once the children have burned off some energy, around an hour is dedicated to learning. This may include recognising the alphabet, practising phonics, or learning basic greetings. These activities help children get familiar with English as a foreign language and lay the foundation for learning other subjects in the future. The day often wraps up with engaging activities like arts and crafts or group games, which help develop fine motor skills and dexterity.
Volunteers and coordinators have also introduced “Fun Fridays” to the program. This offers volunteers the chance to organise exciting activities or even fund and arrange an afternoon trip for the children. While volunteers may contribute a small amount towards these trips, participation in Fun Fridays is entirely optional.
When you volunteer in Cambodia, it’s a great idea to spend time planning each day. This ensures you get the most out of your project time and provide better learning opportunities for the children. As a Cambodia childcare volunteer, you’ll also have the optional opportunity to assist or lead a class in the English Teaching project for older children. However, this is not a mandatory part of the program.
Cambodia English Teaching
Background to the Teaching Program
The Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s left Cambodia’s education system in ruins. Since then, the Cambodian government has made significant efforts to rebuild it, but progress has been slow. Cambodia continues to have one of the lowest literacy rates in Asia, especially among women. High dropout rates, a shortage of qualified teachers, and overcrowded classrooms remain major challenges facing the country’s education system.
Cambodia’s economy is transitioning from traditional sustenance farming to one driven by industry and services. However, this economic shift has widened social inequality. Less educated and economically disadvantaged individuals are often pushed into lower-paid jobs with limited opportunities for career progression. The growing need for skilled labour has made English language proficiency increasingly essential, particularly in the service sector, which is critical to Cambodia’s expanding tourism industry.
For many children in rural villages, learning English is viewed as the key to improving their lives. It opens doors to better job opportunities in fields such as accounting and hospitality, offering a higher standard of living for themselves and their families. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will play a vital role in providing free English lessons to children from low-income families. While the children attend public school in the mornings, they continue their education in the afternoons through our English education program. This project focuses heavily on developing English language skills.
During your time teaching English in Cambodia, it is important to bring energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to your lessons. Many students benefit greatly from learning directly from a fluent English speaker, helping them to build confidence and improve their future prospects.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
Hope School – As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will be based at a community education program set up by our local team in 2010. The school aims to provide accessible English lessons to children from underprivileged villages. The opportunity to learn English is scarce in this rural area, so children are willing to travel up to 7km each way for just one hour of lessons each day. The school typically has over 150 children attending daily.
Volunteers teaching English in Cambodia are responsible for preparing, delivering, and leading lessons and activities for the children. Classes are organised by ability and age, with group sizes ranging from 5 to 30 children. The children are aged between 7 and 18 years, with younger students usually attending in the afternoon and older students coming in the late afternoon.
As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Cambodia, you will teach a variety of different classes throughout the day. After each class, the children return to their nearby village, and a new class with a different group of students begins. Typically, volunteer work in Cambodia involves leading four classes per day.
Teaching the same classes at consistent times helps you establish a structured routine and build rapport with the children. It also allows you to observe the students’ progress over time, from the beginning of your program to the end. After lessons, many students stay behind to socialise and play games, and some may even ask for one-to-one tuition with volunteers.
As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you are encouraged to make your lessons fun and interactive. This might include storytelling, singing songs, or engaging in arts and crafts activities. There is plenty of outdoor space where you can take the class for playtime at the end of a lesson. If you have a special skill or interest, you are welcome to incorporate this into your lessons too. The project provides a range of resources and textbooks to support your teaching. As a volunteer with children in Cambodia, you are also encouraged to introduce creative and engaging methods for managing the class.
To make the most of your time teaching English in Cambodia, it’s important to plan your lessons in advance. Proper planning will ensure that you deliver the best learning experience for the children. The more time you dedicate to preparation, the smoother your classes will run. You can use the mornings before the project starts or your afternoon break to plan and prepare your lessons.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, your role will involve preparing, delivering, and leading lessons for students. The typical working hours are from 1pm to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday. During this time, you’ll usually teach 1-hour lessons with a 1.5-hour break in between. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will also need to dedicate time to plan your lessons.
Most volunteers lead their own classes, but if you prefer, our team can pair you with a more experienced volunteer to guide you at the start. Please note that this depends on volunteer availability at the time.
The village school is located on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, meaning you’ll only need to take a short walk to reach the project. During your free time, you can prepare lessons, relax in the Volunteer House, or explore the nearby villages.
Volunteers and coordinators have introduced a Fun Friday initiative to the program. On Fun Fridays, volunteers can come together to organise exciting activities for the children. Occasionally, volunteers also arrange and fund an afternoon trip for the children outside of the program. While contributing to these activities is encouraged, participation is completely voluntary, and the cost is typically shared among the volunteers.
🇮🇩 Volunteer in Bali (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your final stop on your Real South East Asia Encounter is Bali. With a population of less than four million, Bali is an island of soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, lush tropical forests, and ancient temples. Many say Bali isn’t just a place – it’s a state of mind. The island is often described as a feeling of wonder and a mood of serenity.
Our programs in Bali offer a true insight into the Balinese way of life. All international volunteers can enjoy Bali’s famous beauty and white sand beaches while also giving back to the local community. By volunteering in Bali, you’ll have the chance to see a side of the country that most tourists never experience.
You’ll stay in the rice bowl of Bali, the traditional town of Tabanan. Use your time to make a real difference in the local community. The children in the community projects will be eager to learn from you, and you’ll teach English surrounded by rice paddies, steep ravines, and forests. Invest your time in Bali’s children to help secure their bright future! Alternatively, you can join our wildlife rescue and environmental conservation program. You can select your volunteer in Bali project during the online application process.
🇮🇩 Volunteer Projects in Bali
Bali Childcare
Are you eager to share your time, energy, and enthusiasm with children around the world? As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you’ll make a meaningful difference in the Tabanan community. You’ll help with daily care, organise creative activities like crafts, and teach English through fun songs and music. This is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer with children aged 1-8, giving them a strong foundation before they begin their formal education.
Background to the Childcare Program
In Bali, many families, particularly those working in the demanding farming and fishing industries, struggle to afford high-quality care or education for their children. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you can make a real difference by supporting these families and childcare centres. By working alongside local staff, we can ensure that children get the attention and care they truly deserve.
With the rise in tourism, those who can speak English have more opportunities than those who cannot. As a result, providing education at an early stage gives children the chance to improve their future prospects and the well-being of their families.
Studies suggest that the preschool years are the most crucial in a child’s development, making it the perfect time to introduce a foreign language. This is why international volunteers, like you, are so valuable. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you’ll help teach children essential English skills, such as simple vocabulary, colours, shapes, and animals. If you’re looking for inspiration for your gap year ideas, our volunteer programs in Bali offer amazing opportunities to make a real impact.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Akasa Kindergarten – Our local team has established a morning kindergarten program in Tabanan to provide underprivileged children with free early years education and structured activities. The team is dedicated to this initiative, and with the support of PMGY volunteers, they can continue to strengthen and expand the Akasa Kindergarten over time. The project welcomes up to 55 children aged 4 to 6 who bring plenty of enthusiasm to their daily learning.
Out of all our childcare placements, this one is the most structured. If you are torn between teaching and childcare, this is the ideal place for you. The children are still very young but are eager to learn. They love picking up the basics of English through songs and play, and they truly value the presence of our volunteers.
Mutiara Ibu Daycare – Founded by a local Balinese couple, Mutiara Ibu Daycare offers affordable childcare, accommodating up to 40 children each day. In the mornings, volunteers play an important role in introducing structure through fun activities and games. The children’s ages can vary, so it’s a great opportunity for volunteers to get creative when teaching English, especially for the older children, helping them prepare for school.
In the afternoons, your work as a volunteer in Bali may involve spending time with children ranging from 6 months to 13 years old. You’ll often assist during mealtimes, encouraging picky eaters and helping clean up after the messier ones! Volunteers also lend a hand during bath times, but assistance is needed across all areas of the centre. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you may also be asked to engage with the older children or help staff with daily chores.
Immaculatta Daycare – Located just 10 minutes from the Volunteer House, Immaculatta Daycare was founded by a Christian Church to support working families by providing childcare and basic English lessons for older children. As a volunteer, you will help keep the children entertained by leading exciting games and activities. While the staff handles the children’s basic needs, you’ll be the one to bring fun and energy to the centre! The morning session lasts around 3 hours, after which the children have a nap, and you can prepare for the next group of volunteers in the afternoon.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare day
As a childcare volunteer in Bali, your main role is to share your time, enthusiasm, and skills to encourage and care for the children. By introducing them to English, you’ll be giving them an early opportunity for social interaction and educational growth.
Your volunteer abroad program runs from Monday to Thursday, with Friday being optional but encouraged. Morning sessions typically run from 8am to 12pm, and afternoon sessions from 1pm to 4pm. You’ll usually be scheduled for one of these sessions, but you’re welcome to pick up extra hours and join other sessions if you wish. Transportation to the project is provided via bemo, which usually takes no more than 20 minutes.
This childcare volunteer abroad program is both hugely rewarding and enjoyable. As a volunteer in Bali, you’ll be encouraged to structure the day to ensure a balance between fun play activities and a controlled routine with basic learning activities.
Lesson planning is key. Get creative with a variety of enrichment activities to foster positive social development. You can use songs, music, puzzles, interactive props, and educational resources to keep the children engaged. Local coordinators will also be there to support you throughout your time at the project.
Balinese children are a joy to teach and work with. Their enthusiasm for learning will certainly bring a smile to your face! Working with this age group isn’t as structured as teaching older children, so their language skills can be developed through play and interaction. Just a few words or phrases will give them a solid foundation for learning English in the future. If you volunteer with children in Bali, you’ll need to prepare activities accordingly.
We find that the more volunteers prepare for their day, the more rewarding the experience will be for both themselves and the children. Depending on the number of childcare volunteers in Bali at the time, children will be divided into smaller groups. You’ll also have local coordinators and teachers to assist you.
Your role isn’t just about teaching. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved in other areas like arts and crafts, physical education, and helping local staff with day-to-day tasks. What activities you choose when you volunteer in Bali is entirely up to you.
Resources and inspiration are available at the office, and there may be materials and props at the childcare centres. The local team also runs weekly lesson planning sessions, offering volunteers the chance to share and discuss ideas, as well as plan for the week ahead.
PMGY’s volunteer work in Bali is all about making learning fun and enjoyable. Be creative – there are countless ways to educate the children while making a real impact. Our childcare program is empowering and rewarding, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Balinese people are warm and friendly, and you’ll be welcomed into their community with open arms. The children will be excited to get to know you!
As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you should have a genuine passion for working with children. While the children are incredibly friendly and energetic, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, so it’s important to stay positive and immerse yourself fully in this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Given the heat and high temperatures in Bali, we limit the schedule to one longer session per day. You’re welcome to ask for extra hours, but we find that the childcare sessions tend to be more energy-intensive than other projects, and the heat can be intense. For the best experience, we believe it’s important for volunteers to keep their energy levels high and maintain a positive intensity throughout each session.
Bali English Teaching
Volunteer teaching English in Bali to help students develop valuable skills and reach their future goals. Practising with fluent, native speakers boosts their English abilities, an essential skill for securing future jobs. English has become a crucial language for Balinese people to progress in life, as it opens doors to direct communication with tourists. This, in turn, increases Bali’s global visibility and recognition.
Background to the Teaching Program
English plays a crucial role in both the formal and informal industries across Bali, as well as in the communication that supports them. From schools, offices, and banks to the shops and restaurants that are central to the island’s thriving tourist industry, English is essential. Bali has become not only a popular destination for global tourists, with its stunning landscapes and traditional culture, but also a prime location for international conferences and seminars.
PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad program offers volunteers the opportunity to make a real difference by helping local children in Tabanan improve their English skills. With tourism in Bali booming, the ability to speak English has become more important than ever. Although English is taught in schools by local teachers, the chance to practice with a native, fluent speaker is priceless.
Balinese people are known for their warmth and friendliness. You’ll find that the local community, the staff you work alongside, and the children you teach will welcome you with open arms. They’ll be eager to chat with you and learn about your life. Your volunteer work in Bali will not only benefit the people you teach but will also enhance your own skills. You’ll gain transferable workplace skills such as leadership, time management, and organisation, all of which will be valuable in your future career.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, your schedule will be varied and engaging. You’ll be involved in different projects that offer free English lessons to children in Tabanan, with the primary placements organised through the Akasa Foundation. Additionally, the PMGY Bali volunteer program runs numerous English teaching projects throughout the year. This ensures that your time spent volunteering will have a lasting impact on the local community. Here are a few examples of where you could be teaching:
Akasa Kindergarten English Class – The Akasa Foundation runs a Community Learning Centre, founded by Ketut in 2011, where volunteers teach English at the Akasa Kindergarten project. Initially held in Ketut’s family home, the centre now has a permanent location just a 5-minute walk from the Volunteer House. Ketut, who has lived in the Tabanan community all her life, noticed that children from less privileged backgrounds lacked educational opportunities. This inspired her to establish the Foundation and invite international volunteers. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll play a key role in supporting these children’s education. The centre’s goal is to offer essential early education to preschoolers from low-income families and to provide additional support to children already in school.
Akasa English Course – As part of the Akasa Foundation, the local team runs an extracurricular English course for village children. This program gives students the chance to improve their English in the afternoon, building their confidence with Volunteers in Bali. Originally a part of the Akasa school, this program is now run at the Akasa Learning Centre, just a 2-minute walk from the Akasa House. The students range in age and ability, providing an opportunity for you to get creative and offer exciting after-school lessons that inspire a love of learning and English.
Elementary and Junior High School Program – As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll visit several elementary and junior high schools in the region. Each year, we partner with around 12 schools to provide English lessons, with volunteers teaching for around 3 hours per week. These schools are typically located 10-25 minutes by bemo from the Volunteer House. While Balinese teachers cover general English, students benefit greatly from practicing with native speakers. The children are eager to learn, and their teachers often join in the lessons to improve their own teaching skills. It is a rewarding experience, and the students’ gratitude will warm your heart, often shown when they touch your hand to their forehead as a symbol of receiving wisdom.
Kaniva Hospitality University – During term time, you may have the chance to visit Kaniva Hospitality University, where students are training for careers in the tourism industry. These students are eager to improve their English in preparation for working in hotels or the cruise industry, with dreams of moving abroad to places like Dubai or Japan. Volunteer lessons help them gain exposure to different accents and boost their confidence in speaking English with tourists. Lesson topics will be provided, and students are encouraged to ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations. Your experience will inspire them to pursue their goals and immerse themselves in learning English.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer in Bali, your main role will be to share your time, knowledge, and skills with local communities. By helping students build confidence in their spoken and conversational English, you’ll be opening up a world of opportunities for their future.
Your volunteering abroad programs run from Monday to Thursday, with Friday being optional but encouraged. The morning sessions typically run from 8am to 12pm, and the afternoon sessions from 1pm to 4pm. Your specific timetable will depend on your individual schedule. If your project is not within walking distance, transport is provided by bemo, usually taking no more than 20 minutes.
When you teach English in Bali, you may be leading the class on your own, working alongside a partner, or part of a small group. Volunteers typically teach two or three classes per day, with timetables often split between two of the placement locations. The Akasa Foundation program is usually the main teaching project.
The Akasa English Course runs four different sessions throughout the week: Kindergarten (4-6 years), Kids (7-9 years), Elementary (10-12 years) and Middle (13 – 17 years). These sessions take place at the Akasa Learning Centre, which is conveniently located near the Volunteer House. Depending on volunteer and student numbers, you may work in smaller groups or even teach one-to-one to ensure the students get the most from the free tuition.
Preschool years are widely regarded as the most crucial for language learning, making the Kindergarten classes especially important. Here, you’ll focus on introducing basic English vocabulary, such as colours, shapes, and animals. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll need to be creative and patient, though a local teacher will be on hand to guide you. The Beginner’s class builds on this by introducing simple sentence structures alongside familiar topics.
PMGY’s advanced community classes aim to make learning English a fun experience, especially after the children have had a long day at school! Get creative and teach through songs, art, and sport. You’ll usually teach alongside another volunteer, working as a team to make the lessons even more engaging.
The Akasa Foundation program typically sees around 60-100 children per day across all classes, ranging from 3 years old to young adults. The more preparation you do, the more rewarding the experience will be for both you and the children. We always ensure local coordinators and teachers are present to support the project and assist with classroom management.
Balinese children are enthusiastic learners, but this excitement can sometimes lead to a little chaos! It’s important to maintain control of the class to keep everyone focused. This is a highly rewarding project that provides free English education to children in Tabanan, giving them the confidence to engage with tourists and improve their future prospects.
The presence of an English-speaking volunteer can greatly enhance the children’s pronunciation and help local teachers who may benefit from additional support in their own teaching. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, we encourage you to make your lessons as interactive as possible. Use fun educational games like word searches, Hangman, or quiz competitions to keep the students engaged. Songs, art, sport, and music are also excellent tools for making lessons more enjoyable. The volunteers provide the children with a unique insight into other cultures, offering them a global perspective that is both valuable and enriching.
What you teach when you volunteer in Bali is up to you, though there are syllabuses and past volunteer materials available for inspiration and guidance. We also have a resource library at the PMGY office for volunteers to use, and the children are provided with exercise and learning books. Additionally, the local team runs weekly lesson planning sessions, giving you the chance to share ideas, discuss strategies, and prepare for the week ahead.
Given the heat and high temperatures in Bali, shorter, split sessions throughout the day are more effective for everyone. This allows volunteer energy levels to remain high, ensuring that each morning and afternoon session is filled with positive energy. We encourage you to use your lunch break to relax, refresh, or plan for future activities, so you can make the most of your time at the project.
Bali Wildlife
Bali wildlife rescue volunteers care for a wide range of animal species while contributing to vital environmental projects, such as restoring mangrove forests. Volunteers support animal wellbeing at the wildlife rehabilitation centre and participate in initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, tackle plastic pollution, and raise awareness within local communities.
Background to the Wildlife & Environmental Program
Indonesia is home to a remarkable array of animal species, but many face displacement due to deforestation as the country expands industries like palm oil and rubber production. To address this, there are now seven centres across Indonesia dedicated to rehabilitating and caring for these displaced animals.
As a Bali wildlife rescue volunteer, you’ll have the unique opportunity to contribute to the care of these animals at the local wildlife centre. You’ll also collaborate with passionate individuals who are committed to preserving Bali’s ecosystems while teaching and sharing local practices.
Joining as a Bali wildlife volunteer gives you great experience across various wildlife and conservation projects. Throughout your stay, you’ll engage in diverse initiatives, learning about Bali’s incredible natural environment while making a meaningful impact.
Wildlife & Environmental Volunteer Placement Examples
Wildlife Rescue Centre – At this centre, you’ll encounter a variety of animals rescued from poachers and traffickers. Many of the primates and birds here were saved from markets, private homes, or businesses where they were kept as pets or used for entertainment. This is a significant issue in Indonesia, displacing animals from their natural habitats and separating them from their families. These animals need dedicated care, enrichment, and attention to improve their wellbeing and daily lives.
The centre focuses on the daily care, rehabilitation, and wellbeing of numerous species, aiming to release them back into the wild if they are healthy and have the skills to survive. However, some animals cannot return to the wild due to trauma and a lack of survival skills. In such cases, the centre works to find suitable long-term placements, such as species-specific sanctuaries. Acting as a transition home, the centre helps fund and secure forever homes for these animals.
As the only facility of its kind in the region, the wildlife centre handles a wide range of animals based on rescue needs. Animals often arrive unexpectedly, and the centre adapts to provide them with appropriate enclosures and care. Species you may encounter include Saltwater Crocodiles, Sea Eagles, Sun Bears, Starling Birds, Grey-Headed Fish Eagles, Asian Palm Civets, Bear Cats, Palm Cockatoos, and more. Your Program Fee supports the care and upkeep of these magnificent creatures.
Beach Cleans – Did you know that a plastic straw takes just one minute to manufacture, might be used for ten minutes, but takes hundreds of years to decompose? In Bali, millions of plastic straws and other littered items are found on beaches and in national parks every year.
Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, and our Bali wildlife volunteering efforts aim to tackle this crisis. As a Bali wildlife volunteer, you’ll join regular beach and forest clean-ups alongside fellow volunteers and the local community. Each day, you’ll visit different areas to collect discarded items and ensure they are correctly disposed of or recycled.
We work in partnership with Sadhu Kencana TPS3R, a waste management facility in Tabanan, where volunteers bring the rubbish collected from the beach each week for proper sorting and processing. Here, it is sorted into categories such as organic, non-organic, and residual waste. This process helps participants see that the effort goes beyond simply collecting rubbish and leaving it behind, as it is properly managed and contributes to a real environmental impact.
The processing of litter and waste in Bali is a developing system. Education on how to dispose of different materials in an efficient and eco-friendly way is in the early stages of development in Bali and having volunteers collect and recycle waste is a great way of leading by example; helping to promote a permanent change in the way they dispose of household waste in their daily lives. In addition, we also work with local people to create an even bigger impact, by educating them about environmental conservation and recycling. Above all, education and awareness are crucial factors in encouraging a sustainable lifestyle to tackle this global issue.
Mangrove Conservation – Mangrove forests play a crucial role in the global ecosystem, especially in protecting coastlines and combating the effects of climate change. Indonesia, particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, relies on these vital plants to stabilise shorelines and shield the island from storm surges.
As a volunteer, you’ll help restore mangroves affected by deforestation, climate change, and littering. You’ll work closely with local communities to educate them about maintaining ecosystems and conserving the environment. By passing this knowledge through generations, we aim to inspire sustainable practices. Activities include planting mangroves, cultivating new plants, and collecting litter to protect these vital habitats. This project allows you to make a lasting impact while participating in a meaningful Bali volunteer program.
AREC Centre – This centre cares for domestic animals, preparing them for future adoption. The site is also used to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, supporting the local community and educating them about healthy eating and sustainable lifestyles.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist in training dogs, creating enriching and safe spaces for animals, and learning how to cultivate plants and natural areas. This engaging project combines animal welfare and environmental conservation, giving you a well-rounded experience in Bali wildlife volunteering.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a wildlife volunteer in Bali, you’ll rotate across various projects and locations, gaining valuable insight into the diverse ways Bali wildlife rescue volunteers can make a difference. Your daily shifts will vary depending on the project, and you’ll work alongside experienced staff members who are passionate about these initiatives.
Transport to and from the projects is included in your Program Fee. The beach cleans and AREC Centre are approximately 20 minutes away by bemo, while the mangrove restoration site is about an hour’s drive, with transport provided by private car. The wildlife centre is just 5 minutes away by bemo.
Typically, Bali wildlife rescue volunteers work 3–5 hours per day from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays optional but highly encouraged. Here’s what you can expect to do during your time at the Bali wildlife volunteering program:
Feeding – Feeding routines vary by species and season. For example, crocodiles are fed twice a week with items like chicken or duck, while monkeys are fed fruits daily. You’ll help prepare meals tailored to the species you’re working with, gaining knowledge about their dietary needs and habits.
Enrichment – Many animals at the centre are endangered and have experienced trauma from habitat loss or the illegal wildlife trade. This can leave them irritable, stressed, or even depressed. By interacting with these animals, you’ll support their emotional and behavioural rehabilitation, helping with activities like foraging, play, or social interaction. With patience, you might even earn the trust of a colourful Parakeet perched on your arm!
Enclosure Cleaning – Enclosures are designed based on recommendations from the centre’s veterinarians and the animals’ specific needs. While some enclosures may seem small, this can help irritable animals feel safer. Over time, enclosures are expanded, and eventually, some animals may be released back into the wild. Your tasks may include clearing brush around the crocodile enclosures (with staff keeping the crocodiles distracted), replacing and cleaning rotting branches in bird enclosures, or maintaining other habitats. If you’re comfortable, you might even clean and repair enclosures with beautiful birds flying overhead!
Maintenance – The rescue centre relies on volunteers to help maintain and improve its facilities. This might involve fixing enclosure door hinges, repairing fencing, adding new gates, or tidying up grounds by clearing rubbish and weeds. You’ll also take part in beach cleans, an essential activity for preserving Bali’s stunning coastlines. During these clean-ups, you’ll collect and properly dispose of litter found on beaches and in forests, contributing to Bali’s environmental health.
By taking part in this program, you’ll play a vital role in Bali wildlife volunteering efforts, making a lasting impact on the animals, the environment, and the local community.
🌏 Trip Schedule
The Real South East Asia Encounter provides a balanced experience across three incredible destinations, with your time evenly divided based on the program length you select. The 6-week option offers 2 weeks at each location, providing a brief yet impactful introduction to each country. For a more in-depth experience, the 9-week Real South East Asia Encounter experience allows 3 weeks per destination, while the 12-week option extends your stay to 4 weeks in each location, offering a truly immersive journey. This structure ensures you have the opportunity to explore, contribute meaningfully to local projects, and fully embrace the unique culture and environment of each destination.
Your Real South East Asia Encounter begins in Vietnam, where you’ll immerse yourself in Hanoi’s vibrant culture and bustling energy. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport on Wednesday, a PMGY representative will greet you with a sign displaying your name. They’ll transfer you to the Volunteer House, where you can settle in, meet fellow volunteers, and receive your keys for the house and your locker. If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon, a local coordinator will take you on a neighbourhood tour to help you get your bearings.
On Thursday, orientation begins with an introduction to Vietnamese culture, history, and language. The team will cover safety protocols, program details, and practical tips for navigating your volunteer experience. An interactive Vietnamese language lesson will ensure you’re ready to connect with locals and make the most of your time. On Friday, the coordinators will guide you through a tour of Hanoi, visiting iconic sites such as the Temple of Literature, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and the Old Quarter while teaching you how to navigate public transport.
The weekend is your time to explore Vietnam’s treasures. Whether you opt for a cruise around Ha Long Bay, trekking in Sapa, or a cultural deep dive into Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the local team will assist in planning your adventures.
On Monday, your project coordinator will take you to visit your volunteer project and meet local staff. Today will be an excellent opportunity to get a feel for the program. You will settle into your project environment as the days progress. Throughout your placement, the local team will be available to support and guide you.
Your following week(s) follows a similar structure of weekday volunteering and weekend exploration. Sadly, Monday marks your final day in Vietnam, offering a chance to reflect and enjoy some free time in Hanoi.
Your next stop is Cambodia, where you’ll transition from Vietnam to the peaceful surroundings of Bakod village. Upon arrival at Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh on Monday, a PMGY driver will escort you to the volunteer accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to observe the project and settle in. If you arrive late, a tour of the accommodation grounds will occur the following day.
Orientation begins on Tuesday with an introduction to the project’s setup, the history of the school, and guidance on preparing activities. You’ll also learn about the local area, safety tips, and weekend travel opportunities. Volunteers will take a tuk-tuk ride into Takeo town to visit the market, ATM, and convenience stores. By Wednesday, you’ll fully dive into your volunteer work. The local team will help you settle in, pairing you with other participants if possible, and will always be on hand for support.
Evenings offer opportunities to bond with other volunteers over games, quiz nights, or a visit to a local café. Weekend are yours to explore Cambodia’s wonders, such as Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat temples, beaches, or cultural experiences. As the week progresses, you’ll continue making an impact at your placement while enjoying the support and guidance of the local team.
Your following week(s) follows a similar structure of weekday volunteering and weekend exploration. On Sunday, get ready to head to your final destination – Bali!
The final leg of your Real South East Asia Encounter takes you to Bali, known for its serene landscapes and rich culture. Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport on Sunday, a PMGY representative will take you to Tabanan, where you’ll stay in the Volunteer House. The rest of the day is free to unwind, meet fellow volunteers, and prepare for your Bali adventure.
Orientation begins on Monday with an overview of Balinese culture, customs, and traditions. The local team will also provide language lessons and safety advice, ensuring you feel prepared for placement. Later, you’ll explore the local area, including markets, ATMs, and bakeries, thoroughly understanding your new surroundings.
From Tuesday onwards, you’ll dive into your volunteer work, fully supported by the local team. The weekends are free for you to discover Bali’s stunning attractions, from the beaches of Canggu and the cultural richness of Ubud to the adventure of the Gili Islands. The team can help plan trips tailored to your interests.
During your following week(s), you’ll continue your placement while exploring more of Bali during your free time. Friday offers a chance to volunteer or enjoy extended weekend trips. Saturday marks your final day in Bali and on the Real South East Asia Encounter. If you’re heading home, the local team will assist in arranging your airport transfer, ensuring a smooth end to your unforgettable adventure.
Accommodation & Meals - Shared & Comfort Options Available
🇻🇳 Vietnam
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Vietnam volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in a quiet and friendly neighbourhood of Hanoi. The accommodation is around a 45 minute bus journey from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs within walking distance. Volunteer projects are located across different areas of the city, giving you the opportunity to experience more of Hanoi during your stay.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other international volunteers. Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories and accommodate up to 8 volunteers per room. Rooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided, with space available for hanging clothes.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers.
The house has a spacious communal area where you can relax and spend time with other participants. Free WiFi is available in certain areas of the house, including the main communal space, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for more consistent internet access.
There are 2 washing machines available for volunteers to use free of charge, with detergent available from nearby shops. Alternatively, affordable local laundry services can be found within the neighbourhood. Fridge space is also available for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Each volunteer is provided with a locker for storing personal belongings and a house key for convenient access to the accommodation. A member of staff, such as a nanny or local team intern, also stays overnight at the Volunteer House, providing an additional point of contact and support.
Power cuts can occasionally occur in Hanoi and are generally resolved within a couple of hours.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so volunteers usually travel to their placements by public bus. The cost of your bus pass is included in your Program Fee, and the local team will explain your route and transport options during orientation.
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Vietnam, you will be provided with three meals a day, except on Saturdays when meals are not served. Meals are traditional Vietnamese dishes, with rice being a staple. All meals are freshly cooked and nutritious, with free drinking water available 24/7.
For breakfast, you can expect options like fruit, toast, and tea or coffee. Lunch is usually provided at the project if the travel time prevents volunteers from returning to the Volunteer House. In such cases, the local team will reimburse up to 40,000 VND for meals purchased at nearby cafes. When taken at the Volunteer House, lunch typically includes soup, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
Dinner is served at the Volunteer House in the early evening, often buffet-style, and typically includes a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. Meals generally consist of pork, fish, beef, or chicken, as well as tofu or egg, vegetables, rice, and soup. On occasion, a western dish will be served, which is always a favourite among volunteers. It’s recommended to eat promptly when meals are ready, as food cools quickly.
If you wish to eat out, there are plenty of local cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area, or you can take a bus or taxi into Hanoi’s Old Quarter for more options.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Fruit, Toast, Tea/Coffee
Lunch – Soup, Rice, Vegetables, Meat, Fish
Dinner – Pork, Fish, Beef, Tofu, Egg, Vegetables, Rice, Soup
🇰🇭 Cambodia
Volunteer House
On the Cambodia volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House, located in the rural village of Bakod. The accommodation is approximately a 20 minute tuk tuk ride from Takeo, where you can find local restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs. Most of our main volunteer projects are based on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, making it convenient to combine your daily project work with life alongside other international volunteers.
WiFi is available at the Volunteer House, although volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for use with an unlocked mobile phone. Communal spaces include hammocks and areas where you can relax and socialise with other volunteers. A small café is located just offsite, while a local laundry service is available for a small cost. Handwashing facilities are also provided onsite.
Both shared and private room options are available. Bedrooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided. Air conditioning is usually turned off between 10am and 4pm to help manage the local power supply, with fans remaining operational during this time.
The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the local coordinators’ residence. This allows you to have your own volunteer living space while benefiting from having the local team close by for support throughout your stay. It also provides plenty of opportunities to learn more about Cambodian culture and everyday life in the local community.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers a social living experience, with same sex dormitory rooms accommodating up to 8 volunteers. Sharing with other participants makes it easy to get to know the group and enjoy the communal atmosphere of the Volunteer House.
Cupboard space is not available within the dormitory rooms, but each volunteer is provided with a trunk for storing personal belongings. We recommend bringing a small padlock to secure this, while valuables can also be stored securely with the local team.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the room allocated and availability. Where possible, volunteers will have access to a private bathroom, although some bathroom facilities may be shared with other volunteers. Bathrooms have western style facilities and showers. Hot water is not available, which is common locally given Cambodia’s warm tropical climate.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom while still allowing you to enjoy the social environment and communal areas of the Volunteer House.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together and typically contain a double bed. Comfort rooms also provide cupboard space and a fridge for additional convenience during your stay.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the room allocated and availability. Where possible, your Comfort room will have a private bathroom for your use, although in some cases bathroom facilities may be shared. Bathrooms have western style facilities and showers, with cold water rather than hot water.
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Cambodia, you will be provided with breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday at the Volunteer House. Breakfast typically includes toast, eggs, jam, noodles, tea, and coffee. Dinner is a mix of traditional Cambodian dishes with the occasional western meal. Filtered drinking water is available at no cost.
You will need to purchase your own lunch during the program. Volunteers often visit the local town or market a few times a week to stock up on supplies such as noodles, pasta, or snacks, which can be stored at the accommodation. Some food options are also available from the café just off-site.
If you choose to remain at the Volunteer House over the weekend, please note that meals will not be provided during this time. You will need to prepare or purchase your own food. However, many volunteers take this opportunity to travel and explore Cambodia during their free time.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Toast, Eggs, Noodles, Tea/Coffee
Lunch – Not Included
Dinner – Chicken Curry, Pasta, Noodles, Jacket Potatoes
🇮🇩 Bali
Volunteer House
During your time on the Bali volunteer program, you will stay in one of our Volunteer Houses in Tabanan. This traditional town provides an authentic experience of everyday Balinese life, with local restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs just a short walk away. Away from Bali’s busier tourist areas, Tabanan provides a great base for experiencing local culture while living alongside PMGY volunteers from around the world.
The Volunteer Houses have communal spaces where you can relax, spend time with other volunteers or prepare lesson plans if you are teaching English. Free WiFi and fridge space are available, while bedrooms have air conditioning, bed linen and mosquito nets or curtains where required. Lockers are available for storing personal belongings, with a small deposit payable for a locker key on arrival.
Our local team lives close to the volunteer accommodation, allowing volunteers to enjoy their own living space while having support nearby. This setup also provides opportunities to learn more about Balinese culture and connect with the local community during your stay.
Some volunteer projects are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, while others are further away. For placements that are not walkable, PMGY provides daily transport by minivan or private car, with the cost included in your Program Fee.
During busier periods, we operate multiple Volunteer Houses within Tabanan. Each provides the same core facilities, although there may be some variation in location, room layout, amenities and capacity. Due to the popularity of our Bali programs, specific Volunteer Houses cannot be requested, although we can accommodate friends and small groups together where possible.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers a social living experience and is a great way to get to know other volunteers during your time in Bali. Rooms are same sex and accommodate up to 8 volunteers in bunk beds, creating a friendly communal atmosphere within the Volunteer House.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include showers and western style toilets. Shower water is typically cold, which is common locally and can be refreshing in Bali’s warm tropical climate.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom while still allowing you to enjoy the social experience of living alongside other PMGY volunteers. Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together, typically with a double bed.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the individual room and availability. Some Comfort rooms have their own private ensuite bathroom, while others have access to shared bathroom facilities. Bathrooms include showers and western style toilets, with shower water typically cold. The main benefit of the Comfort Option is the privacy of your bedroom, with a private ensuite bathroom an additional benefit where available.
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Bali, you will enjoy three freshly prepared meals each day. Meals typically feature traditional Indonesian cuisine, with delicious dishes such as fried rice and noodles. Rice is a staple in Balinese cuisine, and chicken is the primary meat used. Vegetarian options are always available.
Tabanan offers a wide range of restaurants and local warungs (authentic food stalls) serving traditional Balinese cuisine, which is often vegetarian and packed with flavour. Occasionally, a western-style meal may be provided at the Volunteer House, and there are restaurants offering western dishes within a 20-minute walk.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Toast, Cakes, Fruit, Tea/Coffee
Lunch – Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Salad
Dinner – Fried Rice, Fried Chicken, Noodles, Spaghetti
Other Things to Consider on the Real South East Asia Encounter
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in the Program Fee. However, our local team can assist with arranging onward transport to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants. We strongly advise against using public transport or ridesharing apps for the return journey to the airport due to safety risks and potential inconvenience.
Different Experiences Across Different Destinations – The PMGY Encounter programs are designed to offer a diverse and exciting experience across some truly fascinating and unique destinations. While we aim to structure our programs in a similar way, the volunteer experience in each destination will vary. For instance, some locations may offer more basic accommodation but provide a highly impactful volunteer role, while others may be more tourist-focused, meaning your role at the project may be more limited. Additionally, teams have different safety policies depending on the local environment. Therefore, it’s important to stay open-minded when joining our programs across different destinations, as each country offers its own distinct experience.
Flights Not Included – Please note that none of the flights outlined in the itinerary are included in the Program Fee. You will need to budget separately for your main international flights to and from your home country, as well as any relevant internal flights between the Encounter destinations.
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes volunteers of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all participants need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a PMGY volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before travelling with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the Encounter programs — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Travelling overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all volunteers must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Real South East Asia Encounter, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
The Real South East Asia Encounter starts on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month year round.
For your trip to South East Asia, you should book your flights to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (airport code HAN) to arrive on the designated Wednesday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Real South East Asia Encounter volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends in Bali on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Once you’ve signed up for the program, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide via email outlining the dates you need to book flights. This ensures you’ll arrive at the right place on time and be ready for your airport pick-up at each destination.
Please note that flight costs are not included in the Program Fee for the Real South East Asia Encounter. You’ll need to budget for these separately, and the costs will vary depending on your location and the routes you select.
We organise programs with various start dates, durations, and itineraries in each location. To enhance the social experience, volunteers are grouped together in each destination, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. However, you may not exclusively be with others following the exact same itinerary as you.
Participants typically book the most cost-effective flight routes between destinations, so while it’s possible may share a flight with others, this cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, plan to travel independently and meet a new group of participants at each destination.
Based on feedback from previous volunteers, we’ve found that 4 weeks per destination is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Participant safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our participants are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail — from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international travellers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Real South East Asia Encounter volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Real South East Asia Encounter volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
