In Country Contact
Roxy Mould – Lead Coordinator
57 King Edward Street
Newton Park
Port Elizabeth
6045
Tel: +27 (0)41 364 0572

Roxy Mould
Cell: +27 (0)84 500 9019

Second Emergency Contact

Nick Mould
Cell: +27(0)79 109 7108
[email protected]

These are to be used during your programme, should you need to contact a representative. If you wish to contact someone at the volunteer house the number is +27 (0)41 364 0904

Please note that we are unable to resolve any flight problems such as missed flights, cancellations or delays. These issues can only be resolved directly with the airline or the travel agent that you booked your flights through.

Emergency Contact
There is 24 hour contact with the team in country.

Keeping in Touch
All contact from us is via email. Any changes of email address should be informed to us asap.

Your Fellow Travellers
Staying with you will be similarly minded travelers, possibly from all over the world, who just want to get the most of the experience and have fun. It should be lots of fun. Go in with an open mind and remember that as with all group travel, patience is sometimes required when different types of people are in close proximity with each other for a prolonged time.

Pre Departure Reading
• Be prepared for the culture shock. To minimize this, it is a good idea to research as much as possible about the destination and the culture. That way you will be ready for the different ways in which people act, interact, greet each, taboos etc, thus realizing that a behaviour might just be `different` and not necessarily, threatening or intimidating.
• Read up about the weather and typical weather patterns, so you are aware of weather variations during your stay. Knowing this will also help you decide what clothes you need to take.
• Find out about what illnesses are prevalent in the country and how they are contracted, so you are aware of how to avoid or mitigate against such illnesses
• Find out about the creepy crawlies and other bugs / animals in country so there are no nasty surprises!

Arrival Information

You should arrive in Port Elizabeth on the start date of the trip. You will be picked up from Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) and taken to the accommodation. Note that you should only leave the airport with a member of our in-country staff. If you cannot locate our staff at the airport, find a payphone and call them immediately.

Travellers will be arriving all day on the start day, so the induction will normally start the following day, when you will have a full briefing of the tour package, tour of the accommodation (what to do/what not to do) and will have a chance to meet the other travellers and your Lead Co-ordinator, and be informed of your schedule for the duration of your stay.

Programme Orientation

The day after you arrive on the programme, you will start 2-3 days of orientation at Umzi (accommodation), getting to know each other and the South African staff, finding out more about the South African way of life, and generally having fun. Placements will start during the first week. This is a great chance to meet and get to know all your fellow travellers.

In-Country Team
There are a number of people who will take care of you during your time abroad. You will have contact with many of them. Others will be working ‘behind the scenes’ to ensure you have a fun and rewarding experience.

However, the main person in charge of making sure you are getting the most out of your trip is the Lead Coordinator. They are a member of staff who live in-country full time and, as their job title suggests, they are responsible for coordinating all aspects of the programme, as well as offering advice and guidance throughout your stay. Please note that you should go to your Lead Coordinator if you have any problems whatsoever, be it with the trip, your overall experience or something more serious. Make sure you tell them in-country because, if they don’t know about your problem, they can’t solve it for you!

The Team
Your Project Director in South Africa is Nick Mould. Nick is half English and half South African – although no-one quite knows which half! He lived and studied in the UK for most of his life and, having completed a degree at the University of Cardiff, he headed down to the southern tip of Africa where he became full time coordinator of the programme in 2005. He has now been living in Port Elizabeth for 16 years and likes to think of himself as a decent rugby player – you however can be the judge of that!

Accommodation & Food
Overview – update this as per your country

	Standard Accommodation	Comfort Accommodation
All meals included	3 meals per day	3 meals per day
Free beverages	Tea and Coffee	Tea and Coffee
Persons per room	3 to 10	1
Wifi in public areas	Yes	Yes
Laundry facilities	Yes – R10 coin operated*	Yes – R10 coin operated*
Safety box	Yes, locker in each room**	Yes, locker in each room**
Lockable rooms	Yes	Yes
Hot shower	Yes	Yes
Private bathroom	No	Yes
Bed linen	Yes	Yes
Towels	No	No
Mosquito protection	No	No
Fan	No	No
Air conditioning	No	No

* Or at extra cost in local launderettes
** Bring a padlock

Standard Accommodation
Shared dorm rooms with 4-6 people per room (8 to 10 in the biggest dorms).  Mostly single bunk beds. Shared bathrooms – usually one shower and toilet per 5 people

Comfort Accommodation
We have one single room (shared bathroom) and one double en-suite room with double bed and private bathroom which are available for volunteers to book at an extra cost

Food arrangements
Three meals per day are provided as part of our service but there are also two ‘mini’ kitchens for volunteers to store and prepare their own food if they wish.   Breakfast is comprised of cereals and toast, with a choice of spreads and fruit. Lunch is a packed lunch of sandwiches, crisps and fruit. The evening meal will be a cooked meal with a standard variety of Western Cuisine, with the odd South African dish mixed in.  There is a dining room and lounge, both equipped with DSTV (Cable) TV.

Supermarket: Located 5 minutes walking distance from the accommodation
ATM: 5 minutes walk from the accommodation.
Laundry: There are coin operated washing machines at the accommodation costing R10 each we also provide a laundry service for a little extra cost.
Tap Water: the tap water is completely clean and safe to drink at our accommodation
Restaurants / Bars: There are plenty of small restaurants and bars within walking distance. The beach and larger entertainment areas are a 15 minute drive.

Your accommodation will be situated in the volunteer house Umzi (Xhosa for home) in Newton Park, Port Elizabeth. While the accommodation is basic shared rooms with bunk beds, it also has a range of amazing facilities including:

_ Several communal areas for socialising including the TV room, reading room, large garden and games room that has table tennis and a pool table.
_ Large Swimming Pool
_ DSTV with nine 24hr sport channels.
_ Shops within 5 minute walk selling everyday items such as snacks and drinks, toiletries, SIM cards, phone top-up vouchers and international call cards.

The accommodation is located close to the centre of Port Elizabeth and main shopping mall. The beachfront is only a short taxi ride away that costs approx 50 ZAR per journey. The accommodation is approximately 10 – 15 minutes car journey from the Township areas that you will volunteer in.

Breakfast: Cereal and toast (self service) from 7:30-9:00 Monday to Friday and 8:00-9:30 at weekends

Lunch: travellers make their own packed lunch (sandwiches, crisps, fruit) during the breakfast period to take with them to their placement. Lunchboxes are provided at the beginning of the placement. At the weekend, lunch is served between 12:30-13:00.

Dinner: The evening meal is served between 17:00-18:00. Supper is saved for people who have placement commitments in the evening. Travellers wash up their own dishes when they have finished eating. Typical meals include – rice dishes, burgers, lasagne, bolognese, curry, pie etc.

Water is considered safe to drink in South Africa, although you may prefer bottled water.

Passport
Your passport is your most important document when travelling overseas and should be guarded at all times. It is proof of who you are, where you have been, as well as a means of entering or leaving a country. Ensure that your passport is fully up-to-date with at least 6 months of unexpired time after your due return date. This will avoid problems at immigration.
Learn your passport number by memory so you can write it on official forms when required.
Avoid putting your passport in overhead luggage compartments when travelling on planes, trains and buses. Keep it in your pocket.
While undertaking overland travel in-country, as far as possible, don’t allow bus drivers to collect your passports when approaching border crossings. Deal with the customs officials yourself.

Visas
Make sure you have been issued with all the necessary visas for your chosen destination, and any other countries you intend travelling on to at the end of the programme. See the visa section for your chosen destination for specific requirements.
Do not wait until the last minute to apply for your visa(s). If you are applying by post, make sure you leave at least 6-8 weeks before your departure date. Also note that we are unable to speed up the process if you suffer delays.
Be aware that countries often alter their visa requirements, sometimes year on year! For all the latest visa information, visit the host embassies web site in your home country.

Photocopies
You should make photocopies of all your important documents. Keep one copy with you while overseas (separate from the original documents of course!) and leave another copy at home with a friend or family member. We recommend you make photocopies of the following documents in case of loss or theft:
Passport: your passport number, date and place of issue and any visa pages.
Flight Details: your flight numbers, connections and destination airports.
Insurance Policy: your policy number, 24-hr medical emergency telephone number, general claims number
Vaccination Card: documents stating what vaccinations you have.
Travelers’ Cheques: all the serial numbers and cancellation phone number.
Bank Cards: the phone number needed to report/cancel credit or debit cards.

Email Yourself!
It is also wise to scan your important documents into a computer and attach them to an email as jpeg files. You can then send this email to an account that you can access from an internet connection anywhere in the world (e.g. hotmail, yahoo mail, gmail). This ensures you still have copies of your documents even if the originals and photocopies are lost or stolen.

Travel Insurance for your Trip

We believe that safety and enjoyment are equally important when travelling with United Through Sport. It is therefore one of our terms and conditions of booking that you have adequate travel insurance in place before you travel; cover must include emergency medical expenses, personal accident and repatriation. In addition, we strongly recommend that you include baggage, personal liability and cancellation cover.

Insurance
You can only join your chosen programme if you have taken out adequate travel insurance. Read the notes in the insurance section of this document and make sure that the policy you buy provides you with the essential cover listed.
Always read through your chosen policy holder’s terms and conditions thoroughly, especially the ‘small print’.
Make sure you keep your insurance policy in a convenient place and leave a copy with your next of kin. This will be vital in the event of an accident when someone else needs to notify the insurance company. Beware hospitals may also want proof of insurance before giving you medical treatment

Additional Notes from United Through Sport:

Remember to travel with us, you must have a full insurance policy that covers the activities you will be undertaking overseas. This is compulsory. You need to be fully covered for the whole time you are away (from initial departure date to arrival back in home country date), so may need to choose a policy that is 1-2 weeks longer than your placement dates. Also include any extra weeks of independent travel you plan to do after the programme.

Look at your chosen policy carefully (read the small print (Terms and Conditions)) and make sure that you are comfortable with the cover offered and have paid particular attention to general exclusions and pre existing medical conditions.

Also think about other activities that you intend to undertake that are not part of your programme and ensure that you policy also covers them. We further recommend that your policy includes personal liability.

Health and Hygiene
We are not medically qualified and so can not give any medical advice with regards to travel health and vaccinations, so it is absolutely essential that you seek professional medical advice (GP / Travel nurse / Travel clinic) before departure (also see link in pre departure check ups).

Ensure that you make photocopies of your vaccination certificates and medical documentation, and ask a friend or family member to keep a copy at home while you are away.

As with all things, the best way to look after yourself is to prevent illness and injury as much as possible. There are a number of things you must do before leaving to make sure you remain fit and healthy overseas. Read the advice and recommendations below carefully.
What can I do to prepare for my trip?

Pre Departure Check Ups
• Visit a travel nurse or travel clinic to discuss and organise vaccinations required and recommended for your destination. Ensure that you tell the clinic where you are going and what you are going to be doing in country (and after if travelling on).
• It is advisable to visit your doctor at least 2-3 months before departure for a general check up.
• Stock up on any prescription medication you are taking, including any contraception medication you are using.
• Check with your doctor (or your governmental Department of Health) that it is legal to take your prescribed medication in-country. If taking medication into the country, it’s advisable to have an accompanying letter from your doctor stating what the medication is for and why you are taking a batch in country with you.
• Book an appointment with your dentist. Toothache will ruin your trip, and dental work overseas is usually very expensive. The quality of treatment may also be very poor.

Stomach Bugs
Many of our travellers contract a 24 hour/48 hour stomach upset early into their trip due to changes in the environment and adjusting to new bacteria. By resting, drinking lots of fluids and replacing salts, you will soon recover from such upsets. Some people travel with 1-a-day multivitamins to encourage and promote the body’s defences through these changes.
If you are unwell, be sure to contact the Lead Coordinator in country.

Sunburn
Beware of hot climates and intense sunshine found in other countries. Dehydration, sunburn and heat stroke are all too common among our ‘overeager’ travelers. However, you can easily avoid these problems by taking the following preventative measures:
– Avoid direct sunlight when the sun is at its strongest (e.g. midday)
– Wear sunglasses
– Wear a cap or hat
– Apply a high factor sunscreen
– Drink lots of water throughout the day and always carry a full bottle of water
– Add re-hydration sachets to your water to add lost salts and minerals

HIV and AIDS
All travellers should be aware of the HIV virus and how it is transmitted. HIV and AIDS is present everywhere in world. Therefore, make sure you follow these basic rules wherever you are:
– Avoid casual sex and contact with infected bodily fluids
– Never allow yourself to be injected with an unsterilized needle or syringe
– Where possible, avoid any other blood-to-blood contact

First Aid Kits
It is advisable to take a personal first aid kit with you. This will be essential for any minor accident or injury you encounter abroad. The big high street chemists and outdoor travel shops sell medical kits with all the key items. Also make sure you keep it in a convenient place throughout your stay and take it to your placement each day

Safety + Security
Unfortunately, problems with security, including theft and robbery, affect all of us everywhere. However, danger can be avoided by staying alert and taking various preventative measures. The majority of safety related issues could have been avoided. Below are some general things that could get you in to trouble.

Tourists are always targets for pickpockets and thieves. Please educate yourself about Africa and South Africa in particular, before you leave, so that you can be alert for all types of situations. General travel safety rules are below.

_ Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
_ Find out where the unsafe areas are and avoid them
_ When travelling keep all-important documents and valuables in a safe place, like an inner hidden pocket or money belt
_ Carry only as much cash as you think you will need for the day
_ Don’t wear expensive jewellery or watches
_ Be wary of people who seem too friendly too fast
_ Keep cameras out of sight. Always keep bags and purses in your sight.
_ Before swimming, ask how safe the area is

Money
At home we generally feel quite safe opening a wallet or purse, we probably do not have too many notes in there at any one time. However, when we are overseas and for various good reasons (exchange rates, access to cash etc) we sometimes are tempted to, or by necessity, have a considerable amount of local currency in our possession. This is almost certainly the opposite to the vast majority of the population of the country you are visiting, hence, if you are tempted to `Flash the Cash” whilst overseas, you could well be setting yourself up for unwanted attention.

Precautions to employ:
• A money belt is a useful piece of kit for your valuables, have only small denomination notes and small change in your pocket. Keep the money belt under your clothes, out of sight and only open it in a known safe location.
• When using an ATM, make sure it is in a well lit area and do not count your money until you are in a safe place. Also avoid withdrawing money at night.
• Do not think for one second that `it only happens to someone else.
• Be cautious of over friendly strangers wanting to assist you at ATM’s never tell them your pin number or allow them to see it.

Manner and Dress
Your behaviour and dress can and will attract a considerable amount of attention. Cultures in the less developed world will not understand many of the mannerisms that some travelers may portray. It is possible that they will see them as insulting or showing a lack of respect. Over confidence will be perceived as showing off and bragging, particularly where materialistic possessions are concerned.

Some tips:
• Try to be understated, keep your actions as low profile as you can.
• You are there to experience, understand and immerse yourself in the culture, not to compare / contrast and make derogatory comments.
• Try and adopt some local mannerisms and ‘blend in’, for example many cultures have their own style of greetings – learn them.
• Wear clothing that is appropriate and NOT in any way political or insulting. Your country’s flag on a T shirts etc should be left at home. Patriotism is admired, xenophobia is not. If you are unsure what is and is not appropriate, seek advice from your local coordinator.
• Travelling in a group can be perceived as intimidating and threatening. Think about your impact.

Mouth
As a traveler to another country you are already at a disadvantage.  When we want people to, we expect everyone to understand what we say, however, when we then decide to talk about locals in a derogatory way then we expect them not to. Many swear words are international and just as people take offence at home they will overseas. Considering you are very often in that country trying to set an example to young people it goes against the ethos to be using bad language.

Do’s and Don’ts
• Do keep your voice down
• Don’t swear
• Do pick up some greetings and please & thank you in the local language

Drugs
Never EVER buy, take or keep drugs on you while overseas. Not only will your placement be terminated immediately, local police will have no hesitation in arresting you and sending you to a local prison without trial. The conditions in foreign prisons are often very poor and you will usually not be entitled to the same rights you have back home. The penalties for possessing a small quantity of marijuana are extremely high and can be well over 10 years. There are also periodical drugs searches by local police. Always carry identification with you (i.e. a photocopy of your passport ID page).

Alcohol
Virtually all safety related incidents are in some way connected to the over consumption of alcohol. Travelers consuming excessive amounts of drink are often `targeted` in bars and mugged or worse on leaving. Any amount of alcohol will inhibit your judgment and give you a sense of invulnerability, it is this that will get you in to a potentially dangerous situation and one that, in normal circumstances, you would have avoided at all costs.
• Drink in moderation
• Keep watch over others
• If you feel uncomfortable in a particular bar…LEAVE
• When out at night, NEVER walk home, and avoid taking local buses. Wherever possible, use taxis in pairs.

ATM Theft

It is very likely that you will need to withdraw cash at some point during your travels. Please be cautious when withdrawing money from an ATM and ensure that you are vigilant of other people near the ATM, especially those that offer unsolicited assistance if your card is detained. It has been recognised that individuals are operating unlawful withdrawals by placing ‘traps’ in ATMs whereby personal bank cards are being detained, causing the victim to believe their card transaction has not been completed, and leaving their bank card in the ATM which is then later retrieved by the thief. If your card is confiscated or you are concerned that your card has been tampered with, please report immediately to the bank or cancel your card.

Some General Points
• If faced with the choice of giving up your possessions or confronting a hostile person, always give up your possessions – your life is worth far more than anything you own. Furthermore, anything you lose can be replaced. A new passport can be issued by an Embassy or High Commission, your airline company can issue new tickets and your insurance company will cover lost money and possessions.
• The road conditions and attitude to driving can be very different in other countries. Make a judgment call, if you feel unsafe – take yourself away from that situation (vehicle).
• Only ever use officially recognised taxis. At night always travel in pairs.
• Some foreign coastlines have extremely strong currents and rip-tides. Make sure you are careful and always listen to the locals on where you should avoid swimming.
• If you are approached on the street by an overly friendly stranger who wants to shake your hand, put his arm around you or ‘get physical’, be cautious! The best case scenario is that they are trying to get a cigarette or some change from you. The worst case scenario is that you are being distracted so an accomplice can snatch your valuables. Be aware, but don’t be paranoid.
• Never EVER be rude to a police officer or any other official. They will take great pleasure in arresting you to make an example of your disrespect.

Safety Measures
• Permanent in-country staff are resident in the same accommodation that you will be staying in. They are on call 24hrs a day in case of an emergency.
• All our travelers receive detailed pre-departure information explaining how to prepare for your trip. Read it well!
• Full contact details of in country staff are given to our travelers pre departure. Staff overseas can be contacted at any time in an emergency.
• Our travelers mostly live together in the same place as far as possible. This creates a fun, social atmosphere where everyone looks out for one another.
• On arrival, an induction is given to all our travelers. Our in-country staff have a very sound knowledge of the destination you will be visiting and will explain all the ‘dos and don’ts’ of the country. This includes important information about the people, the local customs and the cultural courtesies which all travelers should be aware of.
• We encourage all our volunteers to explore the country in which they are living, but our in-country staff give plenty of advice on the ‘must see’ places, as well as the safest and most rewarding ways to travel to them.

Code of Conduct
We of course want you to have a fun and life changing experience overseas, but it is important to remember that you are an ambassador for us. It is therefore essential that you conduct yourself in an appropriate manner for the entire time you are abroad.
We would like to remind you of our Code of Conduct as outlined below:
a) You will at all times respect local attitudes, cultures and beliefs. Specifically, You will not make comments of a derisory, sexist, or racist nature to anyone during Your stay. And You will dress, speak and behave appropriately at all times.
(b) You will not act in any way that is considered to be an anti-social manner by the Lead Coordinator or local inhabitants at any time during Your stay. You will adhere to this specifically while under the influence of alcohol.
(c) You will arrive at Your Placement on time each day and, in the event that You are delayed or cannot attend Your Placement altogether, You will notify the Lead Coordinator as far in advance as is reasonably possible. Alternatively, You may notify another individual, such as the In-Country Staff member associated with your Placement, provided that this individual has been expressly nominated in advance by the  Coordinator
(d) You will not take any time out from Your Placement in order to undertake personal in-country travel or to spend time with friends or family unless You have obtained the express permission from the Lead Coordinator.
(e) You will not spend the night away from Your accommodation unless You have obtained the express permission from the Lead Coordinator.
(f) You will not allow any person to enter or spend the night at Your accommodation unless You have obtained the express permission from the Lead Coordinator.
(g) You will leave Your accommodation on the Placement End Date stated unless You have obtained the express permission from the Lead Coordinator. This includes local home-stays that You may have stayed with during Your Placement which We sourced and introduced to You. You will not leave Your Placement earlier than the intended end date without consulting the Lead Coordinator.
(h) You will ensure that any equipment used by You, whether personal belongings or otherwise, are cleared away and kept tidy and orderly at all times, in both personal and communal living areas of the accommodation. You will treat Your Accommodation with respect. Failure to do so may result in You being asked to leave Your Placement.
(i) You agree to drink alcohol only in moderation throughout Your entire time abroad. The Lead Coordinator will explain the drinking rules that apply to Your Placement when You arrive in-country.

(j) You will not buy, handle or consume any illegal substance during Your stay. You understand that We have a zero-tolerance policy on this matter and anyone who is caught in possession of illegal substances or is suspected of using or handling them will be asked to leave their Placement and Accommodation immediately
(k) You acknowledge that We explicitly advise against You developing sexual relations with any persons in the country where You are staying and You do so at Your own risk. Specifically, You accept and understand that there may be different attitudes to sexual relations in the countries that You visit, and that this could result in danger to Yourself. You also accept that health facilities may be of a lower standard in Your Placement country and that HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases may also be common. You acknowledge that You are aware of the risks of unplanned pregnancy, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases involved in unprotected sexual relations. You also acknowledge that You are aware that drugs are sometimes used in cases of rape/non-consensual sex and this may be a risk while socialising during Your Placement.
(l) You will follow the advice of the Lead Coordinator at all times. Failure to do so may put You or others in danger and may lead to You being asked to leave Your Placement and Accommodation immediately
(m) You are responsible for Your health and wellbeing. You agree to deal with any medical ailment immediately and seek medical attention and the advice of Your medical assistance company, should You require it. You accept that health facilities in Your placement country may be of a lower standard than You are used to.
(n) You will ensure that return flight date falls before the expiration of any in country visa requirement. You understand that You need to obtain Your visa (if required).

Additional for the Volunteer Coaching Programme
(i) * Furthermore on the VOLUNTEER programme, unless otherwise permitted by the Lead Coordinator, You will not consume  alcohol in excess from Sunday up until Friday evening. This rule may be relaxed on Friday evening and Saturday provided You have obtained the express permission from the Lead Coordinator. You understand that We have a zero-tolerance policy on this matter and anyone who is caught over consuming alcohol or is suspected of consuming alcohol outside the times permitted by the Lead Coordinator may be asked to leave their Placement and Accommodation immediately.
(o) If You are undertaking a volunteer Placement under the VOLUNTEER programme, You agree to attend the minimum hours of Your Placement provided by and agreed by Us. The agreed hours will be a minimum of four (4) hours per weekday (Monday – Friday) unless otherwise expressly stated in literature given to you or by the Lead Coordinator. You understand that You have made a commitment to Your placement and will perform to the best of Your ability.

Termination of Placement
If your trip is terminated as a result of non compliance with the code of conduct or terms and conditions, you will be asked to leave immediately and asked to refund any costs incurred as a result of the non compliance.

Discrimination on any grounds
We do not stand for any form or discrimination against any individual. If you see, hear or are a victim of discrimination, please inform the Lead Coordinator immediately.

Drugs
There is an absolute ZERO tolerance on drugs. Anyone who is caught in possession of illegal substances or is suspected of using or handling them will be asked to leave their Trip immediately

Kit List – What to bring

The following list is designed to help you select and prepare your personal equipment for your trip overseas. Essentially, the weather will be warm(ish) dependent on when you go (see the weather guide below), so you need to bring enough clothes that will allow you to have enough ‘during placement kit’ and ‘after placement kit’ (whether that’s informal beach gear, or clothes to go out in!).

The ‘layering’ phenomenon (i.e. clothes that are easy to layer on, strip off) is key! Things are pretty laid back over in SA so don’t worry about bringing you tux, or cocktail dresses for going out, it’s a very casual affair.

We may also be providing you with some kit that is specific to your project, such as sports equipment and teaching materials. These will be given to you in country and are yours to use throughout your stay and will be left with the community at the end of your placement. You may also want to bring some additional equipment for your project but please note that you will have to take this out under your own luggage allowance.

Recommended Clothing

_ Fleece: For insulation – again it may get chilly especially at night.

_ Hat: An essential piece of kit for keeping the sun off your head to prevent sunstroke. We would advise that a wide brimmed hat be worn rather than a baseball cap, which will not protect the back of your neck.

_ Jumper: Although it will be warm for the majority of the time overseas, it will sometimes get cold, particularly at night, so make sure you bring a couple of warm jumpers (wool / fleece).

_ Shirts: Always useful to bring a couple of shirts that can be used for smart wear. It is highly recommended that you bring a bunch of your own sports shirts and training tops to wear during the programme.

_ Shorts: A selection is recommended, as it is likely that you will be wearing these the most.

_ Socks: Again, enough to see you through the week is recommended. You may also want to bring socks for any sport activities you may be involved with, e.g. football socks.

_ Swimwear: There are plenty of places to go swimming, either in pools or the sea, so a swimming costume is very important. You may also want to try your hand at surfing.

_ Trousers: We suggest bringing lightweight cotton trousers, as it may get quite hot and they are also good for wearing after dark to keep those bugs away! Also bring one reasonably smart pair for wearing at night.

_ T-Shirts: Bring a selection that you can use while on you placement.

_ Underwear: Cotton underwear is more hygienic than synthetic. Enough to see you through the week is advised.

_ Specialist Clothing / Kit: Sports kit, whistle and hockey stick (for hockey coaches), sports boots  / cleats

Shoes

_ Casual Shoes: Bring a comfortable pair of shoes that you can wear for going out and, ideally, for any indoor sports activities that may require ‘clean’ shoes. Closed toed shoes are required if working in the schools or orphanages.

_ Sandals: A pair of good-quality sandals, with ankle straps, very common amongst travellers in to warm climates because of the good ventilation they provide.

_ Shoes/Boots: Bring a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty because you will often be working and playing sports outside. Furthermore, it is likely that you will experience the odd downpour of rain, which can often turn parks and pitches into temporary mud baths! Footwear such as Astroturf boots, blades or soft studs is recommended if planning to do sports. If you plan on doing any walking/hiking during your placement or while travelling independently, we suggest that you take a good quality pair of walking boots. Whether you choose leather or fabric walking boots they should have a rigid sole with a good tread and good ankle support. Boots should be purchased in advance of your placement to make sure they are comfortable and worn in.

_ Trainers / Running Shoes: For everyday running around

Wet Weather Gear

_ Waterproof Jacket: Lightweight, waterproof and breathable – always useful

Equipment and Toiletries

_ Camera: for the essential ‘Kodak’ moments.

_ Personal Medical Kit: People tend to underestimate that carrying a good medical kit when travelling is very important. Remember your prescription medicines if you’re taking any. Your medical kit should at least include assorted plasters, paracetamol, Ibuprofen, antiseptic wipes and rehydration sachets. A lot of pharmacy products are readily available in-country but it is wise to arrive with some supplies. If you plan to travel independently after your project your medical kit should be more extensive.

_ Mosquito and Insect Repellent: You should take prevention measures against mosquito bites. Therefore, we advise you to take strong repellent (we would suggest getting a product with a high DEET content i.e. 50% DEET).

_ Sleeping Bag: You may consider taking a sleeping bag for travel pre / post activity tour (not required on the tour).

_ Sun Cream and After Sun: It is essential to bring a high factor (30+) sun cream, lip sun block and after sun due to the strong rays and long hours spent outside.

_ Sunglasses: Good quality sunglasses are an important piece of equipment because you will spend a lot of your time outside. Check that they are polarising and provide an effective filter against UV radiation. A neck-leash is also handy to stop them from falling off

_ Torch/Flashlight: Not essential but could be useful.  A head torch, plus a small backup hand torch, gives great versatility. If for example you

experience a power cut, or are out camping, you will have to undertake a lot of two-handed tasks in night time darkness, such as getting ready for bed, going to the toilet, etc. A head torch is also great for reading.

_ Towel: Essential, (travel towels are often useful as they are compact and dry very quickly)

_ Wash Kit: Bring the usual items: toothbrush, toothpaste, sufficient soap (you can purchase highly concentrated travel soaps that wash your hair, body, food and clothes), moisturizer, deodorant, shampoo, razor, shaving gel/foam, wet wipes, anti bacterial hand gel etc.

_ Watch: There is no need to bring an expensive watch, but having both an alarm and stopwatch can prove very useful.

_ Water bottles: You should be carrying at least two litres of water with you at all times; bottled water is available in country but not all the time. Having your own supply is important while on your placement or when travelling.

Whether you carry a platypus (hydration system with drinking tube) or a US Army style bottle it doesn’t matter as long as you carry enough water.

_ Whistle (for sport placements only): You may want to bring a whistle to use while on your placement. This is especially helpful when organising your team or refereeing matches.

Luggage

_ Luggage: Due to the style of placement that you are doing it is not necessary for you to spend extra money on purchasing a particular type of main bag; you are free to use a hold-all or rucksack as you choose. If you are travelling on after your project, or plan to travel in the future, you should consider more carefully the type of bag you choose. If your plan is to go backpacking then a travel sac is probably the most suitable bag that you can take (this is like a normal rucksack but zips around the edge allowing you easier access to your belongings).

_ Day Sack: A small rucksack, with a capacity of approximately 25 litres, is useful for carrying personal kit on your placement. It also makes a good piece of hand luggage for the plane and for travelling in-country. If you choose to take a travel sac as your main piece of luggage a detachable day sack will often be part of this bag.

Programme Facilities and Services

Telephone

The international dialling code for South Africa is +27

To place an outgoing call, direct dialled international call, dial +31 for the Netherlands followed by the telephone number. For example There is a payphone at Umzi for incoming and outgoing calls: +27 (0)41 364 0904. Friends and parents are welcome to use this. Please keep these numbers somewhere safe.

Travellers can either buy a SIM card (phone dependent) or buy a new mobile and SIM card in South Africa if you would like to have mobile coverage. There is free wireless internet coverage at Umzi so people bringing phones and laptops can connect online (just bear in mind there are a number of travellers using the same connection so sometimes internet can be slow).  There are also internet cafes a short walk away from Umzi

Laundry

There are four coin-operated washing machines available for laundry at your accommodation.  Alternatively there is a paid laundry service available at R10 per kg.

Electricity

South Africa uses 220/230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

There is electricity at your accommodation, the plug sockets in South Africa take plugs with two large circular pins and a large circular grounding pin; therefore you will need to buy an adaptor if you want to use/charge electrical items.

Transport

Pick up from and drop off to Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is included. Transport to/from activity placements also included (where necessary) and will usually be a minibus.

Money

The official currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) An approximate conversion rate follows:

1€ = 15 ZAR

For the most current exchange rate use www.wisselkoersen.nl

Spending Money

We would recommend that you allow for £60 – £100 ($95 – $160) per week spending money for your time at the project. You can change your money into South African Rand before you depart and we recommend you bring the equivalent of approx £40 ($65) into South Africa.

Upon arrival, the best place to change money is a Nedbank, First National, or a Standard Bank, also a good option are Forex Bureaus. It is also a good idea to take a small amount of South African Rand with you, just to be safe.

We would suggest that you then use a VISA (the most widely accepted) credit or debit card and withdraw money as and when you need it; the best bank for VISA is NedBank.

Food and Drink

Food in South Africa is delicious. You will be exposed to every different type of meat at every meal, ranging from impala and kudu to ostrich. All can be enjoyed in many different ways, but one of the best ways to taste these meats would be to sample it off a hot braai (barbecue). Be prepared to try something new! It you want to try some more traditional food then go for some Biltong (dried meat) and Boerewors (barbecue sausage).

If you are a vegetarian, do not worry. South Africa is abundant with delicious local vegetables, such as yams and sweet potatoes. Drinking water from the tap is safe throughout the country, apart from in the more rural areas.

Smoking and Drinking

Smoking and drinking is tolerated in South Africa, although smoking has been banned in public areas such as cinemas, bars and airports. You will find that you will be able to get imported beer cheaply in most establishments and there are many tasty local beers too. South Africa is also famous for wines, so you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to try some local varieties.

However, please respect other volunteers. Drinking is only permissible in moderation and must not impact on your

volunteer work during the week. While we want you to have fun in your free time, antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated on the project.

Greeting

Pleasantries are taken seriously and using ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ can go a long way to making friends and being accepted. Please take the time to learn a few local words and show that you are keen to fit in. There is also a big emphasis on shaking hands. The Western way of doing this will be fine, but you are likely to pick up a few local variations! On The whole, South Africans are easy-going people – any social errors are unlikely to cause offence and so please do not worry!

Free Time

You are always free on the weekends. As an intern or volunteer you can do whatever you want. But it is good to know that there are always organized programs for you. Some are free and others cost extra money. See below a schedule of what is offered.

Activities & Events

Every Wednesday –  5-a-side football
Week 1 – Arrival weekend
Week 2 – Jeffreys Bay – home of surfing South Africa – transport Free, overnight stay Free, optional dune boarding +- R180, optional surf lessons +- R400)
Week 3 – Great White Shark Cage Diving – Cost R2,700
Week 4 – Bloukrans Bungee Jump – transport free – Bungee R1350
Week 5 – Departure / Arrival Weekend
Week 6 – Adrenaline Addo – Zip wires, Bungee Swing, Canoeing – R700
Week 7 – Schotia Game Reserve – Big Five Reserve – R3,500
Week 8 – Kragga Kamma – Game reserve close to Port Elizabeth – Free
Week 9 – Skydiving – R2,600 (R450 extra for video)
Week 10– Sundays River – boat trip and BBQ (braai) on the river – Free
Week 11– Bushcamp – Outdoor meal, under the stars, plus traditional African dance group – Free
Week 12 – Departure weekend

Note dates of activities are not guaranteed and will change depending on factors, such as weather, number of volunteers wishing to take part and other potential events taking place.  Participants will only be able to partake in all activities if they come for a full 12 week duration. Prices may vary between now and arrival date.