My Humanitarian Journey: Part 1
La Découverte du Volontariat – 2018
When I first started thinking about humanitarian travel, I wanted to understand the difference between volunteering and voluntary work. Volunteering, which is often local, generally involves giving one’s time without financial compensation, whereas voluntary work can include missions abroad, allowing you to choose the countries where you want to get involved. This freedom of choice immediately attracted me to volunteering. So I decided to go to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos for a total of three months.
To find an association to go with, I first looked at a lot of websites that talked about volunteering. I had to differentiate between the two, namely that volunteering allowed me to choose for myself where I wanted to go, whereas volunteering had to be done randomly around the world. For volunteering, I had to pay for accommodation, medical insurance and food.
So I contacted an association that also organizes language exchange trips. I had a telephone conversation with a person who wanted to check my level of English and who told me a little about the program. She then sent me a quote with the total budget for the three months, i.e. Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, as well as the mission, described in the appendix. I accepted after asking all the questions to make sure that the program wasn’t just about cashing in and bringing Europeans to Asia. The program was fairly well structured; there was a children’s suite and everything seemed fine.
Pre-departure preparations
There was a lot to prepare. Fortunately, I was working on a fixed-term contract at the time, so my contract was up before I left. I had to pass an English test and provide several official documents attesting to my clean criminal record and good health. I also had to have several vaccinations. Once all the formalities were completed, I was ready to leave.
Arrival in Vietnam
My journey began in Vietnam. I still remember my landing, that moment of doubt mixed with excitement. At the age of 20, setting off alone, backpacked, into the unknown was both terrifying and exhilarating. When I arrived, a member of the association and a volunteer (English) gave me a warm welcome. I can still remember the smell and feel of arriving in Vietnam. We then arrived at the volunteers’ accommodation, which was in a school for young people. On the same street there was an incredible little tearoom! A little lady was preparing the tea she served us every day (because yes, I went there every day…) with a huge smile. In the same street there was a restaurant… I had seen a poster with cats. After several days I learned that it was the menu… well…
First Mission: A Crib
My first assignment was to work in a crèche. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t live up to my expectations. I was disappointed to see children constantly exposed to screens. I tried to bring in new ideas and use my professional skills, but it wasn’t well received. So I asked for a change of location.
Second Mission: A hospital for disabled children
I was transferred to a hospital where I worked with children suffering from severe disabilities. Although this mission was emotionally challenging, I felt like I belonged. I really felt I could help these families and children. We were mainly there to stimulate the children, feed them and entertain them. It was in this hospital that I first heard “Baby Shark”.
Discovering Vietnam
In our free time, my fellow volunteers and I set off to explore Vietnam. Every weekend was a new adventure. We discovered sand dunes, beautiful beaches, bustling cities, picturesque villages, lush forests, and met incredibly friendly people. I loved this country so much that I stayed a little longer than planned. A friend joined me and we traveled from North to South. We never felt unsafe and were always made to feel very welcome.
Coup de Coeur in Vietnam
My favorite place in Vietnam was undoubtedly the small town of Hoi An. This charismatic town is famous for the colorful lanterns that light up the streets every evening, creating a warm, magical atmosphere. Hoi An is rich in history: once an important trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, it has preserved its traditional architecture and historic buildings. Strolling through the narrow streets of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like stepping back in time. The varied landscapes, delicious food and unique atmosphere of Hoi An left a deep impression on me. I don’t think there was a moment when I didn’t feel at home in Vietnam.
Continuation of the adventure
After these unforgettable moments in Vietnam, my friend returned to Switzerland and I continued my journey to Cambodia.
Feel free to comment if you have any questions or need more information about humanitarian travel. Stay tuned, the next article about my adventure in Cambodia is coming soon.