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    Itinerary - Africa and Asia Venture

    Itinerary

    Photograph of AV teaching outsideARRIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA

    You will need to arrive in Johannesburg in the early morning of the day that the venture begins.   You will fly to Jan Smuts International Airport, where you will transfer to the internal flight to Bloemfontein arriving by midday. At Bloemfontein you will be met by the AV representative, before the two to three hour drive to Philippolis. 

    WELCOME AND BRIEFING

    On arrival in Philippolis you will have time to explore your new home, you will be introduced to South Africa with a two-day briefing on your project. It is a chance to settle in, unwind after the hectic few days leading to your departure and get to know your AV group. The briefing is important to make sure you are fully prepared for the 5 weeks ahead. As well as covering the community work you will be involved with, the course will include the following:

    • Photograph of AV's with school childrenHistory, customs and culture of South Africa and its people
    • Safety, health and security
    • Some Afrikaans lessons

    THE PROJECT

    Over the next five weeks you will spend your time living and working in the communities and schools around Philippolis.  

    Your project work will include building projects – everything from digging and mixing concrete to painting and decorating.   You will assist our team of skilled craftsmen, providing an extra pair of hands for the heavy jobs, helping with the unskilled work whilst also learning new skills on project.

    Photograph of AV's paintingShould you want to do some teaching and be more involved with the five schools around Philippolis, you could help run lessons, introduce art and craft or music clubs, or even get your hands dirty by helping in the organic vegetable gardens.   Otherwise there are sports to be organised, games to be run and lots of children with endless energy wanting to play.

    Each day you will spend time socialising with the villagers. You might even be taught how to cook Vetkoek (a traditional South African pastry) with some of the local women.  This is a great opportunity to make new friends - they will be keen to talk about where you are from, your family and life at home, whilst you can practice your Afrikaans!

    Photograph of AV's building projectIn your free time you can do as you wish and explore the area – maybe head to Bloemfontein for shopping, restaurants and rugby; rafting on the Orange River; and unusually, and unexpected for Africa, there is a tiger breeding ranch not far from town.   South Africans love their outdoor living and so why not join them with a South African braai (barbeque).  

    After an action packed five weeks we will get you back to Bloemfontein in time for your flight home or start of the next phase of your travels.

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