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Projects Abroad in Sri Lanka – Arrival Procedures
Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, one of the first things you’ll notice as you step outside the airport is the heat - something you do get used to! You’ll be met at the airport and be driven to a hotel in the heart in Colombo where you can freshen up and rest. A Projects Abroad staff member will then come to meet you at the hotel and take you to your first Sri Lankan meal. You’ll be given a welcome pack and will have the chance to discuss anything you wish to know more about.
The next day, you will be taken by car to your accommodation. Nearly all volunteers in Sri Lanka live with local host families though we also have one rented apartment in Kalutara. Volunteers are based in a few areas of Sri Lanka from small towns on the coast up, which are either one hour north or three hours south of Colombo; there are also host families in the hill town of Kandy.
All your meals will be cooked by local Sri Lankans, so you’ll be able to taste the delicious, authentic cuisine! Sri Lankan food is similar to South Indian dishes with lots of rice and hot curries. Fresh fruit is widely available as well as fresh fish and seafood.
Volunteering in Sri Lanka – Induction and Orientation
Once introductions have been made at your host family, you will be given a chance to settle in before having a general orientation of the area. Afterwards you’ll be taken to meet your placement supervisor where you’ll be volunteering. By this time you’ll be ready for a good rest, so most volunteers start their placement the following day.
Most volunteers walk to work, however if you need to take a local bus you will be shown where to catch it. Please note that you will need to cover the cost of the bus, which on average should be less than $1.50 per day.
With Sri Lanka being a relatively small country, it’s easy to get around. There are frequent buses in and out of Colombo along the main costal road and also into the hill region. Here you will be able to find anything you need to buy and any type of food you wish to eat! Internet is also readily available and is the cheapest and easiest way of staying in touch with friends and family back home.