Feb 11, 2010

FAQ

Why do I have to pay a registration fee?
The registration fees goes towards the running of the organization (office space, staff, computers, email/internet, stationery, etc.). FNFO Nepal has a central office in Kathmandu and a branch office in Chitwan.

What kind of volunteers is FNFO Nepal looking for?
FNFO Nepal has worked with other volunteer organizations, community schools, women groups, farmers co-operatives, clubs, youth groups and individuals. You do not need any specialized training to work with us. We will provide you with appropriate orientation and training for your prospective program, although experience in teaching, organic agriculture, health work, social mobilization or environmental project can be advantage.

When should I arrive in Nepal?
We are very flexible and as such you can arrive at a date which is best suited to your needs. You are welcome to arrive a few days earlier than the start of your program. Our representative will meet you at the airport holding a sign with your name. He will take you to the hotel. We can arrange your accommodation if you arrive a couple of days earlier, but you will need to pay the costs for the extra time yourself, and for any non-FNFO Nepal activities. In some cases, the dates of your program can be adapted if you contact us.

Do I meet any FNFO Nepal staff at the airport?
Yes, one of our representatives will meet you at the airport to pick you up holding a sign with your name and take you to the hotel.

Where will I be staying during my training period?
During your training period, you will stay at Guest House and Homestay (that will be walking distance from the office) in Kathmandu.

How much money do I need?
If you prefer to come before starting the progrram, you can get a room for $5- $8 a night, regular food for about $4 to $8 a day, internet access for about $1 per hour, laundry for about $3 for a medium-sized of load (they charge by the item). Transportation is relatively inexpensive too. We recommend that you purchase the Lonely Planet guide to Nepal. The travel guide for Nepal will help you estimate how much money you may need.(Remember that you need money for your visa and your flight tickets as well).

What kinds of thing do I need to bring with me?
*Sleeping bag
*Warm clothes (during winter months)
*Sun cream
*Mosquito net/repellent
*Water purification tablets and water filter
*Flashlight
*First aid kit
*Any other personal items which you might need.

What other useful items can I bring with me?
*Children’s books and other goods
*Stationary and sport materials
*National flag, local currency, stamps
*Your photo albums
Any other things which you might consider useful for FNFO Nepal and its programs.

Is there an age limit in the program?
Yes, the prospective volunteers should be at least 18 years old.

What types of immunization/ vaccines do I need before coming to Nepal?
*Tetanus
*Diphtheria
*Polio
*Hepatitis A & B
*Typhoid
*Rabies
*Tuberculosis
*Malaria (but first consult with your doctor)

Do I need any travel medical and accident insurance?
Yes, we highly recommend that you have travel, medical and accident insurance.

Does FNFO Nepal pay for my trekking and other activities?
No, these are non-FNFO Nepal activities so you need to pay for them yourself. However, we can organize and recommend some trekking, rafting, travel agencies who will help you to arrange these activities.

Is Nepal safe?
Nepal is the land of Buddha. A couple of years ago it was one of the most peaceful places on the earth but these days because of political unbalance crime is increasing and there is some violence but, unlike many developing countries, Nepal is quite safe. Every year hundreds of thousands of tourist visit Nepal. These days the situation is getting better.

What’s the weather like in the placement areas?
Nepal’s climate is seasonally changeable and different in different regions. Geographically Nepal is divided into three parts. The mountain region of Nepal is very cold in winter while the mid-hill region (Kathmandu and Pokhara) and mid-terai region (Chitwan) have different climate in different seasons. The weather is cold from December to March, humid and quite hot in the summer. The spring and fall are cool and pleasant. Please bring your winter clothes if you are coming in November, December, January, February and summer clothes for the rest of the months. We advise female volunteers not to wear short skirts in villages, and male volunteers not to wear shorts. It is traditional for Nepali people to dress modestly and for girls to cover most of their body.

Emergency contact
In case you miss our representative at the airport or if your flight schedule changes suddenly, please give us a call at 9849056230 or 9851088020. If you dial from outside of Nepal, please dial the country code 977 before making the call.