Where
Tabarka, Tunisia
When
May 7th – 14th 2023
Program Fee
3 payments of $660
Fundraising Goal
$1,000
Discover unforgettable experiences in Tunisia!
Join us on an adventure-filled trip where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, assist HCI with their on-ground projects, and make a meaningful impact. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to discover all that Tunisia has to offer!
You will have the opportunity to participate in meaningful volunteer projects including building a library in a remote school, distributing physical activity items to students living in a remote village, visiting a self-sustainable program that trains rural women on how to breed and raise goats to be financially independent, and visiting the school chimney project.
You will also have the chance to discover the beauty of Tunisia by fully immersing yourself in the local culture, learning about customs and traditions of the people, and other fun activities like scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sea, and horseback riding on the mountains.
Apply Today!
Information
Humanitarian
- Prep + distribute items to students at remote school
- Host English storytime for students
- Visit HCI’s school chimney projects
- Visit HCI’s GREAT project + meet the goats
Adventure
- Scuba diving
- ATV riding
- Horseback riding
- Tabarka city walking tour
- Local cultural/cuisine activitiess
Participant Requirements
- 18+ years old
- Physically fit for extended walking/standing
- Mentally prepared for foreign travel & cultural differences
- Raise 90% of fundraising goal 3 weeks prior to departure
- Provide police clearance check
- Attend virtual program & fundraising workshops
- Attend virtual/in-person onboarding
- Obtain travel insurance (mandatory)
Fundraising Goal
As a volunteer, you are expected to raise the required amount of funds to participate in the program. These funds will be used to support all the on-ground projects in Tunisia that you will be participating in.
First time fundraising? Don’t worry, we will give you all the tools and support you need to reach your fundraising goal!
Program Fee: $1,980
3 Payments of $660
EARLYBIRD PRICE:
$1,980 (until March 19th 2023, after which price will increase)
What’s included:
- Roundtrip flight (departure from Montreal – YUL)
- Shared accommodation
- Ground transportation
- Selected meals
- Program activities/ tickets
What’s not included:
- Travel insurance (required prior to departure)
- Travel vaccines (optional)
- Tips
- Personal expenses
Souvenir/gift shopping - Expenses outside of the trip (peraonal day tours, upgrades, extra meals, overweight baggage, etc.
Payment Plan
- The program fee policy for this trip is designed to make the trip more affordable for participants. To achieve this, the policy includes a nonrefundable deposit and two additional installments.
- The deposit is required to secure a spot on the trip and will be used to cover the cost of initial expenses such as reservations. The two additional installments are due on specific dates, as outlined in the program structure.
- If a participant fails to pay an installment on the due date, they will be immediately removed from the trip. This is intended to ensure that the cost of the trip is paid in full and that all participants have the necessary funds to participate.
Refund Policy
- The program fee policy also includes a refund policy, which states that the last day to request a refund is MARCH 31st. This means that if a participant decides to withdraw from the trip and wants a refund, they must make their request ON OR BEFORE MARCH 31st.
- Any refund requests made after this date will not be honored. This policy is in place to ensure that the trip organizers have enough time to make necessary adjustments and to ensure fairness to all participants who have made timely payments
Program Itinerary
Day 1
- Arrive at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to board your flight to Tunisia, and begin your adventure!
Day 2
- Once you arrive, you will be greeted by the team and taken directly to the coastal city of Tabarka. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have a chance to rest. In the evening, there will be a program review and a welcome dinner. The Mediterranean city of Tabarka will serve as the perfect backdrop for the start of your journey. (D*)
Day 3
- Start your morning with a scuba diving adventure in the Mediterranean Sea, a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the underwater world. After exploring the coastal town on foot and visiting the natural wonder known as the needles, you will drive up into the mountains to participate in the creation of a traditional Tunisian dish while taking in the breathtaking view of the sea as the sun sets. (B,L,D*)
Day 4
- After enjoying an early morning breakfast, you will embark on a drive across the mountains to a remote school where you will participate in the transformation of an empty room into a fully-functioning library for students! This will involve tasks such as painting and assembling furniture. After returning to Tabarka, you will take a well-deserved break before meeting up with the team for dinner at the harbor. This will be a fulfilling and meaningful day of giving back to the community (B,L,D*)
Day 5
- After a hearty morning breakfast, gear up for an exciting start to the day with an ATV circuit through the mountains. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local restaurants and try out food and shopping options Tabarka has to offer. Take a trip to the beach, go shopping, visit an art museum, or simply wander the city and see what it has to offer. (B*)
Day 6
- Get an early start to the day with a drive up into the mountains to visit a remote school in a low-income area supported by HCI’s chimney projects. You will have the chance to get hands-on, preparing gifts and distributing them to the students. You will also have the opportunity to host a storytime for the students in English, Arabic, or French. After a lunch break, you will visit a local mosque for Jummah prayer. From there, it’s a beautiful drive across the mountains to a breathtaking hike. You will also visit the farms in the mountains as part of HCI’s GREAT project and meet the goats. This will be a day filled with meaningful activities and stunning sights. (B,L,D*)
Day 7
- On your final day in Tunisia, you will begin with an early morning breakfast before setting off on a drive to Beja. You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy a horseback ride through the mountains. From there, you will continue your journey to the capital city of Tunis. At the local office, you will have some free time to relax and try out a traditional hammam bath. In the evening, you will visit the bustling city center for a farewell dinner and have some time to explore before returning to the office for your final preparations and departure to the airport. This will be a day filled with adventure and relaxation as you say goodbye to Tunisia. (B,L,D*)
Day 8
- You’ll head to Tunis International Airport for your flight back to Montreal (YUL), arriving later the same day.
* Important Information
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
Please keep in mind that the itinerary may be altered due to various reasons such as weather or group capabilities. We will make every effort to follow the schedule but cannot be held liable for any sudden changes. The decision for any changes will be made by the team leader
FAQ
Answer
Our trips are unique opportunities for participants to fundraise for a cause, travel abroad, participate in hands-on humanitarian projects, and discover new cultures and adventures. These projects can range from building a library to item distribution, promoting sustainability goals, and supporting disadvantaged groups.
These trips also involve cultural exchange and exploration activities. Participants will have the opportunity to visit local landmarks, try new foods, explore local customs, and interact with members of the host community.
Our trips offer a unique and meaningful way for participants to make a difference in the world while collecting new experiences!
Answer
The participant criteria for the discovery trips are:
1. All participants must be at least 18 years old at the time of the trip in order to participate.
2. Participants should be physically fit and able to walk for several hours at a time, as some of the activities may involve walking or standing for extended periods.
3. Participants should be mentally prepared for the challenges and stresses that may come with traveling abroad and experiencing a new culture. This may include adjusting to different living conditions, communicating with people who speak a different language, and managing culture shock.
4. Participants are strongly encouraged to raise the specified fundraising goal prior to departure. These funds will be used to support the on-ground projects in the communities we will be visiting.
Answer
1. Personal growth and development: Step out of your comfort zone and gain new perspectives and skills that can help you grow personally and professionally.
2. Cultural exchange: Immerse yourself in a new culture, learn about different ways of life, and make connections with people from different backgrounds.
3. Sense of purpose and fulfillment: A sense of purpose and fulfillment as you contribute to a cause that is meaningful to you and makes a positive impact on the lives of others.
4. Language skills: Opportunity to learn or improve your language skills as you communicate with locals and work on projects in a different language.
5. Resume builder: Make your resume stand out and show potential employers that you have cross-cultural experience, adaptability, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
6. Broaden your horizons: Expose yourself to new ideas, customs, and ways of life that may broaden your horizons and your understanding of a nuanced world.
7. Build leadership skills: An opportunity to take on leadership roles and learn valuable leadership skills while working with others towards a common goal.
8. Make a difference: Make a difference in the lives of those viewed as less privileged than others’ and contribute to a cause that is important to you.
9. Networking: Open up new connections and opportunities for networking with like-minded individuals and organizations.
10. Fun and adventure: A fun and exciting adventure that allows you to explore new places, try new things, and create lasting friendships and memories.
Answer
The program fee for the discovery trips are designed to cover all the necessary costs for participants to have a successful and fulfilling trip. Specifically, the program fee includes the following:
Flight:
The program fee covers the cost of your round-trip flight from the specified departure location. This means that HCI will arrange and pay for your flight from your specified departure location to the destination country, and back to your departure location.
Trips to Tunisia:
Departure from Montreal, Quebec (YUL)
Trips to Turkiye:
Departure from Toronto, Ontario (YYZ)
Accommodation:
The program fee covers the cost of shared accommodation. This means that you will be sharing a room with 1-3 other participants during the trip (same gender). The accommodation will be pre-arranged by the organization and included in the program fee.
Meals:
The program fee covers specified meals. This means that certain meals during the trip will be provided by HCI and included in the program fee. You are informed about which meals are covered, and any additional meals will be your own responsibility.
Activities:
The program fee covers all planned activities. This means that any volunteer activities, cultural events, and excursions planned as part of the itinerary will be organized by HCI and included in the program fee.
Local Transportation:
The program fee covers any local transportation that is necessary for the volunteer activities and planned itinerary.
Please note that the program fee does not cover any additional expenses such as personal shopping, travel outside of the planned itinerary, entry visas, etc. These expenses will be the responsibility of the participant.
Answer
Yes! Though we encourage participants to let us handle the flight logistics, you may book your own flight to and from the host country. The cost will be deducted from the program fee.
If you choose to book yourself, please note you may need to organize your transportation from and to the airport in the host country. Please contact the Special Programs Officer for more information.
Answer
Yes, you will be responsible for obtaining your own visa.
Answer
The program fee policy for this trip is designed to make the trip more affordable for participants. To achieve this, the policy includes a nonrefundable deposit and additional installments. The deposit is required to secure a spot on the trip and will be used to cover the cost of initial expenses such as reservations. The additional installments are due on specific dates, as outlined in the payment structure.
If a participant fails to pay an installment on the due date, they will be immediately removed from the trip.
The program fee policy also includes a refund policy, which states the last day to request a refund on a specified date for each trip. This means that if a participant decides to withdraw from the trip and wants a refund, they must make their request on or before this specified date. Any refund requests made after this date will not be honored. This policy is in place to ensure that the trip organizers have enough time to make necessary adjustments and to ensure fairness to all participants who have made timely payments.
Answer
Yes, we have an installment option to accommodate everyone. Installment amount and due dates vary by destination, and are noted on the unique trip’s page. Please note non-refundable deposits are required to secure your spot. If you require further accommodation, please contact the Special Programs Officer.
Discover Tunisia with HCI – Mediterranean Sea Edition (May 7-14 2023)
EARLYBIRD PROGRAM FEE (Until March 19th 2023)
Total Program fee: $1,980.00
Installment #1 (Non-refundable Deposit) DUE UPON REGISTRATION: $660.00
Installment #2 DUE BY MARCH 6TH 2023: $660.00
Installment #3 DUE BY MARCH 27TH 2023: $660.00
Last day to request refund: Friday, March 31, 2023
Discover Turkiye with HCI (June 23 – July 1 2023)
EARLYBIRD PROGRAM FEE (Until March 19th 2023)
Total Program fee: $2,860.00
Installment #1 (Non-refundable Deposit) DUE UPON REGISTRATION: $715.00
Installment #2 – DUE BY MARCH 13th 2023: $715.00
Installment #3 – DUE BY APRIL 3RD 2023: $715.00
Installment #4 – DUE BY MAY 1ST 2023: $715.00
Last day to request refund: Monday, May 8, 2023
Discover Tunisia with HCI – Sahara Desert Edition (Oct 3 -13 2023)
EARLYBIRD PROGRAM FEE (Until March 19th 2023)
Total Program fee: $2,800.00
Installment #1 (Non-refundable Deposit) DUE UPON REGISTRATION: $700.00
Installment #2 DUE BY APRIL 24TH 2023: $700.00
Installment #3 DUE BY JUNE 5TH 2023: $700.00
Installment #4 DUE BY AUGUST 14TH 2023: $700.00
Last day to request refund: Monday, August 21, 2023
It is important to be aware of the payment structure and the specified due dates for payment, as failing to make payment by the due date will result in losing your deposit and your spot on the trip. It is also important to be aware of the last day to request a refund, as this will allow you to make an informed decision about whether or not to participate in the trip.
We highly recommend adding the important dates to your personal calendars to keep track!
Answer
Only credit card and e-transfers are accepted at this time.
Answer
To sign up for the discovery trips, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit the website humanconcern.org/discover and review the trip information and requirements.
2. Complete the registration form and provide any necessary information.
3. Pay the deposit to secure your spot on the trip.
Once you have completed these steps, our officer will follow up with you to confirm your registration and provide any additional information or instructions.
We highly recommend signing up as soon as possible to secure a spot on your trip of choice as spots are very limited!
Answer
Yes. Due to the sensitive nature of the work that you will be participating in, it is required that you obtain a vulnerable sector police clearance prior to departure. A vulnerable sector police clearance is a type of background check that is specifically designed to screen individuals who will be working with vulnerable populations, such as children or elderly individuals. The clearance report must be submitted 6 weeks prior departure.
To obtain a vulnerable sector police clearance, you will need to contact your local police department. They will be able to provide you with the necessary forms and instructions for how to apply. You will also be provided with a letter confirming that you are a volunteer and that the clearance is required for your volunteer work. The process and requirements may vary depending on your location. Keep in mind that this process can take several weeks, so it is important to plan ahead and start the application process well in advance of your trip.
Answer
Yes. As part of the discovery program, it is expected that you will raise $1000 to be used towards the volunteer activities that you will be participating in. This fundraising effort is a way for participants to contribute to the costs associated with the volunteer projects and to help ensure that the programs remain sustainable. The funds raised will be used to cover expenses such as materials and equipment, transportation, and other costs related to the volunteer activities.
Answer
Yes, absolutely! We will provide you with a fundraising workshop that includes tips on how to fundraise, how to engage your network, and other helpful information. You will also receive an online fundraising page through which you can collect donations from friends, family, and community members.
We encourage you to be proactive and creative in your fundraising efforts and to reach out to your network for support. Your participation in this fundraising effort will help make a difference in the world and contribute to the success of the trip.
Answer
During the discovery trips, you will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities that aim to make a positive impact in the host community. Some of the activities you may be involved in include:
Building a library in a remote school: This may involve renovating an existing library or creating a new one from scratch. You will work with a team to paint, assemble furniture, and set up the library to provide students with access to books and other learning materials.
Distributing food, winter, and home kits to disadvantaged groups: You may work with local partners to identify families in need and deliver essential items such as food, clothing, and home essentials.
Hosting fun events for orphans: You may have the opportunity to work one-on-one with orphans and provide them with fun activities and events to bring joy and hope to their lives.
Meeting refugees: You may have the chance to visit refugee homes or interact with refugees in the host community. This can provide a unique opportunity to learn about their experiences and offer support.
Visiting patients: You may have the opportunity to visit patients and host a special lunch, as well as distribute gifts.
Overall, the activities you will participate in during the discovery trips will be focused on making a positive difference in the host community and giving back to those in need.
NOTE: Each trip is different! To know which volunteer activities you will be participating in, please review the itinerary for the specific trip you are interested in.
Answer
Yes. You are required to have valid travel and medical insurance for the duration of the trip. You should obtain travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage, emergency medical expenses, and other unexpected events. You should also obtain medical insurance that covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and transportation back to the home country in case of serious illness or injury. Scuba diving insurance is also recommended for trips that include that activity.
Travel insurance is widely available and can be easily obtained in a number of ways. Many credit card companies offer travel insurance as a benefit for cardholders, so it is worth checking with your credit card issuer to see if this is an option for you. Additionally, many universities and workplaces offer travel insurance as part of their benefits packages, and it is also worth checking with your university or employer to see if this is an option for you. There are also a number of independent travel insurance companies that offer policies for individuals, so you can shop around and compare prices and coverage to find the best option for your needs.
Please make sure to bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on the trip in case you need to reference it.
Answer
Yes, shared accommodation will be provided for all participants. The accommodation will be same-gender. This is a common arrangement for international trips in order to make the most efficient use of resources and to provide a comfortable and safe living environment for all participants.
Please note that shared accommodation may involve sharing a room with multiple people or sleeping in a dorm-style arrangement.
Answer
We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions for the discovery trips. Please let us know in advance if you have any allergies or dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
We will work with local partners and vendors to ensure that you have access to meals that meet your dietary needs. However, please note that it may not always be possible to accommodate all dietary restrictions due to the nature of the trip and the availability of certain foods in the host country. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
Answer
During the discovery trips you will have the opportunity to learn about and experience different cultures and customs. It is important to respect these cultural differences and to be mindful of your actions and behaviors while abroad. This may involve following local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly, removing your shoes before entering a home, or observing religious practices. It is also important to be open-minded and respectful of other perspectives and ways of life, even if they differ from your own. By showing respect for different cultures and customs, you can help to create a positive and harmonious environment during your trip.
Answer
We strive to make the discovery trips as safe as possible for all participants. To accomplish this, we take several precautions and follow best practices for international travel. Some of the measures HCI takes include:
1. Contacting local authorities: We work closely with local authorities and organizations in the host country to ensure that we have the necessary permissions and support for our activities.
2. Providing safety and security overview: All participants will receive a safety and security onboarding overview before departing on the trip to help them understand potential risks and how to protect themselves.
3. Having an emergency plan in place: We have an emergency plan in place in case of any unexpected events or emergencies. This includes measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
4. Medical and travel insurance: All participants are required to have medical and travel insurance to protect them in case of illness or injury.
By following these and other safety measures, we aim to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants on each discovery trip.
Answer
During your discovery trip, you will have some free time in which you can relax, explore the host community, and engage in personal activities. This free time is an important opportunity to recharge and enjoy the experience of being abroad.
We encourage you to use your free time to learn more about the host culture and to engage in activities that interest you. This might include visiting local landmarks, trying new foods, shopping at local markets, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local environment.
It is important to be mindful of local customs and to respect the host community during your free time. We also recommend taking basic safety precautions and staying with a group or a trusted local guide when exploring the area.
We hope you will make the most of your free time and use it to enrich your volunteer experience and create lasting memories.
Answer
During the discovery trip, you will have the opportunity to exchange money and purchase a local SIM card at the start of the trip. This can be useful for accessing data and staying connected while abroad.
We recommend that you bring a credit card with you on the trip as well, as this can be a convenient and secure way to make purchases and access funds while abroad. It is also a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases and incidentals.
We suggest that you check with your credit card and bank beforehand to ensure that your card will be accepted in the host country and to confirm any fees or restrictions that may apply. You may also want to consider obtaining a travel credit card specifically for your trip, as these often offer additional benefits and protections for travelers.
Overall, having access to data and a credit card can be helpful during the discovery trip, but it is important to use these resources responsibly and to be mindful of any fees or charges that may apply.
Answer
Yes! If you would like to bring a friend along on the discovery trip, you can encourage them to apply as well. We welcome participants of all backgrounds and are happy to have friends join the trip together.
You will be able to participate in the trip together and share in the experience of making a positive impact in the host community. We hope you will consider inviting a friend to join you on this exciting and meaningful adventure!
