Orientation

You’re headed to our Orosi Valley Paradise Costa Rica program. You want to know what to pack, what the projects will be, what to expect with the weather, your leisure activities and more, and that’ss what this podcast is all about. This is a companion piece to the pdf packet that you should have received upon registration. The information in that packet will always be more up to date, but we hope you’ll enjoy the information presented in this audio format. For more on our programs, visit www.globeaware.org, email us at office@globeaware.com or call us at 1-877-588-4562. We look forward to hearing from you

Gross National Happiness, minimum sustainable development fee, typical foods, national sport, what the projects are, how to dress, how difficult is the hike up to Tiger’s nest, how much currency should you bring – Phallus Palace  what is that about? The food, the chilis, the culture, the people. How to get there – Bhutanese people, joy, tips and tricks and why anyone who possibly can should consider coming to this beautiful, peaceful country and be part of this extaordinary, unique country!

Lots of people are finding all the forms and paperwork required to enter Cuba extremely challenging to understand and get through. This is a mini audio blog intended to walk through the essentials. Which pieces of paperwork will be checked and when? Why you need to go straight to the boarding gate if on layover en route to Cuba? How the dining and restaurant scene has been changing. What about which currency you should be bringing now? Donations? Gifts of friendship? How to manage. What little amenities are at the Havana airport, why you need to be prepared to have everything you need there. What about your phone and data plan? Why wifi is so much more difficult. We hope this helps you prepare for your Cuban people to people program, doing the work of our private foundation supporting the Cuban people.

(First: Apologies that this audio isn’t as good as normal: we were testing new microphones!) What is proper etiquette around monks? What is appropriate clothing when visiting temples and otherwise? Why are the needs so great in northern Thailand near Myanmar? Is it safe? What do I pack? Is the water safe to drink? What can I do with my free time? How much money should I bring? Is it safe? Tell me about the wifi and power situation. What is the controversy about regarding elephants in Thailand? Join us for all this and more in preparing for either your Globe Aware trip near Chiang Dao or for your own Northern Thailand travels. https://www.globeaware.org/destinations/asia/thailand-hill-tribes

What makes this location in Guatemala so special? What do I need to pack? What kinds of donations are needed? What is the reason and context for the extreme poverty? What are the risks and safety issues I need to think about? Can’t decide between Peru and Guatemala? Here are some reasons to give deep consideration to this Mayan treasure.

How will the embargo impact my experience in Cuba? What do I do about currency and money, do they still have two currencies? Is the food any good? What are the people like? What will I be doing? What paperwork do I need to bring? How do I get my Cuba visa tourist card? Can I travel to Cuba as an independent traveler? What happens if I speak badly about the government while I am there? What about donations? Cuban cigars?