You are an international volunteer and you want to contribute to the wellness of Lebanon, by helping his people?
Visit Lebanon and make a change!
People of all ages, backgrounds, income levels, and abilities have chosen to spend two weeks to three years of their lives volunteering in many different capacities on projects all over the world.
What can I do with BASSMA? Learn more about our projects and campaigns
Will I be picked up at the airport upon arrival? Yes, you will be picked up if you arrive on the dates that were fixed for picking up the volunteers.
Can I arrive late? Can I arrive early? Yes, it’s possible to arrive early or late and if you are going to arrive early we will save a place of resident for you until the project starts.
Can I leave the project a day earlier? If you have plans to visit other places in Lebanon or your flight date is earlier than the end of your contract, you can leave the project earlier. As soon as you leave the Association, we’re not responsible for you anymore.
Do I have to speak Arabic to volunteer? No. It’s not necessary to speak Arabic. You can easily communicate in English or French.
In case of medical emergencies, what type of medical care is available? To perform to the best of their abilities, volunteers need to be in good health. Be sure you already have insurance that will cover you for illness or injury sustained abroad or medical evacuation in the case of a life-threatening emergency. If you do, make copies of the insurance certificates and other relevant documents and bring them with you.
Tell me more about the accommodation...
Some options to consider:
1- Sodéco, Damas Street: The University of Saint Joseph in Sodéco provides accommodation as well as Arabic language courses: http://www.usj.edu.lb/services/foyers.htm
2- Badaro: Franciscaine School. Tel: 00 961 1 380330
3- Achrafieh: Sagesse University – Tel: 00 961 1 447444
4- Gemmayzeh: Saifi Institute in Gemmayzeh provides both accommodation and Arabic language courses:
www.saifiarabic.com
When do I need to arrive in Beirut? It’s preferable to arrive one or two days before the program starts. This will allow you the chance to settle in and know more about the projects beforehand.
What are the expenses once I arrive? Your flights, picking up, travel insurance, excursions, departure tax, accommodation and meals, and any personal spending.
How much do things in Beirut typically cost? To give you an idea of the approximate costs of things in Beirut:
.a coffee costs around 1.5 USD / 2000 LL /1 Euro
.mineral water: 1.5 USD / 2000 LL /1 Euro
.a restaurant meal: 7.5 USD / 10,000 LL to 22.5 USD / 30,000 LL (5 to 15 Euros)
.taxi (collective) within Beirut: 1,5 USD / 2,000 LL to 3 USD / 4,000 LL (1 to 2 Euros)
NB: these prices may change according to places and services.
Do I need travel insurance? As with any overseas travelling, insurance is recommended.
