Upon signing up for a trip, volunteers receive an orientation manual with information on the country or state and the village, along with a reading list, packing list and other health and travel tips. On-site orientation and daily team meetings will continue the orientation process. Lodging varies by site. Homestays with local families are arranged whenever possible. Local community centers, museums or trailers have also served as places of lodging.
Meals are prepared either by team members or by a local cook.
To allow for as much immersion and insight into the culture as possible, volunteers generally live as the local people live. Generally two or three days are allowed for volunteers to explore and visit other places in the region. Volunteers are also welcome to do more extensive travel on their own before or after the GCN trip. There is no language requirement for our trips, although we do ask volunteers to try and pick up some basic phrases in order to enhance their experience. GCN's team leaders also serve as translators when necessary.