Safety
Safety during our trips is a top priority. Team members will always travel with another team member.
Technology
There is no phone service or wi-fi available. Asapalli has internet that you may use. You will need an Indian adaptor for all your electronics.
Personal Items
Be careful not to bring any valuable items.
Recommended to bring: Kleenex tissues (small packets), hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, suntan lotion, sun hat, bug spray (must be travel size if packed in your carry-on bag), ear plugs, small flash light, towel, antibacterial cream. Snacks, power bars are good to have.
Luggage
One carry-on up to 26 lbs (a back pack is great as it allows you to pull 2 suit cases). Two checked in cases 50 lbs each (we ask that you carry books and other items for the school and children where you have room, usually one suitcase). If possible your second suitcase should be small enough to fit inside your big suitcase to reduce the amount of luggage needing to be transported.
Clothing and Laundry
They will wash our clothes or you can try it yourself, all you need is your bar of soap and you can use the shower basin they provide. Bring enough clothes for 5 days. Try to stay with light colors as dark colors fade when they dry in the hot sun. Clothing should be light weight and able to dry quickly as it will be washed by hand and left to dry on the bushes. Try to bring items that don’t wrinkle easily. Weather is 75-85f during the day and 55-65f at night. A sheet or light blanket will keep you warm at night (provided). Sneakers, sandals or shoes.
Indian’s dress modestly so we want to respect their culture in the way we dress. Men: Shirts must be worn at all times. T-shirts to dress shirts are acceptable (avoid any t-shirt logos that may be offensive). Indian teachers wear dress/polo shirts and dress pants. It seems to be acceptable for us to wear shorts (to the knee) and a clean shirt. Ladies: 95% of Indian ladies wear dresses that come below the knee so we ask that all ladies wear shorts, Bermuda shorts or skirts that come to the knee. Short sleeve shirts are fine, no tank tops or spaghetti straps (shoulders should be covered).
Cautions and Do Not's
Do not eat raw food or drink any water unless purchased sealed (bottled water will be provided). Do not ask for ice or drink anything with ice in it. Do not brush teeth with water from the faucet. Use bottled water. Do not enter streams, rivers, or lakes. Do not leave the group without permission. Do not pet dogs or any other animals.
Spending Money
You may want to buy some souvenirs when you are there. You can exchange $20, $50 and $100 bills that are in very good condition (no folds, tears or writing) and were printed from 2006 on. Any American money printed prior to 2006 will not be accepted due to excessive amounts of forgery.
