Immerse yourself in the local culture

As part of your project fee, we arrange accommodation for you that is secure, comfortable, and close to your placement. Our accommodation options and the culturally immersive experience they offer is just another reason why we’re the gold standard in volunteering and interning abroad.

Living with your host family

Don’t just see the world. Participate in it.

Living with a host family connects you to a completely different way of life. It’s an immersive experience far beyond anything you’d get as a tourist.

Our projects give you the chance to dive into new cultures and understand global issues first hand. You won’t just learn about a community; you’ll work alongside them. In the process, you’ll gain a broader—global—perspective.

Participant standing with Host Family outside Nomad home in Mongolia

Live like a local: your home away from home

Think of your host family as your safe space abroad. Having a warm, welcoming home to return to each day is the ultimate way to adjust to a new country. It gives you the foundation and confidence to focus on your project and explore with peace of mind.

You won’t be navigating this journey alone, either. You’ll live with at least one other Projects Abroad participant, giving you an instant friend to share the adventure with.

Our host families are carefully chosen for security, comfort, and friendliness. Many of our hosts are associated with our programmes. For example, you might live with a teacher or headmistress at one of our partner schools or a doctor at one of our medical placements.

Your room will be modest but comfortable. Host families live in secure houses and neighbourhoods and are closely screened and monitored. Our local staff hold regular check-ups, including one right before you move in.

We also ensure they can provide you with quality home-cooked meals. Food is at the heart of a society, so be prepared to eat your fill of local cuisine (maybe bring a recipe or two home).

In line with our commitment to being a positive influence in the communities where we work, host families are decently compensated. They are also interviewed for friendliness and to make sure they are motivated by the right reasons. They will welcome you into their family and home, eager to share their customs and have you teach them about your own culture too.

We believe that living with a host family offers an incredible experience that really makes a placement with us unique.

Staying in shared accommodation

When host family accommodation isn’t possible, we arrange shared volunteer accommodation. This is often the case at our Conservation Projects, where you’ll be living in the heart of places like wildlife reserves or rainforests.

Our shared accommodation is usually apartments or guesthouses, which you’ll share with other volunteers. This is the perfect opportunity for bonding with volunteers from around the world and building a network of international friends.

Your accommodation will be clean, safe, and comfortable. A chef will cook your meals each day, giving you the chance to connect with local culture through food.

Various accommodation options

For some of our projects, you can choose between various accommodation options. This includes host families, shared accommodation, hotels, or guest houses.