Most trips have buffet-style meals on-site at the guesthouse and/or at restaurants. Many guesthouses have breakfast included in the stay. Talk to your trip coordinator to know more about your particular country location. Please also let your trip coordinator know if you have any food allergies.

Each country has different hotel/guesthouse arrangements. Accommodations will range from guesthouses to local hotels. Ask your trip coordinator about arrangements for your country location.

Clothing should not be revealing or skimpy. Women should wear modest dresses, skirts, pants, capris, Bermuda shorts (to the knees), and men should wear long pants. Sleeveless shirts or sleeveless dresses are allowed, but please no revealing or thin-strapped tank tops. For shoes, you will want to have at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes that are close-toed, but it is also acceptable to wear flip-flops or sandals. We suggest that you do not bring anything of sentimental value with you since there is the risk of theft or loss (i.e., watches, rings, jewelry, lots of camera equipment).

Most locations will have access to the internet in the hotel or guesthouse where you are staying. Most cell phone companies have international roaming which can be set up in advance of your trip.

There are intrinsic risks to travel, but AGCI is committed to doing all we can to provide you with a safe and memorable travel experience. Our trip coordinators and leaders are experienced in international travel and will do everything in their power to provide the safest journey possible. More than likely, this trip will stretch your comfort level, but your safety is our primary concern. If your trip coordinator becomes aware of any unique risks or extenuating circumstances that could impact your health and safety, they will inform you and take measures to ensure your safety. Individual participants can also be aware of country specific safety concerns by signing up to receive travel advisories through the United States Secretary of State.

Getting sick is always a concern when you are traveling internationally. Be sure to consult with your physician or a travel health clinic prior to departure to mitigate any potential health risks. While traveling, please follow the lead of your group leader when selecting what food and beverages to eat as foodborne illnesses are a common concern while traveling. It’s advisable that participants bring first aid and over-the-counter medications to address such illnesses. Consult your physician if additional prescription medications are advisable while traveling to your host country.

The cost of the trip covers meals, transportation, translation, lodging, planned relief projects, tours, and trip coordination/leadership. Therefore, you only need money for souvenirs, snacks, and miscellaneous optional items. Do not attempt to convert currency until you have been advised to do so by your group leaders. In many locations, group leaders will make an exchange for the whole team to avoid conversion fees per individual transaction. At times, you will be able to convert currency at your hotel. You can also pre-order foreign currency through your local bank ahead of time. Check the requirements of the country you are traveling to for bringing currency through customs.

Credit cards are widely accepted for foreign transactions. The most widely accepted credit cards are American Express and Visa. If you plan to withdraw cash on your credit card while out of the United States, inform your credit card company before traveling to ensure that your card is set up for international cash withdrawal and not frozen in reaction to fraud precautions.