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The Agora Experience focuses on building an incredible, exciting experience -- simultaneously mature and responsible. The following will hopefully provide answers to most questions but please email us if we missed one.
What makes the Agora Experience Unique?
You do. The Agora Experience is focused on adventure volunteerism and introducing you to the exciting world of international development. One of the keys to development is community input so you will be challenged to think about issues while working with locals and our staff to problem solve and implement real-world solutions. Examples. You and your group will have the opportunity to truly explore the culture, environment and region - this is not a bus-tour. You and your input, leading to the projects we will create, make the Agora Experience Unique.
Do I need any experience?
The Agora Experience is focused on living, learning and service. The experience you have in your daily life is enough as long as you bring a willingness to try. We do not expect you to have expertise in the various activities we will do. Even if you do, part of the excitement in international travel and cultural immersion is that there is always more to explore.
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Do I need any Special Skills?
Yes and No. Yes, in that we consider creative thought and a good attitude to be special skills. No, in that any activities requiring instruction will be lead by professionals. These professionals join our group with the expertise and equipment necessary to provide a high level of demanding, fun and safe instruction suitable for all levels of experience.
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What about spending money?
In order to cover gifts, film, personal items and impulse purchases bring no more than $100 per week. Cash is the easiest to exchange but travelers checks are also a good option. You will probably won't see credit card machines here but there are some opportunities to use ATMs (make sure to clear international usage with your bank before traveling). We will assist you with currency conversion upon arrival.
Will I need a passport or visa?
A passport is required. We recommend you make two photocopies of your passport, leave one at home and carry one tucked away in your luggage. Romania does not require a visa. Please note, having a current passport is your responsibility. Please take care to plan enough time for your passport should you need one (may take several months).
What about Health and Vaccinations?
Contact your family physician, your local travel clinic the CDC or the WHO for the most up-to-date health information at least 6 weeks prior to departure in case you need boosters. We take all precautions to make sure you are healthy while here and there are clinics, pharmacies and trained staff in the unlikely event they are needed. Please bring a copy of your vaccination records.
What about diversity and languages?
Diversity of participants is a valuable aspect of the Agora Experience. Your diversity can bring a lot to village life and thought and we always strive to make this experience as open as possible. English is the language of the Agora Experience but we encourage you to learn a few basics in Hungarian (yes we are in Romania but Hungarian is spoken locally) before you come and we will provide resources to do so. Host families really appreciate the effort and the more open you are to using and learning even a little bit the better your experience. Hungarian is quite difficult but don't worry, all staff are fluent.
Will there be changes?
When travelling there is always the possibility slight changes in schedule may occur. Should we have to make any changes, we will include you in the decision making and decisions will always be made in an the interest of safety or a more successful trip.
What sustainability efforts are made by Agora?
All activities and decisions are made according to the principles of sustainable development, environmental protection and our commitment to leaving as small of an ecological footprint as possible. For example, all food is sourced locally, host families are compensated at a premium, and outdoor activities are both educational and considerate of the environment.
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Can I call home?
You and a staff member will call your family on the day of arrival. You may have Internet access at your host family but this should not be counted on and calls home may be expensive. Should an emergency arise we will move heaven and earth to reach families. Parents should know that not calling home means that everything is going okay. Staff will always be reachable by cell phone at the numbers provided in your final forms. |
How do I take care of payment?
Deposits towards tuition can be completed by bank transfer, services like Western Union or secure online credit card transactions. Please use the following information to wire money internationally into Agora’s account. Your bank will be able to complete the transaction and we will notify you by email upon receipt of funds (may take up to two days with time difference). More information on payments
Why is the Agora Experience relatively inexpensive?
Agora is able to offer the Experience for $1,500 plus airfare (half to one third the cost of most similar experiences) for several reasons. The first of these is the cost of living in Romania is quite low and though we have Peace Corps partners, we do not have high staff costs. Everything from food to accommodation will be of the highest quality but high quality in Romania does not yet mean high price. Further, the point is not to making money it is providing an experience. This is a not-for profit venture of our non-profit organization and the maximum possible benefit is returned to the communities where we will spend our time.
Does Agora offer Scholarships?
We understand that the Agora Experience is still not cheap and want to share the experience with as many as possible and thus make three $500 scholarships available. However, as mentioned, this is not a profit making venture and we do not have a lot of extra money to move around so we ask that you utilize the fundraising ideas we have provided within your community. Scholarship forms are due by April 14 in order to give you a chance to fundraise and one criteria for a successful application is that you demonstrate your fundraising efforts. Feel free to contact us with any questions in regard to scholarships.
What about insurance?
It is your responsibility to purchase travel insurance and you are required to carry personal medical insurance. Check your carrier to be sure if coverage is in effect while overseas. Medical or dental treatment can be accessed in a reasonable amount of time at the nearest facility. Payment for treatment or emergency transport is the responsibility of your insurance company or family. We also recommend you search the web for travellers insurance like that provided through www.worldnomad.com. Available plans cover everything from health to electronics.
What if I have to cancel?
We understand that emergencies occasionally arise and we make every effort to refund you to the fullest. Please understand there are down payments we must make in anticipation of your participation that limit the extent to which we can make refunds. Should you need to cancel prior to May 1, all tuition, except deposit, is fully refundable. Cancellations must be made in writing. After May 1, we cannot guarantee refunds because most arrangements will have been paid for at that time. Campers sent home for medical reasons, at the discretion of camper, family, the staff or Agora will not receive a refund. Payment for transporting you home will be borne by your parent or guardian directly to the transportation company. We reserve the right to cancel any trip before the date of departure. If cancellation should occur you will be completely refunded.
Can I bring a group?
We encourage small groups to come. Coming as a small group can make fundraising easier and can be a great opportunity for schools or clubs. If you have a group of 10 or more committed to participation, contact us by April 1 and we may be able to arrange a separate Experience for your group.
What is included in tuition?
All transportation to Romania and in-country, in-country insurance, accommodations, activities, meals, laundry, tents, etc. are included. You should be able to fully participate without any additional expense.
What is NOT included?
Personal travel insurance and personal items listed on the equipment list.
What about communications?
Our staff is most easily reached by email leading up to the Experience but will be available by phone 24 hours a day during the Experience. All problems are handled immediately and the family is always contacted directly. Participants will have access to mail and may have e-mail access through host families or own expense in Internet cafes.
What are the ground rules?
Agora Experience rules are common sense and the basis for a safe, healthy and enjoyable experience. If you feel that you cannot abide by these rules it is probably better not to enroll and breaking these rules will result in a dismissal without refund.
- Tobacco, alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
- Behavior detrimental to the safety or enjoyment of the experience will not be tolerated.
- Your participation should be enthusiastic.
- All participants should require and expect equal attention.
Will I need to be in good physical shape?
Some of the service projects we work on may be challenging. There will also be hiking, exploration of hilltop mideaval citadels and opportunities for activities like horseback riding. You do not need to be a marathon runner, but we do recommend regular aerobic exercise for at least a few weeks before joining us (swimming, biking, walking or jogging) so you may enjoy this experience to the fullest.
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