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Why volunteer with orang-utans in Borneo?
Orang-utans are in desperate need for help. Their natural environment is being destroyed every day for palm-oil plantations, which provides good income for the local tribes-people. Without the assistance of volunteers, the jungle in Borneo will continue to be chopped down and the orang-utans will have nowhere to survive.
Volunteers are needed to promote eco-tourism and to help teach that orang-utan and environmental conservation is in the interests of the people.
Where do volunteers stay?
Accommodation in the jungle is a basic longhouse - this means you will be living in a large wooden lodge. Your room will consist of a mattress, clean bedding and a mosquito net on rattan raised mats. This is a great chance to live as an Iban and fully embrace a totally different way of living. At the zoo you will be in a twin or triple shared room.
Do I need a visa?
No. You will receive a 60 or 90 day tourist visa on arrival.
What will the weather be like?
Malaysia enjoys a tropical climate. From November to February the monsoon brings rains to the country. Malaysia has an average temperature of 25C - 30C.
How much money should I take?
There will be no ATM machines in the Borneo jungle so make sure you have everything you need whilst in Kuala Lumpur, major credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels, restaurants and stores. However beware of surcharges added to your bill. Make sure of the charge before you use your credit card. It is advisable to take your debit card and use the ATM machines. ATMs can be found in cities and major regional centres.
Malaysian Currency
The currency of Malaysia is Ringgits (RM), which consists of 100 sen. Notes are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 and coins of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents and RM 1.
As of 06/02/06 the exchange rate is:
£1 = 6.52 RM
1 RM = 0.15 p
What is the food like?
The food you will have will vary from Western style to Malay cuisine to fresh jungle produce.
What are the bathrooms/toilets like?
Your bathroom facilities will vary. While you are staying in hotel or hostel accommodation you will have western style bathrooms. While you are in the jungle you will have basic western style bathrooms.
What is the time difference?
Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of the UK.
How do I phone home?
The international telephone access code for Malaysia is 0060.
To place an outgoing call, direct dialled international call, dial 00, plus 44 and then the number. For example to call Real Gap Experience call 00 44 1892 516164.
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