Sample week (will vary by project):
Sunday: Arrival Day
Your journey begins as you land at the airport, greeted by the warmth of the local culture and the GRID Alternatives team. After a brief transfer to a comfortable hotel, you'll have time to unwind, settle in, and meet the other travelers in your group. The evening starts with an orientation dinner, where you’ll enjoy a traditional meal while getting to know your fellow adventurers, hearing from the GRID team, and learning about the upcoming week’s activities.
Monday: Orientation and Journey to the Project Site
Your day begins with a traditional breakfast followed by an orientation from GRID. First, you'll dive into an overview of the local culture, including customs, traditions, and important social dynamics. Next, safety training will ensure you're ready for a safe and secure experience, followed by a technical session to familiarize you with the solar installation process. Once briefed, you’ll embark on a scenic drive or in-country flight to the region where your project will take place.
Watch the landscapes shift from bustling cityscapes to quiet rural villages as you arrive at your new home for the next few days. A meal will be shared upon arrival, followed by an informal group discussion about the local community and the significance of energy access.
Tuesday-Thursday: Solar Installation & Cultural Immersion
Your hands-on work begins on Tuesday as you roll up your sleeves and start installing solar panels in the heart of the community. Installation days will be spent on-site, learning from the local GRID Alternatives team and working alongside residents. Evenings will offer a mix of cultural activities that vary depending on the region. You might find yourself learning how to make a local treat! Alternatively, you could explore a local artisan market, visit a historic temple, or learn the intricate process of traditional chocolate-making. Each day will close with a group reflection session, where you’ll discuss provided readings, share your personal insights, and reflect on the global challenge of energy poverty.
Thursday evening culminates in a community-wide celebration, marking the completion of the solar installation. Expect music, food, and a genuine exchange of gratitude as the community members express what the new solar system means for their daily lives.
Friday: Adventure Day
Friday is packed with excitement as you visit one of the country’s most stunning natural wonders: an active volcano. Stand in awe of nature’s power and beauty before continuing your day of exploration. From there, you’ll head to an artisan market to pick up local handmade crafts, perfect for souvenirs and gifts. The adventure continues with a tour of a coffee farm, where you’ll see firsthand how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed with sustainability in mind. Learn about the deep connection between the land, the people, and their livelihoods. In the evening, you’ll return to the hotel. Enjoy one final group dinner sharing stories and highlights from the week.
Saturday: Departure
Your impactful journey officially ends. After packing, you’ll say your goodbyes to the group and fly home, bringing unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deepened understanding of global energy issues and cultural exchange.