We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in France. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.
Arrival airport and pickup in Paris
A member of staff will be waiting for you at either Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) when you arrive. You'll be transferred directly to your accommodation in the city. This journey will give you your first glimpse of the historic French capital, passing landmarks like the Seine River and the city's iconic landmarks.
The cost of getting from either airport to your accommodation is fully covered by your project fee.
Booking your flights to Paris
Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We'll let you know which airport you'll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there.
We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are.
Visa requirements for your project in France
One of the perks of volunteering with us is the visa guidance we give you. We have a dedicated visa team who have up-to-date information on visa requirements for all of our destinations around the world. You can get in touch with us if you have any visa queries, big or small, and we will talk you through the process.
Most visitors to France will not need to prearrange a visa for stays up to 90 days, as France is part of the Schengen Area. However, if you are staying for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit (carte de séjour) before arrival.
Your induction and orientation in France
Your journey begins with an exciting day in Paris, balancing essential orientation with iconic sightseeing. After breakfast, you'll meet our staff for a comprehensive safety briefing and introduction to your project. The morning includes a visit to the Eiffel Tower, giving you your first glimpse of Parisian grandeur.
The following morning, you'll board a TGV train to Montpellier, along with our team who will travel with you to our Conservation Program in Sommières.
Upon arrival at the camp, you'll receive a thorough conservation program induction, including:
- Introduction to research methodologies
- Field safety protocols
- Equipment familiarisation
- Overview of local ecosystems
- Research project briefings
- Camp protocols and daily routines
Support, safety, and backup
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Additionally, we maintain close relationships with local emergency services and medical facilities to ensure rapid response if needed. You'll receive emergency contact numbers and detailed safety information during your orientation, including guidance on navigating Paris safely and dealing with any cultural adjustments.
Our accreditations
