Southeast Asia
DATES // September to May
COST // $16,000 (cost includes airfare departing from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, GA)
HOUSING // City life is different and exciting in a third-world culture. Global Year students can expect to live in a city of over 2 million people, alongside the Field Directors.
LOCATION // The country is mostly Muslim, with very little gospel penetration and the city is one of the darkest and most unreached areas in the entire country! One must have openness and love for Muslim people to thrive in this culture.
These are some of the most hospitable people on earth! They are very honest and open once you get to know them. One can expect to learn some new cultural “rules” to abide by while in-country, but the people are very forgiving and understanding of foreigners. They do not have a lot of foreigners in the city and so you may feel like a “celebrity” when you go to the mall and everyone stares or wants to take your picture!
Rice, rice, and more rice! They may throw in some noodles from time to time! But don’t fret about the food, many come to love and crave it over time and others find bread and peanut butter to fill in the gaps. Many fast-food chains have made their way into the city in the past few years, such as Mcdonald's, Burger King, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks.
This country is close to the equator so there is not a whole lot of seasonal change. The sun rises and sets each day at 5am and 6 pm respectively. The temperature always gets to around 90 and never drops below 75. The rainy season is during our winter months here and is a welcome change!
There is a ton of adventure to be had in and outside the city! Much of life happens in the many malls, where people gather, grocery shop, eat and go to the movies. Outside activities are endless. Island excursions, scuba diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, fishing, hiking, caving, waterfall exploring, swimming, waterparks, and more. Most things are very affordable and within an hour’s drive!
MINISTRY // During your year abroad, the field directors will lead you into different ministry opportunities focusing on evangelism and discipleship alongside the local church. There is also availability to pursue other ministries that will benefit from your specific gifts and talents. Unfortunately, we can not be more specific due to security purposes.
DAY TO DAY LIFE // The day-to-day schedule will consist of devotions and prayer in the morning, language class in the afternoon, bible studies, relationship building, and free time at night. On the weekends you will have other ministry opportunities and free time.