Thinking about volunteering overseas? Want to experience a different way of life? A Palms Encounter is the perfect way to experience a new culture and learn more about international volunteering.
The small group trips are designed to provide an insight into the daily life of people of another culture; an understanding of sustainable approaches to development; and an insight into the life and work of overseas volunteers.
We typically hold public Encounters twice a year and offer private trips for groups (schools, workplaces, community groups, social groups) throughout the year upon request.
Need more convincing? Here’s 5 reasons why you should book an Encounter to Timor Leste.
1. Our community becomes yours
A Palms Encounter is an intimate, individual, immersive experience. We restrict our groups to a
maximum of eight people. This is to ensure that we don’t overwhelm our hosts and to ensure that
you are involved in a genuine cultural exchange.
2. Share your experience with like-minded, fellow travellers
You will share the encounter with a small group of people very much like you with a deep interest in
community, real-world exchange and seeking a different experience. You will make new life-long
friends, brought together by your shared adventures.
3. You get a real perspective on sustainable development
We challenge your perceptions and deepen your understanding of how development really works
at a community level. Orphanage tours and made-for-tourist activities definitely not included.
4. Palms is not a commercial tour looking for a customer
Palms is a very experienced development agency that has been working in communities like
Timor for over 60 years. We run long-term volunteer programs in partnership with our
communities and are experts in sustainable development, cultural exchange
and genuine encounters. The fees from the tour help Palms Australia sustain its
mission of facilitating just, sustainable, and peaceful development.
5. You are safely guided by Palms experts
Our guide is an experienced Palms development volunteer who has lived and worked in Timor.
They know the people, know how to make the encounter a true cultural exchange and in
conjunction with local people on the ground will ensure that your Encounter is safe, meaningful and
a life-changing experience.
Interested? Apply for our March 2018 Encounter today.