China: Getting There
When should I arrive in and depart from the the host country?
For An Shang & Xi’an programs, plan your flight to arrive in Xi'an, China (airport code XIY) anytime before 4:00PM on the first day of your service program.
Plan your departure from Xi'an anytime after 8:00AM on the final day of your service program.
For Kunming programs, plan your flight to arrive in Kunming, China (airport code KMG) anytime before 5:00PM on the first day of your service program.
Plan your departure from Kunming anytime after 8:00AM on the final day of your service program.
For Hainan Island programs, plan your flight to arrive on Hainan Island (airport code HAK) anytime before 5:00PM on the first day of your service program.
Plan your departure from Hainan Island anytime after 8:00AM on the final day of your service program. This coordinated schedule will assist in assembling the team for transportation to the host community.
Global Volunteers official service program commences on the first Saturday of your service program with the evening meal. Any expenses that occur before the evening meal, other than airport pick-up within the window of arrival, are that of the volunteer.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes, provided you send your flight itinerary to Global Volunteers at least two weeks in advance of the service program arrival date. Your team leader will meet you within the prescribed arrival window, and will be displaying a Global Volunteers logo sign in the public area outside of Customs.
What should I do if my flight is delayed?
Please notify Global Volunteers as soon as you learn of your new arrival plans so that we can inform your team leader, who will work to arrange your transportation to the program site. If you make last-minute changes to your itinerary, or if you don't inform us of your flight plans, you must likewise make your own transportation arrangements to the host community.
If I am delayed, how late can I arrive in the host community?
Our team orientation sessions are a critical component of the preparation for your assignments. If circumstances beyond your control prevent you from reaching the program on the opening day of the program, we ask you to arrive no later than 9:00 AM on the following day.
What should I do if I arrive prior to the scheduled arrival date?
If you choose to spend time in country before the service program begins, please plan to meet your team at the designated airport within the specified arrival window on the first day of the program in order to be transported to the host community.
If I am arriving early, where can I stay?
We recommend that you check the numerous guidebooks available to find a hotel in the gateway city that fits your needs. Several are available by shuttle from the airport.
