They say if you want to know the future then you should study the past and this is especially true in the case of China; a country capable of dominating the next century but one which also wears its past proudly on its sleeve. As a country it has about 3000 years worth of history to dust down and catalogue so you may have your hands full. You will be working in the underground exhibition halls at the Han Yangling Museum with some of the country's most prized national treasures, so handle with care! You will spend your days assisting tour guides with their English as well as guiding tour groups yourself, before enjoying the beauty of present day China amongst the rolling hills of the valley.
You will be assisting at the The Han Yangling museum during your placement to gain further skills and knowledge about Chinese history and culture. This is situated approximately 1 hours drive east of Xian at the tomb of Jung Di, the fourth Emperor of the Han dynasty.
The project is one of the most popular attractions for English speaking travellers keen to experience cultural tourism. The project is keen to get help with practicing conversational English, tours, and publications.
English speakers are required to assist not only with the development of what the museums can offer to English speaking visitors but also with raising the English language levels of the staff on an on-going basis.
Working hand-in-hand with the museum's staff, you will get involved in a wide range of activities, depending on the demands of the time. Typical tasks include: assisting with directing visitors, correcting signs and information, and helping the staff to improve their English through informal conversations.
You need to be aware of the cultural differences that you are likely to experience whilst living and working in China. Sometimes Chinese people say what they think you want to hear, rather than speaking frankly, to 'save face' and to try and please you! Negotiation and compromise is always preferable to confrontation. You will find that you need to use your initiative and be proactive on the project, as your colleagues may not be very forthcoming in telling you exactly what needs to be done and when.
The minimum age for this project is 21 and to apply for a place you'll need to submit your CV to us. Any relevant knowledge and/or experience in the tourism industry or of Chinese history and culture is preferred, but not essential! Any experience in English web design would be helpful as there is only a Chinese website at present. Any volunteers too that have knowledge of the Chinese language (Mandarin) would prove beneficial as they also need help with Chinese translations.
You'll need to use your initiative at the project and be a highly self-motivated character. This experience is unique in the sense that it's also a skills development project, where you can learn a great deal about Chinese history and culture, while helping out at the museums.
You'll be staying in a shared volunteer apartment on a shared dormitory basis. Please note that you will be travelling to and from the museum each day.
Resources are provided at the project, but you may like to bring any materials relating to museums from your home country or information about your home town/family etc.
*SPECIAL NOTE*: China's National holidays take place between 01 and 08 May and may affect the project on these dates.
The Han Yanglin museum is roughly a one-hour drive East of central Xian, which is a bustling city offering many sites and amenities.
Three delicious and nutritious meals will be provided each day, which will be traditional Chinese cuisine! You will be able to have your lunch with the staff at the museum canteen, other meals will be provided at the volunteer house.
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