Participant Guidelines

The RYS Approach | Organization and Activities | Health and Wellbeing
Finances | Transportation | In Summary | RYS NORMS

We recommend printing the following pages for reference.
You may download a Word Document version here.

Health and Medical
The Religious Youth Service will do everything possible to ensure your health and comfort throughout the project. A medical specialist will be available at each project. However, you should be aware that the standard of care in each nation differs. Food and water quality as well as sanitary conditions may not be what you are accustomed to. Every effort has been made to ensure the highest health standards. However, part of the responsibility for health maintenance is yours. Be sure to eat wisely and to get enough rest

We strongly recommend that all participants obtain traveler's insurance.  Travel insurance is available at: http://www.eglobalhealth.com/RYS.html

Immunizations
All inoculations against disease and personal medications are the responsibility of the individual. Check with local health officials for the recommendations to follow. There are specific immunizations required to enter some countries for those participants coming from areas of the world where yellow fever is a problem. Proof of inoculation may be required to obtain visas.

Diet
We will do our best to provide a diet suitable for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Local food will be available. It is impossible to cater to every person's specific food needs. If you have a taste for a food or spice specific to your culture, we recommend that you bring some of it with you.

Our meals will be cooked by local people, in a moderated local style. We endeavor to have fruit at least once a day. Please be prepared for a few days’ systemic adjustment to this diet.   Drink plenty of pure water to prevent dehydration.

Personal Security
Possessions left in public may be considered to be of no further value to the owner. Don't tempt people by being careless with your things. We will have security at our living quarters; yet, absolute security cannot be guaranteed, and the final responsibility is yours. If you must leave your things for a while, ask a friend to watch them. Looking out for each other will help create a more secure environment. When leaving public transportation, be sure to take your belongings with you. Handbags and shoulder bags with valuables should be carried in front, not on the side or in back, in order to prevent theft. You may want to consider further safety precautions for securing your pocket valuables.

Videocameras and electronic equipment may need to be registered upon entry. Keep a record of the serial numbers on all your valuable equipment. Also be reminded that your passport is a valuable possession. It is advisable to keep a copy of all your important documents in a safe place.

Weather
In some regions the weather may be very hot. If you are not accustomed to this climate, please be cautious of strong direct sunlight. We strongly recommend that those from cooler climates use tanning lotion or sunscreen until your skin has developed a tan. It is very important to bring a hat that will protect your head, neck and face from the sun. In cooler climates, please bring warm clothes.