Upon your arrival in Cape Town, we provide you with a comprehensive program orientation that will assist with a smooth transition into your new home. Our carefully designed orientation experience not only helps you settle into Cape Town but also imparts essential health and safety information. This informative and engaging orientation program spans four days and includes the following key activities: Day 1: Neighborhood Exploration On your first day, you will embark on a gentle walking tour of Observatory, led by a your VACorps support staff. Accompanied by fellow participants who have recently arrived, you will visit important local spots such as the other program houses, pharmacies, grocery stores, and ATMs. Additionally, we’ll point out recommended restaurants and shops. Day 2: Program Overview The second day features our general orientation session held at the VACorps Offices, which typically lasts around two hours and is scheduled on a Tuesday. Topics covered during this session include:

• • Introduction to the VACorps staff
  • Health and safety guidelines
  • Navigating the city during your leisure time
  • Networking opportunities with fellow VACorps participants
  • Insights for a successful internship in the South African cultural context
  • Practical tutorials on handling cell phone data and electricity
  • A dedicated Q&A session

Day 3: Exploring Cape Town Following the general orientation, we arrange a fun Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Cape Town for you. This guided bus tour offers a glimpse of Cape Town’s remarkable attractions, such as Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Groot Constantia Wine Estate, and the Imizamo Yethu Township. Not only does this tour enhance your familiarity with the city, but it also provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other interns who have just arrived in Cape Town. Day 4: Historical Insights On the fourth day, after concluding the general orientation, you have the option to participate in a Historical Walking Tour in the city center, led by VACorps staff members. During this tour, you’ll gain valuable insights into Cape Town’s rich history and heritage, encompassing its journey from the era of slavery and apartheid to the present day. First Meeting at Your Internship Site Once your orientation is complete, a dedicated VACorps staff member will accompany you to your initial meeting at your internship site, marking the beginning of your internship experience. Your program advisor will directly inform you of the date, time and other logistics of this meeting.