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Experience a Month Living in an Icelandic Eco-Village: Embracing Community and Sustainability

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    Recommended Duration: Monthly start (Monday)

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    • -Early Bird Discount (0)days before start 0 %
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    EISH0000
    Europe/Iceland/Selfoss
    • Program Period: Available Year-Round
    • Application Period: Open Year-Round
    • Number of Participants: Unlimited
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    Program Creator / KoreaGapYear Global
    We are a social enterprise that develops Gap year programs related to Internship, Volunteering, Traveling, and Education.
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    4.3
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    • Learning & Growth
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    Program Introduction

    PROJECT INTRODUCTION

     

     

    Experience life within a community that thrives amidst the stunning natural beauty of Iceland!

    In this project, you will become a volunteer in an Icelandic eco-village, engaging in a unique one-month experience to help build and sustain the community. Enjoy each day mingling with special people and living a joyful, fulfilling daily life.

     

     

    The eco-village where this project takes place is committed to eco-friendly living and sustainable practices. The village generates necessary energy using solar, geothermal, and wind power, grows a variety of vegetables in greenhouses, and practices recycling to maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle. The café sells organic cakes, and handcrafted items made by residents serve as meaningful souvenirs for visitors. You will find the touch of the residents in every corner of the village and can feel their dedicated efforts towards environmental sustainability.

    Experience a new way of life in Iceland's eco-village, leading the way in environmental stewardship!

     

    The residents of the Icelandic eco-village live a life of cooperation and sharing. They are people who understand how to give and receive love, kindness, and warmth. Remarkably, nearly half of the members of this community have disabilities. Despite individual challenges, everyone diligently fulfills their roles and works together to support each other and build a sustainable life.

    Living alongside passionate and loving individuals is a wonderful opportunity to experience a life of togetherness. It’s a chance to cultivate gratitude for everything around you.

     

    Iceland is renowned for its diverse natural landscapes. The eco-village where this project is conducted is situated in a serene location with lush fields and forests.

    Start each day with fresh air and enjoy a leisurely lifestyle with friends from around the world. Experience the happiness and fulfillment that come from building a life with your own hands, and find a renewed sense of purpose and relaxation in the midst of tranquility.

     

    Recommended Duration by Participants

    9.4 Week

    Based on past participants’ experiences, we’ve organized the common themes of learning, reflection, and growth by time period.

    4Week
    Discover
    6Week
    Learn
    Recommended 8Week
    8Week
    Grow
    12Week
    Move Forward
    16Week
    Transform

    Why This Project

    What makes this project special

    #Freedom & Happiness#Rest & Recovery#Self-Esteem & Confidence#Primordial Earth#Aurora Observation#Self-reflection#Remote World Experience#Beautiful Nature#Live Like a Local#Make Genuine Global Friends#Global Teamwork Experience#Eco-friendly Lifestyle#Find My Own Lifestyle#Recover from Exhaustion#Experience Self-sufficient Living#Experience Community Living#Environmental Education#Living in Harmony with Nature
    3 Step

    8Week

    Grow

    Participate in the meetings and decision-making processes needed to run the community and find practical ways to contribute. Plan and carry out an ecovillage project yourself to gain hands-on, real-world experience. This is a time when you learn so much—about people, daily life, ways of thinking, and how to put things into practice. You learn deeply about an ethical mindset that considers balance with nature and about sustainable, eco-friendly fields. You feel great satisfaction knowing that your small contribution helps the community’s sustainability. You find deep fulfillment in stepping away from the fast pace of civilization and living in tune with nature’s rhythms. You have more time to fully experience nature and find comfort in it. You realize that you are truly happiest when you are with nature. You share genuine interactions with the people you live with and feel warm bonds. Your understanding of sustainability deepens, and your ability to put it into practice grows. By contributing to solving problems within the community, your sense of responsibility and problem-solving skills increase. You gain insight by observing nature’s cycles and learn an attitude for living in harmony with nature.

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    Program Activities

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    PROJECT ACTIVITIES

     

    This project is a one-month experience where you live in an eco-village in southern Iceland and become a part of the community. Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by engaging in organic farming, utilizing geothermal energy, upcycling, and other environmentally conscious practices.

     

    • Activities will take place from 9 AM to 4 PM, five days a week, including a one-hour lunch break.
    • Workshops will be held 3 to 4 times a week, focusing on various environmental and volunteer-related topics to enhance awareness of environmental protection.

     

    Main Activities Greenhouse Work - Planting, harvesting vegetables, weeding, landscaping, etc.
    Village Maintenance - Painting and other necessary repairs, snow removal, etc.

    * The above details are examples for understanding. The actual schedule and activities may vary depending on local conditions.

     

    • This project is highly dependent on weather conditions. Schedules may be adjusted based on local weather and conditions.

    * Ever-changing Icelandic Weather!

    Iceland is known for its highly variable weather, to the extent that there’s a saying, 'If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes.'

    As a result, the schedule may be adjusted based on local weather conditions. Please be flexible and open to changes for the sake of safety. With a positive attitude and by mingling with friends from around the world, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience!

     

     

    • Enjoy a range of travel activities to experience the beauty of Iceland, such as the Golden Circle tour and South Coast tour. Explore Iceland's pristine natural environment up close with friends from around the world. Please note that additional costs may apply for activities on-site.
    Activity Examples

    Tours of Iceland’s natural landmarks including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, Solheimajokull Glacier, and Reynisfjara Beach (black sand beach).

    * The above activities are examples for reference. Actual options may vary depending on local conditions and schedules.

     

    * Experience Iceland's Unique Bathing Culture!

    In Iceland, where bathing culture thrives with naturally occurring hot springs, nudity is quite common. You'll often see Icelanders bathing in hot springs without any clothing. Of course, you can also choose to wear a swimsuit if you prefer.

    Though Icelandic culture may seem unfamiliar at first, embracing the local lifestyle with an open mind will deepen your understanding and connection with the country.

     

    Additional Information

    • This project runs on specific dates throughout the year, and participants can choose an activity period between 4 and 12 weeks.
    • The project operates year-round, with start dates set for the first Monday of each month. Please contact us in advance for details.

     

    English Proficiency Required ★★☆☆☆

    • Basic communication in English is required to interact with local staff and volunteers from around the world. Even if your English isn’t perfect, as long as you’re willing to overcome challenges and participate actively, you’re welcome!

    Physical Fitness Required ★★☆☆☆

    • The project involves outdoor activities and adapting to Iceland’s unpredictable weather. It’s advisable to assess your fitness level before participating.

     

    Program Inclusions

    • On-Site Orientation
      On-Site Orientation
    • Professional Training / Education
      Professional Training / Education
    • Daily Meals (3 per day)
      Daily Meals (3 per day)
    • Groceries / Ingredients Provided
      Groceries / Ingredients Provided
    • 24/7 Emergency Contact Support
      24/7 Emergency Contact Support
    • Real-Time Support Service
      Real-Time Support Service
    • Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
      Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
    • International Admin Support
      International Admin Support
    • Orientation Materials
      Orientation Materials
    • Local Area / City Tours
      Local Area / City Tours
    • On-site / Off-site Activities
      On-site / Off-site Activities
    • Accommodation Included (See Details)
      Accommodation Included (See Details)
    • Host Institution Certificate
      Host Institution Certificate
    • Local Support / Inquiries
      Local Support / Inquiries
    • Expert Program Leader
      Expert Program Leader
    • Partner Discount Benefits
      Partner Discount Benefits
    • Official Certificate of Completion
      Official Certificate of Completion
    • Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
      Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
    • Variety of Meal Options
      Variety of Meal Options
    • Wi-Fi / Internet Access
      Wi-Fi / Internet Access
    • Pickup from Designated Meeting Point
      Pickup from Designated Meeting Point
    • Shared Kitchen
      Shared Kitchen

    SUPPORT

     

     

     

    Detailed Support

    ■ Accommodation and Meals

    • Dormitory-style accommodation where you can interact and relax comfortably with volunteers from around the world.
    • Delicious local meals prepared with local ingredients and ingredients provided.
    • Common spaces to meet and socialize with international friends.

    ■ Project Activities

    • Safe pickup service to and from accommodation (round-trip, at designated meeting points in Reykjavik).
    • Comprehensive local orientation to help you adapt to life in Iceland.
    • A reliable local manager for support.
    • 24/7 emergency contact for immediate support in case of issues.
    • Travel tips to help you live like a local.

    ■ Care Services

    • Participant Dispatch Procedures: Project registration and dispatch process.
    • Orientation: Various information to ensure a successful gap year.
    • OT Materials: Guidelines for those traveling abroad for the first time.
    • Gap Year Notebook: A notebook to reflect on yourself during the gap year (▶ More Details)
    • Gap Year Mission

    ■ Certificates and Recommendations

    • Certificate of Volunteering from the local organization.
    • Participation Certificate and Activity Completion Certificate from Korea Gap Year.

    * Certificates and recommendations from the local organization will be issued upon the participant's request after the project ends. Also, the format and issuance of these documents may vary according to the local organization’s requirements.

    * Certificates and recommendations will be issued after the project is properly completed and feedback is submitted.

     

    Exclusions

    • Round-trip airfare.
    • Other local expenses (overnight stays, dining out, transportation, etc.).
    • Individual travel insurance.

    * Please book your airfare and transportation after final confirmation of the project participation and departure schedule.

    About the Provider

    INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION

     

     

    Our organization, established in 2001, is a non-profit dedicated to nature conservation and international exchange. We believe that by collaborating and building communities with people from different countries and cultures, we gain the strength to understand each other more deeply and work towards a common goal. We run various volunteer programs open to people from around the world, providing opportunities for many to actively participate in activities aimed at protecting the natural environment.

     

    Accommodation

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    ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION

     

     

    Double Rooms / In-Room Bathrooms / Lunch Provided / Shared Kitchen / Free Wi-Fi

     

    The on-site accommodation consists of four double rooms, each with its own bathroom. Volunteers from around the world will share the kitchen and other common spaces.

    Breakfast is to be prepared individually, while lunch is provided in the cafeteria.

    The organization will provide fresh and nutritious ingredients for dinner. Volunteers will prepare meals together in the shared kitchen, allowing them to share their recipes and enjoy a pleasant time.

    Bed and sheets are provided, but volunteers should bring their own sleeping bags.

    Free Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation.

    Contact: koreagapyear@gmail.com, KakaoTalk @GapYear

     

    Location Overview

    LOCATION INTRODUCTION

     

    Location:   Iceland

    Embark on a journey to Iceland, a land that preserves its pristine natural beauty! Every year, numerous travelers from around the world visit Iceland to experience its diverse nature. Create your own special memories in Iceland, a place where even just gazing at the breathtaking landscapes can leave you speechless.

     

    Recommended Destinations

    01 Blue Lagoon

    One of Iceland's most popular attractions, the Blue Lagoon is a massive spa where you can enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath. Located about 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport, many tourists visit the Blue Lagoon either when they arrive in Iceland or before they leave. Experience healing for both body and mind in the milky blue hot spring waters!

     

    02 Reykjavik

    Reykjavik, one of the few cities in Iceland surrounded by vast nature, is the capital of Iceland. Despite being the busiest city, its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. Enjoy various delights such as visiting lakes and churches, spending evenings at bars with live music, or signing up for different tours and activities. Enjoy the city of Iceland to the fullest!

     

    03 Snæfellsnes Peninsula

    Located in western Iceland, Snæfellsnes, meaning 'peninsula of the snow-capped mountain,' derives its name from a volcano capped with ice. Known for its volcanic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and coastlines, it's often referred to as a miniature Iceland. Enjoy the charm of its small and serene fishing villages! The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is also featured in the film "Journey to the Center of the Earth."

     

    Dates & Fees

    SCHEDULE AND PRICES

     

    ■ Projects start on specified dates during the year.

    ■ The minimum participation period for this project is 4 weeks.

    ■ The cost of this project can be found at the top of this page, where detailed prices are provided by duration and option.

     

     

    ■ Eligibility and Requirements

    • Healthy adults aged 18 and over
    • Able to communicate in basic English
    • Interested in experiencing a communal living environment
    • Eager to create change with their own hands
    • Looking to heal amidst Iceland's nature
    • Prepared to adapt flexibly to various situations

     

     

     Gap Year Mission Scholarship (▶ Learn More)

     

     Installment Payment Information

    For those who find it difficult to pay the full amount upfront, you can make an initial payment of 500,000 KRW. The remaining balance should be paid within 2 weeks. Once the initial payment is made, the process for confirming project participation will begin, and availability and spots will be checked. Early reservation is crucial for securing your desired dates and duration! (Refunds are not possible once participation is confirmed)

    * Please note that if the start date is approaching, the schedule for the remaining balance payment may vary.

     

     Early Bird Discounts and Urgent Application Information

    We recommend applying for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the project start date due to the standard procedures and preparation time. Applications should be submitted no later than 2 months before the project start date. However, if you need to apply urgently, you can pay an additional fee for the urgent application service to expedite the process. We will assist with the fastest processing possible.

    * While we strive to expedite the process, there is always a basic amount of time required for communication with local agencies and confirmation of participation. All procedures will be carried out in the same manner as for regular participants, so those using the urgent application service must actively cooperate with the Gap Year Operations Team.

    ** Those who apply more than 180 days before the start date will receive an Early Bird discount.

    *** The urgent application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries regarding the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

     

      

    - Provided Services: Automatic application for Gap Year Mission and Notes / Full materials provided upon confirmation of participation / Additional urgent staffing / Support for document preparation if needed, etc.

    * For those having difficulty calculating dates, please refer to Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator

    ** Note: In cases of extremely urgent applications, there may be no available spots due to local circumstances, and the refund policy will apply as per Gap Year regulations. Also, any issues arising from participant non-cooperation will be the responsibility of the participant.

     

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    For any additional inquiries about the project, please contact our operations team via email (program@koreagapyear.com )
    or consult with one of our program consultants via KakaoTalk.

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