Budgeting
Travel For Free On A Volunteer Vacation
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Travelling the world can be a very enlightening experience. Meeting different people and seeing how they live can completely alter your perspective on life. Many of us dream and talk about travelling abroad to exotic, cultural lands to soak up the rich history and traditions. It should be an experience that we all have, but for many, such a vacation is not feasible for two reasons: time and money.
With a little creativity though, travelling to an exciting international locale is possible. Volunteer vacations are becoming increasingly popular. There are numerous companies that offer affordable volunteer trips to anywhere in the world. In exchange for your work and dedication to their project and cause, the company will take you on an unbelievable journey. You can experience life in your placement country and give back to the local community at the same time.
Choosing a trip involves looking at your own interests and talents. There are many options to fill many desires.
Kibbutz is the Hebrew word for “communal settlement.” Kibbutzim (plural) are unique rural communities throughout Israel. They operate on a socioeconomic system based on equality and cooperation of production, consumption and education. Many kibbutzim host young volunteers from Israel and abroad for periods of one month or longer in exchange for work in factories and agricultural tasks.
The best way to get yourself on a kibbutz is to apply with an agency, online. There is a registration fee (around $200), but it will ease your mind to know that the arrangements have been made and your fee includes insurance. You will likely have to pay for your own flight to Israel, as well.
As a volunteer, you will receive free accommodations, three meals per day and pocket money for each month. In addition, many kibbutzim organize tours for the volunteers.
Social Justice in a Developing Country
The Peace Corps is an American governmental organization that is devoted to world peace and friendship. Volunteers serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries. Volunteers are invited by host countries to work on issues like AIDS education, information technology and environmental preservation.
There are also organizations like Global Aware, which offer volunteer vacations for Europeans and Canadians in Peru and Nepal. Volunteers work towards environmental justice and social change.
Some agencies will pay for your travel to and from your country of service and most will give you a living allowance during your stay, which enables you to live in a similar manner to the locals in the community. Some organizations will even provide compensation upon your return to go towards your transition to life back home.
Disaster Relief
After the devastating South Asian tsunami, many organizations began offering opportunities for volunteers to aid with disaster relief in hard hit regions like Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Much of the relief focused on working with the locals to rebuild their homes and their lives.
There are many other organizations that are focused on relief in various regions of the world, such as Habitat for Humanity.
Organizations offer both short-term and long-term stays. Some organizations will pay for your flight to the region. Others collect registration fees and require you to pay for your own travel, but many also offer opportunities to fundraise to cover your fees. It is important to do your research and find an organization that fits your needs, ethically and financially.
Teach English in Asia
Many post secondary graduates are jumping at the opportunity to travel to Asia and teach English before they enter the work force. There is a huge demand from countries such as Hong Kong, Korea and Japan for North American English teachers.
You don’t have to be an English major. Regardless of your post secondary degree/diploma, agencies recruit teachers from a variety of backgrounds. A reputable agency will train you and provide you with teaching materials. Once your training session is completed successfully, the organization will place you in your country of choice, where you will work in a public school environment.
Most agencies offer compensation for your work, usually paid out on a monthly basis. You are offered free accommodations, near your placement school. As well, the company usually covers your flight if you stay for a minimum amount of time, typically set at one year.
Cruise Ships
Cruise liners are always looking for employees in areas such as lifeguarding, childcare and entertainment (dancers, musicians, etc.). You are paid for your work and your accommodations and meals come free. For many, the chance to sail the world on a luxury liner is a dream come true.
The Opportunities Are Endless
Money doesn’t have to limit you and your travels. These suggestions will allow you to see the world on a budget and, in some cases, even make some money while you're at it. The beauty of a volunteer vacation is that you get to fulfill your dreams, while helping to realize the dreams of others.
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