When it comes to holidays, everyone’s first thought comes to relaxing on a sunlounger or exploring a whole new city and they are all centred around having a good time and doing whatever you want to do. But it doesn’t always need to be like that for you to have a good and fulfilling time.
There are countless volunteer opportunities for individuals who have a chance to not only give back to the community abroad but also immerse themselves in a true and authentic cultural experience. Not every community around the world has the luxuries of the Westernised world, so choosing one of these destinations can give you a more accurate representation of what other people worldwide go through and do something about it.
You can take a low-cost volunteer holiday with an international volunteer HQ for up to a week. They can be as affordable as spending 20 dollars per day and there are multiple projects you can be a part of, whether it’s in education, healthcare, childcare, wildlife preservation and so much more. Finding the project that suits your needs best is not something hard to come by. Communities all over the world would benefit from an extra pair of hands so why not force yourself out of your comfort zone and give back to those less fortunate?
Inexpensive Volunteer Vacations
Sri Lanka
This volunteer destination is perfect for those who don’t mind solo travel. This alternative destination has everything from golden beaches to rainforests so you can immerse yourself in many types of experiences. and if you are here for more volunteering than pleasure, then you are lucky, as they offer many opportunities.
- Construction, teaching, elephant conservation and community development.
- Accommodation for volunteers
- Between 10 and 40 other volunteers, you can meet and bond with during the experience.
- Free weekends to explore and immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture.
- Programme fees start at $315 week.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is not only a stunning place to vacate but it’s the perfect place to volunteer, especially if you want your entire family to come and give back. Each community has its own needs so this will completely depend on where you are located. Here is what you should expect when volunteering in Costa Rica:
- Family-friendly and homestay with locals.
- Working with children, agriculture, construction and other unique needs to cater to the community.
- Free time on the weekends.
- Program starts at 380 dollars a week.
Read: Safeguard Your Business Dreams: The Importance of Small Business Insurance
Mexico
Not only would you have a chance to give back to local communities but you would also get to experience the wonders of Mexico. Here is what you should expect when volunteering in Mexico.
- Care and animal rights projects in animal shelters – you will get to care for animals, including cats and dogs.
- 5 to 15 new volunteers for you to meet and bond with during the experience.
- Outstanding weather and sights for you to enjoy during those free hours and days.
Ecuador
The IVHQ Ecuador volunteer program has volunteer placements located in the capital city of Quito. Hidden away in the Andes, this city is considered by many to be one of the most stunning places you will ever see in South America. So it’s a must-go when considering which place you are going to volunteer. Your time here will be used to help develop the city and its communities.
- Families are welcome to volunteer together in a homestay.
- Several volunteer projects are suitable for a range of people.
- You are surrounded by many travel opportunities, such as the Galapagos Islands and other colonial towns.
- Programs fees start at $270 a week.
Alternatives
While it’s all fine and well, one of the many areas that need help upgrading and improving their communities is, unfortunately, natural disasters and conflict in others where they need volunteers to help rebuild what has been destroyed, and they are in more need of it than ever during these moments.
As an individual who might be passionate about volunteering and helping others, this is something that should be considered during this crisis. For example, when Portugal goes through long summers with draughts creating a water crisis, look into how you can help and if there are any opportunities to volunteer. It won’t hurt looking into it.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding the perfect volunteering experience, there are always opportunities wherever you go to give back. It is even widely available for families which is a perfect way to not only educate and teach your children gratitude for what they have but strong morals and values for them to take into their adulthood and hope they follow in similar footsteps. While volunteering is by far not a free experience, you do have a lot of benefits, such as accommodation and, on some occasions, food. Be sure to pack light and some gym sets to make sure you are prepared for your whole new view of the world.