Do you wish that you could combine your love of travel with your passion for helping others? If so, then you’ll be pleased to hear that there is a way to do both. More commonly referred to as voluntourism, this travel trend involves exploring new places and giving something back.
If this sounds like something you would like to do, then the next step is to decide where to go. There is a wide range of travel destinations that are actively seeking volunteers, in far-flung locations as well as some that are nearer to home.
Discover the top five destinations where you can make a difference below and start the next step in your responsible travel journey.
- Nepal
If your passion lies in helping women who are less fortunate than yourself, then head straight to Nepal. Located in the Himalayan mountain range, there are a number of different eco-tourist sites for you to choose from.
Most in need are the women of this country who struggle with literacy which limits their choices. Through volunteer projects, you can help these women to become more educated and get themselves out of poverty.
- India
India is a popular place for tourists due to its rich culture. However, this country and its population struggle with a lot of problems such as malnutrition.
If you have any experience or knowledge in healthcare, then this is the perfect destination for you as you can volunteer to help in a local hospital or right in the heart of a local community.
- USA
If you’d like to make a difference a little closer to home, then there are charitable organizations that you can help right here in the United States.
For example, the American Red Cross will always a volunteer for one of their many volunteer programs such as their disaster relief services or their blood donation services. If you don’t feel able to get physically involved you can still donate some money and help their cause.
- Cambodia
If you’re interested in education or you’d like to make a difference to the lives of children in another country, then Cambodia is a good choice for you.
Another Asian country that’s in need of volunteers, Cambodia offers a lot for travelers who want to experience luscious surroundings and places of cultural interest such as religious temples.
More specifically, rural primary schools are in need of volunteers where there’s a lack of teachers and helpers due to high levels of poverty.
- Peru
For those who want to work with animals, there are a number of farms and shelters in Peru that need your help. In particular, there’s work to be found looking after and caring for llamas and alpacas which are both animals that are native to Peru.
You can also help local farmers to prepare the wool, participate in shearing, spinning, and weaving processes, and sell these products at nearby markets, contributing to the preservation of local traditions and sustainable practices.