“VOLUNTOURISM” - WHY IT’S GAINING
POPULARITY AND HOW TO DO IT
Thursday 7 January 2010: A growing number of Australian tourists are opting to give
a helping hand to the countries and communities they visit on their travels.
Volunteering as part of a holiday can enhance the overall experience, leaving
memories that outlast sightseeing. The latest issue of Way2go explores the growing
popularity of “voluntourism” – travel that feeds the soul.
Teaching English, looking after orphans and the disabled, caring for native animals and building
infrastructure;
houses, schools and bridges are some of the volunteer tourism projects
available. There are programs and opportunities in Australia and overseas.
Way2go readers can get an idea of the variety of “voluntourism” opportunities through the
experiences of other readers. Projects include:
Humanitarian work in Vietnam caring for orphans and disabled adults
Teaching English in Mexico to a Mayan community or an isolated island community in
Vietnam just opening up to tourism
Caring for animals in a Bolivian animal sanctuary
Rehabilitating injured kangaroos at an outback Queensland kangaroo hospital
Conservation in the Grampians in Victoria, caring for native wildlife.
Many Way2go readers who have experienced “voluntourism” have offered practical tips on just
what to do and what to expect when you give your time and energy.
Most volunteers for programmes need to be aged 18
Volunteers need to offer their time
–
usually a minimum of one month is required for
most overseas placements but there is flexibility
Be prepared to work hard with long hours
Accommodation is usually very basic
Be prepared to pitch in with everything
Keep an open mind, overseas situations and experiences can be very different
compared to Australia.
“Voluntourism” opportunities can be researched by contacting Global Volunteers at
Launched by NRMA Publishing, Way2go travel magazine is on sale nationally at newsagents.
Contact: Lisa Kable 0439 133 113
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