Voluntourism

Impact travel.  Voluntourism.  Travel with purpose.  

I am so inspired by this concept.  I hope that it catches on so that we can all increase the fulfillment of our adventures.  The problem is that these opportunities are not often made easily available to the public.  You have to go looking for them (or have me do it).

Choosing a voluntourism trip can be intimidating.  If you're like me, you want to get out into the world and do some good but you don't want to poop in a hole in the ground.  So you have to think about what you really want.  Ask yourself questions like:

• Why do I want to do this trip?  What do I hope to get out of it?
• What are my minimum requirements for accommodations?
• What are my physical and mental capabilities?  For example, Can I handle hard labor but not seeing kids in extreme poverty?  
• What climate(s) can I tolerate?
• What dietary limitations do I have?
• Am I comfortable in places where I don't speak the language?

Make sure you are dealing with a reputable organization.  It's sad to say, but there are opportunists in the world who will do things like set up a fake orphanage to make money off of people like us, who are just trying to be helpful.  We also need to make sure we are traveling with an organization that works with the local community and is welcomed by them (not just barging in to show off and make a buck).  

Voluntourism can be a way to travel inexpensively, but you need to be very flexible about the questions I mentioned above.  Most people I know would be prefer a trip organized in by a travel company who knows how to balance comfort with service (and fun!).

One of the cushiest ways to travel with a purpose is on a cruise.  Your accommodations and meals are reliable and comfortable.  Crystal Cruises has a program called "You Care, We Care".  Instead of focusing the whole trip around service, there are opportunities through their shore excursion program so get out and help.  

Another option is a Fathom Cruise.  Fathom offers 2 options:  Impact travel in the Dominican Republic or cultural exchange travel in Cuba.  Both programs are focused on building community with like-minded travelers and the cultures you visit.

I went on the DR cruise last year and have been dying to start a group to go again, which I have finally done.  You can read about my experience here.  The prices are phenomenal through Spring 2017 so my group will be going on 4/23/17.  I can definitely help you plan another date if this one doesn't work for you, but we will be offering some special activities on this one.  You can read about it here.

If you are looking for opportunities to make your next trip more meaningful, look into voluntourism.  It's great for singles, couples, groups of friends, and families (there is usually a minimum age for children).  These experiences make us feel good inside, while making us grateful for what we have and giving us a new perspective on the world.  Who doesn't want that?