Anyone thinking of taking a volunteer vacation should consider the following:
* The organization's philosophy. Are you comfortable or do you agree with the organization's causes?
* The number of participants in a project. An ideal number is no larger than 10 to 15 persons in a group.
* The project leader's qualifications and leadership skills.
* The task required in relation to one's health and capabilities. How strenuous will the work be? Does it require hard, physical labor?
* The daily schedule. Can you cope with having to rise at dawn or work late at nights?
* Insurance. Make sure to check the policy and see what's covered. Find out if you need to get additional coverage.
* Contingency plans in case of political unrest or even war in your country of destination.
Although our understanding of the term, "volunteer" as being free, these trips are not. Volunteers have to pay their way to participate in a project. The fee, often called "contribution" covers meals, accommodation and miscellaneous expenses.
Joining these kinds of trips give one the chance to contribute and make a difference. When one becomes a part of a place rather than just passing through then these trips become potent, life-changing experiences.
As Mao Zedong once said, "Whoever wants to know a thing has no way of doing so except by coming into contact with it. All genuine knowledge originates in direct experience."
Where to find volunteers vacations:
* Earthwatch
* Wildland Adventures
* Sierra Club
* Appalachian Mountain Club
* American Hiking Society
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