Recife: Voluntourism - A different kind of trip

<<last | 1 | 2 | 3 |

5 TOP TIPS
Ready to pack and go? First, check out DJ Cliffy advices

Research - Do your homework and donâ€™t just google it! Check out virtual tourist message boards and volunteer forums. Look at organizations like the Latin America Bureau or the Voluntary Overseas Service (VSO) both have lots of useful links.

Language â€“ It may seem obvious but a little Portuguese goes a long way and will add another dimension to your social and working relationships.

Objective - Decide what it is you want to get out of the experience - is it adventure travel; brushing up language skills; living with an indigenous community. Decide whether you are interested in working on a particular issue such as HIV/AIDs, a vulnerable group or even agriculture.

Skills - Ask yourself what it is you have got to offer. Some organisations may be happy just to have an extra helping hand but you may be able to offer more. It doesnÂ´t have to be technical skills but translation, typing, painting, language training, homeopathy, dance workshops, etc.

Money - you may be able to negotiate food and accommodation as part of the volunteer package. Try not to pay everything up front so that you have some bargaining power later. Get them to be very specific about what is included in the price. Generally the cost of living will be cheaper but you must factor in costs such as health, insurance & local transport. And good luck.

Useful Websites:

Recife: Voluntourism - A different kind of trip

TAGS