Not all voluntourism opportunities are created the same. In fact, those very programs travelers think they are doing good end up doing bad. Not for the travelers themselves, but to local cultures, people, animals and the environment.  An abundance of volunteer vacation opportunities present themselves, particularly in SE Asia where volunteering is big business – but not all actually do the good which they speak of. There are a handful of vol...

The ocean is a magnificent world that continues to mystify us with its power, its depth and the creatures living within it exude a unique grace, strength and beauty. When the truth that being a mermaid or merman wasn't going to happen, getting involved in marine biology is the next best thing.  Opportunities can be found if you look in the right places, but it helps to know what you're interested in and where you want to pursue this line of ...

While some may spend months even years saving up for their worldly expeditions, others take the alternative strategy by finding employment in their new country. A job overseas allows one to become part of the community while at the same time providing an income to fund living, board and adventure costs.  When it comes to gaining employment abroad, you may find yourself limited by strict visa requirements, unable to find an employer or limite...

All around Japan, the work culture is a convoluted web of bureaucracy with a set hierarchy of most important person in the room to lowly peon. That said, when your work throws a work party (better known as an enkai), all of that goes out the window. You’ll get to see your coworkers in a whole new light, including your tight-lipped boss and the lady who serves you green tea every morning.    How do I get invited and how much will it cost...

Volunteering overseas is one of the best ways to immerse in a different culture, to assist a community in need, and to grow personally as well as professionally. Volunteers with the Peace Corps serve abroad for up to 27 months, but some shorter-term options are also available. The health and safety of Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) is the agency’s top priority. Peace Corps understands some risks are involved with living and working in emerging cou...

Deciding to volunteer overseas with the United States Peace Corps is a life-altering choice. Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) live and work within a community for up to 27 months. The decision to serve for over two years volunteering overseas is not a small one to make. Ready to apply?   HOW PEACE CORPS’ APPLICATION PROCESS WORKS From the time an application is submitted to when a successful candidate is invited to serve usually takes about one year...

Part of the adventure of volunteering abroad, especially with the United States Peace Corps, is accepting it comes with certain risks and lack of conveniences that will change how you live your life forever. What I learned as a Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV) has shaped how I have approached everything since. I served as an Education/Information and Communication Technology (ED/ICT) volunteer in Guyana, South America (2008-2010), with only basic nece...

India is a roller coaster of a nation that will take you on a wild ride of extremes from the moment you strap in and touch down. Vibrant, intense, and full of spice, India is in your face and will stay with you long after you are gone. It is also one of the fastest growing and largest economies in the world. If you are looking to break into a new industry or need some important experience to improve your marketability to future employers, th...

Mongolia is one of the most picturesque places on Earth, and you could have the opportunity to live and volunteer in this breathtaking country. This vast land is filled with striking mountains, unending plateaus, sand dunes, and even permanent glaciers. The Gobi Desert is partially located in Mongolia and the terrain from steppe to mountain top is filled with interesting flora and fauna. Whether you choose to stay in the growing capital...

Australia is one of a handful of countries that truly encourages young people to spend time working overseas through their working holiday scheme. Those aged 18-30 can apply for a visa that allows them to work abroad in Australia at one job for six months before finding a second job. Some visas even qualify for a second year visa after completing a required three months of farm work. There are so many jobs for travelers and backpackers ...