understanding volunteer tourism

Volunteer Tourism- A Detailed Guide

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Volunteer tourism is a growing industry. A type of niche tourism , it attracts people who want to gain valuable experience, ‘do something good’ or enhance their CV. But what exactly does volunteer tourism entail?

The volunteer tourism industry has been substantially researched and critiqued in recent years by tourism industry stakeholders and researchers (including myself). Whilst it can be a great way to help a cause, it can also negative impacts too. In this article I will tell you what is meant by the term ‘volunteer tourism’, the types of volunteer tourism projects available and the motivations of volunteer tourists . I will also discuss the commodification of the volunteer tourism industry along with the positive and negative impacts. Lastly, I will outline the things that tourists should consider before committing to a volunteer tourism project.

Are you ready to learn more about volunteer tourism?

What is volunteer tourism?

Definitions of volunteer tourism, how the meaning of volunteer tourism has shifted in recent years, types of volunteer tourism projects, types of tourism linked to volunteer tourism, volunteer tourist typologies, volunteer in the week but tourist on the weekend, opportunity to travel, camaraderie, skill development, personal growth, linguistics, influence of family/peers, structure of programme, cultural immersion, novel experience, personal challenge, course requirement, to live in another country, search for authenticity, reputation of volunteer tourism organisation, are volunteer tourism motivations selfish or selfless, money goes to the business, as opposed to the cause, evidence of an unintentional new form of colonialism, ambiguous business approaches, ethical concerns regarding profit being made for a supposedly ‘charitable cause’, lack of regulation of the sector, benefits of volunteer tourism are undermined, marketing material designed to attract business as opposed to portraying a reflective picture, helping the host community, money is directed to areas that would not normally benefit from tourism, enhanced cross-cultural understanding, reduction in racial, cultural and social boundaries, volunteers can utilise their skills that locals may not have, enhanced social capital, contribution towards international development, limited benefits due to the short longevity of volunteer placement, culture shock, not being able to see where their money has been spent, experience given not matching expectations, marketing material not reflective of actual experience, volunteers unaware of what ‘difference’ they have made, a feeling of awkwardness when locals are viewed as inferior to volunteers by the host population, role ambiguity, cross-cultural misunderstanding, the need for volunteers is simulated, unauthentic experience, feeling unneeded or ‘unused’, language barriers, physical hardship (insects, lack of sleep, physical exertion etc), lack of amenities/activities, neglect on locals’ desires and lack of community support, hindering of work progress and completion of unsatisfactory work, disruption of local economies, reinforcement of conceptualisations of the ‘other’, rationalisations of poverty, instigation of cultural changes, increased dependency in host communities, lack of financial and vocational benefits directed towards host community, local employment displaced by free-labour tourists, lack of specific skills, knowledge or experience by volunteers, local environments/communities exploited by volunteer organisations for profit, foreign interest prioritised over local, volunteers possessing limited volunteering or professional experience, language barriers make it difficult to undertake volunteer work, hosts unclear of the role of the volunteer, reinforcements of cultural stereotypes, employment losses, volunteer tourism organisations not employing local staff, lack of quality control and background checks on volunteer tourists, evidence of colonialism, aid not going to those most in need, inadequate volunteer training/inductions, hosts devastated when newly established bonds with volunteers are broken upon the end of their placement, undesirable power relations created between host and volunteer, #1 develop skills to aid career development, #2 cheap travel opportunities, #3 to have a ‘grass roots’/cultural experience, #4 exhibit philanthropic behaviour, #5 enhanced relationships/cross-cultural relationships, #6 becoming ambassadors of home country, #7 realisation of the importance of material possessions, #8 education, #9 personal growth and development, #10 greater awareness of ‘self’, #11 enhanced citizenship, #12 opportunity to do/see something fun and exotic, #13 enhanced level of self-criticism, #14 self-satisfaction and desire to change, #15 enhanced spiritualism, #16 positive personality changes, #17 relaxation, #18 to have a greater understanding of the host community, #19 increase desire to ‘give’, #20 opportunity to achieve training and/or qualifications, volunteer tourism: work with me.

Volunteering is an integral part of society and with travelling becoming more accessible, volunteers have begun to appear in the tourism industry.

But what is volunteer tourism?

In brief, volunteer tourism is a type of tourism where an individual will travel abroad to a destination that is predominantly considered ‘undeveloped’ or ‘developing’ to offer their support to those in need. And when we use the phrase ‘those in need’, which is expressed a lot in volunteering, we refer to those who are surrounded by extreme poverty, do not have adequate education and healthcare facilities and frequently have little building infrastructure.

Often in academic discussions you will come across terms such as ‘voluntourism’, ‘volunteerism’, and ‘volunteer travel’. Each term is essentially referring to the same principle: the joining of both ‘volunteering and ‘tourism’.

Volunteer tourism is a specific form of tourism, designed purposely to provide a product or service to meet the needs of a particular market segment, meaning it falls under the umbrella of niche tourism.

Niche tourism is becoming more and more popular amongst tourists, who are seek ‘different’ and ‘novel’ experiences more than ever before. In fact, some academics argue that sectors such as volunteer tourism, which used to be small sectors of the industry, have grown to such an extent that they should no longer classified as ‘niche’. Others suggest that the niche market be segregated into macro (meaning big) and micro (meaning small) niches. This is an interesting debate that is addressed at length in  Marina Novelli’s seminal text on niche tourism – I recommend you take a look if this is an area of interest to you.

There are many organisations, like  Projects Abroad,  which offer a range of different volunteer tourism projects. Volunteering opportunities are generally located in undeveloped countries such as; Nepal, Ghana, Cambodia and South Africa .

Whilst there isn’t a wealth of data on volunteer tourism projects, TRAM (Tourism Research and Marketing) found in 2008 that volunteers typically pay on average £2,000 for the privilege of volunteering.

This cost covers, housing, meals, projects, materials, administration and on-site staff support. Unfortunately, it also usually results in a hefty profit in the pockets of the volunteer tourism host organisation too. This is discussed in further detail in my post on the impacts of volunteer tourism.

There is a growing body of research on volunteer tourism, however Wearing’s book, which introduced the concept back in 2001, remains the most useful in gaining an understanding of what volunteer tourism is. You can find his book on  Amazon here .

Of course, there are more recent texts that I would recommend any student or person investigating the volunteer tourism industry refers to alongside Wearing’s text . This includes  Angela Benson’s Volunteer Tourism (Contemporary Geographies of Leisure, Tourism and Mobility)  which was published in 2015 and  Wearing’s International Volunteer Tourism: Integrating Travellers and Communities  published in 2010.

In his early work,  Stephen Wearing  defines volunteer tourism as tourists who;

“Undertake holidays that might involve aiding or alleviating the material poverty of some groups in society, the restoration of certain environments or research into aspects of society or environment”.

Stephen Wearing is a notable author of sustainable tourism, focusing on volunteer tourism and eco-tourism.

Marina Novelli , an academic writer on niche tourism, describes volunteer tourists as;

“Individuals offer their service to change some aspect of society for the better”.

Marina Novelli is a geographer who has led and advised projects funded by the United Nations and the World Bank on tourism development.

More recently, academics have begun to scrutinise the motivations behind volunteer tourism, which inevitably impacts on the definition of volunteer tourism.

For example,  Irmgard Bauer  published a recent journal on volunteering doing more harm than good. And although the article is on medical volunteering, it still relates to volunteering in its broader sense of travelling abroad.

The possibility of ‘voluntourists’ doing more harm than good has not only sparked academic attention but has played a role in critical debate in one of the Worlds leading newspapers,  The Guardian . This is addressed further in my post on the impacts of volunteer tourism.

The practice of individuals going on a ‘working type holiday’ is a relatively new form of tourism that has grown at an increasingly fast past (although it cannot be considered a working holiday as volunteers do not get paid to work). Volunteering is a long-standing activity, but the combination of volunteering and tourism is comparatively new, and we are already witnessing growing changes in the form of tourism.

Volunteering projects are predominantly organised by charities and are philanthropic in nature. The trend in volunteer tourism has shifted away from this altruistic activity into the arms of tour operators, who often charge large amounts. Tour operators are profit driven and discount the prime objective of helping those in need.

Volunteer tourism is a billion-dollar industry and undeveloped or developing countries require continuous money and support. Communities begin to exploit their potential income, which creates a cycle of dependence.Communities rely on aid to get by and without volunteer tourism, communities do not have that potential source of income. And as a result, there are growing concerns towards the volume of children being exploited to ‘allure’ tourists and their money.

UNICEF  estimated around 85% of children in orphanages in Nepal have at least one living parent. A group founded by  JK Rowling to end institutionalisation of children  discovered an orphanage in Haiti trafficking children following the earthquake. The rise in orphanages is not the result of abandoned children requiring shelter, but from the demand in volunteer tourists willing to pay to support communities.

Early definitions of volunteer tourism define volunteers as those who undertake holidays that aid and alleviate poverty, someone who provides benefits to others and most importantly, not for themselves. In early definitions, there is a noticeable importance on the meaning of others.

However, in contemporary literature there is a notable shift in the characteristics of volunteer tourism. The philanthropy movement of tourism is described as a form of ‘moral consumption’, expressing a strong link between the tourist and their motivated reality to change the world for the better. And in many cases motivations become selfish, as opposed to selfless.  

There is also a strong commonality in the way volunteering is promoted to individuals. If we look at recent articles and online blogs, we can see volunteers are persuaded by the chances of;

• Advancing their career.
• Having an adventure.
• Learning new skills.
• Enhancing your CV.

One reason that it is suggested that volunteer tourism has become a macro niche tourism form is because there are a wide range of opportunities in volunteer tourism that does not limit one project to one activity.

The table below demonstrates the main sectors of the volunteer tourism industry and the various areas that prospective volunteer tourists can get involved with.

I argued in my article published in Annals of Tourism , that these categories can be narrowed down even further, with TEFL tourism (the subject of my PhD) being a subset of the teaching sector. Teaching English as. Foreign Language tourism is a large industry around the world that includes teaching English in Japan , China and Thailand amongst other destinations.

Volunteer tourism projects are closely linked to a range of other forms of tourism, making the form of tourism more accessible and engaging to a wider pool of travellers. The list below outlines some of the various tourism segments which frequently encompass volunteer tourism.

• Alternative tourism.  Opposite to mass tourism , alternative tourism involves authentic and personal travelling encouraging interaction with local people, environment and communities.
• Sustainable tourism .  Visiting a destination with the purpose of making a positive impact on the economy, society and environment.
• Ecotourism .  Travelling responsibly to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.
• Responsible tourism.  Any form of tourism that minimises negative economic, social and environmental impacts whilst enhancing benefits for local people.
• Pro-poor tourism.  Pro-poor tourism is not a specific form of tourism but an approach to the industry, that generates economic, social, environmental or cultural net benefits for the poor.
• Charity tourism.  Tourism that involves alleviating material poverty, restoration of environments and research into aspects of society or environment.
• Gap year tourism.  A form of tourism predominantly associated with travelling, volunteering or working abroad.
• Backpacker tourism.  A typically low-cost form of travel, with more interactive experiences with local people.

Types of volunteer tourists

We are all motivated differently and the volunteer tourism industry is no different. The reasons why people volunteer can be further understood by examining what types of people are choosing to take part in volunteer tourism.

Some people may choose to volunteer because they feel it is important to support communities and have an ultimate desire to give back. Others may feel voluntary work will provide professional development and support career-building, along with the fact that the work will enhance their CV. Others choose to volunteer to immerse themselves socially among different cultures and networks. And then some simply have a desire to seek adventures and explore new cultures and communities.

Some academics have categorised volunteer tourists by these motivations.Below I will outline the main volunteer tourist typologies in the literature.

Callanan and Thomas  categorise volunteer tourist motivations around six main objectives:

• Destination.
• Duration of project.
• Focus on experience.
• Qualifications.
• Active versus passive participation.
• Level of contribution to locals.

Tourists are classified into one of three categories; shallow, intermediate or deep.

Shallow volunteers are classified as those that are dominated by personal interest. They prefer short trips (e.g. a few weeks), demonstrate few skills, experience low levels of direct contributions to locals and tend to be more passive in participation; consequently impacting on their ability to contribute to the local environment or community sufficiently . They are focussed on self-interest and self-development and demonstrate motives such as CV and ego enhancement.

At the other end of the spectrum, those that tend to think more about the community are classified as ‘deep’ tourists. These tourists typically partake in projects that are longer in duration (at least six months) and possess specific skills and qualifications. For these tourists, the project and the impact on the environment and community are key to the volunteer experience.

McGehee  et al , separate tourist motivations into three categories; the Vanguards, the Pragmatists and the Questers.

The Vanguards.  The Vanguards are the most motivated. Demonstrating interests in skill building, seeking the most physically and mentally intense experience. This tourist type is predominantly the youngest.

The Pragmatists.  The largest group of volunteer tourists. Motivated by cultural and social immersion, and the desire to connect. This tourist tends to be middle-aged volunteers.

The Questers.  The Questers tend to be the oldest and tend to gravitate towards altruistic motivations yet demonstrate a lack of awareness of what their motivations are.

Daldeniz and Hampton  separate motivations into two categories; VOLUNtourists and volunTOURISTS. Their typology heavily debates the motivations of volunteer tourists and whether they are motivated by the prospect of a volunteer experience or the vacation in itself.

VOLUNtourist.  Someone who travels and is largely motivated by the will to help those less fortunate.

VolunTOURIST.  Someone who travels and is motivated by their desire to travel and explore.

Whilst the above typologies are useful in attempting to understand the reasons why people volunteer it can be argued that they are over simplistic.

The volunteer traveller has long been a challenge to define (as I have explained  in this post ) and the lack of clarity about the role of a volunteer tourist has created what has been described in the literature as ‘role ambiguity’.

The term ‘role ambiguity’ is essentially referring to the fact that volunteer tourists may not always be clear about their role all of the time. In fact, their ‘role’, so to speak, can change depending on the time of day or day of the week.

There is research to suggest that some volunteers perceive themselves as tourists at some points during their trips (for example when they have completed their volunteering duties and are visiting tourist attractions or going out to parties) and as volunteers at others (Sin, 2009).

Mustonen (2005) builds on this by identifying the shifting roles of volunteer tourists, who may go from being tourists seeking out pleasure, relaxation, stimulation and so forth during part of their trip to altruistically helping the community or environment at other times.

Many volunteer organisations offer more than just an opportunity to volunteer and allure people in by offering a ‘holiday type vacation’ too. This emphasises this concept of ‘shifting roles’, particularly from the organisation perspective.

Volunteer tourism motivation

It is clear that there are a lot of different reasons why people volunteer.Volunteer tourism motivations can be diverse, multiple can even be merged into one-another.

Below is a list of the main reasons why people volunteer as identified in the volunteer tourism literature.

Volunteer tourism involves travelling to another country in most circumstances.This is appealing for many tourists and provides them with the opportunity to travel.There are some great companies who offer packages which include lots of travel opportunities.

Volunteer tourism generally involves meeting new people. Whether the tourist is spending time with the local population , other volunteer tourists, or both, it is likely that they will form relationships with them. This camaraderie is often reported to be a highlight of a volunteer tourism experience.

Volunteer tourism provides tourists with the opportunity to develop a range of skills, depending on the type of placement that they are undertaking.Developing new skills and enhancing their CV is often reported to be one of the dominant reasons why people volunteer.

Many people will choose to take part in a volunteer tourism project because they want to feel like they are giving something back. Back in the early days of volunteering, this was the most frequently noted motivation, although with the rapid growth of the industry and changes in the types of people who are choosing to volunteer, this is sadly often a secondary motivation nowadays.This is addressed further in my post on volunteer tourism impacts.

Volunteering abroad provides a sense of adventure and fun! Lyons and Wearing’s book entitled ‘Journeys of Discovery in Volunteer Tourism: International Case Study Perspectives’ documents some brilliant case studies if you would like some examples- you can  purchase the book here .

On completion of their placement, many volunteer tourists explain that they feel that they have ‘developed as a person’. This is one of the motivational factors commonly noted. People may also describe this as ‘finding themselves’ or ‘learning more about themselves’.

There is an inevitable educational benefit when undertaking a volunteer tourism project. Whether the tourist undertakes formal learning, for example by undertaking a TEFL certificate, or whether it is learning through their travel and cultural experiences, it id difficult not to learn a lot when working as a volunteer tourist!

For many people, learning a language is of particular importance to them.These tourists may choose to undertake their volunteer tourism placement in a location which speaks a language that they are hoping to learn.

Some volunteer tourists choose to undertake their placements because of pressure from family or peers. Perhaps their parents have suggested it is a good idea or their friends are going and want them to accompany them.

For some, the reasons why they volunteer are down to the volunteer tourism programme itself. They may like the itinerary, the company ethos or the way that the programme is organised.

Volunteer tourism allows participants to be exposed to a new culture in a way that isn’t possible with regular tourism. Many people state that this is a major motivating factor when deciding to undertake a volunteer tourism trip.

Volunteer tourism enables tourists to have a unique and novel experience. It is something that they may never do again and something that they will not experience at home.

Some volunteer tourism projects are based around religious centres or acts of religion. They may be organised by a church group or they could provide assistance to communities based on a religious approach or ethos.Many people will be motivated to join a volunteer tourism project that is linked in some way to religious practice, whereas others may simply be intrinsically motivated as a result of their religious beliefs.

Some tourists seek to challenge themselves and joining a volunteer tourism programme can certainly do that! Whether you are challenged by language barriers, because you are placed outside of your comfort zone or because you are asked to do something unfamiliar to you, volunteer tourism can be a challenging experience!

Many volunteer tourism projects make up a part of an academic course. This can be a compulsory element or a voluntary element.

For some people, the reasons why they volunteer are dominated by their desire to live and work abroad. Some may prefer warm climates, others may be motivated because of the culture, cost of living or local attractions on offer.

Whilst most volunteer tourism projects do come at a cost to the volunteer, they can also offer lower costs of living for the duration of the project as they tend to take place in developing economies. This can be a motivating factor for some volunteer tourists.

Some people seek a form of escapism. Volunteer tourism offers tourists the opportunity to escape their everyday lives at home and to experience something different.

More and more nowadays, tourists are in search of experiences that are more niche, unique and authentic than the traditional package tour. Volunteer tourism offers tourists the opportunity to be exposed to a culture in a way that is more authentic and ‘real’ than they would be able to achieve if undertaking a normal holiday.

Most volunteers (although not all) will book their experience through a volunteer tourism organisation. The reputation and stature of said organisation can play a role in motivation. It is, however, unlikely that this is a dominant motivation, but rather it is likely a side-factor that is taken into consideration when organising the trip.

Motivations are largely grouped into two categories; personal or interpersonal.

Personal motivations are typically passive and focus more on the adventure of the project, the ability to enhance CV and build on career prospects and own professional development. Personal motivations are more focused towards personal challenges and egotistic in nature.

Interpersonal motivations, on the other hand, are mainly steered towards active participation. Focusing on culture immersion and supporting communities with an ultimate desire to give back and be dominantly altruistic in nature.

Personal (Selfish).  Having an advennture, enhance CV, professional development, career-building and personal challenge.

Interpersonal (Selfless).  Support communities, desire to give back, altruism and culture immersed.

The commodification of volunteer tourism

Volunteering and travelling opportunities were once an only option for skilled medical professionals who would work their trade and support those in need.But in contemporary society, volunteering and travelling have emerged into a commercialised industry which has seen the commodification of ‘volunteer tourism’.

The majority of the volunteer tourism industry that we see today is (sadly) designed to either suit the needs of the volunteer or to suit the needs of the organisation’s financial pocket. It all too often no longer has the philanthropic principles that it once did.

The increase in the number of volunteer organisations, particularly commercial operators, have changed the face of the volunteer tourism industry. What was once seen as an act of giving is now contested and threatened as a profit driven industry. The commercialisation of the industry has witnessed immense scrutiny and contradicts the original claims that volunteer tourism is a means of avoiding commodification of tourism.

Here is a summary of the things that you need to consider when it comes to the commodification of the volunteer tourism industry:

Concerns have begun to arise regarding how money made by volunteer tourism organisations is spent. Volunteer tourism organisations make heavy profits from the fees they charge volunteers, but most of the money raised goes to the business as opposed to the cause.

Author of the  Volunteer Travelers Handbook , Shannon O’Donnell, expressed how she discovered that 0% of her programme fee was passed on to the host community and the family in which housed and fed her. Shannon O’Donnell then went onto developing  Grassroots Volunteering , a dual database of organisations that connects travellers to causes and communities to support decommodify the volunteerism industry.

Christian, a member of an international volunteer organisation in Ghana, suggests volunteer tourists are “entitled young rich people convinced they can save Africa”. Christian’s statement reflects the evidence of an unintentional new form of colonialism due to volunteer tourists unintentionally flaunting their wealth, social class and health, leading to a poor portrayal of entitlement.

This can lead to a sense of mockery towards the communities in need of help which can contribute to the gap between the rich and the poor widening. The widening of the rich and poor gap can develop greater powers of economic and political measures and thus create further inequality.

The system of inequality or the gap between the rich and the poor may result in the creation of neo-colonial impacts.

One of the key discussions highlighted within recent literature is on the ambiguous nature of many volunteer tourism organisations.

The volunteer tourism industry is forever growing with new businesses entering the market all the time, from those that claim to be charitable or non-profit organisation driven, to projects funded by large organisations such as the World Bank, and tour operators. Tomazos and Butler  express how many volunteer tourism organisations declare themselves with such titles as ‘special tour operators’ or ‘ethical NGO’s’, to which their status as an organisation is ambiguous. It is also unclear as to what the organisations goals are, both short and long term.

The volunteer tourism industry is a billion-dollar industry, yet much of this money never reaches the host community.

For those who do receive adequate money, the volunteer tourism projects can create a cycle of dependence. By this I mean communities rely on aid to get by and without volunteer tourism, communities do not have an income.

Aside form this, there are ethical concerns regarding forgery; with profits being made for a supposedly ‘charitable cause’, when indeed they are swallowed up by the commercial volunteer tourism organisation. It can be argued that this is a direct result ion the commodification of volunteer tourism.

For example, there are growing concerns towards the volume of children being exploited to ‘allure’ tourists and their money. UNICEF estimates that around 85% of children in orphanages in Nepal have at least one living parent. Equally exposed, in Cambodia, according to the United Nations, 40 years following the Khmer Rouge genocide, orphanages have grown.

There is an overall lack of regulation of the volunteer tourism industry, whether that’s in its financial well-doing or monitoring of progress. The lack of regulation of the sector leaves doors open for opportunists, and although organisations do tend to demonstrate how their profits are distributed, this mostly lacks concrete monitoring and evaluation; which thus causes further concerns.  

For example, how beneficial are unqualified and unskilled teachers in improving standards of education? How long will a house last if it has not been built by a trained builder? Are the animals involved in conservation projects in safe hands if the volunteers have not had the necessary training? 

The lack of regulation of the sector plays a critical role in the safety and security of the industry and thus the impacts and benefits it will have on the host community.

Debates on the negative impacts of volunteer tourism have dominated discussion in recent years.

For example, the monetary focus for doing good poses several ethical questions and highlights the inappropriateness of using monetary gain in benevolent intentions.

When organisations focus more on the demand of volunteer tourists and the monetary gain they ultimately exploit the industry and the benefits of the organisation on the host community are questionable.

It is common that the way in which the marketing material is designed is purely to attract volunteers and to satisfy the organisation’s financial needs.

Volunteer tourism projects can only survive if volunteers want to volunteer, without them there is no project. And because of this, the context in which the marketing material is designed is to attract the volunteer and business potential as opposed to portraying a reflective picture of the actual issue and the actual cause of concern that needs addressing by volunteers.

The tourism rhetoric demonstrated through evocative marketing material often implies a different experience from reality. Pictures of beaches, elephant riding or smiling children may fill prospective volunteer’s heads with romantic images of what the volunteer tourism experience entails, as opposed to what is an accurate reflection of the experience. I would argue that not only is this unethical, but that it will not necessarily attract the best volunteer tourists to do the job.

This is yet another problem of the commodification of volunteer tourism.

The positive impacts of volunteer tourism

The positive impacts of volunteer tourism are predominantly underpinned by academic research on the ideology that volunteer tourism can be used as a tool for of sustainable development.

In  Wearing’s  early work, he defined volunteer tourism as ‘aiding or alleviating the material poverty of some groups in society, the restoration of certain environments and research into aspects of society or environment’. His definition ethos clearly has a significant focus on the way in which volunteer tourism can benefit host communities, these are outlined below.

The most notable positive impact of volunteer tourism is its impact on the host community and there are many ways in which volunteer tourism helps the host community.

The ultimate aim of volunteer tourism is to improve the well-being and livelihoods of the host society and environment. This typically involves working with locals who are otherwise ignored or neglected by society in some way.  

First, volunteer tourism combines a foundation of support for an all rounded stronger community.  And by stronger community, I refer to a community that has external support that heightens its internal strengths.

Secondly, a stronger community boosts  community happiness.  When a community feels stronger this feeling of strength transcends into a happy environment.

There are many ways that volunteer tourism can help a host community, some of which are discussed below.

Undeveloped countries with an influx of volunteer tourism projects are not typically ‘hot listed’ for other forms of tourism, i.e. leisure tourism, business tourism or sport tourism . And therefore, communities do not receive the financial benefits that other communities may do.

Volunteer tourism projects are, in part, a solution to this problem because they allow for money to be directly placed into areas that would not normally benefit from tourism. This therefore provides substantial economic benefits for the host community. It is to believed that the volunteer tourism industry could be worth more than  $173 billion dol l ars,  thus demonstrating the worth that this could have for individual communities!

TRAM (Tourism Research and Marketing) found in 2008 that volunteers typically pay on average £2,000 for the privilege of volunteering. This cost covers, housing, meals, projects, materials, administration and on-site staff support. This money fuels the necessary projects for the development of local communities.

Volunteer tourism projects not only provides a direct source of income, but the time and effort to conserve and preserve societies and environments provides a financial support in which host communities financially benefit from in the long-run.Whilst, on the outset, this might seem like a large amount of money that is directed to said communities, it is not always as clear-cut as it may seem. With the rise of commercialism within the industry and for-profit host organisations, many have begun to question how much of the money spent by a volunteer actually goes to the local community. This is discussed further in my post on the commodification of volunteer tourism.

When examining the positive impacts of volunteer tourism, some academics have found substantial evidence of enhanced cultural understanding (e.g. Coren and Gray, 2012; Palacios, 2010; Raymond and Hall, 2008).

Volunteering helps the local community by building the foundation for enhanced cross-cultural understanding by combining a variety of cultures, trends and geographic lines that would have otherwise be divided in the reality of a politically divided world.

The cohesion of cultures transcends insightful knowledge for the host community, providing them with personal opportunities to learn more about other communities and cultures outside of their environment.

Likewise, the volunteer tourists also learn from host communities and are provided with personal opportunities to learn more about the host culture and therefore this personal level of learning heightens cultural sensitivity and awareness.

Likewise, Raymond and Hall’s (2008) research on the positive impacts of volunteer tourism have found there to be reductions in racial, cultural and social boundaries between the volunteer tourist and the host.

By enhancing cross-cultural understandings, we inevitably reduce the context of racial, cultural and social boundaries. This is done through merging cultures, and social differences during volunteer projects.

The appreciation for cultural diversity and learning from other cultures and people increases respect and understanding.

During volunteer projects, racial, cultural and social differences are allied, providing a deeper understanding of one another’s differences.

Relationships are built during volunteer tourism projects and knowledge is shared amongst the host and tourists. These relationships heighten the level of knowledge learned from volunteer tourism, reduces the boundaries of racial, cultural and social remarks and works as a catalyst for encouraging a heightened awareness of such remarks and their impacts.

There are many skills that volunteer tourists can bring to a local community, particularly skills that locals may not have. For example, teaching English is a very common voluntary project and provides host communities with basic knowledge of English language. This an area of particular personal interest as it was the topic of my PhD research. 

In an article entitled  ‘Volunteer tourism, development and education in a postcolonial world: conceiving global connections beyond aid’,  author Carlos Palacios carried out an ethnographic study in Australia, focusing on an Australian program that organises short-term voluntary programmes for university students. His research discovered that such voluntary projects can provide local communities knowledge on basic life skills, like the English language, intercultural competence and awareness of global development.

Furthermore, volunteers are predominantly from Western societies were there is advanced knowledge on ecosystems and conservation strategies. The knowledge from Western societies is derived from actual research projects and therefore provides volunteers with advanced knowledge and understanding that can be utilised during their volunteer project.

In my recent post  ‘A definition of volunteer tourism: What is it and where does it fit in the broad tourism industry?’  I highlighted the range of opportunities that volunteer tourism offers in terms of projects and activities. The range of opportunities reflect the number of skills volunteers can bring to the local community.

These projects and skills are;

• Welfare skills for childcare, elderly, disabled and human right/legal.
• Teaching skills for teaching a foreign language (TEFL) and sport coaching.
• Environmental skills for natural conservation, wildlife protection and global warming.
• Medical skills for hospital support and pandemic support (HIV, Ebola).
• Building skills for construction and renovation.
• Research skills for wildlife monitoring and land-mapping-zoning.

Social capital is the resource in which social interaction and network opportunities take place and which enable a society to operate effectively.

Volunteer tourism in nature, merges different cultures and communities together, which can be beneficial for society, as evidenced in McGehee and Santos’ (2005) research on the positive impacts of volunteer tourism.

During volunteer tourism projects, trust is built, values are shared, and friendships are formed, all of which are critical in enhancing social capital.

The world is divided by two social parities: the developed world and the undeveloped/developing world.

The developing world, also referred to as undeveloped, is largely dominated by extreme poverty, with little stability to develop due to financial constraints and social limitations. Whereas, the developed world refers to nations that are largely more ‘modern’ in society and have the financial ability to ensure their economy, society and environment are managed and protected.  

Volunteer tourism projects allow both social parities to merge into one social construct. When the developed world becomes more involved in supporting the undeveloped world, we collectively work towards international development- In fact, all of the positive impacts mentioned above in some way work towards international development!

For more on international development in this context I recommend the text- Introduction to International Development: Approaches, Actors, Issues, and Practice by Paul Haslam, Jessica Shafer and Pierre Beaudet .

Negative impacts of volunteer tourism

Volunteer tourism can be viewed as a form of tourism incorporating volunteer services. This form of tourism combines tourists who are in search of an experience that contributes to their personal development, but also having a positive impact on the social, natural and economic environments in which they are hosted. Volunteer tourism meets the needs of those who prefer to travel with a purpose and is often associated heavily with niche tourism for those who seek a different experience. 

As the volunteer tourism industry grows, we are witnessing growing changes in volunteer motivations. In the past, reasons may have been predominantly altruism-based; however, we are now seeing strong notions of egotism amongst volunteer tourists. This has changed the face of the industry and brings with it a range of associated impacts for both the host and volunteers.Thus, it is important to consider the positive and negative impacts of volunteer tourism on the volunteer, as much as it is on the host.

Although motivations can differ, there remains several reasons why volunteering might not benefit you as much as you think. To understand the reasons why people volunteer, see my recent post on volunteer motivations.

There is a growing body of literature that highlights the negative impacts of volunteer tourism. Below I will explain the top documented reasons why volunteering might not benefit you as much as you think, as highlighted through a range of academic studies.

Volunteer tourism projects are predominantly short-term placements, typically lasting around 2 weeks. During such a short time frame, there is very little to get done apart from helping the community and volunteering. There may be little personal benefits to volunteering for such a short period of time and thus this is often deemed one of the negative impacts of volunteer tourism to the tourist.

The second noteworthy negative impact of volunteer tourism is culture shock.

Tourists often commit to volunteer programmes with little understanding and knowledge of the community’s culture, history and way of life. This can lead to a culture shock when volunteers are required to immerse themselves fully during the length of the volunteer programme.

Volunteer programmes typically cost the volunteer around £2,000, according to the research organisation Tourism Research and Marketing (TRAM).

During the programme you will be helping onside and participating in a very hands on experience, however, you will often not be able to see where your £2,000 worth of project fees are being spent. This is discussed further in my post on the commodification of tourism.

A small number of studies have identified the dissatisfaction expressed by volunteers when their placement expectations have not been met.

Coren and Gray’s  work discovered this feeling of dissatisfaction when they were aware that the money they paid for their placements had not reached the communities in which they were led to believe it would.

I have also personal experience of this. At age 22 I travelled to the vishas of Buenos Aires to volunteer my time to help the local communities. I envisaged working most days and doing things such as teaching, running activities with the children and supporting members of the community. In reality, volunteers were on site only a few hours each week and spent much of their time chatting with each other about the Argentinian nightlife scene and their previous nights antics. 

Volunteer projects are heavily marketed to ensure they encourage a good amount of volunteers, however in some cases the marketing material of programmes is not a true reflection of the actual experience.

In fact, many volunteer tourism organisations invoke images and rhetoric of tourism far more than they do of volunteering! This gives the perception that aspects such as relaxing on the beach or visiting the local tourist attractions may be a more significant promotion of the volunteer tourism experience than they actually are.

Another one of the key negative impacts of volunteer tourism is that volunteers may be unaware of the ‘difference that they have made’.

Because volunteer programmes are predominantly short and last around two weeks or less volunteer tourists may not be able to see any tangible results from their efforts.

This is most likely the result of programmes benefiting long-term as opposed to foreseeing immediate benefits. And similar to #3 when you are not able to see where your money has been spent you are unaware of what difference you have made.

During volunteer programmes cultures are emerged with one another in a way that would not otherwise emerge without the act of volunteering programmes.

Volunteer tourists are predominantly from developed countries and therefore have very different lifestyles to those of the host community. This can lead to unequal power relations in which leaves volunteers feeling uncomfortable. It can also cause resentment or dissatisfaction from the local population .

Christian, a member of an international volunteering organisation in Ghana, describes volunteer tourists as  “entitled young rich people who are convinced they can save Africa” . And Christian’s observation of volunteer tourists dispel attitudes of being the only source of help, which can (without intent) lead locals to feel inferior to volunteers.

Another one of the negative impacts of volunteer tourism is the notion of role ambiguity. This because what exactly it is you will be doing during the programme can appear fairly vague to the volunteer tourist.For example, lets take a look at a volunteer programme description from Projects Abroad .

“As a volunteer, you’ll become part of our ongoing efforts to support children in Cambodia. You’ll do this by planning and running fun, educational activities to promote early childhood development. For example, you can play a ball game to help kids improve their hand-eye coordination.”

It can appear that volunteer programmes can be unclear of what it is exactly they require you to do and when you arrive your expectations may not be met.

As I said before, volunteer tourism programmes require different cultures to emerge with one another that would have not connected otherwise.

Volunteers often travel to volunteer programmes with little knowledge and understanding of the hosts culture and vise versa. This can result in cross-cultural misunderstanding and therefore make the experience somewhat awkward and challenging for the volunteer.

Cross-cultural misunderstanding can also cause issues with regards to the local community. Tourists may unintentionally cause offence or be rude, due to a lack of understanding of the local culture. This is commonly seen, for example, in the Middle East when tourists wear revealing clothing or in many Asian destinations when tourists do not remove their shoes indoors.

In severe cases the need for volunteers may be simulated.

Tourism Concern reflects on the heightened media surrounding volunteering in orphanages, in which it has been identified that many children have been purposely pulled from their families and ‘orphaned’ in order to serve the volunteer tourism programmes surrounding orphanages and to make a vast profit.

Volunteers benefit through the feeling that they have made a difference, but it can appear some programmes in some shape of form are staged and in fact inauthentic. As mentioned above, the need for volunteers is simulated and thus creates unauthentic experiences for the volunteers.

There may be too many volunteers in one voluntary programme and therefore you may feel as if you are ‘getting in the way’ or not helping as much as you had hoped to be because there are enough people on the programme. Or that perhaps your skills are not being utilised to their full potential.

Again, similar to miss cultural understandings, there is a lack in the tendency of communication barriers due to lack of language knowledge between both the host community and the volunteers. This creates language barriers and thus makes it difficult to communicate between the volunteer and hosts and can result in cross-cultural understandings and feelings of awkwardness.

Yes, volunteering can be a very emotional challenge for some, having to witness the hardship others in the world suffer daily, but also for the volunteers, there is the encounter of physical hardship.

You must prepare yourself mentally for the diverse living situation, the higher chances of falling ill, lack of sleep and overall physical exertion if you are helping day in and day out.

Of course, those that require help will typically have less, and this also means a lack of amenities and activities for the volunteers. Most commonly, there are less resources, health facilities, food service and more as well as excursions and other activities that you may decide to do during your time away from the volunteer project.

Often it is assumed volunteer programmes will favour local communities and their desired support. However, this may not be the case.  Matthews’  study of turtle conservation in Costa Rica identifies the influence that volunteer tourism projects had on poaching and stallholders selling turtle products.

In his research he found that, while poaching is not commendable, the turtle industry was an important part of the community. When volunteer tourism was introduced, many were put out of work and the community became resentful of the volunteer tourists.

This example illustrates that while volunteer tourism projects should consider the benefits to the volunteer, it is important that the projects are also designed in line with the host and community’s wishes.

In my previous posts, I mention the short longevity of volunteer programs. Programs can run as little as one to two weeks per program. This is not a lot of time to make real progress or to see tangible results.

In fact, often work is hindered by the tourists. This may be because of time constraints or because the volunteer tourists lack the necessary skills, as discussed later in this post.

A key negative impact of volunteer tourism is the disruption of local economies.

Volunteer tourism projects are typically funded through volunteers paying on average £2,000 for their experience (TRAM, 2008).

Volunteers will often offer their services voluntarily, when oftentimes these positions could be filled by members of the local community This causes financial disruption within local economies and can cause resentment towards the tourists.Although volunteers offer their services, do they know exactly where each program fee goes? Probably not.

Another point to note is that volunteers often tend to bring ‘gifts’ for locals like shoes and water , but this act of generosity can divert business from local markets.

In his article,  ‘The Possible Negative Impacts of Volunteer Tourism’,  Daniel Guttentag reflects on the work of Simpson, who points out that whilst interviewing gap-year volunteers, many of them emphasised the difference between ‘them’ (the locals) and ‘us’ (the volunteers); consequently establishing a dichotomy between the both of them.

Volunteer tourism programmes can take away the sense of responsibility and ownership for local people. Locals can be made to feel inferior and treated as so by the volunteers (although this is often unintentional). Concepts of racism, imperialism and globalisation also emphasise the ‘them and us’ notion that invokes conceptualisations of ‘the other’.

Following on from #4, Daniel Guttentag  expresses that all authors who have voiced concerns in regards to locals being ‘poor but happy’ indicates a rationalisation of poverty.

Often those with less than others are described closely with expressions like ‘They don’t have TVs but it doesn’t bother them because they have never had one and don’t know what they’re missing out on’ or ‘they’re happy with how they live because they’re used to that style of living and don’t know of anything else’. These expressions used to describe communities from undeveloped countries allows material inequality to be justified and excused.

Volunteer tourism, does, however, help tourists to learn more about how others live and the poverty that they might be exposed to.

Volunteer tourism can instigate negative cultural changes amongst host communities.

It is common for Western volunteers to inadvertently tarnish cultural traditions and invoke notions of globalisation and Western imperialism. This can lead to changes in the way that the local people live. Aspects such as their behaviour, the clothes that they wear and the way that they speak can change as a direct result of the presence of volunteer tourism.

For more on this topic, I recommend that you consult Mary Mostafanezhad’s recent text,  Volunteer Tourism (New Directions in Tourism Analysis) .

Another concerning negative impact of volunteer tourism is dependency.

Volunteer tourists often perform jobs that locals could do. As a result, this invokes dependency for host communities, whereby they begin to rely on the performance of volunteers.

Volunteering programmes often provide emotional and physical support for host communities. However, it is very easy for communities to become reliant on the volunteers and volunteer programmes to support them, whether that’s financial, social or environmental.

For instance,  Lauren Kascak,  expressed that during her several trips to Ghana, locals favoured international medical volunteers due to the free health care and refused to take health insurance and instead relied on volunteers like Lauren to take care of their medical concerns.

Volunteer organisations often make heavy profits from the fees they charge to volunteers.

However, how much of this ends up in benefiting the host community? There are wide debates on the likelihood of volunteer organisations retaining volunteer placement fees for themselves.

Author of the Volunteer Travelers Handbook,  Shannon O’Donnell  , expressed how she discovered that 0% of her programme fee was passed on to the host community and the family in which housed and fed her. Shannon O’Donnell then went on to develop the website  Grassroots Volunteering  , a dual database of organisations that connects travellers to causes and communities to support in attempt to decommodify the volunteer tourism industry.

Why would organisations pay for labour when volunteer tourists are willing to 1) work for free and 2) pay to work for the community? It’s as simple as that.

Volunteer tourism projects have minimal requirements regarding the skill set needed to volunteer. And a result, volunteers often commit to programs with little knowledge and understanding of the host community and without the relevant skills.

In the UK and other Western countries there are many regulations and policies that are required of workers of volunteers. In the UK if you do not hold a teaching qualification you cannot teach. If you are not a trained builder you cannot built.

This is not, however represented in the volunteer tourism industry, where many people commit to projects without the necessary knowledge or skillset. This can cause many problems, ranging from the completion of unsatisfactory work to invoking resentment from locals who may be better equipped to perform said duties.

More often the issues that arise are not with the volunteer but with the organisations themselves.

Many volunteer tourism organisations appear to be driven by profit, rather than be focused on providing meaningful solutions to alleviate poverty or to help the environment.

Many hidden truths have emerged in discussion of the volunteer tourism industry, alliterating the exploitation of local environments and communities by commercial organisations. In fact, in severe cases, the presence of volunteer tourism not only reaps few rewards for the host communities, but actually exaggerates the negative aspects through increased dependency, cultural implications etc, as discussed throughout this post.

This can be seen explicitly in orphanage exploitation. There are growing concerns towards the volume of children being exploited to ‘allure’ tourists and their money.  UNICEF , estimate that around 85% of children in orphanages in Nepal have at least one living parent and are, therefore, not orphans at all.Equally exposed,  is Cambodia , where there have been a growing number of reports of illegitimate orphanages and orphans.

Volunteers often have little understanding and knowledge of the community’s culture, history and way of life. The same applies to local communities not knowing a lot about the volunteers’ culture, history and way of life.Volunteers require emotional and cross-cultural skills in order to adapt to other environments and communities without jeopardizing potential relationships that can support bridge the divide between the developed and undeveloped world.

However, when volunteer tourism programs aggravate cross-cultural misunderstandings, this can lead to widening the gap between the rich and the poor and creating unequal power relations.

An increasingly noted negative impact of volunteer tourism is the notion of foreign interest being prioritised over local interest.

Most volunteer tourism programmes have foreign ownership and are managed overseas, separate from the location in which programmes take place in. Often, profits and personal gain are the priorities of the foreign organisation, leaving host communities’ needs excluded or even blind-sided.

Volunteer organisations make large profits from the fees they charge to volunteers. However, how much of this ends up in the host community’s pockets? How much communication is there between the host community and the volunteer organisation? In fact, it is a recurring issue that volunteer organisations do not address the root problem that needs addressing.  

The majority of volunteer programs are drawn towards gap-year students. This means that, more often than not, volunteers bring very little volunteering or professional experience to the program.

Having limited experience means that volunteers may lack cross-cultural understandings and the skills in which you would gain from professional work, i.e. teamwork, management skills, time management skills etc,. These are all skills that benefit the volunteer program immensely.

Language barriers between volunteers and the host can make it very difficult to undertake volunteer work. Not only does it make it difficult to work effectively, it also creates a divide between the volunteer and host which can lead to unequal power relations which is discussed further in #26.

As mentioned earlier, hosts are typically excluded from volunteer tourism programmes, and therefore this makes them unclear of the role of the volunteer. They may not understand exactly what the volunteer is doing and how they are contributing to their lives.

Many believe volunteer tourism is a form of social capital and that it can break down stereotypes. But this is not always the case. More often than no0t, volunteer tourism programmes reinforce negative stereotypes of the volunteer tourist. Whether locals believe volunteers are rich, exploitative or ‘snobby’, volunteer tourism can help to reinforce such stereotypes.

Likewise, volunteers may have a specific perception of the local community.They may view them as inferior, poor or lacking intelligence, for example.Again, without an in-depth understanding of the community within which they are operating, such stereotypes can often be reinforced by the volunteer tourists.

This is another example of a negative impact of volunteer tourism.

There is a common theme in the literature that appears to be employment.Some studies find that locals are displaced by volunteers or have experienced employment losses.

As noted earlier in this post, volunteers undertake various work in the community and override the potential work for the local community.

Although volunteer tourism organisations have the potential to provide local communities with employment opportunities, they typically do not.

There are a range of employment opportunities for host communities to benefit from, one being the ability to work with the volunteer organisation to be voice concerns and opportunities for the host communities to the organisation.Another would be an opportunity to meet and greet volunteers and guide them to their location. Plus, many more opportunities. But more often than not, host communities are not employed, and volunteer organisations would rather bring in foreign help or use the free labour provided by the tourists.

Background checks will depend on the nature of your volunteer role, i.e. with children or vulnerable adults. However, these background checks are very vague and lack concrete quality. Thus, lack of quality control and background checks can potential put host communities and other volunteers in harms way.

According to  Privacy Rights  – “There is no one law — federal or state — that says all volunteers must be checked. Rather, the rules that apply to volunteers, much like employees, are as varied as the duties volunteers perform and the organizations they serve. Whether a volunteer is required by  law  to submit to a background check depends on many things, but primarily the kind of organization for which the volunteer work is performed.”

Whilst this issue is relatively unexplored to date, there is some emerging evidence of the negative impacts resulting from a lack of sector regulation. In my  research on the perceptions of volunteer tourism , for example, hosts from Nepal informed me that they viewed volunteer tourism negatively due to the amount of sex tourists who were abusing children whilst working in orphanages.

There is a lot of scepticism on the regulation of the sector and the impacts that this may have.

How beneficial are unqualified and unskilled teachers in improving standards of education?

How long will a house last if it has not been built by a trained builder?

Are the animals involved in conservation projects in safe hands if the volunteers have not had the necessary training?

There have been cases of pre-professional medical volunteers treating patients without the adequate training or qualifications – this is not only dangerous but can lead to more harm than good. There have also been reports of people working in industries that they would not be allowed to work in in Western nations, such as paedophiles who work as teachers.

The idealisation of struggling communities begging westerners to come and lift them out of poverty imitates the old myth of the ‘white man’s burden’ and creates a divide between powers and ownership.The gap between the rich and the poor can lead to the creation of neo-colonial impacts, and there is a wide debate on volunteer tourism and its influence towards neo-colonial relationships.

Vrasti’s text on  volunteer tourism in the global south  is a helpful research if you are interested in reading more on this topic.

As a result of the commercial nature of many volunteer tourism organisations, unfortunately the desired outcomes of volunteer tourism do not always reach the desired recipients.

As mentioned in  #11,  orphanage exploitation reflects the issues of aid not going to those most in need. Children are exploited to attract volunteers and their money, when in fact these children are not orphanages and do not require the support they are given. When issues like this arise, it drives potential aid away from those in actual need.

One of the key issues to arise in literature discussion is the scarce of skills required by volunteers.

Although there are occasions when volunteers require relevant skills, i.e. to practice medical or psychology work, this does not appear to be a commonplace.

Several volunteer tourism projects you will come across will have minimal or no requirements required at all to participate. However, lack of skills can impact the quality of work undertaken, as I have discussed throughout this post.

There are several studies demonstrating the negative impacts of shortly lived volunteer tourism projects.

Richter and Norman’s  study identified the negative impacts brought to the surface when volunteering with children is involved. Their study discovered that the intense bond built between the tourist and the child during the program can have a negative impact, and that children face emotions of devastation when the tourist leaves.

The final negative impact of volunteer tourism to note revolves around the concept of power relations.

Volunteer tourism projects bring together the divided world, and by divided I simply refer to communities from developed worlds and communities from undeveloped/developing worlds.

But volunteer tourism programmes can lead to the widening of the gap between the rich and the poor, which also creates undesirable power relations between the host and the volunteer tourist.  A professor of Anthropology highlights the perplexity of volunteer tourism and how it creates a system of inequality.

10 things to consider before booking your volunteer tourism trip

The world isn’t short of available volunteer tourism projects; however most recently, there seems to be a pitfall of criticism on the harms these projects are doing to the volunteer tourism industry. In this post I will reflect on the things to consider before booking your volunteer tourism trip in order to make your experience worthwhile, both for yourself and for the community you seek to help.

Volunteer tourism provides a plethora of positive opportunities for the host communities; however, we cannot ignore the negative impacts that also come alongside them. Researchers are becoming more aware of the negative impacts volunteer tourism programs can create and it is just as important that the volunteer tourist is just as aware too.

To finish this post, I have put these principles into practice by giving you the top 10 things that you should consider before booking your volunteer tourism trip.

Volunteer tourism is an important means for career development. The ability to immerse yourself in a different culture and community whilst supporting them provides a fertile ground for acquiring relevant skills, experience and qualifications.

This is demonstrated with reference to a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Teacher in  Solderman and Snead’s  (2008) study. Thee teacher claims that she would be unable to teach at home in the UK without formal teaching qualifications and experience, but that volunteer tourism provided her with this opportunity.

Volunteering also gives you the opportunity to practice skills valued in the workplace, such as task management, teamwork, communication, problem solving and time management.In fact, Time Bank UK surveyed business leaders, finding that of those interviewed, 73% said they would employ someone who has volunteered over those who haven’t.

It is also worth noting that volunteer tourism projects often take place in developing economies; meaning living costs are low compared to developed economies.

This cost covers, housing, meals, projects, materials, administration and on-site staff support. So, you would not expect to pay any additional costs during your stay unless you are wanting to do a few tourist activities outside of volunteering, thus making the cost of the overall travel experience cheaper than it may otherwise be.

Having the opportunity to travel without large expenses is appealing to many prospective volunteer tourists and is one of the dominant benefits of volunteer tourism.

Unlike other forms of tourism, volunteer tourism provides a unique travel experience and demonstrates the most cohesive practice of cultural immersion.

During volunteer tourism projects, you are working alongside and within host communities. This provides you with an authentic and cultural experience that is not commodified for the purpose of tourism.

Volunteer tourism, therefore, is beneficial to the tourist because it provides them with a cultural, ‘grass roots’ experience that they may otherwise not experience during their travels.

This is demonstrated through a number of academic studies examining the benefits of volunteer tourism including those undertaken by Coren and Gray (2012); Lo and Lee (2011); Grabowski (2013); McIntosh and Zahra (2008); Palacios (2010) and Wickens (2011).

Volunteer tourism is based on the notion of giving and supporting others. As a result, one of the benefits of volunteer tourism is that the ability to exhibit philanthropic behaviour.

Philanthropic activities and behaviours is something that is often sought after by employers. Therefore it looks great on your CV and can help to make you more employable; making this is another benefit of volunteer tourism!

Whilst this is an area that warrants further attention in the academic community, this benefit of volunteer tourism has been documented by Coren and Gray (2012) and Lo and Lee (2011) in their research. For further details on how tourism can be philanthropic, I recommend you visit the  travel philanthropy website .

Volunteer tourism allows tourists to see and experience different cultures on a more personal level than other forms of tourism and to build relationships with members of the host community.

It is widely documented that volunteer tourism provides opportunities to broaden cultural understandings. This can help broaden a person’s mind and help them to gain a better understanding of the way that different people and communities work.Being empathetic and understanding different cultures can help make a person more employable, particularly given that the live in an ever-increasing globalised world.

In modern society, cultures are frequently being attacked for their differences in what can often be described as a heated political climate. But volunteer tourism provides opportunities to open our minds and enhancing relationships between cultures.

Relationship building is not only limited to the host community, but also to other volunteer tourists working alongside you and your project. You have the opportunity to meet a variety of volunteer tourists from a range of backgrounds.

As a volunteer tourist you can raise awareness of the work you do as a volunteer and encourage others to become a volunteer too. You can use your skills and experiences to encourage greater public awareness of the serious issues facing communities and environments.  

Working as a volunteer tourist also provides the opportunity to become an ambassador of your home country. Whilst volunteering overseas can mean that a volunteer tourist learns a lot about the country within which they are based, they can also learn a lot about the countries that their volunteer tourist peers are based in through the friendships that they build.

The volunteer tourism experience allows you to witness in real life, the minimal belongings that many host communities have. You realise the importance of food and shelter, as well as the importance of companionship with other people.

This often leads to reflections of your own personal circumstances and many volunteer tourists will realise that material possessions and ‘first world’ problems are in actual fact not as important as they once thought, as evidenced in Brown’s (2005) research. In fact, many volunteer tourists have reported changes in their world views and priorities in this regard upon completion of their volunteer tourism placement.

Education is one of the most notable benefits of volunteer tourism and is widely documented throughout the academic literature.

Volunteering allows you to learn local socioeconomic and political issues, new languages and even discover more about oneself.

Volunteer tourism can encompass formal education, such as a TEFL qualification or informal learning, such as learning from the travel experience itself. 

For many, volunteer tourism projects will be a step or two outside of their comfort zone. The challenges that arise with the projects will broaden a person’s skill set and allow them to discover a lot about themselves and the skills, strengths and capabilities they have.

You’ll likely come across many challenges when undertaking a volunteer tourism project ranging from public speaking to living in conditions that you are not used to. Despite the difficulties that this may encompass, it often brings about personal growth and development, which is seen as one of the major benefits of volunteer tourism. 

Such experiences often encourage the development of confidence and particular feelings of self-determination and self-worth.This is a benefit of volunteer tourism that is widely evidenced in academic research, including the work of: Broad (2003); Brown (2005); Bailey and Russell (2010); Chen and Chen (2011); Lepp (2008); Lo and Lee (2011); Palacios, (2010) and Wickens (2011).

A number of academics have recognised that the most beneficial aspect of the volunteer tourism experience is the greater awareness of ‘self’.

Volunteer tourism is a unique form of tourism that allows tourists to push their physical and emotional limits and go beyond the superficial interactions that travel is often restricted too.

As a volunteer tourist you will likely discover a lot about yourself that you may not have known. This can contribute to the personal growth and development discussed above.

Volunteer tourism connects groups of people together who necessary wouldn’t have been grouped together without the role of volunteering. The interaction between the volunteer and the tourist attempts to build social bridges and a role like this develops important citizen qualities in volunteers.

In an article,  “Giving and volunteering as distinct forms of civic engagement”,  Keely S. Jones expresses how voluntary projects induce people to frequently participate in public concerns and exposes them to a wider pool of shared problems, thus encouraging enhanced citizenship.

During voluntary work you begin to understand the needs of communities and the importance of community involvement, both qualities that mirror enhanced citizenship.

Another well documented benefit of volunteer tourism is to ‘have fun’.

Volunteer tourism frequently provides you with the opportunity to do or see something fun and exotic. Volunteering and travelling allows you to do something different out of your day-to-day routine and get involved in projects that excite you or spend time travelling and sightseeing.

When I worked as a volunteer tourist in Buenos Aires, for example, I explored the sights and sounds of the city alongside my volunteer work. I experienced the Argentinian nightlife, went to a football match and took a short break to Iguazu Falls. Whilst the opportunities for fun will vary substantially between volunteer tourism placements and locations, there will usually be something for the volunteer tourist to enjoy.

Self-criticism is how an individual evaluates themselves and their actions.

As documented in Sin’s (2009) research, during and after volunteering projects you may begin to consciously aspire to be the best you can be and always make sure your actions are rightly intended. You begin to analyse and measure your actions and the impacts of your actions.

For further information on the benefits of being more self-critical, I’d suggest reading  Conquer your critical inner voice by Robert Firestone .

Following on from point number 13, volunteering your time and skills to help those in need brings you all sorts of rewards. This can bring with it feelings of self-satisfaction.

Many people will also demonstrate a desire to change as a person. They may be more willing to give and support others than they were before they completed their volunteering project and become more philanthropic in nature.This is another one of the benefits of volunteer tourism.

Volunteering feeds your inner spirit. Volunteering promotes positive personality changes that enhances your positive outlook of life. When you begin to look at things from a more positive perspective you naturally are drawn towards spiritualism.

As demonstrated in Zahra’s (2006) work, volunteering also enhances your inner creativity, motivation and vision that continues to reflect in your personal and professional life.

For more on how activities, such as volunteer tourism, can lead to enhanced spiritualism, I recommend reading  Waking up: Searching for spiritualism without religion by Sam Harris .

To witness in first sight the struggles in which others live, heightens your awareness to be more grateful and appreciative of the life you live. You begin to develop a conscious mind in which you practice a positive outlook on life.

Volunteering allows you to connect with others and has proven to support loneliness and depression.

By doing something that makes you feel great, makes you feel better about yourself and it is more likely you are to have a positive outlook on life.

As well as volunteering creating positive personality changes, volunteering also helps tackle the effects of stress and anxiety.

Volunteer tourism can be fun and meaningful, and projects become relaxing and allows you to escape from your daily routine. According to a 2013 study from  BMC health,  the social interaction involved whilst helping and working with others through an act of kindness has proven to relieve stress. This is another one of the prominent benefits of volunteer tourism.

Volunteer tourism provides you with a greater understanding of the host country.

Unlike other forms of tourism, volunteer tourism allows you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and community of the host community.

The personal interaction between the volunteer tourist and the host community provides you with a completely different insight of the host country than you normally would.  

Volunteering is a charitable act of giving and allows you to understand the importance of helping others.

When you see how your efforts can have a positive impact to the host community and to your state of mind, your desire to ‘give’ increases.

In fact6, many people become more ‘giving’ in their nature after completing a volunteer tourism placement.

For some, volunteering is a simple means to achieve training and/or qualifications.

You can now gain a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) whilst volunteering. NVQ’s are practical work-based qualifications that allow you to be assessed on your experience. You can gain a qualification in; Language teaching, First aid, Social care, Advice and guidance, Management of volunteers and Youth work.

You can now gain a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) whilst volunteering with  Claire House.

Another popular qualification to gain whilst partaking in a volunteer tourism project is a TEFL qualification. These come in a range of sizes and approaches and can be classroom-based or online.

As you can see, I am fairly knowledgeable when it comes to the concept of volunteer tourism! If you are interested in working with me on a consultancy basis, please get in touch.

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What Is Voluntourism? Does It Help or Harm Communities?

Are tourists' good intentions misplaced or actually effective?

• Chapman University
• Sustainable Fashion
• Art & Media

Voluntourism is a type of tourism in which travelers participate in volunteer work, usually for a charity or a non-profit. While the term sometimes applies to domestic travel, a majority of voluntourism takes place abroad. Most often, voluntourists travel for the specific purpose of volunteering in an organized way for specific causes, but others simply include volunteer aspects to a traditional vacation experience.

According to Save the Children, a charity that provides humanitarian aid for children worldwide, about 1.6 million people volunteer overseas each year. Voluntourism is considered the fastest-growing travel trend, and tourists sometimes pay up to $2,000 per week to be a part of it. All in all, the industry itself is worth an estimated $2.6 billion per year.

Many voluntourism programs positively impact their communities and help fulfill a need that will continue to benefit the destination long after the volunteers have left. However, it's becoming clear that some of these organizations could be taking advantage of both their participants and their causes for the sake of financial gain.

How to Be a Responsible Volunteer Tourist

• Before committing to an organization, reach out to past volunteers to hear their experience or read reviews.
• If you have a special skill or expertise in a specific field, look for organizations that train and empower local staff. That way, you are making a lifelong impact for an entire community rather than a temporary one.
• Research the organization's credentials.
• Avoid organizations that encourage handling of animals when it is not veterinary, research, or conservation-related.
• Highlight projects that are run or managed by the local community.
• Seek out projects that are genuinely needed in the destinations where you want to volunteer. Ask yourself if the volunteer work provides a "band-aid" fix or a long-term solution to a local issue.

Voluntourism Definition

In brief, voluntourism is a joining of "volunteering" and "tourism." Many volunteers travel to areas where there’s the most need, whether it's for time, money, medical services, or training. Most companies will set a volunteer up with lodging (oftentimes a homestay with a local family), meals, and even help organize flight itineraries and information on visa requirements or travelers insurance.

Voluntourism seems like the perfect combination of traveling and giving back, but it must be done right in order to have a positive effect. Good intentions only get you so far, it’s all about keeping an open mind and doing the research to ensure that those good intentions produce sustainably beneficial results.

Types of Voluntourism

There are hundreds of voluntourism programs out there offering legitimate ways to contribute to poverty alleviation, environmental issues, social justice, and more.

One of the most popular forms of voluntourism, which can consist of teaching English or creating educational resources in poor communities. 

Child Care 

Working in orphanages, for example, or interacting with children to enhance their well-being and development. Also working with disadvantaged youth and refugees seeking temporary asylum.

Health Care

Those in the medical field can travel to underserved communities administering vaccines or educating about diseases and how to prevent them.

Conservation

Projects can consist of both animal conservation and environmental conservation, where volunteers work at an animal sanctuary or conduct research in the field, for example, by tracking native species. Participants may also work on reforestation projects or trail maintenance to help support local ecosystems.

Community Support

Building homes, schools, libraries, or other types of infrastructure. This can also include women empowerment or working to reduce social inequalities within a specific community.

Pros and Cons

It’s safe to say that most of those who sign up to volunteer abroad do so with the best intentions; in most cases, it is the specific organization or the nature of the volunteer work that presents issues. But it begs the question, can altruism in tourism get in the way of actual impact? And if so, how can you tell if a voluntourism program is helping rather than hurting?

The media has exposed cases of orphanages in Nepal full of children who aren’t truly orphans or travelers who discover volunteer programs that exploit natural disasters for financial gain. Back in 2018, journalist Tina Rosenberg wrote a piece for the Guardian about a company in Guatemala that scouts mountain villages for sick infants , calling on volunteers to collect them instead of taking them directly to the hospital, which could purposely delay critical care.

There are even cases where travelers themselves volunteer for the wrong reasons, as demonstrated in the video below created by Radi-Aid , a Norwegian project that seeks to challenge perceptions around issues of poverty and development.

Pro: Experiencing New Cultures

Traveling helps us gain a new perspective on the world that can translate into other positives in our lives, and staying outside the typical tourist route can enhance that experience. Spending more time within a local community, for instance, will certainly provide a much more authentic experience than sitting in a resort sipping cocktails. The Center for Responsible Travel reported in 2019 that people who travel regularly are 35 times more likely to donate to nonprofits than non-travelers over their lifetimes.

Much like sustainable tourism as a whole, the legitimacy or success of a voluntourism program depends highly on how it is managed. When done the right way, it can help communities grow and truly provide benefits to a specific cause. But it’s up to the individual volunteer, too, who has the added responsibility of staying informed and setting their destinations up for success.

Pro: Some Organizations Are Honest and Effective

Voluntourism can absolutely be an effective tool for achieving positive changes in global communities that need help, but it sometimes comes down to the volunteers themselves to do the work in sorting out the good from the bad.

Ken Budd, author of the award-winning memoir The Voluntourist , argues that not all volunteer programs are created equal , and countless organizations around the world create lasting results. The writer’s experience speaks for itself (he’s volunteered in at least six countries), such as teaching English in a Costa Rican elementary school that relied on volunteers when they couldn't afford teachers, or a climate change program in Ecuador where scientists could run more research projects thanks to volunteer labor.

Con: Dishonesty Among Volunteer Companies

Perhaps one of the worst products of dishonest voluntourism comes from orphanage scams. Since they may receive additional funding with each child or rely on volunteer donations, there is an incentive to recruit more children into their system.

According to an investigation by Lumos, an NGO that fights against the institutionalization of children, total funding for orphanages in Haiti ranged upwards of $100 million per year; that’s enough to send 770,000 Haitian children to school or pay the Haitian child protection agency’s annual budget over 130 times.

The study also found that, of the 30,000 children living in the country's orphanages, an estimated 80% had at least one living parent. Lumos suggested diverting orphanage funds into programs that support families and enable them to appropriately care for their children — instead of promoting the orphanage business.

In a similar scenario, a 2015 study by UNICEF found that 79% of teenage children in Cambodian orphanages had at least one living parent.

Con: Tourists Could Take Work From Locals

A reporter for the New York Times wrote in 2016 about their experience with a group of missionaries building a school in Haiti :

“Watching those missionaries make concrete blocks that day in Port-au-Prince, I couldn’t help wondering if their good intentions were misplaced. These people knew nothing about how to construct a building. Collectively they had spent thousands of dollars to fly here to do a job that Haitian bricklayers could have done far more quickly. Imagine how many classrooms might have been built if they had donated that money rather than spending it to fly down themselves. Perhaps those Haitian masons could have found weeks of employment with a decent wage. Instead, at least for several days, they were out of a job.”

If an organization can get free labor from an unskilled volunteer, they’re not spending money hiring locals to do the same work for a fee. In a poverty-stricken economy where residents are already struggling to find jobs, funds that go towards digging a well or building a school will have more of an impact if they stay within the local economy.

Taking work from locals can also result in inferior products or prevent developing communities from self-establishment. Not to mention, volunteers who are untrained in whatever service they are providing can sometimes actually end up hindering progress. Pippa Biddle, who writes about her experiences with the global volunteer economy , has recounted building libraries in Tanzania and watching more skilled local workers come in each night to fix mistakes.

How to Identify a Legitimate Voluntourism Opportunity

• Reputable voluntourism organizations usually provide training or use specific criteria to select volunteers.
• Qualifications are required for certain roles, such as background checks if you plan to work with children or medical field experience for medical volunteer positions.
• The organization provides guidance on travel insurance, flight information, visas, and other travel requirements.
• The work doesn’t involve jobs that can take employment opportunities from residents, but instead finds ways to include or benefit them.

" The Truth About Volunteerism ." Save the Children .

" The Case for Responsible Travel: Trends and Statistics 2019 ." Center for Responsible Travel .

" Funding Haitian Orphanages at the Cost of Children's Rights ." LUMOS .

https://lumos.contentfiles.net/media/assets/file/Funding_Haiti_Orphanages_Executive_Summary_Digital_Version.pdf

" A Statistical Profile of Child Protection in Cambodia ." UNICEF .

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The Pandemic Changed The World Of 'Voluntourism.' Some Folks Like The New Way Better

Malaka Gharib

Last summer, Becca Morrison, 21, was all set to volunteer at a community arts nonprofit in Zomba, Malawi. She'd work with the marketing team as a copywriter and social media manager.

Then the pandemic hit, and the trip got canceled. "I was peeved," she says. "I was so excited to travel. I had the whole thing planned."

Still, Morrison was determined to find a volunteer gig, which she needed to graduate as an international development major at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, U.K. So she found another opportunity in Zomba, this time with a nonprofit group called the Sparkle Foundation . And it would take place virtually.

For three months last summer, Morrison helped the group — which runs a school and a medical facility for children in the community — do tasks remotely. She even personally raised $7,000 for the cause.

"I've done so much without even leaving my house, my room," she says. "I think the pandemic has changed the game completely for volunteering."

Becca Morrison, 21, at home in Norwich, U.K. She has been volunteering virtually with an arts nonprofit in Zomba, Malawi from her bedroom. Becca Morrison hide caption

Becca Morrison, 21, at home in Norwich, U.K. She has been volunteering virtually with an arts nonprofit in Zomba, Malawi from her bedroom.

The pandemic has indeed transformed the landscape of international volunteering, say researchers. A February survey of 130 volunteer organizations and 239 international volunteers by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development found that the pandemic had spurred volunteer groups to offer more remote volunteering opportunities and consider expanding national volunteer membership in the future.

Even as some groups gear for a return to the way it was, others are changing their modus operandi — and some of these new ways of working are a step in a more sustainable direction.

"The pandemic has shown us there are different innovative ways volunteers are able to provide services," says Christopher Millora , an academic based in Iloilo City, Philippines, who is leading research for the U.N.'s next State of the World's Volunteerism report. This could lead to a "paradigm shift as to what kinds of relationships international volunteer organizations have toward local communities."

That's an important move in an industry riddled with criticism. Over the past few decades, critics and activists have been urging volunteer abroad organizations to rethink their business model.

They say sending volunteers from rich nations to low-income countries perpetuates the white savior complex by portraying volunteers as superheroes who will rescue the poor from their misery.

"There's this postcolonial narrative of young, aspirational, light-skinned people from the West thinking they can go to Africa for two weeks and change the world," says Konstantinos Tomazos , a senior lecturer in international tourism management at the University of Strathclyde. "That's the main criticism of the sector that plays into the idea of the white messiah."

They say projects can be harmful and exploitative.

One of the most popular activities for volunteers, say the experts, is helping children in orphanages. That demand, as a result, has created perverse economic incentives . "In places like Kenya and Cambodia, Nepal and Tanzania, orphanages are prolific. But the children within them are not orphans and in many cases are being placed in orphanages in order for orphanage directors to profit from the [volunteer] tourism demand to engage with orphans," says Leigh Mathews , founder of Alto Global, an international development consultancy group and the co-founder of Rethink Orphanages, a group that helps volunteer groups terminate their orphanage programs and repatriate children with their families.

Volunteering Abroad? Read This Before You Post That Selfie

And some critics question the helpfulness of volunteers.

In Ours To Explore: Privilege, Power and the Paradox of Voluntourism , author Pippa Biddle writes about a shocking discovery she made while volunteering in Tanzania as a teen. She and a group of young, inexperienced volunteers were assigned to help local workers build a small library at an orphanage. Days into the project, she found out that every morning, the local workers were taking apart the volunteers' shoddy work from the day before and redoing it correctly before they woke up.

"While my intentions to be helpful and encouraging and to give back came from a good place, my time at the orphanage did not even begin to address their real needs," writes Biddle.

A major industry

Despite these criticisms, international volunteerism is a big business.

Since the mid-1800s, when trains and ships made it possible for the public to travel cheaper, faster and farther than ever before, people have strived to "voyage to less-resourced nations for pleasure and purpose," says Biddle.

The phenomenon of volunteer tourism is now a $3 billion a year industry, says Tomazos. The funds paid by participants go to the thousands of groups that coordinate the trips along with the development programs they support.

The money also benefits local economies. The volunteer organization Habitat for Humanity, for example, says their trips alone bring in an estimated $6.9 million to the drivers, hotels, restaurants and gift shops that serve international volunteers when they visit.

And while it's hard to pinpoint how many international volunteers there are in the world, the U.N. estimates that if volunteering were a full-time job, it would account for 109 million workers.

It's easy to understand the appeal of overseas service, says Biddle. There's a sense of adventure, and people feel good about helping those who are less fortunate. Studies have found that volunteers perceive the trips as a meaningful and transformative life experience . People often come away from the trips with feelings of improved well-being, purpose and happiness.

Advice To Parachuting Docs: Think Before You Jump Into Poor Countries

On a more practical note, "voluntourism" is a practical way for people — like Morrison — to gain experience in international development. Maia Gedde, author of Working in International Development and Humanitarian Assistance , says people hoping to start a career in the field "volunteer as a steppingstone to build skills, knowledge and networks to put them in a much stronger position when applying for humanitarian jobs in the future."

But not all volunteer programs are the same. In the world of international volunteerism, there are two kinds of gigs. One is volunteering with development programs, such as the Peace Corps in the U.S. and Voluntary Service Overseas in the U.K. These groups, often funded with government aid, assign volunteers to long-term projects around the world — a year or two or more working at a school in Malawi, for example, or supporting helping small business owners in India. Such programs typically provide the volunteers with basic accommodation and a modest allowance for food and other living expenses.

Then there's volunteer tourism — nicknamed "voluntourism" by academics. People pay to take part in shorter-term projects abroad, which can range from tutoring kids in Nepal for a week to spending a few months conducting nutrition workshops in Thailand to traveling with a church mission group to the Philippines to dig wells. Volunteers must pay for their journey, including flights and transportation, meals and lodging as well as fees to the organizations and the programs they support.

In-person trips not required?

During the pandemic, both the development programs and volunteer tourism groups have had to recalibrate their efforts. And some groups have been surprised by how eager volunteers were to stay involved — even though their trips to the field were canceled.

One of the most well-known groups in the latter category is Habitat for Humanity . Its Global Villages program invites people — mostly from Western countries — to help out in 30 mostly low- and middle-income countries. Over the course of about two weeks, groups of 15 people, half volunteers, half local staff, build homes, hand-washing and health-care facilities as well as participate in other kinds of projects. Volunteers do not need special skills but do need cash. There's a fee of about $1,650-$2,500 per person to participate, often raised through donations from friends and family. About 12,000 volunteers participate each year. During the pandemic, that number dropped to zero.

Despite that, many of the 800 projects planned for 2020 still got done, says Jacqueline Innocent , senior vice president of integrated programs at Habitat for Humanity. Local staff and paid contractors — mason workers, for example — pitched in. It just took a little longer because there were fewer helping hands.

Innocent was also pleased to see that many of the volunteers whose trips were canceled did not ask for a refund. They let Habitat keep the funds as a donation. And many organized their own virtual workshops, events and music festivals — to raise funds.

Dave Kovac, a 20-year veteran volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, speaks to students from his international service class at Oregon State University. For 10 weeks last fall, the class conducted a virtual Habitat build. Each week, the students checked in with Habitat staff in Vietnam as they built a house for a family in need. Natalie Kovac hide caption

Some volunteers even arranged "virtual builds." Dave Kovac is a 20-year Habitat volunteer veteran and teaches courses on international service at Oregon State University. He was scheduled to go on three trips with Habitat in 2020, including one with a cohort of students. When the trips were canceled, he worked with Habitat to create an online program where students "adopted" a Habitat build in Vietnam. Over 10 weeks, Kovac and his students met weekly to fundraise, learn about Vietnamese culture, get updates from local staff about the project's progress and speak to the family whose house was being built.

The program was so successful that Kovac says he is trying it out again in August, this time with Habitat Brazil. He says he likes the model because it targets "people who are interested in some kind of experience but can't go abroad due to timing, job, personal issues, family. So maybe they can tag along virtually."

The virtual engagement made Habitat realize something, says Innocent. "We're not as dependent upon cross-border volunteers as one would have previously thought. It has been surprising how much people are willing to do [for Habitat] even though they don't get that reciprocal experience" of being there.

"I suspect," she adds, "what we're going to see when we're able to come back is more hybrid approaches" — creating opportunities like the virtual builds for international volunteers, for example.

But, she says, "I don't see a scenario at the moment where we would want to eliminate the [field] experience." The trip is what people love, she says — and local staff rely on those volunteers to help carry out the projects more quickly.

These virtual opportunities with reputable organizations offer "a wonderful alternative to on-the-ground voluntourism," says Biddle. They "bypass so many of the issues voluntourism creates and require the volunteers to show true commitment to a cause and a community — even from afar."

Greater appreciation for local volunteers

For other organizations, the pandemic has affirmed a decision they've made well before the crisis: recruiting more local volunteers instead of Westerners, says researcher Millora. And the pandemic has driven home the importance of these helpers.

Voluntary Service Overseas is a U.K.-based development organization that hires and places skilled volunteers in long-term projects in nearly 30 low- and middle-income countries.

But over the last few years, the group has been recruiting more in-country volunteers. "They're the ones who can hold the government accountable, who know the context," says Papa Diouf , who heads VSO's global work in health and is based in Kigali, Rwanda. Many of these volunteers are graduates from the School of Education at the University of Rwanda.

In the first few months of the pandemic, VSO Rwanda had to send its 50 international volunteers home. Because the group had a preexisting membership of 200 national volunteers, it was able to carry out its education program, says Diouf — training public school teachers to improve literacy and numeracy skills among primary school students.

OPINION: Volunteering Abroad Is Popular And Problematic. Let's Fix It

The international volunteers, who were brought on for their expertise in school leadership and education development, stayed involved ... virtually. Using Zoom and WhatsApp, they checked in with local volunteers, who were doing much of the in-person work — visiting schools and mentoring teachers. And when schools were shut in Rwanda due to COVID-19, it was the local volunteers who kept in touch with the schoolteachers via WhatsApp.

Diouf doesn't think VSO is going to end its practice of sending volunteers abroad anytime soon. The international volunteers have crucial expertise that the organization's projects need. In fact, now that some travel restrictions have been lifted, some of the international volunteers who were sent home from Rwanda at the start of the pandemic have returned.

But, he says, the pandemic helped him see how crucial local volunteers are, especially in times of crisis. VSO's Rwandan volunteers mobilized to spread COVID messaging in their country and track essential health services disrupted by COVID. Supporting "those local volunteers had already been a shift in our program thinking, but COVID-19 has only helped us move faster in that direction," he says.

Benjamin Lough , an associate professor at the School of Social Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a global volunteerism researcher, says VSO Rwanda's emphasis toward local service in the pandemic is "a great turn." But he has a caveat.

"The pandemic revealed both the strengths of relying on local volunteers as well as the limitations when support from abroad is lacking," he says. "We can't just pass on more responsibility to domestic volunteers without providing additional support" in the form of funds or manpower.

Booking again ... but with a difference

As vaccination rates soar in the West and more countries loosen COVID travel restrictions, volunteer groups have started offering trips again.

For many overseas service operations, those trips abroad are their bread and butter, says Tomazos, the tourism researcher from University of Strathclyde. "They have a business model. No volunteers means no money."

Volunteers also bring important knowledge into the mix, says Lough. Local staff from some volunteer abroad groups have told him: "We value the skills those volunteers are bringing into this community. We want them to come in."

And people have begun booking trips again.

But things are definitely different.

Kovac sees real promise in the virtual Habitat builds, because it may help people focus on the real reasons they're volunteering. "It's really for people who want to help because they want to help, not because they want to travel."

As for Morrison, she says she "feels lucky" that she was able to accomplish so much with the Sparkle Foundation last year even if she wasn't physically in Malawi. In fact, the group liked her work so much that they asked her back this summer as a paid intern working remotely.

In her bedroom in Norwich, she says that without the distraction of feeling "mesmerized" by an exotic location, she's been more honed in on her true purpose as a volunteer. And that's made her reevaluate the concept of overseas service.

"It's almost [discriminatory] that to make a real difference, you have to pay all this money to travel somewhere very far away," she says. "That's not how charity works."

• volunteerism

Volunteer Travel: The Pitfalls, the Potential, and How to Get It Right

By Claire Bennett, Co-Founder of Learning Service

What follows is a condensed version of sections of the book Learning Service: The Essential Guide to Volunteering Abroad , by Claire Bennett, Joseph Collins, Zahara Heckscher and Daniela Papi-Thornton. For a more detailed advice on how to find an ethical volunteer program, get hold of the book!

The Context

Volunteer travel has rapidly moved into the mainstream over the past few decades. It is presented as an increasingly accessible way of responding to the complex emotions that arise from being confronted by global issues such as poverty and environmental destruction. The new generation of travelers is looking for ways to “make a difference” and to change the situations of the countries they travel in, rather than just explore, but unlike just donating money, it is seen as a way to participate in these processes and take action. Furthermore, it is seen as a way to have a travel experience that is active and immersive, working alongside local people.

The idea of international volunteering is certainly not new. Historically its roots lie in missionary movements and even colonial expansion that started centuries ago, but the diversity of forms it takes now – from a few hours in an otherwise luxury travel itinerary, to years spent in an unpaid office job in a non-profit – has not been seen before. We are also faced with an extraordinary growth that is not showing any signs of slowing down. Although definitive numbers are hard to come by (there is no fixed definition of what qualifies as volunteer travel) the general upward trend over the last couple of decades is undisputed.

• Benjamin J Lough in his study of overseas volunteering in the US in the years 2004-12 estimates that an average of 900,000 Americans volunteer abroad every year.[1]
• Researcher Jason Hickel in his 2013 research paper found that in the UK “the number of participants [in “gap year” development projects] is now as high as 2.5 million each year, or 34 per cent of the country’s total population between 16 and 24 years old.”[2]
• In 2008 it was estimated that the value of volunteer tourists was approximately $2 billion and there was an average of 1.6 million voluntourists a year.[3]
• World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation in 2015 notes that “Millennials are more generous with their time, money, and donations than any other generation, according to a recent study on travel and philanthropy. New data shows that 81% volunteered, 78% donated cash and 83% gave in-kind during their most meaningful trip from the last two years.”[4]

This growth has been accompanied by some other trends, briefly explored here.

Volunteer Travel as a Required or Incentivized Practice

Increasing numbers of schools are encouraging students to undertake international service. Harvard supports every student they admit to take a gap year before matriculation and Princeton sponsors service-based “bridge-year” programs abroad for its students. The reasons cited for this support are rarely about the impact on the communities overseas, but about the impact on the future life of the student. A 2011 study at Middlebury College conducted by its former dean of admissions Robert Clagett showed how students who had taken a year off academically outperformed those who didn’t.[5]

International service is also encouraged by companies through their Corporate Social Responsibility policy. The committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy’s 2013 report ‘Giving in Numbers’ surveyed 240 companies including 60 of the largest 100 companies in the Fortune 500 list, and found that 47% have a formal international volunteer program.[6]

The Influence of the Internet

Before the use of the internet was widespread, volunteer sending organizations were essential for potential volunteers to be able to identify and organize a placement abroad. Now any overseas organization wanting to host volunteers can advertise placements and directly liaise with volunteers through the internet. Similarly, without needing to invest much time in researching, volunteers have the whole range of options at their fingertips.

With so many options, however, it is difficult to tell which organizations are better than others. The internet makes it easier for volunteer sending agencies to skip out the steps that are necessary to ensure the placement is ethical – or even exists! If an organization advertises a volunteer placement opportunity on their website a sending organization or aggregate website can just take that posting and put it on their site, without ever even speaking with someone at that organization let alone visiting them.

An Increase in Fee-Charging Volunteer Placements

International volunteer programs that originated in the 50s and 60s, like the Peace Corps, VSO, and AVI, don’t charge volunteers for placing them abroad. In fact, these programs pay the volunteers a small local living wage, blurring the lines between volunteer placement and a traditional job, with stipends often equivalent to local wages – especially the remote areas that these volunteers are often posted in. Increasing demand in the last few decades has diversified this process to the point where you can find programs with the only “qualification” required being enough money on your credit card.

The growth of programs where the traveler is the one paying the fee completely shifts the power dynamics of volunteer travel. Whereas in theory demand should be driven by the needs of the community being “served,” the introduction of fee-paying programs has resulted in many companies treating the volunteer travelers themselves as the client, putting their needs above all others. When travelers pay for their experience, some of them feel they have the right to make more demands about what type of experience they receive. While the blatant commoditization can seem distasteful, viewing them as purely “volunteer vacations” may be a more honest way to refer to these one-click volunteer opportunities.

The Rise of Short Term Volunteering and “Voluntourism”

In the past, volunteer placements were generally managed by non-profit organizations. Many of these groups already knew the communities they were working in and had long-term projects and strategic goals. The difference today is that many entities offering volunteer experiences are not experts in community development, but travel agents or even cruise liners. Though their intentions might be pure, their lack of experience, relationships, and strategic planning in the realm of development work can lead to poorly planned – and often detrimental – volunteer offerings.

Alternatively, independent travelers may feel compelled to volunteer after seeing an advertisement pinned to a guesthouse noticeboard or being handed a leaflet in a bar. Some of these experiences may only require a few hours of time. Those who choose to volunteer in these incidental ways find it hard to do significant research about the opportunity being offered or the context of their work. These volunteers are therefore much more vulnerable to falling into a pitfall and supporting a project that is ineffective, exploitative or corrupt.

Increased Attention to Ethics

As international volunteering has become more commonplace and mass-produced, it has rightfully come under increased scrutiny. Exposés of the problems in the sector and the damage caused has led to speculation on how it can be done right. With rising awareness comes a more educated and critical volunteer base, and providers striving to meet that demand by providing experiences that are both responsible and meaningful, with a proven impact. Across the world there have been efforts made to create ethical standards for volunteering, such as Comhlámh in Ireland or The International Forum for Volunteering in Development.[7]

The Potential Harms of Volunteer Travel

It is a hard truth to swallow: volunteers do not always do good. Positive intentions do not always result in beneficial outcomes. This claim may be shocking, and we certainly do not blame individual volunteers for the many structural problems we explore here. However, when repeated thousands of times, the small mistakes and oversights made by individual volunteers – such as a lack of willingness to do adequate research or prepare properly – create problems of considerable magnitude.

Wasting Organizational Resources

Volunteers are not free resources. Even if they are not paid, the costs of training, supervising, supporting, protecting, entertaining, and following up on a volunteer’s visit can often amount to more than what the volunteer has “donated” in cash or time. Local hosts frequently complain about ill-prepared short-term volunteers, as they can require the same amount of support and training as long-term volunteers, but they don’t have as much time to make that investment worthwhile. Even highly skilled volunteers often require extensive staff time and other resources, such as translators, assistants, or supervisors, for them to be able to use their skills effectively in a new context overseas. Not surprisingly, volunteers who are underprepared often take more in time and resources than they add in value.

Under-qualified and Mismatched Volunteers

Volunteers can cause serious problems when they go abroad to perform a role that they are not qualified to do at home. Often the volunteer placement organization is responsible for the mismatch. A large number of organizations advertise placements without requiring volunteers to have any qualifications or experience—often for roles such as teaching or project management, which are specialist skills that in the volunteers’ home countries require formal training.

This is not to say that only highly skilled people should volunteer. Even the youngest and most inexperienced volunteer may have something to offer in the right placement, with the right support, and with the right framing of the goals and outcomes. The issue is not the skill level; it’s the match between the job and the skill, and the level of authority and autonomy often given to these mismatched volunteers. A mismatch between skill and responsibility levels can risk causing significant harm—for instance, if a medical student is expected to provide care beyond his/her/their expertise.

Disruptions to Local Power Dynamics

Most volunteers begin their placement without understanding the power structures of the community in which they volunteer—or the shifts they can cause as outsiders. Volunteers who jump into action before they learn about these complex relationships risk upsetting local power dynamics in ways that can be problematic. For example, a volunteer hears about a community need from the volunteer coordinator and leaps in to help, but later it emerges that the person being helped was a relative of the coordinator.

Volunteers often want to act quickly and independently, before they have understood complex local realities, and their best efforts can end up making things worse. Effective volunteer engagement in social justice work, in particular, takes a lot of patience and learning. There may well be local individuals and groups already working to challenge injustices; jumping in too soon could disrupt their sensitive work. Volunteers can learn over time whether and how to support them in their mission, which may require ongoing solidarity long after volunteers have returned home.

Reinforcing Cultural Stereotypes

Offering help automatically creates a relationship: giver and receiver. This unequal relationship can be imbued with the sense that the “helpers” – the volunteers – have superiority over the people being “volunteered for.” Volunteers often arrive with their own set of assumptions about Western cultural, linguistic, and technological superiority, sometimes labeling local ways of getting things done as illogical or deficient, and in need of change.

Furthermore, due to the long legacy of colonialism some local people may buy into the attitude that “West is Best.” Volunteer placement organizations frequently reinforce these assumptions through images on their websites of Western volunteers at the chalkboard teaching English to smiling local children, which resembles all-too-closely the myth of the “white savior.” The result of perpetuating these harmful stereotypes is either local people feeling disempowered or dependent, or angry and disengaged – neither of which lead to successful volunteer outcomes

Fostering Inefficiency and Dependency

Organizations sometimes rely on a steady stream of short-term foreign volunteers to fill important roles – such as schools where the only English teachers are volunteers, and nonprofits where all donor relations are done by volunteers. In many instances, when there are no volunteers, no one fills that role. This can foster an unsustainable dependency on external support. A void is created when the volunteers leave, which can put the organization and intended beneficiaries in a precarious position or make long-term planning impossible.

In many instances, local people could probably do the job more effectively than volunteers, but the abundance and perceived status of foreign volunteers leads to a reluctance to hire local people. Skilled labor (such as teaching or housebuilding) can be devalued if there is a supply of outsiders willing to do it for free.

“Band-Aid” Approaches Instead of Addressing Root Causes

An organization may take on volunteers to do superfluous tasks chosen simply because they appeal to volunteers, are easily accomplishable, or have a “feel-good factor.” During our research for the Learning Service book, many volunteers reported that the work they were asked to do seemed designed to fit the restrictions of a short-term visit rather than to provide lasting benefit. As well as wasting time, this can actually steer local organizations’ staff and other resources away from addressing root causes. For example, increasing literacy rates is a goal that involves changes in human behavior and education systems, which usually requires long-term efforts and resources. An organization working on root causes of illiteracy through advocacy for free primary education might feel pressure to add a project that volunteers can easily work on, such as building a library. That “solution” may look impressive, but it is not necessarily a contribution to the long-term goals. Where do the books come from? In what language are the books? Who are the teachers and librarians? Who will use the library? Who will maintain it? Will staff resources be taken away from advocacy efforts? If the answers are unclear, then the volunteers may be engaged in “band-aid” tasks.

Harm to Children

The damaging effect that some forms of volunteering can have on children is one of our biggest concerns about volunteer travel and is probably the ugliest and most saddening distortion of good intentions possible. Many volunteer positions involve working with children that are extremely vulnerable – in slums, on the streets, or in orphanages, which in Western society would require specialist skills. However, the vast majority of placements with children do not require qualifications or prior experience, and often involve a job description of “care-giving” or “providing love”. By doing this, volunteers may inadvertently exacerbate trauma or attachment issues in children.

Furthermore, there is evidence that as the demand from volunteers to work with children grows, it is incentivizing the practice of separating children from their families in a process now termed “orphanage trafficking”.[8] Orphanages are attractive places for volunteers as there are more opportunities to interact with the children than in other settings. But it is estimated that 80-90% of children in orphanages have at least one living parent, and were often brought to institutions for reasons such as poverty or disability. These issues can be more compassionately and sustainably solved by offering support to families instead of separating them. But when there is a demand for volunteering with vulnerable children, a place where they are housed together can become almost a tourist attraction.[9]

When children’s homes are run as businesses, there is a profit incentive to exploit children rather than protect them. Some orphanages offer a dance show to entice tourists to donate, some even send the children out into clubs and bars in the tourist centers, late at night, to beg. Keeping the children underfed and the facilities poor ensures a steady stream of donations from tourists and volunteers.[10]

Finally, allowing tourists and short-term volunteers to visit and play with children risks exposing children to dangerous individuals. In low-income countries, few organizations have the capacity to conduct background checks, or enforce rules regarding photography. Although most foreign volunteers have no intention of harming children, when they participate in programs without proper screening, they reinforce a system that is wide open to abuse.

Harm to the Volunteer

Poorly planned volunteer experiences can also have damaging effects on the volunteers themselves and their potential to be drivers of positive change in the future. We believe this leads to what we call “the three overloads”: Poverty overload , where volunteers feel paralyzed by the poverty they are confronting; Failure overload , where volunteers are unable to meet the expectations of themselves or other to make a difference; and Savior overload , where volunteers are so convinced that they must be doing goodthat they are blind to evidence that they might not be. All these overloads can mean that volunteers disengage from the issues they are facing and not have the opportunity to learn or contribute in a way that would make the experience meaningful.

Learning Service: A Potential Solution

Highlighting the negative impacts of volunteer travel is not a way to write off the practice but is instead a call to action. Global volunteering can be a powerful expression of solidarity and a manifestation of hope in the world, and it can also contribute positively to community development. However, these benefits are not automatic, and volunteer placements need to be set up and framed intentionally and mindfully. In our years of research into this topic, we found one key factor in avoiding the pitfalls and ensuring effectiveness – putting learning at the heart of volunteering. We call this approach learning service.

Learning service is an approach to international volunteering where:

• Learning is embraced as a primary purpose of a trip abroad, rather than a byproduct. Learning comes first and continues throughout the experience: before, during, and after volunteering overseas.
• Service consists of humble and thoughtful action, designed to “do no harm.” This service includes the work volunteers do overseas, the unofficial daily interactions they have with people while abroad, and the long-term actions that are inspired by their experience.
• Learning and service interact in an ongoing cycle, with each depending on the other. This loop is fueled by self-reflection – taking the time between activities to think critically about motivations, accomplishments, and challenges – and applying learning to future action.

Learning service is an inversion of the term service learning that is sometimes used in educational settings to describe volunteering. Service learning was coined to acknowledge the learning goals that are part of many volunteer projects. However, in this framing, “learning” appears to be secondary. With “learning service,” we have flipped the term to put learning front and center: it is the emphasis of the approach and a key to mitigating the negative impacts of international service and enhancing the positive ones. Learning should be a primary goal and activity in all stages of the process – from deciding whether you want to volunteer, to researching your options, to the way you engage overseas, to how you live your life in the future.

The Positive Potential of Volunteering Done Right

Two-way skill sharing.

When a volunteer is qualified and experienced in a certain field and commits enough time to transfer knowledge effectively, they can use their time abroad to contribute needed skills and build the capacity of others.[11] It is a reality for many countries that there are not enough trained healthcare professionals, skilled teacher trainers, or other specialists. When the needs of a host organization are well matched with the skills of a volunteer, volunteers can strengthen systems by supporting and mentoring local staff. Volunteers can also offer fresh ideas, inspiration and a new viewpoint.

Furthermore, the skill sharing can go both ways. The most effective volunteers learn skills and gain important perspectives from their hosts, and they often reflect that what they learned far outweighed what they were able to share. The beauty of viewing your learning experience as lasting well beyond your time abroad is that you can apply those experiences and skills once you return home.

Cultural Exchange

The best volunteering placements create a platform for exchange and look very different from unequal donor-recipient relationships.[12] Through their experiences abroad, volunteers often recognize the limitations in their current knowledge and perspective, and by embracing a new culture, view their own culture in a new light. These interactions often have the same impact on their hosts, both expanding their perspectives on what is “right” or “wrong” and forming new opinions about the other’s culture, replacing stereotypes and generalizations that might have shaped their prior views.

Host communities benefit not only from the work that volunteers do but also from the sense of solidarity it can bring. In researching for the Learning Service book, host organizations repeatedly mentioned the creation of strong bonds between people from diverse backgrounds as one of the most highly valued aspects of hosting foreign volunteers. The fact that volunteers care enough to show up and offer support to their cause is recognized as a benefit by activists and communities overseas—people who are often overstretched, tired, and in need of a motivation boost.

Moreover, international support can bring with it money, influence, and political leverage.[13] As such, an opportunity to maximize the potential of your time abroad is by balancing the doing of the volunteer work with your being with the community and finding ways to have a positive impact through both.

Contributing Vital Resources

Volunteers often bring with them access to money and resources. This may be through a fee paid directly to the organization to offset the costs of hosting them. Even when no money changes hands, organizations get financial benefits from volunteers who fundraise, talk to donors and connect them to opportunities. Furthermore, international volunteers can indirectly help the economy of their host country by spending money locally, which suggests that organizations think about the impact of volunteering in a broader sense than the volunteers themselves.[14]

Creating Educated Advocates

Through an experience volunteering overseas, you can connect to and learn deeply about global issues in a way that could affect the rest of your life. Learning through working abroad can lead to insights and inspiration that no amount of reading could teach you. You create life experiences rather than read textbook definitions of concepts like “poverty,” helping you move from a vague term in the media to the nuanced realities of daily living in your host community. Likewise, no amount of academic discourse on grassroots empowerment can teach you as much as meeting strong community leaders and experiencing the impacts of their work.

The vast majority of returned volunteers felt that their time overseas had an impact on their life, and many could point to specific changes they have made as a result. Furthermore, many of activists, development workers, educators, and social entrepreneurs have been deeply influenced by experiences overseas, feeling that once their eyes were opened to an issue facing the world there was no going back. Host organizations also recognize that international volunteers become advocates upon returning home.[15]

Another important role that returned volunteers play is to connect others to these global issues. Returned volunteers can bring seemingly remote issues to life for their friends and families and those who have not been able to travel abroad or experience those issues themselves. By sharing their learning, they can inspire others to take positive actions for change.

Questions to Ask Before Volunteering Abroad

Central to learning service is the idea of getting into a learning mindset . This requires being able to ask a lot of questions, both to yourself and about the potential project you will get involved with. Here are some ideas of questions you can ask to get you started.

Questions to Ask Yourself

What are your motivations? It is important to be honest with yourself about your motivations to ensure you will have an experience that meets your goals and those of the organization that hosts you. Have you been attracted to the idea of volunteering because you think it will look good on your résumé, or be an interesting anecdote at parties? Are you drawn to it from a desire for adventure, or glossy pictures of elephant trekking in exotic locations? Although it is of course great to feel excited about the opportunity to volunteer, you still need to be ready for the level of commitment and day to day hard work required for successful volunteering. On the other hand, if you feel mainly motivated by the thought of doing some good in the world, remember to be realistic about the amount that you can contribute with the time and the skills that you have. Even if you plan to volunteer for many months, no problems will be completely resolved and no people will be ‘saved’ by your presence alone. At best, you will make only a small contribution to bigger changes that will be led by local professionals.

What are your core skills? The most effective volunteers offer skills in an area in which they have some expertise. There is a need for accountants, computer technicians, and nurses everywhere in the world! Even if you don’t feel that you are an expert in anything, there will always be skills that you have and can offer – such as being a whizz with social media or the ability to edit documents in English. Alternatively, you may wish to have a stint volunteering in order to get a break from your normal work and try your hand at something new. While there is nothing wrong with that, be sure that you are clear with the volunteer organization about your limitations, and never seek to practice beyond your skill set. If you are learning a new skill try to take the position of intern or assistant, supporting qualified local staff members. An important thing to look for in a volunteer placement is skills-matching. Do you have the skills to be able to fulfil the role to the highest quality, or would someone else be better placed to do it? If the role is something that you would not be qualified to do in your own country, then the chances are that the answer to that question is no. Even if you are highly skilled in an area remember that the local people are the real experts and they should be in charge of how to put your skills to best use.

What are your learning goals? As well as thinking about what you can contribute, it is important that you also set learning goals for your time abroad. Is there a specific topic that you want to learn about—for example, child rights? Are there specific skills you want to learn or experience in action—such as fundraising tactics, or monitoring and evaluation practices? Your learning goals can help to keep you motivated in your volunteering and ensure that you stay engaged in the issues at hand. They can also help you stay out of your comfort zone and ensure your experience is culturally-immersive. But remember that your learning goals are your own, and they shouldn’t get in the way of your volunteer work or end up as anyone else’s responsibility.

Questions to ask a Volunteer Organization

Does the organization have a proven impact? Volunteer companies are usually adept at using marketing language such as “change a life” or “make a difference,” but be wary of organisations that are unable to produce evidence of the impact they have made. Ask to see evaluation reports that prove the effectiveness of their programs. Ideally they would show that the organization is addressing the root causes of problems, working towards eliminating these problems in the future. If not, they may just be band-aids. Good organizations will be able to send you reports that measure the long-term sustainable changes they have made  and highlight the roles that volunteers play.

Where is your money going? Many organizations charge a fee for volunteer placements to cover the time, capacity, and money that goes into supporting a great volunteer experience. That is entirely reasonable, but be sure to find out how the fees are used. Money may go to the sending organization to cover the costs of placing you in a volunteer role, to the local organization directly to host you, or both. The fee may include a charitable donation for the cause you are volunteering to support. It may also include a large profit margin for a company.

It is not the case that the more you pay, the better quality the service. Many volunteers pay a lot of money for their placement and end up dissatisfied, often because they assume that their money was going towards things that it was not. The bottom line is that good organizations, for a fee, can do a lot of the logistical legwork required to provide you with a positive experience, while the worst ones might take your money in profit and yet still leave you in a disorganized and poorly planned volunteer placement.

What kind of learning opportunities or training will you get ? The philosophy of learning service emphasises that learning is one of the most important aspects of a volunteer placement. Although motivated volunteers can find and plan all the learning opportunities needed by themselves, this can be a little daunting, and instead finding a volunteer provider that offers structured learning opportunities can remove the pressure. Look for organizations that offer orientation training programs, and structured opportunities for reflection.

These are just a few starting questions to think about – we have a whole lot more in our Placement Evaluation Tool in the Learning Service library.

How to Organize a Volunteer Project

Using an agency to organize your placeme nt.

Organizing your volunteer placement through an agency or sending organization may appeal if you have not traveled internationally before, or if you want support in researching, planning, or matching your placement. There are a whole range of organizations offering these services. At one end of the spectrum are those that exist only to recruit volunteers and send them to partners overseas. They may support hosting organizations to supervise and utilize volunteers, and provide in-country support to troubleshoot problems and maximize effectiveness. At the other end are companies that offer a wide range of travel products, sometimes with volunteering being just one option. The best organizations have strong, long-term relationships with the people and projects on the ground. The most “customer focused” providers tend to prioritize the choices of the volunteer over the value of the work.

In addition, there are third-party websites and marketing organizations that promote and sell volunteer programs designed and led by others. If you buy a product from one of those sites, you might not even be able to tell which organization ultimately gets your money, or where you will be giving your time. Remember that all agencies are not created equal, and you need to check whether the organization you are considering provides the services you want and does them well.

Connecting Directly to a Host Organization

You may choose not to go through an intermediary organization and instead set up a volunteer placement yourself. You may connect directly with a hosting organization from internet research, through friends, or via an advertised position. Bear in mind that if you set up a volunteer experience on your own that there is no wider system to fall back on—you will have to set up accountability structures yourself. Also remember that the opportunities you find are basically unvetted, so information-gathering, fact-checking, and evaluation is even more critical.

Volunteer-Led Projects

With the growing demand for volunteer projects abroad, impromptu volunteer programs are increasingly springing up. These are offerings organized by an individual or small group, often foreign visitors, aiming to “help local people.” While sometimes filling a need, it is difficult to evaluate and understand the implications of these projects from afar. Be very cautious of joining a DIY volunteer project organized by people who may be well-intentioned, but do not have the experience, qualifications, or accountability mechanisms to organize a sustainable project.

How to be a Responsible Volunteer Travel Provider

At Learning Service we direct much of the advice we give towards volunteers and travelers, to empower them to cultivate the right attitudes towards an experience and to choose responsible providers. Although this can play an important role in shifting demand, the industry itself can take the lead on ensuring they are applying the highest ethical standards and measuring impact. Here are a few points for an ethical volunteer travel company to consider:

Community Partnerships

One of the most fundamental aspects of a successful volunteer travel program is to have strong, well-managed and well-compensated community partnerships. Rather than requesting communities to host guests or asking them to design simple projects for travelers to participate in, this requires real investment in communities, giving them agency to identify needs and sustainable solutions. It also requires closely monitoring impact and adjusting programs accordingly. Travel companies offering volunteer experiences need to decide whether they want to diversify away from pure tourism, and assess whether they have the resources and expertise to venture into a whole new sector (community development).

Protection Vulnerable Populations

As explored previously, children and other vulnerable populations are the most at risk of being harmed by irresponsible voluntourism. Volunteer organizations need to have a robust child protection policy and methods of implementation. It is also important to ensure that your supply chain is free of human trafficking and modern slavery, which includes support of orphanages or short-term direct interaction between tourists and children.

Volunteer Matching

All potential volunteers have skills, but it is important that volunteers with the right skills are placed in the right roles. Offering short-term teaching placements to travelers without a background in teaching is likely to be more disruptive than helpful to children’s education, for example, and using unqualified volunteers in a healthcare setting may even be dangerous. People with sought-after skills such as accountancy, coding, business administration or medicine may be best-placed in a mentoring role using those skills than they would be doing manual labor or playing with children. Organizations should consider what process they have to select and match volunteers, and if and how they turn applicants down. If this seems too resource-intensive then it is unlikely your organization has the capacity to place volunteers responsibly.

Volunteer Support and Education

In order for volunteers to be useful and effective they need to be well prepared, supported and educated. Many of the best organizations have training programs for volunteers to attend before departure, cultural orientations in-country, support for both volunteers and hosts during a placement and educational opportunities both during and after an experience. If you offer any of these services it is important to be transparent about them so that volunteers know what services they are getting for their fees. For excellently curated and supported programs volunteers can be willing to pay an amount far beyond a normal tourism package, as it is also an important educational opportunity.

Ethical Marketing

Irresponsible voluntourism providers appeal to potential volunteers using images and language of either the poverty and need of the local people, or else the heroism and savior qualities of the volunteer. Ethical marketing represents local people with agency and dignity, and offers and honest and fair representation of the modest impact that international volunteers achieve.

How to be an Effective Volunteer

Volunteering effectively – that is, having the intended impact on a cause and avoiding any negative impacts – is tricky. In fact, no matter how many useful skills you bring to the table, effectiveness requires openness, humility, and a huge amount of learning. Here are some tips for volunteers to try to ensure they are being effective in their work.

Do the Work that is Needed

Even if you are highly skilled in an area, it should be up to a host organization how your skills are put to best use. Often it is “hands off” office work that your colleagues might need the most help with – such as writing reports in English or improving the website. Be patient and make sure you are supporting the overall organization’s needs, not just your own desire to feel useful in the areas that seem most interesting.

Know the Limits of Your Role

Be aware that the carefully-balanced power dynamics of an organization or community may be affected by the presence of an outsider. Very often foreigners are given respect and authority simply because of their nationality or skin color. If you feel you are being asked to make decisions beyond your remit, question this and ask for support from a permanent member of staff who can continue being in charge after you leave.

Be Culturally Sensitive

The way you dress, the way you sit, how you greet others, whether you speak directly or not – all these things have the ability to delight your local colleagues and put them at ease, or offend and upset them. Some volunteers argue that they don’t want to conform to dress codes or speak less bluntly as it makes them feel less like themselves, but you always need to remember that you are a guest in another culture. The way you dress and act might be interpreted as a lack of respect, which is a terrible basis for a volunteer to work from. Research cultural norms before you arrive in the country, and if you are ever unclear about what the most polite thing is to do in any situation – ask!

Define “Success” as Part of a Wider Plan

One of the most common mistakes we have experienced in volunteers is mis-defining “success” as “taking over full ownership of a concrete project and seeing it through to the end”. This is why so many volunteer projects involve activities like building a school or digging a well. Though taking complete ownership of a project can feel satisfying, if that project is not well integrated into a much larger system, that started before you got there and will continue long after you leave, then your efforts may have been “successful” for no-one but yourself. Rather than measuring success based on personal accomplishments, view yourself as part of a larger ecosystem, within wider systems of change.

Be committed to growth

If you are committed to effectiveness, make sure you give yourself regular opportunities to reflect on and evaluate your actions. We often leave the giving and receiving of feedback until the end of an experience, when it is too late to make adjustments or put any learning into practice. Actively seek feedback from friends, colleagues or other volunteers about how you can improve, and remain open to changing your approach.

Now What? Life After Volunteering

Rather than seeing the end of your volunteer experience as the conclusion of something, the learning service approach argues that it is in fact the beginning. Even the most successful volunteer cannot have an enormous impact in a short-term placement. However, a volunteer who becomes inspired and committed during their short time abroad can go on to make huge changes in the rest of their life.

Daily Choices

Volunteers commonly report that the time they spent overseas resulted in a heightened awareness of how they consume and a commitment to changing it. Small actions count: you do not have to dedicate your life to charity work to make a difference. Changing the food you eat, the products you buy, the energy you use and the waste you produce can lessen the harmful impacts of a consumer society.

Activism and Volunteering

Maybe your trip overseas sparked an increased awareness of global injustice. In analyzing the root causes of any issue, you can find links, influences, or stakeholders back in your own country. There are many causes to get angry about or get behind, and many new ideas to feel passionate about. There are also many forces in our world with interests in maintaining the status quo. But there is power in numbers, and if there are things you don’t like in the world that you want to challenge or things you do like and want to promote, there are ways to spread these ideas.

Career Choices

Many returnees say that one of the biggest impacts of their overseas experience is that it has crystallized, influenced, or altered their future career paths. If you are committed to living in a way that will be of benefit both to yourself and others, your career can play a big part in that. We urge you to take a learning service approach to these decisions—just like with volunteer travel, certain careers paths or job roles might market their social impact, but don’t take those claims at face value.

Learning Service Resources

Interested in learning more? The previous sections are extracts from our more thorough resources that help potential volunteers on their journeys and guide both volunteers and providers to follow the principles of learning service.

Free downloadable resources, found in the Learning Service library include:

• Tips and Tricks for Learning Before Helping
• The Learning Service Volunteer Charter
• Voluntourism 101 (a self-assessment tool for tour operators)
• Evaluating Placements: Questions to Ask

For an in depth exploration of the whole process of learning service, get hold of our book Learning Service: The Essential Guide to Volunteer Travel .

Learning Service Providers

A number of travel companies and education providers have started using and promoting the Learning Service approach. These include:

• PEPY Tours : Provides immersive travel opportunities for school and university groups in Nepal and Cambodia, focused on improving the way groups give, travel and live.
• Where There Be Dragons : Offers experiential learning trips for students, gap year travelers, educators and adults in countries across the globe, with learning service as a core component of all trips.
• Ayana Journeys : Based in Cambodia, Ayana offer guided educational adventures for groups and individuals, exploring culture, lifestyles, and development issues facing the country, embodying the “learn first” approach.

Additional Information

For more information on any topics associated with ethical volunteer travel: [email protected] For more information about the book or for other downloadable tools, go to our website: www.learningservice.info For news, perspectives, and insight on ethical volunteering, follow us on social media!

• facebook.com/learningservice
• twitter.com/Learnser
• instagram.com/learning.service
• www.learningservice.info/blog

About the author:

Claire Bennett is a co-author of the book Learning Service: The Essential Guide to Volunteering Abroad, which has been hailed by Noam Chomsky as “a manifesto for doing good well.” She is also the co-founder of LearningService.Info, an online information and advocacy portal for potential international volunteers. She is a manager of PEPY Tours, a responsible travel organization based in Cambodia and Nepal, and helped to oversee their transition away from short-term voluntourism to immersive educational travel.

Bennet has been based in Asia for over ten years and currently lives in Kathmandu, where she has a training and consulting company. She provides consultancy to some of the biggest volunteer travel companies around shifting their models away from activities known to be damaging to local communities towards more ethical practices. She also works part time as an educator and facilitator for student travel organization Where There Be Dragons. She is passionate about global equality and social justice issues and loves her cat, her bicycle, and drinking copious amounts of tea.

[1] Lough, B. J. (2013) International Volunteering from the United States between 2004 and 2012. CSD Research Brief, (13-14). Retrieved from http://csd.wustl.edu/Publications/Documents/RB13-14.pdf .

[2] Hickel, J. (2013). The ‘Real’ Experience Industry: Student Development Projects and the Depoliticization of Poverty. Learning and Teaching: The International Journal of Higher Education in the Social Sciences 6(2) 11-32.

[3] Volunteer tourism : a global analysis : a report by Tourism Research and Marketing. https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/26237192?selectedversion=NBD43606931 .

[4] WYSE “Millenials Enjoy Tying Vacation to Philanthropy”, 2015 https://www.wyseworkandvolunteer.org/2015/10/05/millennials-enjoy-tying-vacation-to-philanthropy/.

[5] http://collegeadmissionbook.com/blog/bob-clagett-taking-gap-year .

[6] http://cecp.co/research/benchmarking-reports/giving-in-numbers.html .

[7] https://comhlamh.org/code-of-good-practice , https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/2019-10/The-Global-Standard-for-Volunteering-for-Development.pdf .

[8] https://www.e-ir.info/2018/07/13/orphanage-trafficking-and-the-modern-slavery-act-in-australia/ .

[9] https://www.crs.org/media-center/news-release/80-90-percent-children-orphanages-are-not-orphans .

[10] https://www.huffpost.com/entry/forprofit-orphanages-keep_b_838206 .

[11] Erin Barnhardt, “Engaging Global Service: Organizational Motivations for and Perceived Benefits of Hosting International Volunteers,” 2012.

[12] Erin Barnhardt, “Engaging Global Service: Organizational Motivations for and Perceived Benefits of Hosting International Volunteers,” 2012.

[13] Erin Barnhardt, “Engaging Global Service: Organizational Motivations for and Perceived Benefits of Hosting International Volunteers,” 2012

[14] Erin Barnhardt, “Engaging Global Service: Organizational Motivations for and Perceived Benefits of Hosting International Volunteers,” 2012.

[15] Erin Barnhardt, “Engaging Global Service: Organizational Motivations for and Perceived Benefits of Hosting International Volunteers,” 2012.

This Impact Tourism Handbook was made possible by generous financial support from Elevate Destinations , Hilton , Holbrook Travel , and Overseas Adventure Travel .

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'Voluntourism': Understanding Volunteer Tourism and its Impact on Host Communities

This paper explores the ways volunteer tourism is socially perceived in contemporary Western societies and the ways this practice affects host communities. The paper begins with an analysis of the existing literature and debate on the topic. Drawing on data collected through focus groups and online discourse analysis, the representation and perception of volunteer tourism programs was then discussed. The paper continues with focus on the volunteer tourism experience itself with emphasis on the impact of volunteer tourism for host communities. Conclusions include propositions to improve the development and the autonomy of host communities and recommendations for future research.

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Volunteer tourism

• Reference work entry
• First Online: 01 January 2016
• pp 1012–1013
• Cite this reference work entry

• Kathleen Andereck 3 &
• Nancy McGehee 4  

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Volunteer tourism, also known as “voluntourism” within the industry, is defined in the academic literature as activities engaged in by tourists who “volunteer in an organized way to undertake holidays that might involve aiding or alleviating the material poverty of some groups in society, the restoration of certain environments, or research into aspects of society or environment” (Wearing 2001 :1). This practice is also defined from the volunteer’s perspective (McGehee and Santos 2005 ) in that it involves discretionary time and it takes place outside of the regular sphere of daily life for the participant.

The conceptualization of volunteer tourism has been further expanded in the literature to include terms such as voluntourism or volunteering for development, sometimes falling under the umbrella of sustainable tourism (Wearing and McGehee 2013 ). This can be social, physical, or technical work that involves aiding or alleviating the impacts of poverty, the restoration of environments,...

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Callanan, M., and S. Thomas 2005 Volunteer Tourism. In Niche Tourism, M. Noveli, ed., pp.183-200. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

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McGehee, N., and K. Andereck 2008 “Pettin” the Critters: Exploring the Complex Relationship between Volunteers and the Voluntoured in McDowell County, WV, USA and Tijuana, Mexico. In Journeys of Discovery in Volunteer Tourism: International Case Study Perspectives, S. Wearing and K. Lyons, eds., pp.12-24. Wallingford: CABI.

McGehee, N., and C. Santos 2005 Social Change, Discourse, and Volunteer Tourism. Annals of Tourism Research 32:760-779.

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Wearing, S. 2001 Volunteer Tourism: Experiences that Make a Difference. Wallingford: CABI.

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Wearing, S., and N. McGehee 2013 Volunteer Tourism: A Review. Tourism Management 38:120-130.

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School of Community Resources and Development, Arizona State University, 411 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ, 85004-0685, USA

Kathleen Andereck

Hospitality and Tourism Management, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, 210 Burruss Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA

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Andereck, K., McGehee, N. (2016). Volunteer tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01384-8_217

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Exploring the World Through Volunteer Tourism: A Guide to Meaningful Travel Experiences

Are you looking for a unique and meaningful travel experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions? Then volunteer tourism might just be what you’re looking for! Volunteer tourism, also known as “voluntourism,” is a type of tourism that combines travel with volunteering your time and skills to support a community or cause.

This guide will take you on a journey to explore the world of volunteer tourism and discover the many different ways you can make a positive impact while traveling. From conservation and wildlife protection to community development and education, we’ll dive into the various examples of volunteer tourism and provide tips on how to choose the right program for you.

So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and let’s get started on this exciting journey of exploring the world through volunteer tourism!

What is volunteer tourism?

Definition and explanation.

Volunteer tourism, also known as voluntourism, is a type of tourism that involves traveling to a destination and engaging in volunteer work, typically in a community or environmental project. Unlike traditional tourism, where the primary focus is on leisure and recreation, volunteer tourism places a greater emphasis on cultural exchange, community development, and environmental conservation.

Volunteer tourism can take many forms, ranging from short-term projects such as building homes for disadvantaged communities to long-term projects such as conservation efforts to protect endangered species. In most cases, volunteers work alongside local communities and organizations, which helps to foster cross-cultural understanding and creates a more meaningful travel experience.

One of the key benefits of volunteer tourism is that it allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and community, rather than simply observing it from a distance. By working alongside locals, volunteers can gain a deeper understanding of the issues and challenges faced by the community, and contribute to meaningful change.

Furthermore, volunteer tourism provides a unique opportunity for travelers to develop new skills and gain valuable work experience, while also contributing to a worthy cause. Whether it’s working with children, conservation, or community development, volunteer tourism offers a chance to make a positive impact on the world and create lasting memories.

Overall, volunteer tourism offers a unique and rewarding travel experience that goes beyond traditional tourism, providing an opportunity to connect with local communities, protect the environment, and make a positive impact on the world.

Benefits of volunteer tourism

Volunteer tourism, also known as voluntourism, is a type of tourism that involves traveling to a foreign country to participate in volunteer work. This type of tourism offers a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in a new culture, learn new skills, and make a positive impact on the local community.

Benefits for the local community

One of the main benefits of volunteer tourism is the positive impact it can have on the local community. By volunteering, travelers can help to support local projects and initiatives, such as building schools or providing healthcare to those in need. This can have a lasting impact on the community and can help to improve the quality of life for local residents.

Benefits for the traveler

In addition to the benefits for the local community, volunteer tourism can also offer a number of benefits for the traveler. For example, volunteering can provide travelers with a unique opportunity to learn about a new culture and to develop a deeper understanding of the local way of life. It can also provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, as travelers are able to give back to the communities they are visiting.

Benefits for the environment

Volunteer tourism can also have a positive impact on the environment. By participating in conservation or environmental projects, travelers can help to protect the natural resources of the area and to promote sustainable tourism practices. This can help to preserve the natural beauty of the area and to ensure that it is able to be enjoyed by future generations.

Overall, volunteer tourism can offer a unique and meaningful travel experience for those who are looking to give back while exploring the world. By immersing themselves in a new culture and making a positive impact on the local community, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and can create lasting memories that will last a lifetime.

Types of volunteer tourism

Community-based tourism.

Community-based tourism is a type of volunteer tourism that focuses on immersing travelers in local communities, allowing them to participate in cultural exchange and community development. This form of tourism emphasizes sustainable practices and promotes a deeper understanding of the host community’s traditions, values, and challenges.

Key Characteristics:

• Cultural exchange: Community-based tourism provides opportunities for travelers to engage with local communities, fostering cross-cultural understanding and respect.
• Sustainable practices: This type of tourism prioritizes environmental and social sustainability, ensuring that the host community benefits from the tourism experience.
• Community development: Volunteers contribute to community projects, such as building schools, providing healthcare, or supporting local businesses, promoting long-term development.
• Immersive cultural experience: Community-based tourism allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the host community’s way of life, traditions, and challenges.
• Personal growth: By participating in community projects and cultural exchange, travelers can develop new skills, enhance their empathy, and broaden their perspectives.
• Support for local communities: Through volunteering and contributing to community development, travelers can help address social and economic needs, creating a positive impact on the local population.

Examples of Community-based Tourism:

• Building schools or community centers in rural areas
• Supporting local businesses and artisans
• Participating in cultural events and festivals
• Teaching English or other skills to local residents
• Assisting in healthcare facilities or medical outreach programs

In conclusion, community-based tourism offers a unique opportunity for travelers to engage with local communities, fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting sustainable development. By participating in community projects and cultural exchange, travelers can create meaningful experiences that enrich their lives and benefit the host community.

Wildlife conservation tourism

Wildlife conservation tourism is a type of volunteer tourism that focuses on the protection and preservation of wildlife and their habitats. This form of tourism involves traveling to remote locations to participate in conservation efforts, such as monitoring endangered species, reforestation, and environmental education.

Participating in wildlife conservation tourism provides an opportunity for travelers to not only experience different cultures and landscapes but also to make a positive impact on the environment and local communities. It also offers a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna, and to understand the importance of conservation efforts.

However, it is important to note that wildlife conservation tourism can also have negative impacts on the environment and local communities if not managed properly. It is crucial for travelers to choose reputable organizations and to be aware of the potential negative impacts of their actions.

Overall, wildlife conservation tourism can be a meaningful and rewarding way to explore the world while making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Cultural exchange tourism

Cultural exchange tourism is a type of volunteer tourism that involves immersing oneself in a foreign culture by living with local people and participating in their daily activities. This type of tourism focuses on building cultural understanding and respect between people from different backgrounds.

Cultural exchange tourism offers a unique opportunity for travelers to gain a deeper understanding of a foreign culture and to build meaningful relationships with local people. By living with a host family or participating in a community project, travelers can experience the local way of life and gain insights into the cultural values and traditions of the community.

One of the benefits of cultural exchange tourism is that it allows travelers to break down cultural barriers and to build bridges between different cultures. By living with local people and participating in their daily activities, travelers can learn about the customs and traditions of the community and develop a deeper appreciation for the culture.

Cultural exchange tourism also provides an opportunity for travelers to give back to the community. Many cultural exchange programs involve volunteering for a local project or organization, which allows travelers to contribute to the community and to make a positive impact on the local people.

However, it is important to note that cultural exchange tourism should be approached with sensitivity and respect. Travelers should be mindful of the cultural norms and values of the community and should avoid imposing their own cultural beliefs or values on the local people. By approaching cultural exchange tourism with an open mind and a willingness to learn, travelers can have a truly meaningful and enriching experience.

Environmental conservation tourism

Environmental conservation tourism is a type of volunteer tourism that focuses on protecting and preserving the natural environment. This type of tourism involves traveling to different parts of the world to participate in conservation efforts, such as protecting endangered species, restoring damaged ecosystems, and promoting sustainable practices.

One of the main goals of environmental conservation tourism is to raise awareness about environmental issues and to promote sustainable practices. By participating in conservation efforts, travelers can learn about the local environment and the challenges facing it, and they can also contribute to efforts to protect it.

Environmental conservation tourism can take many forms, from participating in beach cleanups to working on wildlife conservation projects. Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities for travelers, such as wildlife rehabilitation centers, marine conservation organizations, and environmental education programs.

By participating in environmental conservation tourism, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and the challenges facing it. They can also make a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts and help to protect the environment for future generations.

How to plan a volunteer travel experience

Choosing a destination.

When it comes to choosing a destination for your volunteer travel experience, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you should choose a destination that aligns with your interests and passions. Do you want to work with animals? Then consider destinations that offer wildlife conservation projects. Are you interested in community development? Look for projects that focus on sustainable development and community building.

Another important factor to consider is the safety and political stability of the destination. It’s important to research the current situation in the country or region you’re considering, as well as any travel advisories or warnings issued by your government. You should also consider the infrastructure and accessibility of the destination, as well as the availability of accommodation and transportation.

Additionally, you should research the organization or project you’ll be volunteering with. Look for reviews and testimonials from other volunteers, and reach out to the organization directly to ask questions and learn more about their policies and procedures.

Lastly, you should also consider the cost of the trip, including flights, accommodation, food, and transportation. Make sure to budget accordingly and consider ways to save money, such as booking flights in advance or finding affordable accommodation options.

In summary, when choosing a destination for your volunteer travel experience, consider your interests, the safety and political stability of the destination, the infrastructure and accessibility, the organization or project you’ll be volunteering with, and the cost of the trip.

Selecting a volunteer program

When it comes to planning a volunteer travel experience, selecting the right volunteer program is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a volunteer program:

• Program type: Decide what type of program you want to participate in. There are many different types of volunteer programs available, such as wildlife conservation, community development, education, and healthcare. Consider your interests, skills, and goals to determine which program aligns with your values and passions.
• Location: Research the different locations where the volunteer program is offered. Consider factors such as safety, accessibility, and cost of living. You may also want to consider the language and cultural differences of the location.
• Duration: Determine how long you want to participate in the volunteer program. Some programs offer short-term commitments of a few weeks, while others require a longer-term commitment of several months or even years.
• Organization: Research the organization that offers the volunteer program. Look for reviews and testimonials from past volunteers, and make sure the organization is reputable and has a track record of success.
• Cost: Consider the cost of the volunteer program, including program fees, travel expenses, and living expenses. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what is included in the program fee and what additional expenses you may incur.
• Impact: Evaluate the impact of the volunteer program. Consider how the program benefits the local community and how your participation will contribute to the success of the program.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a volunteer program that aligns with your values, skills, and goals, and that provides a meaningful and impactful travel experience.

Preparing for the trip

When planning a volunteer travel experience, it is important to take several factors into consideration. This section will provide a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for your trip, including:

• Choosing the right volunteer program
• Researching the destination and culture
• Obtaining necessary travel documents
• Planning your itinerary
• Packing for the trip

The first step in preparing for your volunteer travel experience is choosing the right volunteer program. This involves researching different organizations and projects that align with your interests and skills. Some factors to consider when choosing a volunteer program include:

• The organization’s reputation and experience in organizing volunteer trips
• The type of project and cause you want to support
• The duration and cost of the program
• The level of support and supervision provided by the organization
• The impact and benefits of your participation in the project

Researching different volunteer programs can be overwhelming, but it is important to take the time to find the right fit for you. Consider speaking with others who have participated in volunteer programs or consulting online reviews and forums to gain a better understanding of the experience.

Once you have chosen a volunteer program, it is important to research the destination and culture of the area you will be volunteering in. This will help you prepare for the trip and ensure that you are respectful of local customs and traditions. Some things to consider when researching the destination and culture include:

• Learning about the local language and customs
• Researching the local climate and weather patterns
• Familiarizing yourself with the local laws and regulations
• Learning about the history and culture of the area
• Researching the local cuisine and accommodations

After you have chosen a volunteer program and researched the destination and culture, the next step is to obtain the necessary travel documents. This may include a passport, visa, and any necessary vaccinations or medical clearances. It is important to plan ahead and apply for these documents well in advance of your trip to avoid any delays or complications.

Once you have obtained the necessary travel documents, it is time to plan your itinerary. This involves determining the dates of your trip, booking flights and accommodations, and creating a daily schedule for your time in the destination. It is important to be flexible and open to new experiences, but having a plan in place can help ensure that you make the most of your time volunteering abroad.

Finally, it is time to pack for your trip. This involves considering the climate and culture of the destination, as well as the type of volunteer work you will be doing. It is important to pack sensibly and only bring what you need, as this will make it easier to travel and reduce the risk of losing or damaging your belongings.

By following these steps, you can prepare for a successful and meaningful volunteer travel experience. Remember to be open-minded, respectful, and flexible, and you will be well on your way to exploring the world through volunteer tourism.

Safety considerations

Volunteer tourism is a unique and rewarding way to explore the world, but it’s important to prioritize safety when planning your trip. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Research the organization: Before you commit to a volunteer program, do your research to ensure that the organization is reputable and has a track record of providing safe and meaningful experiences for volunteers. Check for reviews and testimonials from past volunteers, and reach out to the organization to ask questions about their safety protocols and procedures.
• Familiarize yourself with the local culture: It’s important to understand the local customs and culture of the place you’ll be volunteering in. This will help you avoid any cultural misunderstandings or offenses, and will also help you blend in and feel more at home in your new surroundings.
• Take care of your personal belongings: As with any travel experience, it’s important to take care of your personal belongings and keep them safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your passport and other important documents in a secure location.
• Stay healthy: It’s important to take care of your health while volunteering abroad. Make sure to get all necessary vaccinations before your trip, and take appropriate measures to prevent illness, such as drinking plenty of water and washing your hands frequently.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of your own safety at all times. Avoid traveling alone at night, and be cautious when using public transportation or walking in unfamiliar areas.
• Have a plan: Before you leave on your trip, make sure you have a plan in case of an emergency. Know the contact information for your embassy or consulate, and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong while you’re abroad.

By taking these safety considerations into account, you can ensure a safe and rewarding volunteer travel experience.

Real-life examples of volunteer tourism

Case study 1: teaching english in thailand.

Teaching English in Thailand is a popular volunteer tourism opportunity that allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture while making a positive impact on the community. Here’s what you need to know about this meaningful travel experience:

Who can participate?

Participants in teaching English programs in Thailand are typically required to be native English speakers with a basic level of proficiency in the English language. Some programs may also require a college degree or prior teaching experience.

What does the program entail?

Participants in teaching English programs in Thailand typically work in local schools or community centers, teaching English language skills to children and adults. Programs may range from a few weeks to several months, and may include accommodation, meals, and transportation.

What are the benefits?

By participating in a teaching English program in Thailand, volunteers can gain valuable teaching experience, learn about the local culture and customs, and make a positive impact on the community. Volunteers may also have the opportunity to travel and explore the beautiful country during their free time.

What are the challenges?

One of the main challenges of teaching English in Thailand is the language barrier. While many Thais speak some English, many do not, which can make communication difficult. Additionally, participants may encounter cultural differences and may need to be flexible and adaptable to make the most of their experience.

How do I sign up?

There are many organizations that offer teaching English programs in Thailand, and volunteers can choose a program that meets their needs and interests. Some popular organizations include the Peace Corps, Volunteers for Asia, and Global Vision International. It’s important to research the organization and program thoroughly before committing to a volunteer experience.

Case study 2: Marine conservation in Costa Rica

Marine conservation in Costa Rica is a noteworthy example of volunteer tourism, offering travelers the opportunity to participate in conservation efforts while immersing themselves in the beautiful natural surroundings of the country.

Background Costa Rica is known for its rich biodiversity and abundant marine life, including various species of sea turtles, dolphins, and whales. However, these ecosystems are facing numerous challenges, such as pollution, overfishing, and the effects of climate change.

Volunteer Program Volunteers in Costa Rica can participate in marine conservation programs that focus on protecting sea turtles and their habitats. These programs typically involve tasks such as monitoring nesting sites, collecting data on turtle populations, and working to reduce environmental threats.

Impact By participating in marine conservation programs in Costa Rica, volunteers can make a meaningful contribution to the preservation of the country’s fragile ecosystems. In addition, these programs provide an opportunity for travelers to learn about the local environment and culture, fostering a deeper connection with the place they are visiting.

Challenges While volunteer tourism in Costa Rica can be a rewarding experience, it is important to be aware of potential challenges. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the emotional toll of witnessing environmental degradation can all present difficulties for volunteers.

Conclusion Marine conservation in Costa Rica is just one example of the many ways in which volunteer tourism can offer travelers a chance to explore the world while making a positive impact. By participating in these programs, volunteers can gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit and contribute to the preservation of the planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Case study 3: Building homes in Mexico

Building homes in Mexico is a great example of volunteer tourism that can make a significant impact on both the local community and the volunteer. In this case study, volunteers work alongside local construction teams to build homes for families in need.

How it works

• Volunteers sign up for a program that provides housing construction assistance in Mexico.
• The program connects volunteers with local construction teams who have identified families in need of housing.
• Volunteers work alongside the local construction teams to build homes, using locally sourced materials whenever possible.
• The completed homes are then handed over to the families in need, providing them with a safe and secure place to live.
• Volunteers gain hands-on construction experience and learn new skills while working on a meaningful project.
• Local construction teams benefit from the additional manpower and resources provided by the volunteers.
• Families in need receive a safe and secure place to live, improving their quality of life.
• The community benefits from the improved living conditions of its residents, leading to a better overall quality of life.

Volunteer tourism programs that focus on building homes in Mexico have a lasting impact on both the volunteers and the local community. By working together to provide safe and secure housing, volunteers and local construction teams can create a better future for families in need.

Tips for making the most of your volunteer travel experience

Building meaningful connections.

One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteer tourism is the opportunity to build meaningful connections with the local community. Here are some tips for building connections that will enrich your volunteer travel experience:

• Be open-minded: Approach your volunteer travel experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. This will help you to better understand the culture and community you are working with, and to build more meaningful connections with the people you meet.
• Show respect: Show respect for the local community and their customs, traditions, and beliefs. This will help you to build trust and rapport with the people you are working with, and to establish a more meaningful connection.
• Take the time to listen: Listening is an important part of building meaningful connections. Take the time to listen to the people you are working with, and to learn about their experiences and perspectives. This will help you to better understand their culture and community, and to build a more meaningful connection.
• Share your own experiences: Sharing your own experiences and stories can also help to build meaningful connections. By sharing your own experiences, you can help to create a sense of shared understanding and empathy with the people you are working with.
• Follow up: After your volunteer travel experience, consider following up with the people you worked with. This can help to maintain the connections you built and to continue to support the community you worked with.

Being open-minded and adaptable

As a volunteer traveler, it is essential to approach your experience with an open mind and a willingness to adapt to new situations. This means being flexible in your expectations and being willing to embrace new experiences, even if they are outside of your comfort zone. By being open-minded and adaptable, you will be better equipped to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and make the most of your volunteer travel experience.

Here are some tips for being open-minded and adaptable while volunteer traveling:

• Leave your preconceptions at home: It is important to recognize that your own cultural biases and assumptions may not be shared by the local community. Be open to learning about and embracing new customs, traditions, and ways of life.
• Embrace new experiences: Volunteer travel provides a unique opportunity to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone. Embrace new foods, activities, and experiences, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone.
• Be flexible: Things may not always go as planned when volunteer traveling. Be prepared to adapt to changes in your itinerary, accommodations, or living arrangements. Remember that these changes are often outside of your control, and being flexible will help you to make the most of your experience.
• Stay present: It can be easy to get caught up in the past or future while volunteer traveling, especially when you are reflecting on your experiences or planning your next steps. However, it is important to stay present in the moment and fully immerse yourself in your surroundings. This will help you to make the most of your experience and create lasting memories.

By being open-minded and adaptable, you will be better equipped to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and make the most of your volunteer travel experience.

Reflecting on your experience

Reflecting on your volunteer travel experience is a crucial step in maximizing its impact and meaning. It allows you to process and analyze what you have learned, gained, and experienced, and to make sense of it all. By reflecting on your experience, you can better understand your own motivations, goals, and values, as well as those of the local community and organization you worked with. Here are some tips for reflecting on your volunteer travel experience:

• Journaling: Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and observations in a journal can help you process your experiences and gain insight into your own biases and assumptions. It can also serve as a useful tool for reflecting on your personal growth and development.
• Discussing with others: Sharing your experiences with others, such as friends, family, or fellow volunteers, can provide a different perspective and help you see things you may have missed. It can also help you identify common themes and experiences among volunteers.
• Feedback: Seeking feedback from the local community and organization you worked with can provide valuable insights into your impact and contribution. It can also help you identify areas for improvement and growth.
• Setting goals: Reflecting on your experience can help you set goals for future volunteer travel experiences and personal growth. It can also help you identify areas where you would like to make a more meaningful impact in the future.

By reflecting on your volunteer travel experience, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, the local community and organization you worked with, and the impact of your work. It can also help you make more meaningful and informed decisions about future volunteer travel experiences.

Responsible volunteer tourism: challenges and considerations

Ethical concerns.

As the popularity of volunteer tourism continues to grow, so do the ethical concerns surrounding it. One of the main ethical concerns is the potential for exploitation of local communities and the environment. Volunteers must be aware of the potential negative impacts of their presence and strive to ensure that their contributions are positive and sustainable.

Additionally, it is important to consider the long-term effects of volunteer tourism on the communities being served. Volunteers should not impose their own values or beliefs on the communities they are working with, but rather work collaboratively to identify and address the needs of the community.

Moreover, volunteers must also be aware of the potential for their actions to perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce power imbalances. They must strive to understand the local culture and history, and work to build relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.

It is also crucial for volunteers to carefully research the organizations they are working with and ensure that they are reputable and transparent. Volunteers should ask questions about the organization’s goals, methods, and impact, and ensure that their contributions are being used effectively and ethically.

Overall, ethical concerns in volunteer tourism require volunteers to be mindful of their actions and the potential impacts of their presence. By taking a responsible and ethical approach to volunteer tourism, volunteers can contribute to positive and sustainable change in the communities they are working with.

Economic impact

Volunteer tourism, while beneficial to both the traveler and the local community, also has an economic impact that must be considered. It is important to understand the economic implications of volunteer tourism in order to ensure that it is sustainable and beneficial for all parties involved.

One of the main economic impacts of volunteer tourism is the generation of income for local communities. By participating in volunteer programs, travelers are often able to contribute to the local economy through the payment of program fees, the purchase of goods and services, and the support of local businesses. This income can have a positive impact on the local community, helping to support conservation efforts, education, and other important initiatives.

However, it is important to ensure that the economic benefits of volunteer tourism are distributed fairly and equitably. In some cases, volunteer tourism may displace local workers or lead to the exploitation of natural resources. It is therefore essential to carefully consider the economic impact of volunteer tourism and to ensure that it is sustainable and beneficial for all parties involved.

Additionally, volunteer tourism can also have an impact on the environment. In some cases, volunteer tourism may contribute to the degradation of natural resources, such as water and wildlife habitats. It is therefore important to consider the environmental impact of volunteer tourism and to ensure that it is sustainable and responsible.

Overall, the economic impact of volunteer tourism must be carefully considered in order to ensure that it is sustainable and beneficial for all parties involved. By taking a responsible approach to volunteer tourism, travelers can have a positive impact on local communities and the environment while also gaining meaningful experiences and memories.

Long-term sustainability

In order to ensure that volunteer tourism contributes to long-term sustainability, it is essential to prioritize projects that have a lasting impact on the local community . This involves working with local organizations and stakeholders to identify their needs and priorities, and to develop projects that are aligned with their goals.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that volunteer tourism does not have negative impacts on the environment or the local community. This means avoiding projects that may cause harm, such as those that involve building infrastructure in sensitive ecosystems or that rely on exploitative labor practices.

Another aspect of long-term sustainability is the need to maintain ongoing relationships with the local community and to ensure that they benefit from the projects and initiatives that are implemented. This can involve providing training and support to local organizations, as well as working with them to monitor and evaluate the impact of the projects over time.

Ultimately, responsible volunteer tourism requires a commitment to long-term sustainability and to the well-being of the local community. By prioritizing projects that have a lasting impact, avoiding those that may cause harm, and maintaining ongoing relationships with the local community, volunteer tourists can contribute to the long-term sustainability of the places they visit.

Recap of key points

When embarking on a volunteer tourism experience, it is crucial to consider the ethical and social implications of your actions. This section will provide a recap of the key points to keep in mind when engaging in responsible volunteer tourism.

• Cultural sensitivity: Understand and respect the local culture, customs, and traditions. Avoid imposing your own values and beliefs on the host community.
• Sustainable development: Contribute to the long-term well-being of the host community by supporting sustainable projects and initiatives. Avoid short-term, quick-fix solutions that may not address the underlying issues.
• Mutual benefit: Ensure that the volunteer tourism experience benefits both the volunteer and the host community. Avoid exploitative practices that prioritize the interests of the volunteer over those of the host community.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with local organizations and communities to identify their needs and priorities. Avoid imposing solutions or taking on tasks that should be carried out by local experts or organizations.
• Continuous learning: Approach the volunteer tourism experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn from the host community. Avoid assuming that you have all the answers or that your skills and knowledge are superior to those of the local community.

By keeping these key points in mind, volunteers can engage in responsible volunteer tourism that benefits both themselves and the host community, fostering meaningful and impactful travel experiences.

Final thoughts on volunteer tourism

As you embark on your volunteer tourism journey, it’s essential to approach your experiences with a thoughtful and responsible mindset. By considering the following factors, you can ensure that your volunteer travel experiences are meaningful, sustainable, and beneficial to both you and the local communities you encounter.

• Reflect on your motivations: It’s crucial to assess your reasons for participating in volunteer tourism. Are you genuinely interested in making a positive impact, or are you seeking personal validation or Instagram-worthy experiences? Be honest with yourself and ensure that your motivations align with the goals of the volunteer program you choose.
• Research the organization and program: Thoroughly research the volunteer organization and program you plan to participate in. Look for reviews, testimonials, and information about the organization’s track record and impact. It’s also essential to understand the program’s objectives, how it benefits the local community, and the specific role you’ll play as a volunteer.
• Understand the local context: As a volunteer, it’s essential to understand the local context and cultural norms. Avoid imposing your own values and beliefs on the community and respect the local way of life. By doing so, you can build meaningful connections with the locals and contribute to sustainable development.
• Support the local economy: Volunteer tourism should benefit the local community, not just the tourism industry. Whenever possible, support local businesses, use local transportation, and stay in locally-owned accommodations. This ensures that your travel dollars have a positive impact on the community.
• Be flexible and adaptable: Be prepared to adapt to the local environment and circumstances. Volunteer tourism is not always predictable, and you may encounter unexpected challenges or changes in plans. Embrace these experiences as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Stay open-minded: Volunteer tourism is an opportunity to broaden your horizons and learn about different cultures and ways of life. Approach your experiences with an open mind and be willing to learn from the local community. This mindset will enrich your travel experiences and foster meaningful connections.
• Contribute to the community: As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to contribute to the local community in various ways. Be proactive in identifying areas where you can assist and collaborate with local organizations and residents. This contribution can range from teaching English, supporting environmental initiatives, or providing healthcare services.
• Document responsibly: Photography and social media can be powerful tools to raise awareness about the causes and communities you support. However, it’s essential to use these platforms responsibly and ethically. Avoid exploiting the local community for personal gain or portraying them in a disrespectful or stereotypical manner.
• Advocate for responsible volunteer tourism: As a volunteer tourist, you have the power to advocate for responsible and sustainable tourism practices. Share your experiences and knowledge with others, and encourage them to approach volunteer tourism with a thoughtful and responsible mindset.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your volunteer tourism experiences are meaningful, sustainable, and beneficial to both you and the local communities you encounter. Remember, responsible volunteer tourism is a two-way street that requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to learn and grow.

1. What is volunteer tourism?

Volunteer tourism, also known as voluntourism, is a type of tourism where travelers participate in volunteer work in their destination country or region. This can include a wide range of activities, such as teaching English, working on conservation projects, or providing medical care in underprivileged areas. Volunteer tourism allows travelers to immerse themselves in local cultures and communities, while also making a positive impact on the places they visit.

2. What are some examples of volunteer tourism?

There are many different types of volunteer tourism experiences available. Some examples include: * Teaching English: Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities to teach English to children or adults in developing countries. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture while also making a difference in the lives of others. * Conservation work: If you’re interested in the environment, you might consider volunteering on a conservation project. This could involve working on a wildlife reserve, planting trees, or cleaning up beaches and waterways. * Medical volunteering: If you have medical training or experience, you might consider volunteering in a medical capacity while you’re traveling. This could involve working in a clinic or hospital, or providing medical care in a remote or underserved area. * Community development: Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities to work on community development projects, such as building schools or community centers, or providing education and support to women and children.

3. What are the benefits of volunteer tourism?

Volunteer tourism offers many benefits for both the traveler and the local community. Some of the benefits of volunteer tourism include: * Immersion in local culture: Volunteer tourism allows travelers to immerse themselves in local cultures and communities, which can be a valuable and enriching experience. * Personal growth: Volunteer tourism can be a great way to challenge yourself and step outside of your comfort zone, which can lead to personal growth and development. * Making a positive impact: By volunteering, travelers can make a positive impact on the places they visit and the people they meet. * Networking and professional development: Volunteer tourism can also provide opportunities to network and gain professional development, particularly in fields like teaching, medicine, and conservation.

4. Are there any risks associated with volunteer tourism?

Like any type of travel, volunteer tourism does come with some risks. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable organization to work with, as well as to be aware of potential cultural and safety risks in your destination. Additionally, it’s important to be respectful of the local community and to be mindful of the impact of your travel on the environment and local economy.

5. How can I get started with volunteer tourism?

If you’re interested in volunteer tourism, the first step is to do your research and decide on the type of volunteer work that interests you. Once you’ve identified the type of volunteer work you want to do, you can start looking for organizations or programs that offer those opportunities. It’s important to choose a reputable organization to work with, and to carefully review their policies and procedures before committing to a volunteer placement. Additionally, it’s a good idea to speak with other travelers who have volunteered in the past, or to read reviews and testimonials from past volunteers to get a sense of what to expect.

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Volunteer tourism: what’s wrong with it and how it can be changed

Assistant Professor of Anthropology, University of North Carolina – Charlotte

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Andrea Freidus does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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Volunteer tourism, or voluntourism, is an emerging trend of travel linked to “doing good”. Yet these efforts to help people and the environment have come under heavy criticism – I believe for good reason.

Voluntourists’ ability to change systems, alleviate poverty or provide support for vulnerable children is limited. They simply don’t have the skills. And they can inadvertently perpetuate patronising and unhelpful ideas about the places they visit.

The trend of voluntourism has come about partly through initiatives by large-scale, well established organisations such as UNICEF, Save the Children, CARE International and World Vision. They raise money for programmes they have developed for orphans and vulnerable children.

Their appeals have been effective because needy children tend to arouse compassion and because modern communication technology makes it easy to share the call to help.

But there are dangers in these appeals, which are mostly aimed at Western audiences. For example, singer Madonna, in her documentary I Am Because We Are , says Malawi is in a “state of emergency”. She says there are over a million children orphaned by AIDS in the central African country and that they are

living on the streets, in abandoned buildings, and are being abducted, kidnapped, and raped.

Madonna’s description is inaccurate. There are not a million children living on the streets of Malawi, nor are there high levels of abduction and rape .

Aside from sometimes creating an inaccurate impression, these appeals have attracted increasing numbers of student volunteers, best described as amateur humanitarian workers. They intend to serve people, especially children, but do they?

The trouble with voluntourism

Most students bring few relevant skills to their volunteer sites. They are not required to commit to long-term involvement either. Instead, volunteers take part in service projects like basic construction, painting, tutoring in English and maths, distributing food, or “just being a friend” to children perceived as alone and in need of social support.

Voluntourism with children also perpetuates the notion of a desperate Africa needing the benevolence of the West. Volunteers are led to imagine that their engagement directly addresses suffering. Many believe the children they work with don’t have any other social systems to support them materially or socially.

This is evident from the images and anecdotes they circulate of a suffering, sick Africa. The images they portray is that Africa is incapable of escaping poverty and violence without Western intervention.

The ways volunteers get involved tend not to address the causes of suffering .

The design of these programmes leads to superficial engagement for volunteers. This makes it hard for them to think about – or do anything about – the structural issues that create humanitarian crises in the first place.

These issues include the history, social, political and economic conditions that frame people’s lives.

My research suggests that students who engage in these programmes actually contribute towards the mystification of larger systems that produce inequality, poverty, particular patterns of disease distribution, and various forms of violence.

Programmes need to be reworked

The problems outlined here do not necessarily mean that volunteer work should be abandoned. In an increasingly violent and xenophobic world, these kinds of cross-cultural engagement can help people understand and appreciate each other.

But if this is to be achieved, volunteer experiences need to be reframed and programmes reworked. Any organisation taking young people to volunteer sites in Malawi ought to be preparing them with adequate information before they go as well as opportunities for critical discussion during and after their trips. Many of these programmes are associated with college campuses or organised religious groups that have the capacity to learn about, teach, and support a more sophisticated cultural exchange.

Students need to learn about the political, social, economic and cultural histories of the places they visit. They should be given the opportunity to explore systems of poverty and inequality in greater depth.

Most importantly, students need to think about these experiences as cultural exchanges meant to generate knowledge and respect about other ways of being and not as trips that “help” the poor.

If volunteers can understand the people they work with as citizens with rights rather than objects of charity, they can begin to think about long-term partnership, justice and structural change.

I believe long-term commitment is key. Doctors, engineers, computer scientists and particular types of educators have important skills and could make more enduring contributions. Doctors, for example, they could train medical personnel on new procedures to use once the volunteer leaves.

For the shorter term, volunteers should see their presence as a cultural exchange rather than as humanitarian relief.

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Understanding the Impact of Volunteer Tourism on Communities and Culture

Introduction to volunteer tourism.

Volunteer tourism, also known as voluntourism, provides individuals with rewarding travel experiences while making a positive impact on communities around the world. It involves dedicating time and effort to support sustainable development projects, contribute to local welfare, and participate in cultural exchange.

Definition of Volunteer Tourism

Volunteer tourism refers to the act of traveling to various destinations to participate in volunteering opportunities that have a positive impact on the local community and environment. It combines the elements of tourism, cultural exchange, and charitable work to create a meaningful and sustainable experience for both the volunteer and the community being supported.

Importance of Volunteer Tourism

Volunteer tourism is essential for fostering sustainable development, promoting cultural exchange, and addressing critical community needs. By participating in volunteer projects, individuals can contribute directly to the well-being of local communities, help conserve the environment, and gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and societies. This form of tourism also encourages responsible travel and promotes global citizenship through active participation and support for charitable initiatives.

Global Volunteer Opportunities

Global volunteer opportunities encompass a wide range of projects that allow individuals to contribute to sustainable development and make a positive impact on communities worldwide. These opportunities can include environmental conservation projects, community development initiatives, and welfare and support programs. Engaging in global volunteer opportunities provides volunteers with the chance to explore diverse cultures and contribute to meaningful projects, creating a truly enriching and transformative experience.

Overview of Global Volunteer Projects

Global volunteer projects encompass a wide array of initiatives aimed at addressing local and global challenges. These projects may include wildlife conservation efforts, sustainable farming practices, educational programs for underserved communities, and healthcare support in developing regions. The diversity of projects ensures that volunteers with various skills and interests can find opportunities aligned with their passions while making a meaningful impact in different parts of the world.

Sustainable Impact of Global Volunteer Projects

Global volunteer projects are designed with a focus on sustainability, aiming to create long-term positive impacts on local communities and the environment. By participating in these projects, volunteers support initiatives that promote environmental conservation, empower communities through education and skills development, and contribute to the overall welfare of those in need. This sustainable approach ensures that the benefits of volunteer efforts endure beyond the duration of the volunteers’ stay, creating lasting positive change.

Cultural Exchange through Volunteer Tourism

Volunteer tourism offers a unique opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in local cultures, traditions, and customs. By living and working alongside community members, volunteers can gain a deeper understanding of different societal norms, languages, and ways of life. This cultural exchange fosters mutual respect, empathy, and appreciation for diversity, enriching the volunteer experience and creating meaningful connections between volunteers and the communities they support.

Experiencing Local Culture

Experiencing local culture is a fundamental aspect of volunteer tourism. Volunteers have the opportunity to engage in local traditions, taste traditional cuisine, participate in cultural celebrations, and learn about the history and customs of the community they are supporting. This immersive experience allows volunteers to develop a profound appreciation for different ways of life and facilitates meaningful cultural exchange between volunteers and the local population.

Learning and Understanding Different Communities

Volunteer tourism provides a platform for learning and understanding different communities. By actively participating in local initiatives and interacting with community members, volunteers gain insights into the challenges, strengths, and aspirations of diverse cultures. This firsthand experience fosters empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and the appreciation of the resilience and resourcefulness found in communities around the world;

Types of Volunteering Projects

Volunteering projects can be categorized into various types, including environmental conservation projects, community development initiatives, and welfare and support programs. Each type of project presents unique opportunities for volunteers to contribute to different aspects of sustainable development and community well-being, catering to a diverse range of interests and skills.

Environmental Conservation Projects

Environmental conservation projects focus on preserving and restoring natural habitats, protecting wildlife, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. Volunteers engaged in these projects may participate in activities such as reforestation, wildlife monitoring, marine conservation, and sustainable farming practices to support the long-term health of ecosystems and biodiversity.

Community Development Projects

Community development projects are aimed at empowering local communities through initiatives such as infrastructure development, educational programs, and vocational training. Volunteers participating in these projects may contribute to building schools, teaching essential skills, or supporting small business development, all of which contribute to the overall well-being and progress of the community;

Welfare and Support Projects

Welfare and support projects are focused on addressing the essential needs of communities, such as healthcare, childcare, and access to clean water. Volunteers involved in these projects may work in clinics, orphanages, or water sanitation initiatives, providing crucial assistance and resources to improve the welfare and living conditions of community members in need.

Benefits of Volunteer Tourism

Engaging in volunteer tourism offers a multitude of benefits, including personal development and the opportunity to contribute to sustainable development initiatives. By participating in volunteer projects, individuals not only gain valuable experiences and skills but also play a significant role in creating positive and lasting change in communities around the world.

Personal Development

Volunteer tourism facilitates personal development by allowing individuals to acquire new skills, gain cultural awareness, and foster adaptability and resilience. Volunteers have the opportunity to enhance their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities while gaining a deeper understanding of global issues and diverse cultures – all of which contribute to their personal growth and development.

Contribution to Sustainable Development

Volunteer tourism enables individuals to actively contribute to sustainable development by supporting projects that have a lasting positive impact on communities and the environment. Through their participation, volunteers play a crucial role in promoting social, economic, and environmental sustainability, ultimately contributing to the broader global efforts toward a more equitable and sustainable world.

Finding the Right Volunteer Opportunity

When seeking the right volunteer opportunity, conducting thorough research on various volunteer programs and considering personal skills and interests are essential steps. This ensures that individuals can select a volunteer project that aligns with their passion, expertise, and desired impact, maximizing their contribution and overall experience.

Researching Volunteer Programs

Researching volunteer programs is crucial to finding the right opportunity. It involves exploring different organizations, understanding their mission and values, reviewing testimonials from past volunteers, and assessing the specific objectives and impact of each program. Research helps individuals make informed decisions and ensures that their chosen program aligns with their goals and values.

Considering Personal Skills and Interests

Considering personal skills and interests is essential when pursuing a volunteer opportunity. Individuals should assess their unique talents, professional expertise, and personal passions to find a project where they can make the most significant impact and derive the most fulfillment. Aligning skills and interests with the volunteer project ensures a mutually beneficial experience for both the volunteer and the community being supported.

Preparing for a Volunteer Trip

Preparing for a volunteer trip involves understanding local customs and etiquette, as well as ensuring the necessary travel documents and vaccinations are in order. This preparation ensures a smooth and respectful experience for both the volunteer and the host community.

Understanding Local Customs and Etiquette

Prior to embarking on a volunteer trip, it’s essential to familiarize oneself with the local customs, traditions, and etiquette of the destination. This understanding allows volunteers to show respect and appreciation for the local culture, fostering positive interactions and meaningful connections with the community members. Being mindful of cultural norms also contributes to a harmonious and mutually enriching experience for both volunteers and the local population.

Necessary Travel Documents and Vaccinations

Prior to undertaking a volunteer trip, it’s crucial to ensure that all required travel documents, such as passports, visas, and permits, are obtained and up-to-date. Additionally, volunteers should consult with healthcare professionals to receive necessary vaccinations and medications specific to the destination, ensuring their health and well-being throughout the volunteer experience.

Ensuring Sustainable Impact

Ensuring sustainable impact involves focusing on the long-term benefits for the community and minimizing the environmental footprint of volunteer activities. By prioritizing sustainability, volunteer tourism can achieve lasting, positive outcomes for both the supported communities and the natural environment.

Long-Term Benefits for the Community

Long-term benefits for the community encompass the sustainable impact of volunteer projects beyond the volunteers’ presence. This involves implementing initiatives that continue to support the community’s development, such as educational programs, infrastructure improvements, and capacity-building efforts that empower local residents for years to come.

Minimizing Environmental Footprint

Minimizing the environmental footprint of volunteer activities involves adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and respecting the natural surroundings. By minimizing environmental impact, volunteer tourism can ensure that the destinations and ecosystems being supported remain preserved and protected for future generations.

Volunteer Tourism and Charity

Volunteer tourism often intertwines with charitable initiatives, providing opportunities for volunteers to support local charities through their contributions and fundraising efforts. This collaboration between volunteer tourism and charity organizations amplifies the positive impact on communities and enhances the sustainability of volunteer projects.

Supporting Local Charities through Volunteer Work

Volunteer work often involves supporting local charities that are deeply engaged in addressing community needs. By collaborating with these charities, volunteers can contribute their time, skills, and resources, maximizing the positive impact on charitable initiatives focused on areas such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.

Fundraising for Sustainable Projects

Volunteer tourism often involves fundraising for sustainable projects that benefit local communities and the environment. These efforts help secure resources for initiatives such as infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and educational programs, ensuring the continuity and long-term impact of these essential projects.

In conclusion, volunteer tourism presents individuals with the opportunity to engage in impactful, sustainable projects while experiencing diverse cultures and contributing to meaningful causes. By carefully choosing opportunities, preparing adequately, and prioritizing sustainable impact and charitable collaboration, volunteers can make a positive difference in the world while gaining invaluable personal experiences.

Recap of Volunteer Tourism Opportunities

Volunteer tourism offers diverse opportunities for individuals to contribute to sustainable development, immerse themselves in local cultures, and support charitable initiatives. From environmental conservation to community development and welfare projects, the range of opportunities allows volunteers to find meaningful experiences aligned with their interests and skills.

Encouraging Readers to Participate in Volunteer Projects

In closing, we encourage readers to consider participating in volunteer projects as a means to make a positive impact, embrace cultural exchange, and contribute to sustainable development. By engaging in volunteer tourism, individuals can play a vital role in creating a more interconnected, empathetic, and sustainable world.

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The Art of Urban Exploration: Uncovering Hidden Gems in the City

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

Pleasant encounters on the streets of Moscow

Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Experience elektrostal'.

The Moscow Kremlin

Krasnaya ploshchad'

State Historical Museum

St. Basil's Cathedral

Moscow State University

Great Moscow State Circus

Moscow Metro

Moskva River

Arbat Street

Where to stay, hotel pioner, yahonty noginsk, apelsin hotel, house in pushkino, gostinyi dvor hotel, recreation center dubki, yakhontovy les apartments, sloboda na klyazme, what to eat.

Cafe Vostochny Express

Kroshka Kartoshka

Fabrika Obedov

Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva

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Quest-Cafe 4 Komnaty

Prima Bolshogo

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• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for exotic trips
• Best for annual plans

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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