FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO

Questions You Need to Ask Before Volunteering Abroad

by Akhil Kalepu

Sep 23, 2014

© Steffan Hacker | HFHI

Trends / Voluntourism

There are an endless amount of international volunteering opportunities available for travelers who want to combine some philanthropy with their trips. Before committing to a program or because it’s vital to do your due-diligence, ask tons of questions. Here are a few to get you started, but remember, this is only the beginning.

 

You need to understand exactly what you’ll be doing as a volunteer:

What will my daily tasks be as a volunteer?

Are there are particular skills I need, physical or otherwise, to be successful?

Will I be working independently, or with a team?

Will I receive any training, or an orientation?

 

It’s also important to understand the costs:

Is there a program fee? Is housing and food included in that fee?

What else does the program fee cover?

Is there extensive in-country support, or will I be on my own?

Does the fee cover transport to the volunteer site?

How much do volunteers typically spend on non-related costs, like optional excursions, souvenirs, etc.?

 

Make sure you know how much free time you’ll have:

Will I be working weekends?

How many hours will I work each day?

Are there optional excursions available for volunteers?

 

Your health is important. Make sure you understand any health risks:

What vaccinations, if any, do I need before arrival?

Should I bring things like mosquito repellent, first aid supplies or anything else?

Are there doctors, clinics or other health services nearby?

If you have any special dietary needs, can those be accommodated?

Are there any in-country security issues?

 

Finally, make sure your impact will be long-lasting:

How will the project be carried on once I leave?

What impact has the project had on the local community?

How are locals involved in the organization?

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Destinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024

Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland

This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Hotel
Nov 19, 2024

A New Ritz-Carlton Comes to Cancún

After a hiatus, The Ritz-Carlton brand is coming back to Cancún, with the 2027 opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Cancún, Punta Nizuc.

Hotel
Nov 19, 2024

Hilton, Universal Pictures Debut Suite Inspired by Wicked

Hilton and Universal Pictures invite fans of Wicked to indulge in a spellbinding stay in a new, spectacular themed suite. From Nov. 21–Jan. 5, travelers can ‘Stay Like’ Wicked at New York Hilton Midtown.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Dining/Entertainment
Nov 19, 2024

Go Teepee Dining on the Beach at This Puerto Vallarta Resort

During a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, I stayed at Casa Velas, where we also had access to all of the restaurants, experiences and events going on at its sister property Velas Vallarta. One night for dinner, our group put on our best tropical attire and headed to Velas Vallarta for a Teepee Dinner right on the beach.