volunteer travel
Volunteer travel trips give something more than just fond memories; tips and recommendations to give back while you Wander.
My trip to the Dominican Republic
On Monday, our flight from Chicago to New York got cancelled, so we stayed in the airport's hotel and most of our time spent there was just sitting in a room talking about everything together - this ended up being called "bonding time" (some of the best moments throughout this trip was during these late night times together too).
By Meghan Farr3 years ago in Wander
Giving back in Uganda
My late best friend Lindsay Hawley had dreamed of initiating a sustainable sewing program in Tijuana back in 2016 when we looked at sewing machines and materials as she excitedly talked to an organization down there about empowering the women currently living in the Tijuana dump. Burnt by yet another person that did not appreciate her efforts, The project was shelved, and Lindsay passed in 2017 before it was able to go anywhere. It was something incredibly close to her heart though, as she cared so much about giving women a sustainable opportunity to build their own future. So when I was contacted by a woman from Uganda later that year called “Angel” on behalf of her organization “Destiny Wings” via facebook, I was struck by the similarities in their missions and motivation. There was no doubt in my mind that was the project I wanted to promote. But after some time back and forth, I waited to talk to Angel via skype and hear their Village needs and suggestions. There is no coincidence when I tell you her 20 page pdf on a sewing program she already had prepared was sent soon after.
By Kelly Pantaleoni3 years ago in Wander
10 Days in Iceland
Iceland was far from the first country outside of my own that I had visited. It was mid-May, months into my gap year, and my family had gone on holiday abroad even before I saved up enough to send myself travelling. But Iceland was the first country that I visited with a purpose that went beyond sightseeing and relaxation; I was going as a volunteer, and I was incredibly excited.
By Typethreewriter4 years ago in Wander
Kindness Across Countries
I am a donkey. Well, I am as stubborn as one, at least. From a young age, I had always wanted to go on a mission trip to provide aid to those in third-world countries. I had tried to go to Mexico several times, but the political turmoil there prevented me from being allowed to go throughout my teenage years.
By Rayna Ibarra4 years ago in Wander
The 10 Best Reasons to Volunteer Abroad
Everyone that has volunteered abroad has shared stories about how it’s changed their life and they are so happy they did it. If you’re unsure about working hard in a remote location when you’re abroad instead of having fun drinking and sitting on the beach, we’ve gathered the top 10 reasons why you should take the step to volunteer abroad. Everyone has a different reason for doing it, but we guarantee some of these will speak to you and make up your mind.
By Katherine Rundell4 years ago in Wander
Pros & Cons of Living & Working in Hostels
Sometimes things backfire on you when you least expect it. And for me, it was definitely unexpected, but at the same time, awesome that I found out about this. If there's anything I regret about this, it's that I wish I took the chance sooner. Let me give you some more information on what I'm talking about in case the title just doesn't do it for you.
By Mister A S H E R4 years ago in Wander
I Visited The Kremlin
When I first began to think of going to Moscow and the counting of Rubles, the official currency of Russia, I think of Shakespeare’s famous plays. I began to imagine an ancient city, as old and quaint as my imagination can fathom. Moscow counts as a very modern city dotted here and there by relics of the hay days of capitalist reign, an impression that still lingers on her shoulder. Yet, the monasteries, which I visited and the famous cathedrals that have survived far more dramatic threats are under some kind of reconstruction. My mind’s eye can still glaze at the unbreakable Kremlin Walls and hovering Towers and the Red Square where many wonderful, and truly elaborate parades must have taken place through the centuries, watched by Czars and other great figures of the day.
By Andrew Benson Greene4 years ago in Wander
The Africa Journal
(Times are in military time.) 6/21/07 1848 - Washington/Dulles airport. First leg of trip done. The flight was good, a little bumpy leaving Denver. I have a 3 hour layover then on to Heathrow. I’m travelling with Mary F. and Lorraine S. Mary is a Nurse Practitioner. Lorraine is an RN. Mary is sweet and has gentle energy. Lorraine is a go-getter. I’m somewhere in between. I think this will be fun. Art had a hard time this morning with me leaving. I’m betting he cried on the way home. Strangely I didn’t feel like crying. I felt like it at first but was ok after a short time.
By Hilary Miminguaquay6 years ago in Wander
18 and Moving to Africa (Pt. 1)
18 sometimes seems too young to just get up and move away, especially to a third world country. Experiencing culture shock for the first time, teaching, the best roomie ever, and one crazy spoiled brat, the old me was gone! Yet if I didn't take this opportunity, I know I wouldn't be as successful as I am today.
By Ginger Snap6 years ago in Wander
Growing Up Outside
I didn't have what you might call a "normal childhood," complete with cops with AK-47s, testy border crossings, and rivers filled with snakes and piranhas. And I don't say snakes lightly. Picture a 9f t long anaconda. Or feisty black mambas. Or cobras climbing up your screen door. #JustGirlyThings
By Lorde Jacobson6 years ago in Wander