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JOURNEYS magazine
Volume III, 2016
ARGENTINA
Argentina, known as “the land of many
contrasts,” offers a plethora of natural
and cultural experiences. Its cities are
world class and its landscapes are
divine, from Iguazu Falls to the
Patagonian Glaciers. But “the land of
many contrasts” has another side — its
economy, and it’s been on a roller
coaster ride since 2001. Unstable and at
times chaotic, Argentina has faced
repeated economic collapse, draining
its middle class. Poverty is a big problem
with all the symptoms. Regardless,
Argentinians persevere and their
country is truly magical. There are
volunteer opportunities here that are in
need of teachers, construction and
unskilled labor, as well as environmental
and wildlife conservation.
KENYA
Mention the country of Kenya and most
people think of safaris. Kenya’s photo
safaris are legendary, offering Kodak
moments that last a lifetime. Ecotourism
is also an important part of Kenya’s
economy, second only to agriculture.
Over 80% of Kenyans derive their
livelihoods from agricultural related
activities, most barely scratching a
living as small farmers while they cling
to their tribal customs and traditions. Of
Kenya’s 45 million or so inhabitants, an
estimated 40% live in severe poverty.
Malnourishment, high infant mortality,
low life expectancy, alcoholism and HIV/
Aids are rampant. Volunteers are very
much needed here and are particularly
helpful in the areas of construction,
teaching and childcare, environmental
and wildlife conservation.
CAMBODIA
Fertile forests, exotic jungles, vibrant
cities, pristine beaches and historic
landmarks like Angkor Wat have made
Cambodia a popular tourist destination.
Cambodia is also one of Asia’s most
impoverished and underprivileged
countries. Poverty, illness, lack of
education and hidden landmines are
still big problems, yet its people remain
friendly, proud and welcoming. Haunted
by the aftermath of bloody civil war
that ended in 1975 and mass genocide
that followed, the average Cambodian
still struggles today to survive on a daily
basis. Volunteer opportunities are
numerous in Cambodia, so if you can
help as a teacher or lend a hand in
marine conservation, your efforts will
be truly appreciated.
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is known for its wild game
and nature preserves, boasting the Big
Five — elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and
leopard. The country is also known for
white sandy beaches, fertile vineyards,
the Great Escarpment and the legacy
of Nelson Mandela. Since ending
apartheid in 1994, South Africa has
made great strides to end inequality.
Still, there’s a wide divide between rich
and poor. Unemployment is high and
poorer communities struggle with
alcoholism, domestic violence, HIV/
Aids, and other social issues. No matter
your background or skill level, volunteer
opportunities are plentiful in South
Africa and many areas are especially in
needed of assistance with teaching,
healthcare, environmental conservation,
law and human rights advocacy.
COSTA RICA
Costa Rica is the most stable and
progressive country in Latin America,
with a rapidly developing economy
and friendly, peace loving people. Its
terrain is rugged and wild. Over 750
miles of black and white sand beaches
line its Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Inland, thousands of square miles of
rainforests, tropical jungles, majestic
mountains, soaring waterfalls and
dozens of volcanoes lie in wait. Costa
Rica is still very much a developing
country. Many Costa Ricans live in very
basic conditions, away from tourist
areas. Volunteer teachers are in high
demand here, as are volunteers for
wildlife conservation within Costa
Rica’s National Park System.
Contact your local travel professional
to find out how you can help.
Agent Recommended
Help Needed:
Voluntourism
Destinations
Written by Joe Boone
For many of us, travel is essential for living a happy life. Another is the satisfaction of giving back. Voluntourism
combines the two and can be a life changing experience for people of all ages and skill sets. While some
experiences involve getting your hands a little dirty, there’s usually time explore the surroundings and local
culture. Here are five scenic voluntourism destinations all in need of a helping hand.
