I’ve yet to do one, but I have to tell you I am a big fan of the whole volunteer vacation thing. I particularly like the Earthwatch folks, for example. Or you can take a look over at Global Volunteers, another purveyor of volunteer vacations. But take a look at this piece from CNN about the whole “volunteer vacation” thing. You have to pay sometimes, but it’s worth it because you’re not just hanging on the beach like some daiquiri-sipping tourist. You’re fully engaged.
But sadly, these trips aren’t cheap. Costs for one- to three-week Global Volunteers projects range from $650 to $2,595. In 2004, the average price for a one-to-three week Earthwatch project was $1,850, with projects ranging in price from $800 to $3,500. Travel expenses to the group meeting point are not included for either organization. Still, do it if you can. What a way to travel.