10 Volunteer Programs Abroad That Secretly Make You Money
Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience other cultures while impacting people’s lives. Most people think of volunteering as a purely altruistic act, but there are programs that give you a little something in return.
These programs allow you to give back without spending money. They may not make you rich, but they could cover the costs of your global exploration!
Teaching English in South Korea
So, if you’re a native English speaker, you can apply for paid positions teaching in public schools in South Korea through government programs, such as EPIK (English Program in Korea). There are many programs that offer free housing and airfare reimbursement beyond a monthly salary. Secondly, the cost of living in Korea can be low, especially outside of Seoul, so you can save a lot of your earnings.
Organic Farms work in New Zealand
WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is a great way to live on a farm in New Zealand. Farmers give you food and accommodation, sometimes a small stipend. It’s not a get rich quick scheme, but you get to live in a beautiful place for very little, while learning about sustainable agriculture. Plus, it’s a way to meet locals and fellow travelers.
Help at a Hostel in Spain
There are many hostels in Europe (especially in Spain), that have volunteer programs in exchange for free room and board. However, some do it a step further and provide a stipend for your time or even tips. If you’re a social butterfly who enjoys meeting new people, this kind of arrangement is ideal. Reception, organizing events, or even running bar crawls, you’ll be helping out and enjoying the laid back Mediterranean lifestyle.
Costa Rica Environmental Conservation
Famous for its rich biodiversity and eco-friendly mindset, Costa Rica is the place to go if you want to see the best of the continent. Some of the volunteer programs that focus on conservation will give small stipends or provide all living expenses. Some projects you could be involved in range from turtle conservation to reforestation. Fun work and your meals and lodgings being covered means you can bask in the tropical greenery without overthinking about money.
Au Pair in France
If you love children and want to move abroad, becoming an au pair in France is a great way to live abroad. You’ll stay with a host family, take care of their kids and in return get room, board and a weekly stipend. Living in France also means eating croissants and baguettes, practicing your language skills and enjoying French culture up close without much expense.
Teach Diving in Thailand
If you’re already a certified diver, you can volunteer as a diving instructor and get paid for it – it’s like a mecca for travelers. If you’re not already qualified then many dive schools in places like Koh Tao will have opportunities to teach and some will even provide the training to become an instructor. Not only will you see Thailand’s underwater wonders, but you can make money doing it.
Work at a Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa
There are many wildlife sanctuaries all over South Africa, and most rely on volunteers to care for and rehabilitate animals. Many of these volunteer programs here include accommodation and meals, and some pay stipends. No matter which big cats, elephants or birds you are helping with, it’s unforgettable.
Teach Yoga in Bali
If you are a certified yoga instructor, Bali is calling. Volunteer yoga teachers are needed in many retreat centers and resorts of Bali and although some of them will just offer free accommodation and food, others will pay a small stipend or give free classes to improve your skills. It’s the perfect way to share your passion, live in a tropical paradise, and meet like minded people from all over the world.
Marine Conservation in Fiji
According to ResearchGate, Fiji has one of the best crystal clear waters in the world which hosts vibrant marine ecosystems that need protection. Volunteer programs for marine conservation provide free accommodation and food, and some pay stipends for longer term stays. You’ll help with coral reef restoration, marine species monitoring and community outreach.
Work Exchange on Cruise Ships
It sounds strange, but there are programs where you volunteer on a cruise ship in exchange for room and board and travel. However, these roles are often, by definition, unpaid but some cruise lines do pay stipends or tips. Whether you’re helping out with events or entertainment, your time will be spent sailing to many destinations for free, while you will not have to spend money on food or accommodation. Plus the travel experience is unbeatable.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.