Questions and Answers
I don’t have enough money Jane. How do you manage to travel for so long?
Is it free?
Is it safe?
ÂIs there an age limit?
Examples of volunteer work I have done in the past
Manila, Philippines
2017 was my first volunteer experience through this website. Every weekend we were teaching kids in the slum area of Metro Manila. Our tasks were very basic: just make the kids happy through arts, storytelling, and playing fun games.
One of the most important things that happened to me during those days was that I met the most amazing people. I didn’t only gain experience, but also friends that taught me to be more open-minded about other cultures.
Hanoi, Vietnam
2018 I got accepted as an English teacher in Hanoi with the exchange of a free bed, meals, and a motorbike. I was teaching kids in the morning and adults in the afternoon. This place was very sentimental to me because I met a family that accepted me. They opened their home for me and I became part of their family. I came as a stranger and ended up leaving with a long-term friendship.
Bangkok, Thailand
The same year I moved to Thailand as a mural artist for a week in a hostel. I didn’t like the host because she doesn’t care about me at all. No food was provided and I felt so alone in her place. Of course, shit happens sometimes. So don’t ever expect a perfect traveling experience.
One personal rule of mine. You can always say NO! if you think the host doesn’t meet your expectations. Be upfront and direct about it and move on.
Selangor, Malaysia
2019 I went to Malaysia to volunteer as a farmer. Over there I learned how to make moringa tea and capsules from scratch. The host was also promoting the importance of permaculture in his town. Not only that, but the whole family introduced to me their belief & traditions as a Muslim. For this experience it really changed my views about Islam.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
2020 This time I was not traveling alone.
Jivko and I volunteered in Costa Rica on a farm owned by a beautiful and kind-hearted European couple. They taught us about medicinal plants, sustainability, the beauty of farming, and being more in touch with nature. It was a life changing experience. It was a tough job but in exchange we got to stay in a gorgeous cabin in the middle of the jungle and eat delicious farm-to-table meals. Most importantly we met amazing people here that would forever be in our hearts. After that, we volunteered with a family in La Fortuna. Despite the language barrier we still managed to communicate with them. The couple treated us like family. They cooked a delicious meal to celebrate my birthday and even brought us to a Cacao farm so we could see the whole cacao making process.
Minca, Colombia
We then volunteered in Colombia as a painter, designer, and videographer. Yes, if you are a couple, you can register as a couple. Our accommodation was a big tent in the middle of the jungle with its own bathroom and kitchen. It was far away from the city life. All we can hear was monkeys, different types of birds, and a natural river flow. We were fortunate to be able to practice our yoga here because of another volunteer who was well educated in it.
Questions and Answers
I’m scared that maybe it’s a scam.
Like I said, check the profile of the host first. Check the feedback before applying. & If you are in doubt, move on to another. There are thousands of hosts all over the world. Always trust your gut.
So the flight ticket is free?
No, you will shoulder that. Don’t worry I am also going to give you some hacks on how to find an affordable one-way ticket.
How about the Visa?
‘Some hosts will help you to get a visa, but for me, I don’t want the hassle so I only choose visa-free countries or visa on arrival for my passport.
How much pocket money should I bring?
This is totally up to you. I personally brought 600$ when I traveled in Vietnam and Thailand and it lasted for 2months. I also have my credit card in case of Emergency.
How long I should Volunteer?
For me personally, 2 weeks minimum. It’s enough time to become comfortable and learn new things. You are always welcome to extend your stay if you really feel connected to that place but you should inform your host first.
I’m scared to travel alone because I’m a woman.
This is one thing for sure: You will never be alone while traveling. You are going to meet other solo backpackers everywhere. If you want to gain experience. I’ll recommend going first to Asia like Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia. I’m sure you will feel at home in these countries. Hostels are a great way to meet other solo travelers.Â
I don’t have any skills or talent. Maybe nobody will accept me.
Well, good news! Because you are in the right place. This website is not only looking for a professional painter, carpenter, farmer, cook, or even a photographer. Some hosts are looking for just a free-spirited person who is willing to try and learn something new. It can be as simple as how to grow your own carrots.
WHY YOU SHOULD TRY VOLUNTEERING WHILE TRAVELLING
So maybe volunteering is your thing. Also remember, Workaway isn’t only about getting free accommodation and food. It’s also about cultural exchange and learning about new ways of life. I guarantee it will change your life, but only if your mind is open to new possibilities. You are going to learn a lot! It will change your beliefs about humanity and nature. Yes, you are going to encounter many challenging experiences with some hosts. Like sometimes they are not providing food or the accommodation is really bad. But it didn’t stop us from continuing to travel. As they say – struggle is essential to growth.
Simply apply to an opportunity that catches your attention. Go explore, make mistakes, laugh, cry, learn and come back as a changed person. Volunteering will give you a sense of purpose. You will learn how to interact. It will help you deepen your understanding of other peoples lives and situations. Maybe it will help you find a new passion. Something good will happen. That time I realized that the world is too big to be tied to one place.
The task is usually 4 hours per day and the rest of the time is yours. Every weekend my reward for myself was exploring the area, eating street food, and meeting up with travelers or locals. Sometimes even the host will take you to some hidden spots.
If you’re ready! Comment below and I will share some links of the hosts in Asia and South America.
