Independent Travel in Europe
Europe....Your Way!
Tips and resources for independent travellers
Volunteer Work
Are you searching for travel experiences that will offer opportunities to make a difference, gain valuable experience, make new friends, and possibly learn a new language? Whether you are planning on taking a gap year, career break, or perhaps retiring from the work force, finding a volunteer position might be the right option for you.
Opportunities for volunteering in Europe are available in a variety of fields and for people of all ages. If you're ready for the challenge, there is likely to be a volunteer opportunity waiting for you.
Factors to consider when researching volunteer opportunities:
Duration - How long can you afford to be away from your job, studies, or any other activities? If you're married or in a long-term relationship, will your partner be travelling with you? If not, is a short-term volunteer position a better choice? Would both of you be comfortable with the idea of you being away for several months, a year or perhaps longer?
Field - Do you want to share your expertise in a particular field or do you want to dive into a new field? Would you like to combine both scenarios?
Money - Even though your food and lodging are likely to be provided, you will still need money for air fare, and possibly trains and/or buses. You'll also need money for personal expenses and for any day trips/excursions that you plan on taking during your stay. Make sure you understand what will be provided before you accept a volunteer position.
Volunteer Opportunities
Global Volunteers International Service Programs - Includes opportunities in Portugal, Romania, Hungary, Poland, Italy and Greece.
Volunteer opportunities worldwide in a variety of fields. Search by keywords and dates.
World Wide Helpers - Changing Lives and Transforming Landscapes.
Directory of low/no cost international volunteer projects.
Directory of low/no cost international volunteer projects.
Offers opportunities for volunteer vacations or volunteer and language-learning holidays.
Living arrangements - Will you be comfortable with the accommodations provided? Will you be comfortable sharing accommodations, if need be.
International volunteer opportunities, including programs in France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Romania and Spain.
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. WWOOF offers volunteers lodging, meals and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles.
Help Exchange - directory of B&Bs, backpackers hostels, lodges, ranches, organic farms, non-organic farms and sailing boats who offer short-term volunteer opportunities in exchange for meals and lodging.
Volunteer archeaological digs in Romania.
International volunteer positions for medical doctors and nurses.
Directory of international volunteer and job opportunities in a variety of fields.
You may want to think about keeping a journal and taking photographs during your stay overseas - at some point, you might be able to sell your travel articles and photographs. If you have any concerns about what you're allowed to photograph, ask the project organizers.
Portal for volunteer work, service and vacations overseas.
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Go Overseas - Teach, Study, Volunteer Abroad
Map of Europe - CIA World Factbook