When going for a trip abroad, you need to consider things such as jet lag and the change of time zones. If you are a volunteer, you need to make sure that you have a relaxed flight and be ready to get involved as soon as you arrive to your destination. It would be wise to plan in such way, that you are able to arrive in the evening to allow you some time to rest.
If it is your first time volunteering abroad, it is important that you ensure you have done some thorough preparation for your trip. For example, running out of money halfway your trip to volunteer Costa Rica can be a real bummer. You do not need to carry several suitcases of clothing and other personal effects; you can use a small bag. This will help you limit the amount of things you pack; plus you will be working most of the time thus you do not need any fancy outfits and shoes. However, it would be wise if you have a way of receiving money whenever necessary. If you are planning on going for a volunteering trip aboard, the following are some guidelines that can help you to be fully prepared:
• Volunteering Organization
When visiting a country that you have never been to before, you need all the help you can get to find your way around. When preparing for a volunteer Costa Rica trip for the first time, you need to find the best organization to work with. Choosing a good organization makes all the difference for the success of your trip.
“I had no idea what to expect for my time in Costa Rica before I came. As soon I was picked up from the airport, I knew I was going to have a good time with uVolunteer” Emily Krueger.
You can use past reviews to find out just how good an organization is before you decide to pay for their services. However, you should never go with an organization that is not efficient just because of low prices. You need to make your trip count and this can only be done if you are at your best.
• Proper Packing
The first thing that you should focus on when going on a volunteer trip abroad is your packing. You do not want to travel with a suitcase full of clothes you will never get to wear. It is better to carry a backpack and not a suitcase; this will force you to reduce the things you pack. For example, a volunteer Costa Rica trip will not require much, you just need a few outfits for work. Simple but comfortable shoes are a must. Checking the weather forecast of the region you will be visiting can be of great help in deciding which clothing to pack.
• Language Barrier
The other important thing that you need to focus on is the language barrier. Being able to communicate in the natives tongue will be offer a great deal of help. If you are to go for a volunteer Costa Rica project, learning some Spanish beforehand could be of great use. Whichever the country, you should at least be able to greet and introduce yourself.
“Being conversational in Spanish was definitely a plus; it definitely made it easier to communicate with the other volunteers and children.” Katharine Skuback.
If you are traveling abroad for the first time, having someone hold your hand can be of great help. If you are on a volunteer Costa Rica trip, an organization will help make your movements around much easier. When working alone, it could be difficult to always find transport on time or even a safe place to stay.
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