Below are some links for volunteer travelers. Take a look at my Links section to view some useful websites to consult before heading abroad.
If you have any travel stories, pictures, advice, tips, etc. that you'd like to share, contact me and I'll post them!
Can you recommend a good airline/hotel booking site?
I usually go for Kayak, as it pieces together the least expensive flights and hotels by consulting several other travel resources.
How do I know where it's safe to travel?
The CIA World Factbook lists everything you need to know. You also should keep updated on current events, check the CDC and with your doctor on whether you have the correct vaccinations, and use common sense while booking a trip. As with any place you go to, stay smart and alert and you'll be fine. For general travel safety advice, check the U.S. Department of State's website.
The CDC website recommends I get yellow fever shots, but my doctor doesn't offer them. Help!
Don't panic! Sometimes your clinic just doesn't offer the vaccinations you need, and the CDC knows that. So they've compiled a list of places in your area that administer any inoculations you'll need. It's advised that you get your shots four to six weeks before travel -- please note, most insurance companies don't cover travel vaccines, so be prepared for a hefty bill depending on where you're going!
Where can I read up about where I'm going?
I've already mentioned the CIA World Factbook and the U.S. Department of State, both of which have fantastic compilations of what you should note about your destination country. If you want to read some more touristy stuff, I'd recommend your host country (or city!) Wiki. Plus, you can always go to a bookstore or Amazon and read official travel guides.
How do I get my medications while traveling?
Usually you can contact your doctor and pick up all of the prescriptions you will need for the amount of time that you will be abroad. Unfortunately, many insurance companies won't cover the cost of your medications if you're picking several up at once.
An alternative is to have someone pick up the prescriptions for you each month and then mail them to you. Some pharmacies overseas will carry the prescriptions you need, though oftentimes you will be in a remote location with little access to a pharmacy. Speak with your doctor and with your host organization to figure out the best option.
How do I keep my belongings safe while I'm abroad?
Some general advice: Don't show off your money, electronics, Passport, or jewelry; put your valuables in a safe if it's provided; put a small ski lock on your suitcase/bag; and carry a bag that zips or clasps shut firmly. Some more advice can be found here and here. To view a quick list of my travel safety tips, click here.
More questions coming soon as I write them up :-)
This alligator is happy you visited!
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