20 trips to change your world
BUFFALO TOURS Founded by a doctor, this Vietnam-based operator lists a range of volunteer vacations, from working with disabled children to medical treks in the country’s tribal hinterlands. It also works closely with the local communities where it operates, making sure they benefit from tourism. 84-4/828-0702 or 848/827-9170; buffalotours.com; trips from US$765 per person.
Seacolog y; 1-510/559-3505; seacolog y.org; eight-day trips from US$2,360 per person, all-inclusive; August 11–18, 2009.
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ANDAMAN DISCOVERIES This nonprofit assists villages in southern Thailand that were devastated by the 2004 tsunami. Participants can teach English, replant mangroves or run arts workshops for children. Short eco-tours are also available. 66/879-177-165; andamanadiscoveries.com; trips from Bt2,800 per person. GRASS ROUTES Operating in the coastal Indian state of Orissa, this outfit runs cultural and wildlife tours that closely follow the standards of sustainable tourism (i.e., using local transportation, employing local guides). 91-675/225-0560; grassroutesjourneys.com; trips from US$800 per person. —J E N N I F E R C H E N 110
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COOK ISLANDS
Get to know this lush South Paci c archipelago while lending a hand. Volunteers give children reading lessons; clear trails in the bird sanctuary; or assist scientists at the local Whale Research Center. Rarotonga island’s crystal-blue waters are ideal for snorkeling, and its volcano is a good hiking spot, as long as you have a seasoned guide. Trip Tip Don’t miss the
GRASSHOPPER ADVENTURES Based in Bangkok, this small company offers bicycling and trekking tours throughout Asia as well as several volunteer trips in Laos. Along the way, guides point out local charities and projects that travelers can donate their money or time to. 66/879-295-208; grasshopperadventures.com; trips from US$430 per person.
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Westland National Park— a World Heritage Area covered by vast ice elds. Trip Tip Watch the waves from the Tasman Sea exploding through Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks at high tide. Luxury Level Guests stay at the stylish George Hotel (thegeorge.com) in Christchurch and the intimate Old Convent Bed & Breakfast (theoldconvent. co.nz) in Kaikoura.
Global Volunteers; 1-800/487-1074; globalvolunteers.org; two-week trips from US$2,595 per person, allinclusive; departures year-round.
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NEW ZEALAND
Spend two weeks in a rugged, but ecologically diverse landscape. Led by a seasoned naturalist, search for the elusive Brown Kiwi on Stewart Island and trek to
Natural Habitat Adventures; 1-800/543-8917; nathab.com; from US$7,495, all-inclusive; January 26–February 8, 2009; February 16–March 1; March 16–29; November 2–15.
MEXICO & CENTRAL AMERICA
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Colonial arches in Antigua.
MEXICO
Luxury Level Local families host volunteers in homes around Antigua; you’re guaranteed a safe and comfortable stay, since Global Vision screens all host families.
Spend nine days migrating with native monarch butter ies. Head west to Parque Nacional Eduardo Ruiz in the city of Uruapan. The highlight of the trip is the climb to El Rosario, a thriving butter y sanctuary where millions of the delicate creatures inhabit a 3,000meter-high protected forest. Trip Tip On your free day in Mexico City, arrange a visit to the ancient pyramids at Teotihuacán, 48 kilometers northeast, and, en route, the Basilica of Guadalupe. Luxury Level Although the hotels are simple, most are family-run and located in colorful colonial houses from the 1800’s.
Global Vision International; 1-888/653-6028; gviusa.com; from US$650 per person, allinclusive; trips year-round, starting every Saturday.
G.A.P Adventures; 1-800/7087761; gapadventures.com; US$845 per person, meals not included; trips scheduled January–February 2009, departing every Thursday.
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GUATEMALA
Get a dose of colonial culture in Antigua and teach children how to read in nearby villages. Every morning, Global Vision staff takes participants to these towns, where the company has helped more than 450 kids. Trip Tip Swing by Frida’s (5 Avda. Norte 29; 502-9/7820504; dinner for two US$25), for taquitos and burros.
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Responsible Tour Operators in Asia
Saturday morning Punanganui market, where stands over ow with tropical fruits. Luxury Level The KiiKii Motel has simple yet clean rooms, with kitchenettes and a pool outside.