Sunday, November 9, 2008

Peace of Mind: What Insurance Will You Need for Volunteer Work Overseas

When you're planning a volunteer services trip abroad, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the here and now--your passion for the particular cause you're supporting, essential details like what to pack and where to sleep, and how to raise the funds you need to get there. With so much on your mind, it's no wonder many potential volunteers fail to contemplate more mundane aspects--like insurance.

While it may seem like a tedious and (hopefully) unnecessary thing to consider, your medical insurance coverage should be high on your list of checklist priorities before embarking on volunteer travel abroad. Many overseas volunteers assume that if they have an insurance policy in the United States, their card will be valid wherever they go, but that's not usually the case. In the event that you are stricken with a sudden illness or medical emergency and need to visit a doctor or hospital while volunteering or studying abroad, most local policies don't cover treatment. Although many foreign hospitals will admit and treat an ill or injured American, they won't authorize discharge until all balances are settled.

Before departure, be sure to contact a local agent to see if your medical insurance policy is effective outside the country. If not, you may need to open a supplemental travel policy to cover you in the event of a medical emergency during your volunteer work. You'll also need to make sure it covers any evacuation fees necessary to transport you quickly back to the United States and to the medical facility of your choice in the event of a catastrophe.

Although it may be tempting to forgo the travel insurance in favor of more immediate needs, especially when you're operating on a tight budget, a supplemental policy should not be regarded as a luxury when volunteering abroad. If you're working with a volunteer program to plan your trip, they should be able to assist you with opening a policy. If not, you can contact an insurance agency directly and inquire about their travel insurance programs. The ensuing peace of mind will be worth every penny.

About the Author

Mark is the editor of various articles about volunteering abroad for http://www.travel2help.org whose main focus is to provide assistance for developing countries through the creation of volunteer opportunities abroad.

What Vaccinations Will You Need for Volunteer Work Abroad

Nothing is as detrimental to an international trip as a sudden illness. It can be hugely disappointing, not to mention scary and dangerous, to be sidelined with sickness during your excursion. Some countries require that foreigners receive certain vaccinations before they can visit. As each locale has different sets of guidelines, be sure to contact the Center for Disease Control to get the specifics for your destination.

There are three basic categories of vaccinations:

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Routine Vaccinations: These are designed to immunize you from diseases that are prevalent in many foreign countries, but not as common in the United States. There are different routine vaccinations recommended for adults and children. *

Recommended Vaccinations: Although not required, these vaccinations are strongly recommended by the Center for Disease Control to prevent international travelers from contracting infectious diseases abroad. These can vary based on the location you're visiting, your age, your level of physical fitness, and the time of year. *

Required Vaccinations: Travelers visiting certain South American countries are required to receive vaccinations for Yellow Fever prior to their trip. You will have to present a certification of vaccination in order to cross the border.

Below, we've compiled a list of things you can do to help ensure that you stay healthy during your travels:

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Get a physical. Schedule an appointment with your general practitioner at least a few weeks prior to your trip. This will allow plenty of time for you to receive and process any necessary vaccinations. The doctor will also evaluate your overall health and will discuss any potential risks you might face during your travels. *

Know the dangers. Conduct thorough research of your destination to identify any known threats, including poisonous insects and possible contamination of food and water. *

Protect the little ones. If you're traveling with infants or children, keep in mind that they may require different immunizations and health considerations. Also, if you're a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, specific precautions may apply. Be sure to ask your doctor. *

Make sure you're covered. Contact your health insurance company to determine if your policy will protect you during your international travels. If not, you might need to purchase specialized travel health insurance.

It will be nearly impossible to make a difference during your volunteer excursion if you're bogged down with illness. By seeing your doctor, receiving any relevant vaccinations, and learning as much as you can about potential risks in your destination country, you'll be more likely to stay strong and healthy for the duration of your journey.

About the Author

Mark is the editor of various articles about volunteering abroad for http://www.travel2help.org whose main focus is to provide assistance for developing countries through the creation of volunteer opportunities abroad.

What to Bring: Packing Tips for Volunteer Abroad Trave

When asked what they would do differently if they could re-live their first international excursion, most volunteers would likely answer that they'd have packed lighter. When traveling abroad, it can be tempting to bring as much stuff as possible. After all, it's hard to predict things like weather, recreational activities, and customs of dress. But if you bring too much, you run the risk of slowing yourself down with bulky, heavy luggage, a serious impediment when using public transportation or walking for long distances. Plus, you'll stick out like a sore thumb among the locals.

Follow these quick packing tips to ensure an easy, unencumbered journey:

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Always bring less clothing than you think you'll need. A few versatile ensembles should suffice. Opt for neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched. Instead of bulky coats, pack clothes that can be layered for warmth. Expect to wear the same few pieces repeatedly--you can wash garments by hand if needed. Roll clothing instead of folding to conserve precious cargo space. 2.

Keep valuables at home. You don't want to run the risk of misplacing or damaging them during your journey. Plus, traveling with costly items, such as flashy jewelry or name-brand accessories, can imply that you're flaunting your wealth and make you a target for theft. 3.

Don't forget the first-aid. It's a good idea to keep medical staples, such as bandages, antiseptics, cold packs, and sting and bite treatment, in your carry-on bag. If you take regular medication, be sure to keep that close at hand--but make sure it's legal to bring any necessary prescriptions into your destination country. 4.

Label everything. Mark each piece of luggage with your name, address, and phone-number to help ensure that any lost bags find their way back to you. 5.

Secure valuable items. Once you've reached your destination, stash your cash, credit cards, and passport in a protected place, such as a hotel safe. In the event that you do need to carry any of those items with you, try to avoid bringing them all at once, and stow them in hidden pockets rather than in visible backpacks or purses. 6.

Keep cash to a minimum. Instead, bring one or two credit cards and traveler's checks. 7.

Save room for souvenirs. Remember that you'll be coming home with more than you brought. If you pack your bags to the gills, you won't have any room to spare for the precious treasures and mementos you amass during the trip.

The biggest challenge you'll face when packing for your international trip is determining what you won't need. Keep in mind that what seem like dire necessities at home may be dispensable once you arrive at your destination. Above all, the most important things to bring are enthusiasm, inquisitiveness, and an open mind.

About the Author

Mark is the editor of various articles about volunteering abroad for http://www.travel2help.org whose main focus is to provide assistance for developing countries through the creation of volunteer opportunities abroad.

Coming Home: Ways to Make an Impact after the Volunteer Abroad Program Ends

We've all heard about culture shock--that disconcerting , fish-out-of-water feeling that comes with newly visiting a foreign locale. Many international volunteers don't realize they can experience that same phenomenon upon returning home. Once you're back on familiar ground after a volunteer excursion, you may feel a little disheartened that the trip is over and disconnected from your charitable cause.

The good news is, you don't have to stop volunteering just because you're back on native soil. We invite you to explore our tips for getting adjusted and staying involved after you've returned.

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Give yourself time to acclimate. Just as you needed a transition period when you first arrived at the foreign locale, there will be an adjustment period once you've arrived back at home. Alleviate any feelings of detachment by spending time looking through journals, photos, and mementos of your time abroad. *

Cultivate newly formed relationships. Stay in contact with the people you met during your journey. As long as both parties are interested and willing, long-distance friendships can prove to be rewarding and mutually enlightening. You might also try reaching out to local communities of people with their roots in the country you just visited as a way of staying connected with the culture. *

Stay involved locally. Although nothing rivals volunteering abroad, there are likely plenty of organizations in your area that would welcome your time, passion, and knowledge in furthering a particular charity or cause. *

Share your story. A good way to prevent your experience from fading is to speak at public venues, such as schools, churches, or volunteer organizations. Recognizing the audience's reaction to and appreciation of your efforts can be highly rewarding. *

Turn your experience into a career. One possibility is to tie your particular passion into your work. For instance, if you found it rewarding to assist orphans in Bolivia, you might consider finding a job working with disadvantaged children in your area. Remember: need knows no boundaries.

When returning home from your international travels, be prepared for local people, places, and things to seem different to you--not because they've changed, but because you have. Allow yourself some time to process the "reverse culture shock," and do whatever you can to continue to make an impact from home.

About the Author

Mark is the editor of various articles about volunteering abroad for http://www.travel2help.org whose main focus is to provide assistance for developing countries through the creation of volunteer opportunities abroad.

Six Sensational Sights to See at the Sunshine Coast

After a one hour drive north of Brisbane, you will discover the beautiful Sunshine Coast. You will find it an amazing place to holiday whether driving through the hinterland touring the Glass House Mountains, the Mary Valley or the Blackall Ranges or along the 100klm stretch of beaches. Beautiful towns such as Caloundra, Kawana, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum Beach, Noosa and Rainbow Beach along the scenic coast offer great holiday accommodation of resort apartments, hotels, or Bed and Breakfasts. Enjoying the shopping boutiques, warm sandy beaches, alfresco dining places or just the relaxed lifestyle will ensure that you have a memorable holiday on the Sunshine Coast.

1. SURFING If you love surfing, then the swell off Point Cartwright and Alexandra Headland will be just for you.

2. ADVENTURE If it's adventure that you want, try the camel rides on the beach, jetski tours or skydiving.

3. SHOPPING Maybe you love shopping! The Sunshine Plaza in Maroochydore has something for everyone and gives you an exciting shopping adventure. My sister and I enjoyed it.

4. FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT You can take your family to the famous Australia Zoo, Aussie World and Underwater World. Driving through the hinterland can take you from the Australia Zoo up to the iconic Ettamogah Pub which has a quaint little shopping village. It is right next to Aussie World which has over 30 rides and games that everyone of all ages will enjoy. It will be an all day experience just at the Australia Zoo, so you may want to divide the entertainment up over a few days. When my sister and I and her boys did a tour of these areas, we did it over a three day period.

THE AUSTRALIA ZOO is located just 45 minutes north of Brisbane on the Glasshouse Mountains Tourist Drive, and is the home to some of Australia's most amazing and unique wildlife, and a variety of interesting animals from overseas. Your visit to the home of "THE CROCODILE HUNTER", the late Steve Irwin, will definitely amaze you and make your visit memorable. There are daily feeding shows from 10am through to 3:30pm every day. You can enjoy a tasty meal also from the food court.

AUSSIE WORLD is located one kilometre north of the Caloundra exit on the Bruce Highway and the best way to get there is drive, but you can take a train to Landsborough and bus from there to the Rustic Cabin picnic grounds or Chancellor Park. From here a taxi can take you to Aussie World and the Ettamogah Pub which is situated nearby. At Aussie World rides commence at 10am and open from 9am to 5pm, but they close Xmas Day. Aussie World is planning the best Australia Day event you've ever seen on the 26th January 2009.

THE ETTAMOGAH PUB is a quirky icon that has a 1927 Chevy truck on top of its bright red roof. It is open every day from 9am until late but closes on Christmas Day. Bluey's Bar and Grill, located upstairs in the Ettamogah Pub, is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11am to 8pm but is closed on Christmas Day.

UNDERWATER WORLD, Queenland's largest Oceanarium and aquarium is situated at Mooloolaba. Be entertained by over 5,500 sea creatures such as seals, sharks, sting rays, and otters. My nephews thoroughly enjoyed being photographed with a beautiful seal after watching its playful antics.

5. HINTERLAND On your drive through the hinterland, discover the pretty town of Montville,which is home to pottery studios, art galleries, antique stores, and fashion houses. Another 20klms north through Nambour is Yandina. You will find the Ginger Factory there where you can have an interesting tour and buy gingerbread men and ginger candies made from quality Buderim ginger.

6. MARKETS Just 10klms north of Yandina is Eumundi which has the most fascinating and very popular markets operating every Wednesday and Saturday. These markets are well worth a visit but be early as the parking lots become full fast. It becomes a very interesting experience with local entertainers keeping the kids amused, and more than 500 great produce stalls selling beautifully constructed crafts, organically grown produce, and a large variety of other amazing products. Wide pathways shaded by towering heritage listed fig trees make walking amongst the stalls and old quaint buildings a very pleasant experience. My sister and I and her children had a ball.

You can unwind, relax and enjoy yourself at the coast or in the hinterland on the Sunshine Coast. Maybe you will love the area enough to find the nearest Real Estate agency.

About the Author

Patricia Lilly holds a Diploma of Hospitality and has worked in the industry for over 30 years. Online Accommodation and Tours-Australia is the business she has developed using her extensive experience and knowledge. Patricia ensures safe and secure accommodation bookings online. For the Sunshine Coast Qld area, there is a choice of over 220 holiday venues, so click here=>http://www.australia-accommodation.info/sunshine-coast.php

A Guide To Breathtaking Globetrotter Activities In Leeds

Leeds is a large and prosperous city, which is centrally situated in the North of England. The City is renowned as the commercial and art gallery capital of the North and has long been known for its extensive manufacturing industry, which is still thriving.

Leeds has a few breathtaking buildings, including the sensational Corn Exchange , which cuthbert brodrick designed in 1864. This gorgeous structure is now an rock mall & its grade I listed.

As well as its sensational structures, Leeds also has a few gorgeous greenery & superb places of interest & historic sites.

From the cutting edge fashion found in the Victoria Quarter to the excellent designer shops of The Light and the independent boutiques of the arcades, Leeds offers visitors plenty of wonderful shopping opportunities. Whether you are looking for a different outfit or even an amazing birthday present, you are sure to find it in this playful city.

If you are not keen on shopping, you'll be pleased to know that Leeds has plenty more places of interest. These include the very compelling armley mills industrial museum and the henry moore institute, which caters to the cultured tourist. alternatively, you could visit one of the city's fabulous parks or even the gorgeous nelson mandela gardens, which are located in the heart of the city.

These attractive gardens were constructed to celebrate the millennium at a cost of £12 million and were funded by leeds city council and the Millennium Commission. The gardens won a prize at the 2004 Chelsea Flower Show, although they were damaged this year because of a huge water fight that was organised on the social-networking web site, Facebook.

As well as exciting shopping and culture, Leeds also boasts amazing fashion. From exclusive bars and rustic pubs to gay venues & impressive night clubs, the city really boasts something for all of us.

If you'drather have an early night, you'll be pleased to learn that the city also boasts some exciting luxury hotels, including the leeds hilton. These hotels offer a real treat, so you can't fail to get a exciting rest and a amazing breakfast.

Thank you for browsing our guide to leeds! Whether you want to go on a shopping marathon or an interesting day trip, we think you will agree that Leeds has something for everyone to enjoy.

About the Author

Karri Madelline is a local freelance writer who used to be a Manchester companion and aLeeds companion. Nearby there are many Leeds model agencies.

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