Travel plan idea blog

Information on traveling with Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity operates in many countries, including Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Vanuatu and many other locations.

I read somewhere that Habitat for Humanity is launching "Operation Home Delivery," to help provide assistance and rebuilding opportunities in New Orleans and elsewhere along the Gulf Coast in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. However, I was unable to find information on this at the Habitat for Humanity website.

I did learn that they operate in all 50 US states. I also read their FAQ and learned that this is a "holiday with a difference" and that no construction knowledge or skill is required. You do get a unique experience:

Global Village trips are different from usual tourist trips. Host Habitat affiliates offer teams an insight into their localities that normal tourists rarely witness.

Itineraries are balanced with plenty of work, and plenty of recreational activities and free time.

Traveling and working in unfamiliar places, often overseas, is challenging as well as rewarding. Plans change and work may progress more slowly than expected. Global Village participants need to have the right mind-set: a flexible attitude and commitment to their team leader and fellow team members.

However, this is a bit more than volunteer work as you also have to make a donation: "Global Village participants each make a donation to the host affiliate in addition to covering their own travel, living and sightseeing costs."

Posted by James Trotta at March 6, 2006 10:25 PM