Posted by Estrella Quiroz on 11.21.19 in Blog
In the spirit of giving back this holiday season, Overseas has researched the best voluntourism opportunities yet. But you don’t need to give up comfort to help the world, pair your local volunteer experience with an ultra-lux stay with one of our featured partners. Check out our favorite experiences below:
Experience Miami in what could possibly be the best way ever. A professional shark research conservation team will show you the in’s and out’s of shark tagging while sailing Miami’s shores. Volunteers will assist in measuring, clipping, and tagging real sharks in a safe and educational manner for the entire family! Research will help track the mating, migration, and growth of sharks all around the world. Adults can also choose to spend half the day diving or snorkeling in a hands-on coral restoration project.
Where to stay:
The Ritz Carlton South Beach is set within a restored art deco landmark surrounded by lush surroundings and a glamourous past. Families can relax from a long day at sea in their ocean-view suites and utilize their full service spa for the ultimate luxury retreat.
Help restore the coral reef in the Maldives by adopting one of your own! After a presentation by a Marine Biologists, guests will name and attach corals to a rope that will then be attached to a frame below the sea. In 12-18 months when the corals have matured, guests can return and dive down to visit it themselves anytime!
Where to stay:
Nestled between a lush rainforest and white-sand beaches on a private island, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort overlooks the captivating waves of the Indian Ocean. Explore the tropical beauty and rich marine life of this serene, eco-conscious setting. After adopting your own coral, you’ll have the perfect excuse to keep returning!
Hurricane Dorian destroyed several of the Bahamas northern islands in 2019 and caused a huge loss for the entire country. The best way to restore the devastated communities is by visiting the popular islands that remained unaffected (Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Exumas). Guests staying with Four Seasons can choose a room package that includes a $200 USD donation towards medical care and restoration. Additionally, those looking to help further can prepare meals with World Central Kitchen for families in need.
Where to stay:
Experience elevated Four Seasons service with laid back Bahamian vibes at The Ocean Club in Paradise Island, one of the most sought-after resort experiences in the Caribbean. Whether it’s for a romantic retreat or family adventure, Ocean Club is ready to provide it all!
Help protect the diverse wildlife of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast by rehabilitating wildlife in the rainforest. Volunteers will get to monitor, observe and provide enrichment for the wild animals hosted at the sanctuary on this one-of-a-kind adventure with zookeepers and biologists.
Where to stay:
Where luxury meets nature—welcome to a wildlife lover’s dream. Arenas del mar is located within an 11-acre private rainforest reserve and serves as part luxury beach hotel and part rainforest safari! See all of the action nearby without having to search since there is abundant wildlife in the area.