Whether you’re a young person taking a gap year or an older person looking to bolster your credentials, volunteering abroad has never been so popular or so available. Whatever your inclination in life, experience of living in another country and its culture working with those who need help is a valuable experience.

Disability shouldn’t be a barrier to such endeavors, yet volunteering requires precaution, effort and research in order for your health to be preserved and your fulfillment and enjoyment of the role maximized.

As well as dispelling stereotypes, people with disabilities can bring both inspiration and a new perspective to everyone they encounter. Showing others that where you go in life is largely dictated by your attitude and will rather than the condition of your body is a great attribute disabled volunteers can demonstrate.

The right agency, location and insurance

Some agencies specialize in assisting the disabled. Others will work on your behalf to find projects that suit your needs and desires by soliciting other organizations.  Given that both the search and potential positions must be tailor-made, it is worth beginning the process at least a year before you’d like to set off. Enlisting the help of family or your carer in the search will relieve the burden, whilst discussion will narrow down potential destinations and jobs. Short-term placements have grown hugely in the last decade; nowadays you can volunteer from as little as two weeks all the way up to two years.

If you happen to volunteer in a first world country with good healthcare and transport, then a range of issues are solved there and then. Long distance places such as Japan and South Korea offer superb amenities, healthcare and accessibility for disabled individuals but can be expensive. Closer to home the nations of Spain, Italy and Greece offer both a healthy climate and shorter travel distance, and these countries are expanding opportunities to disabled volunteers. If you aspire to an affinity with a certain culture or language, this should also play a part in your choice.

Insurance is vital. Sometimes agencies will take care of this for you, or point you to a company that will cover a wide range of conditions for a fair rate. Length of time covered will also affect the cost. In the EU insurance can be a smoother process if you apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which likewise allows for certain expenses to be refunded on returning to the UK.

Essential preparation

You should secure enough medication to last you for the duration of the post. Some medications abroad are available without a prescription. Once you are sure of a given country you can investigate this. If you need to consult with your GP, it is best to be polite and concise with your request as doctors tend to work on a tight schedule.

If volunteering in a non-English speaking country, it is at least useful and sometimes necessary to study the language. Resources such as beginner’s books can be found cheaply online. Whether or not you are visually impaired audio courses such as Michel Thomas are very useful. If you have trouble walking, a mobility aid suited to the environment can make that bit of difference.

After you’ve decided where you’d like to go and what you’d like to do, making a list of requirements is essential. These are things other than the usual travel itinerary of proper clothes, plane tickets and sun cream. If you use a wheelchair, you’ll need to be based in a place with good accessibility such as even ground and ramps. If you’ve skills, experience and things you enjoy, applying for a post relevant to these can help your application and make the task easier.

Transportation should be available and accessible. Some countries will require immunization shots which can be arranged via your GP. Many countries outside the EU require UK residents carry a visa. Bathroom and bedroom facilities in your accommodation should suit your needs. Distances to clinics, pharmacies and hospitals should also be noted. If you have allergies, checking the local diet can be handy. Brainstorm with those around you to help your checklist develop to meet your needs.

Once things are set in stone, you might find yourself liaising with international charities for suitable equipment such as a proper bed or shower seat to be delivered to your place of stay. Advice concerning your placement can also be sought from these organizations.

Finances

If you are in receipt of benefits then you should investigate conditions surrounding travel abroad. Many benefits will continue to be paid but require notification if you expect to be outside of the country beyond a certain length of time. It may be necessary for you or your carer to notify social services ahead of your journey. If you have a personal assistant, it is possible for them to apply to have their travel costs covered so they can fly out to see you.

In the scenario that there are outstanding costs not covered by the hiring agency you can apply for grants to cover your accommodation, travel and living costs. Often these can be sourced from a variety of charities, many of which will need you to make a case for the funding. Often however you’ll meet a representative who will guide you through the process and fill out any forms with you. Grants often fall under the umbrella of local initiatives specific to your region, but there are also wider schemes. Having a stock e-mail to inquire can yield more information, as can a simple phone call. In any event you should have some spending money for luxuries, as such expenses will not tend to be covered by grants.

Conclusion

Since you read this it means you’re at least considering volunteering. If you’re enthusiastic then please don’t stop here! Volunteering abroad when you’ve a disability can seem daunting at first and certainly isn’t easy. Yet if you persevere, take things step-by-step and seek assistance you can get there. Afterwards the potential in finding a new job or even more volunteering elsewhere is huge. Not only does accomplishing this set a fine example, it shows others that with willpower, strength and teamwork, anybody can do anything they set their mind to. Whether you seek advancement in your career or simply a sense of accomplishment, volunteering abroad proves to others determination, willpower, initiative and strength. Disability needn’t be an obstacle to attainment in life.

Useful links

Martyn Sibley, a disabled volunteer, details his time spent volunteering abroad: http://disabilityhorizons.com/2012/02/martyn-sibley-overcoming-my-disability-to-volunteer-abroad/

Everything Is Possible – http://www.everythingispossible.eu/

Leonard Cheshire volunteering – http://www.lcdisability.org/?lid=3094

The beauty of Thailand is definitely unbeatable and there is always something about it that appears to be like an image anchored in a dream. Warm-coloured Thailand is far from being a dream and it can become as real as you want it to be, even if you can’t afford to spend your entire lifetime savings. In the end, it all depends on your choices and on what you are looking for in this entire trip.

Kho Phi Phi, Thailand (Creative commons)

Thailand: From Your Airport to Heaven on Earth 

Thailand cannot be compared to anything else out there. Right in between the rich and extremely diverse Indian culture and the more Westernized ideas, this is a place that seems to be torn out of Heaven and nothing less. From the moment you start looking for flights from London to Bangkok, you know that you are making the first step into bringing dream into real life and into blending them together in a location that is as real as your home is.

The moment you will step foot on Thai soil, you will be amazed. The Bangkok airport itself seems to be torn between tradition and contemporaneity and you will have the chance to get a taste of what Thailand is really like. The amazing décor of the airport will be the greatest welcome message you could ever get from this country itself.

Startling Thailand (Creative commons)

Explore, Learn and Keep with You

Thailand is a jewel of the world and it will have something to offer for every kind of traveller out there. It literally has hundreds of attractions only in its capital city, Bangkok and if you want to explore further, the sky is the limit when it comes to the amazing things you can see and experience beyond Bangkok’s borders.

If you are looking into infusing yourself with Thai spirituality and beauty, then the Temple of Dawn (or WatArun) will definitely be one of the first things you will want to see. There is nothing like it in the entire world and everything about this place will leave you in absolute awe: gold and gods meet together for a feast in this great temple of Thailand.

And if you are looking for adventure, the Escape Hunt Experience amusement park in Bangkok will be absolutely great. Fun, interactive and extremely entertaining, this is a unique experience you will most likely not get the chance to live anywhere else in the world. A game of mystery, enjoyment and learning – this is what you should expect from this park!

As a matter of fact, this is what would describe the entirety of Thailand best as well and you will want to keep its memory with you for as long as you live. Your experience in Bangkok is something you will not be able to describe in words, but something you will keep in your mind and in your soul.

If you’re searching for the ultimate in long haul holidays, yet also for a destination that boasts culture and charm, then a trip to Mexico may be just what you are looking for.

What to do

From relaxing on one of the picturesque beaches to enjoying the sights and sounds at one of the area’s famous festivals, Mexico certainly has something to suit all. If it’s adventure you’re after, then exploring one of the areas many archaeological sites, such as Tulum, is a must.

This particular part of Mexico is home to an abundance of Mayan culture and history. In fact, Tulum’s walled city was one of the last cities to be inhabited by these people.

Swim with dolphins

If you’ve always dreamt of swimming with dolphins, then Mexico is a popular place to partake in such an activity. Mexico holidays with Direct Holidays are a great option for those travelling with children as swimming with bottlenose dolphins is an experience they’ll never forget.

One for the water sport enthusiast

Mexico is home to an array of beautiful beaches. Many of these beaches host a number of water sports, including kite surfing. The best place to kite surf in Mexico is Playa Maroma as it’s here that you’ll find the perfect wind conditions for such an activity.

Although this sport is a challenging one, it’s certainly worth a go.

One for the history buffs

Those who enjoy learning a little about an area’s history and culture, as well as relaxing by the beach, will enjoy a trip to Valladolid. This impressive city is part of the famous Yucatan Peninsula – home to an abundance of architecture, as well as many natural wonders.

One of the main attractions here is the freshwater CenoteZaci – a sacred Mayan sinkhole that provides easy access to many of the area’s must-see caves. Those willing to unleash their adventurous side will certainly enjoy spending a day or two here.

The best holiday resort

For many, the preferred holiday resort in Mexico is Cancun. This area boasts the best of both world, including a handful of picturesque beaches, an abundance of water sports, restaurants to suit all tastes and upbeat nightlife.

If you’re travelling with both children and young adults, this is an ideal spot to visit.

It was our final evening as we gathered around a small table in our lodge. The students took turns talking about their favorite memories, locations, and activities, as we passed around the bandana one final time before cutting and dividing it. I looked around and couldn’t believe the changes I saw in these young adults. Their features, still engraved in my memory, were exactly the same as 3 weeks ago, yet their mannerisms and conversations had drastically matured. Each student had become an individual in just 3 short weeks, something that takes teens years to accomplish.

Growth and maturity are just two outcomes of student educational tours with Chill Expeditions. EarthConnect, our summer service learning opportunity for teens, is a dynamic summer abroad experience that goes beyond camp or your typical student tour. Each program dives into the intricate layers of history, geography, politics, agriculture, culinary traditions and natural environments that create such a unique culture in each country. The expansive knowledge gained, rich connections made with both peers and locals, and the incredible adventures experienced turns teens from mundane experiences to enriching their childhood and beyond.

Tours that focus on Eco-immersion give pupils the opportunity to truly explore. In Costa Rica our program visits one of the most biologically diverse places on earth, while working hand in hand with a local biologist researching dolphins and frogs. We hear his stories of how he became fascinated by his back yard, the Gulfo Dulce and primary rainforests, his neighbors, and the dolphins and frogs that surround him. We become an active participant in his research project while soaking in the extreme beauty that surrounds us. We leverage the relationships that our team, along with Costa Rican communities, has worked hard to create, to build an experience of teaching, listening and giving that builds a foundation for students to maintain in the future.

In Spain, stay with local Andalucian families as we become a part of their families. We walk to school with our brothers and sisters and cook with the moms, while learning about the importance of food in the Spanish culture. We take advantage of being outdoors in the mountains and rivers, which is a large part of the Spanish lifestyle, and getting behind the scenes of important cultural components such as cuisine and music.

In Ecuador, we connect with a group of local teens while exploring the country side by side. Discover the meaning of teamwork as we travel six days without stepping foot in a car. Our feet, bikes and canoes will be our modes of transportation! Breathe in the fresh air of the mystical cloud forests and share stories with our peers on what life is like as an Ecuadorian versus American teen.

Student educational tours and summer programs are the best ways for teens and young adults to step into a different reality, later reflecting on their own situation at home. Three years have passed since my first summer experience with teens. Through staying in touch with the students that traveled on EarthConnect, the impact the experience had still stands strong. One student traveled to a school in the Bahamas to pursue his deep interest in biology and conservation, which was sparked during his time in the Gulfo Dulce. Another student is leading community service projects in his hometown using the sustainable model and procedures he picked up in Costa Rica. It is these experiences that make Chill Expeditions team members so passionate on what we do.

Crawford Hill is the owner and director of Chill Expeditions, an educational travel company focused on cultural immersion. An expedition leader, former biology teacher, and educational innovator, Hill has been guiding students and adults on wilderness adventures since 1974. Over the years, Hill has led thousands of students and families on experiential learning trips to Costa Rica, Belize, the Galapagos Islands, Peru and Spain. Hill revels in the opportunity to be able to work with students and families across the country with the world as his classroom.

If you’re looking for a holiday that’s a little out of the ordinary, then you should look no further than Turkey. This beautiful country will charm sun seekers, history lovers and those who just want to enjoy an extraordinary experience.

The Antalya region in Turkey

One of the best resorts to visit for your Turkey holidays is the stunning city of Antalya. This Mediterranean city is perfect for all generations and can offer entertainment for the whole family. The city is sometimes called the Turkish Riviera since it is an established holiday resort but the old town and the surrounding landscape have still retained their fascination for visitors over the centuries.

Modern sports against an ancient backdrop in Turkey

If you’ve ever wanted to learn scuba diving or try any other watersports, Antalya is home to many diving schools where you’ll learn this new skill from professional PADI instructors. Imagine being able to explore the wonderful fish and other underwater marine life for yourself.

As you surface from the sea you’ll be greeted by some of the most ancient and stunning mountains in this part of the world. You can always leave Antalya’s Roman harbour on a very modern speed boat and just take a tour of the local islands.

Istanbul – the city between two continents

This city once lay at the heart of the Byzantine Empire and its position on the banks of the Bosphorous is quite literally where east meets west. Modern Istanbul is famous for its markets, its beautiful mosques as well as the ancient palaces of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

To really experience this extraordinary city, take a trip down the Bospherous and marvel at the spires of the city’s important ancient mosque, the Haghia Sophia. If you have the time to explore Istanbul, then a trip to the Grand Bazaar is imperative.

Try not to pay the asking price if you do want to do some shopping, haggling is mandatory here and it’s easy to make yourself understood.

Beautiful beaches in Turkey

Turkey’s most westerly neighbour is Greece and if you want to spend some time sunning yourself in glorious surroundings then go to Bozcaada.

This small island on the Aegean claims that it was the home to the Greek fleet during the time of the Trojan War. Thankfully no warships are visible today – only small family run restaurants, wonderful local wine and the ideal place to come for total relaxation.

This luxurious 15 day cruise starting in Amsterdam and finally arriving in the mysterious Budapest on the luxurious “Space ship” is a once in a life time experience that should not be missed. While slowly winding its way down, the European river cruise will allow their pampered guests to experience some of the most fascinating cities in the world. There is a host of included activities to keep even the most active guests occupied. This floating boutique cruise is limited in the number of guests on board to ensure that their service levels are unmatched.

The all-inclusive prices cover every detail and ensure some exclusive activities for the pleasure and enjoyment of the privileged guests. Every detail right down to flights, port charges and drinks is included in the price. No hidden surprises at the end of the trip.

Winding down towards Germany the historic Dusseldorf and the Rhine gorge will delight the guests and reward them with spectacular views. Enjoying a medieval banguet in the famous Marksburg Castle on the banks of the Rhine is a spectacular and unique event.

Sitting in your private balcony, watching the sun set on the beautiful Rhine is another highlight that guests can fully enjoy. What more can you ask for?

Budapest (creative commons)

Dining on board

Dining on board this floating hotel is a culinary delight. The meals prepared by renowned chefs are complimented with the best international wine selection. All beverages including the mini-bar are complementary.

Catering and providing for this selected few guests allows the trained staff to provide only the best and impeccable service. Under the leadership of expert cruise directors and local guides, the guests will experience the area like never before.

Nuremberg

Visiting the famous site of Nuremberg can be followed by some local bratwurst and good old German beer. Further down, the visit to Passau and Melk is highlighted with a tour of the Benedictine monastery. Local guides and the ever present cruise directors will ensure that the trip is both educational and fun.

Vienna and Budapest

Vienna gives the guests the opportunity to enjoy a Viennese concert with ballet and the beautiful sounds of Mozart and Strauss to bring back memories of Europe at its best. Budapest allows a final pamper in the famous Thermal baths to recall the experience of a life time.

With its spectacular fireworks display on the banks of the river Thames and massive parties, London is of course an obvious choice for a New Year’s Eve celebration. However, for those seeking an alternative, there’s a wealth of possibility outside the UK’s capital.

In Edinburgh, thousands of revellers will take to the streets to celebrate Hogmanay, singing Auld Lang Syne and enjoying a street party of epic proportions. For a spot of Scottish tradition, there’s the world’s largest outdoor ceilidh, while the annual ‘Concert in the Gardens’ will this year see the Pet Shop Boys perform, supported by The 1975 and Nina Nesbitt. All these New Year’s Eve festivities will be preceded by a torchlight procession on 30th December, with more than 30,000 people expected to attend.

For those hoping to spend the night in warmer climes, the southern hemisphere hosts some excellent parties. The fireworks and party in Sydney, Australia are well-renowned, but for something a little different, Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is an attractive option. The city has a festive atmosphere in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve as the competitors of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race arrive, with people gathering at the waterfront of Battery Point to welcome the sailors. Then, on 31st December, the city hosts the 25th anniversary edition of the annual Taste of Tasmania NYE bash, featuring two sets of fireworks, music, and delicious locally produced food and drink.

A little closer to home, New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam is a feast of music, champagne and deep-fried pastry snacks called oliebollen. At De Oosterdok, in front of the city’s Maritime Museum, a giant sing-along has been organised before the official countdown to midnight. To start off 2014, numerous parties will be held around the city – the largest ones will be at the Nieuwmarkt, Museumplein and Damplein. Alternatively, the night could be enjoyed on a rented boat on one of Amsterdam’s many canals.

To get to any of these locations, there’s no easier way than using a British Airways American Express credit card. Not only will you receive Avios points to put towards your next flight for almost every pound spent using the card, but other benefits include automatic membership of the British Airways Executive Club – giving you great perks like priority boarding and access to airport lounges to make your next trip extra special.

Casinos hold a lot of appeal for professionals and for those who are just starting to discover the appeal of the games of chance. Whether you are up for a game of high stake poker, slot machines with huge jackpots, or an exciting play at the roulette tables, it would be awesome to choose a casino which is not just a great venue for a change of luck but also a place where you can relish the ambiance. These days, finding a casino that looks like a vacation spot is not difficult but if you are looking for suggestions as to the best stops, here are some of the best places to check out.

1. Ibiza Gran Hotel, Ibiza, Spain

For party goers and those who are looking for an exquisite island adventure in Europe, Ibiza is the perfect stopover and the casino here is definitely a good one. The nightlife in the island is definitely exuberant and the gambling joints offer an experience in its own right. The Ibiza Gran Hotel which houses Casino de Ibiza is a sophisticated venue for a casino and it is a great place for a change in scenery if parties are starting to be a bit boring for your tastes. With its perfect setting that overlooks the Mediterranean and the Old Town, you would have a pretty background while trying your luck on the tables and on the slot machines. The full service spa and the indulgent suites would surely be a great way to unwind before or after you hit the casino.

2. The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino, Las Vegas, USA

A gambler at heart would surely be at home anywhere in Las Vegas with the sheer number of places to play a game of chance but if one is looking for utmost indulgence, The Palazzo is the perfect venue for it. This casino happens to be a sister property of another popular casino, The Venetian. This all-suite hotel has boutique-like qualities that are inspired by casinos in Europe. Any gambler would relish the palatial décor and the tasteful ambiance together with the high limit poker tables and the race and sports book.

3. Place du Casino, Monte Carlo, Monaco

High rollers on a holiday would find Monaco as a great venue to appreciate the scenery and to gamble. The Place du Casino is connected to one of the best lodgings in the country, Hotel de Paris. Plus, the wine selections and the cuisine are incomparable. Once you’ve had your fill, you would definitely fancy a trip to the setting of Casino Royale, the first James Bond novel, which is none other than Casino de Monte-Carlo in Place du Casino.

4. Marina Sands Bay, Singapore

One of the most popular things about the country is the picturesque building where decadence has been turned into reality. The infinity pool which is perched on top of this towering building is just one of the attractions of this building. The productions in the Marina Sands are definitely extravagant and those who are up for games would not be disheartened as there are over 500 tables and 2,300 slot machines to try your luck on.

5. Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, USA

Another US city which is popular for its casinos is the Atlantic City. With grandeur as the defining design of the decoration and the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, there’s much to look forward to in this city. Those who are looking for fun can easily double their money. You can toss some coins on the slot, explore the action on the gaming tables or join some high rollers on a poker game.

Gaming would be an exciting addition to any vacation and there are tons of casinos where you can win some money and at the same time indulge in various pleasures including dining, drinking and simply watching the view.

London is an expensive city to visit, but if you are organized enough, your London holiday could cost you half the money one usually spends in this thrilling metropolis.

London Cab (Creative Commons)

Central accommodation is not always a very good choice. There are different opinions on this: on the one hand, if you choose a hotel located in the city centre, you will pay less for the transportation. On the other hand, getting accommodation in the heart of the city can be very expensive. If you are visiting London for a long weekend, you’ll probably have to consider getting accommodation close to the airport, so as not to pay too much on your transfer from the hotel to the airport on your days of arrival and departure, especially if you happen to travel with heavy luggage. Money is not always the problem when it comes to getting to the airport. There are plenty of risks one has to take when deciding to get a bus to the airport, as this might get delayed because of traffic jams or even technical problems.

For the experienced traveler it is clear that the best place to get accommodation is the closest possible to the airport, considering how long you’ll be staying and how much you’ll be paying. This way, upon landing you can be in your room in about half an hour and then the real fun may begin. If the hotel assures the transfer that is even better, as you have no worries and no costs to bear. And after leaving your luggage at the hotel, getting to the very center of the city is a piece of cake in a metropolis like London, with a powerful net of public transportation.

It goes without saying that the price for exquisite services and an incredible level of comfort can be a lot more advantageous, so at a fraction of the price you can feel like a sheik in his palace, instead of paying a fortune for a small room without proper amenities, in the city centre.

Another advantage of staying in a hotel outside the city centre is the fact that you will actually get some sleep at night and be ready to enjoy the next day. City Centre hotels are usually noisy and unless you are up for a non-stop-party kind of holiday, you’ll want something quieter.

In London and in surrounding cities in the United Kingdom, musical emphasis is often placed too much on chart toppers and pop-rock royalty. In recent years, as more new bands have cropped up, a few festivals have gained reputations for either having the biggest pull or the smallest niche in music, and some others are more known for a carnival than head-bopping atmosphere. Here are some unique players in the music fest scene.

V Festival

Noted for its commercial nature compared to other festivals, The V Festival has the kind of pull many club DJs dream of: getting Beyonce, Kings of Leon, Calvin Harris and Eddie Izzard to headline different stages of music and comedy fare, as it did in 2013. For a taste of the same or even better next summer, book early V Festival Tickets as Brit, Ivor Novello and Q Awards winner Emeli Sande will be taking centre-stage.

Held annually in the penultimate weekend in August, V Festivals runs at two parks simultaneously, which share the same bill; artists perform at one location on Saturday and then swap on Sunday. These locations are Hylands Park in Chelmsford and Weston Park in South Staffordshire.

The Saturdays performing at V Festival 2009 (Creative Commons)

Glastonbury Festival

Glastonbury needs no introduction, and as the largest green-field festival in the world, it is yearly attended by more than 175,000 people. Since its small initial edition in 1970, the Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts has taken place near Pilton, Somerset; and also incorporates festivals around dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret and other arts.

Bestival

A four-day music festival held on the Isle of Wight, Bestival is relatively new, only turning ten next summer. Organised by DJ and record producer Rob da Bank and his wife Josie, it was originally envisioned as an offshoot of the Bank’s Sunday Best record label and club nights. It was voted the best major UK festival in the UK festival awards 2010 and again in 2012, whilst picking up Fans Favourite Festival in 2011.

Inflatable church wedding at Bestival 2010 (Creative Commons)

As a boutique festival, Bestival draws quirky crowds and ideas. It is considered more alternative and diverse, offering a large selection of vegetarian foods,fancy dress themed days, a dressing up tent and a ‘secret stage’.

Besides social and environmental causes, Bestival launches odd and innovative ideas, including an inflatable church where people can get married. The “Breastival” is a yurt for mothers and their breast-feeding children, while the local Women’s Institute provides refreshments for affordable prices, unlike certain closed commercial festivals.