Have you ever dreamed of traveling the world, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures? If so, then there are lots of opportunities that would fit your desires. There are networks of people who are looking for volunteers to help them with a variety of tasks, from childcare and petsitting to farming. In exchange for your help, you will be given food and accommodation. Workaway travel experience is an amazing way to travel on a budget and meet locals while you experience a new culture.
If you are interested in volunteering abroad, then you should check out my other articles in the “International Opportunities” section. There, I provide information about programs, networks, and communities that are free of charge to enter and allow you to travel with purpose.
I haven’t been yet on a Workaway experience, but it’s been on my list for 3 years now. I tried Couchsurfing which turned out to be an amazing experience. Until then, I’m letting this article here for those who want to start! I believe international volunteering is the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture and meet people from all over the world. In this article, you can find out more about the Workaway network, the benefits of traveling with work away, and the ways to get started!
What is Workaway?
Workaway is an online platform that connects volunteers with hosts all over the world. Through Workaway, you can find short-term or long-term volunteer opportunities in various countries. As a volunteer, you can help out with tasks such as childcare, farming, hospitality, teaching, and more. In exchange for your help, you will be provided with food and accommodation.
Workaway is great for backpackers and digital nomads who are looking to travel on a budget and meet people from other cultures. You can volunteer in different countries and gain valuable skills and experiences.
What are the benefits of using Workaway?
The main benefit of using Workaway is traveling, gaining valuable skills, and meeting people from other cultures. Volunteering through Workaway gives you hands-on learning on workaway travel experience that will help you develop skills such as communication, problem-solving, and organization. You can also explore different countries and cultures, while still having the safety of knowing that your accommodation and food are taken care of. Working away is also a great way to save money.
Workaway fee
When you volunteer with Workaway, you have to pay a small fee upfront to have access to its community, but your accommodation and food are typically provided by the host. This means that you can save money on food and accommodation, while still having the opportunity to explore and meet interesting people. Additionally, volunteers can participate in local events, festivals, and activities, so you get even more out of your experience.
While Workaway offers free accommodation and food, you are responsible for your travel expenses. This includes transportation to and from the host’s location, as well as any additional travel expenses while on the placement. To make the most of your limited budget, you may want to consider traveling during the low season, choosing cheaper transportation options, and seeking out free or low-cost activities in your free time.
How to get started with Workaway?
Getting started with the Workaway travel experience is easy and only takes a few steps.
First, you will need to create a Workaway profile to help others find you. Make sure to include information about your skills and interests, so hosts can easily find the perfect match.
Once your profile is created, you can search for opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Most hosts will want to chat before you arrive, so make sure to reach out to them and get to know each other.
The last step is to apply for the position. They will usually expect volunteers to stay for at least 2-4 weeks, but you can always find shorter or longer-term opportunities.
What to expect when using Workaway travel experience?
When using Workaway, you can expect to meet interesting people, gain valuable skills and experiences, and explore different cultures. Hosts may ask you to help with chores related to their business or home, such as gardening, painting, and cleaning. You can also volunteer at festivals, help out with childcare, or teach English.
Volunteers can use the Workaway app to find opportunities in a wide variety of fields, including but not limited to:
- Agriculture and farming
- Construction and renovation
- Teaching and Education
- Eco-tourism and Conservation
- Hospitality and tourism
- Childcare and babysitting
- and many more
Workaway safety considerations
It’s important to prioritize your safety. While Workaway takes measures to ensure the safety of its users, you should still exercise caution and research your hosts before agreeing to a placement. Reading reviews from previous volunteers, asking for references, and communicating with hosts before arrival can help you feel more comfortable and informed.
How to make the most of your Workaway experience?
If you want to make the most of your Workaway experience, make sure to be open to new experiences. Many hosts are happy to teach you about their culture and language, so make sure to take advantage of those opportunities. Make sure to communicate with your hosts regularly, so they know what to expect from you. Tell them about your background and your interests, so they can give you tasks that are best suited for you. Finally, be flexible and open-minded during your stay.
Traveling unleashes the possibility of connecting with strangers, which allows an individual to grow from many points of view, changes perspectives, and makes us consider new paths.
Wrapping up – About workaway travel experience
Trying international volunteering is a great way to travel, gain new experiences, and meet locals from different cultures. You can find volunteer positions all over the world, in many programs. I like how Workaway’s philosophy of cultural exchange is based on the idea that travel and cultural exchange can be powerful tools for personal growth and understanding.
The Workaway program aims to connect volunteers with hosts in different cultures, providing an opportunity for individuals to learn about different ways of life, customs, and traditions.
Workaway similar platforms
While Workaway is a popular platform, there are other similar platforms available for volunteering abroad. Worldpackers and Twaming are two examples of platforms that connect volunteers with hosts in exchange for food and accommodation. Each platform has its own unique features and community, so I recommend you research and compare different options before choosing a platform to use.
