BootsnAll Travel Community

hi everyone,

i've decided that if graduate school prospects don't work out this fall, i'm planning to volunteer somewhere in south america and do some traveling as well. i've been doing research and have found several potential volunteer sites via volunteersouthamerica.net (thanks). problem is, and i'm sure for many, is the $$$ issue. i've barely started saving but i was wondering around what range was sufficient for staying put in a volunteer site in central america for about 3 months. afterwards, i would like to go to go to northern brazil, bolivia, peru, and possibly argentina. i'm also thinking about doing a second volunteer job in either peru or argentina. overall, i expect to be gone no longer than a year.

i anticipate that the description above is still rather vague but i'm equally seeking a vague price range. also, how helpful is lonely planet's south america/central america on a shoestring? i'm looking to leave in july or august (depending on funds).

on a separate tangent: peace corps was an option but i'm fearful of the 2+ yr commitment. i know time goes by fast, but i have a sick aunt at my house and i don't think i feel comfortable leaving the country more than a year. is this fear legitimized? or am i prohibiting myself from a worthwhile experience?

I could help you with info about Peru, my husband and I live off of 500USD a month, everything included. But you'll have to see how much the volunteer organisation charges you to particpate.