Is it possible to make a career out of volunteer work overseas.

Such as living in Costa Rica and working for Save the Turtles.

Or working as a mountain guide in Guatemala.

Build a school in African Country.

Teach english in Brazil.

Have fun/

Is it possible to just leave home and work abit in farmstays and do volunteer work for environment around the world as a full time career.

Even though not much cash?

Who are people on here that have done it? What are your experiences?

do you think one can do it for a many many years?

What were the pros and cons?

Have a read of Gigi's blog - especially the earlier entries. She's been volunteering around the world full-time... and I'm sure there are many more!

I've looked a bit into it. Just not sure how sustainable it is. Depending on your financial circumstances, you might be able to do it for a few years. But many, many years would be hard.

Here's the thing....if you're lucky, you'll find a place that will give you room and board in return for volunteering. But that gives you no money for going out, traveling around the area, internet cafes, unexpected expenses, etc. Or for traveling from one volunteer gig to the next. So all of that has to come out of your savings.

So to make it work, I think you need to have an ongoing money stream.

Hi,

I live in Jamaica and organize a volunteer vacation program so I work a lot with volunteers. I would definitely suggest that you do not travel without adequate funds.

Volunteering is not cheap and inaddition living overseas can very expensive. You will need monies for recreation, transfers or even tours to know the country you are staying. These add up. Medical expenses is another item to consider and without adequate funds you could even die before finding monies for emergencies. Lastly, in these times of recession, it is even more prudent to travel with adequate funds as many free services are strapped for cash and are not able to provide some basic services as before.

Maureen Wright-Evans
http://www.jamaicaadventuresecrets.com