march-2012

THE BUZZ | BIG QUESTION
“Where can
I do volunteer
work?”
WHO DOESN’T love ove the
warm, fuzzy feeling you get
from helping others? Rachel
Morgan-Trimmer, founder of
thecareerbreaksite.com, suggests three
short-haul holidays with an altruistic bent.
FOR GARDENERS
ZÜRICH
Project This International Voluntary
Service trip gives volunteers the chance
to enjoy the great outdoors in the
foothills of the Alps, while learning about
forestry and biodiversity.
Work Spend your days in the picturesque
canton of Neckertal, taking in lungfuls of
delicious Alpine air while clearing areas
of forested terrain so that 800 species of
local plants can fl ourish.
Spare time Immerse yourself in the
rural vibe with a little hill walking, or take
advantage of the blissful peace and quiet
with a good book.
From €180, see ivsgb.org. Neckertal is an
hour’s drive from Zürich airport
22 | TRAVELLER
FOR ANIMAL LOVERS
ATHENS
Project Join Global Vision International
for a two-week trip to the sunny shores
of southern Greece, helping to protect
loggerhead turtles in one of their most
important nesting sites.
Work Who wouldn’t enjoy spending
time with these incredible creatures
every morning, surveying and recording
information about them, guarding eggs
and helping hatchlings travel to the sea?
Spare time Afternoons and evenings
can be spent basking by the Bay of
Lakonikos or lapping up the lively vibe of
local harbour towns.
From €1,194, see gvi.co.uk. Mavrovoúni is
2¾ hours from Athens airport
FOR PHILANTHROPISTS
BRUSSELS
Project Volunteers are welcomed
at FEDASIL Centre, in the suburb of
Rixensart, to help and support refugees
through work and play.
Work Helpers take an active role in
the daily life of the centre, organising
activities for both adults and children,
including arts and crafts, sports, music
and games.
Spare time The centre is a 40-minute
train ride from central Brussels, and
within walking distance of Lake Genval,
cinema and shops.
From €215. For more information, see
concordiavolunteers.org.uk. Rixensart is
a 25-minute drive from Brussels airport
PHOTO © GETTY