Each year more than 10 million travelers engage in volunteer initiatives while vacationing, with voluntourism continuing to be an increasingly popular way to combine travel with making a positive impact. Many of these efforts focus on sustainable and environmental causes, offering the chance to leave a lasting mark on the places they visit. Voluntourism can provide a much more authentic look at a country than the normal vacation, and travelers can experience a new culture from a different perspective. The volunteers replace rest and relaxation with a chance to spend time with the locals.
Aruba, a Caribbean utopia, boasts world-class beaches, idyllic weather, delectable cuisine and a welcoming culture. This “One Happy Island” offers multiple opportunities for visitors to contribute to the preservation of the island’s delicate ecosystem. From hotel volunteer programs to community-driven events, travelers can engage in meaningful initiatives that support Aruba’s local communities and environment. One of the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, CEDE Aruba’s Aruba Doet is an island-wide volunteer event held on May 16-17.
Through these efforts, travelers can help sustain the well-being of Aruba’s flora, fauna, land and water and create memorable, impactful experiences during their stay. Voluntourism projects for visitors include beach and nature cleanups, mural paintings, gardening, decorating, renovating and building.
In addition, Aruba has implemented a $20 Sustainability Fee for visitors arriving by air to the island. This fee will support a number of projects aimed at enhancing and improving sustainability efforts on the island.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba’s Do-Good Program inspires guests to support the local community and environment in Aruba. Initiatives include:
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Aruba offers:
Of course, Aruba isn’t only about voluntourism as the island bursts with activities throughout the year. Its crystal clear depths are home to vibrant reefs and wrecks just waiting to be explored by snorkelers and scuba divers. There’s nothing quite like discovering your own little treasure. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Kite and windsurfers harness world-class winds. Golfers will discover that Aruba’s spectacular golf courses, stunning scenery, perfect weather and luxury resorts make it one of the Caribbean’s best golf getaways.
A foodie’s paradise, Aruba’s vibrant restaurant scene affords guests the opportunity to sample delicious cuisine inspired by over 90 unique nationalities. Savor the rich flavors of the island’s keshi yena, and taste an authentic side of Aruba prepared with love. You can eat fresh fish straight from the sea, share a glass of wine at sunset with your toes in the sand or indulge in classic Italian in the shadow of a century-old lighthouse.
No matter your reason for visiting Aruba, setting aside a few hours for voluntourism will surely make your visit that much more fulfilling.