Contents: The Working Holiday Issue
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Contents: The Working Holiday Issue
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Special section on working and playing down under • Students can be digital nomads too • Field notes from a decade of working abroad • And more...
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Latest Issue
FEATURES
The Ultimate Guide to Australian Working Holiday Visas
Preparing for your working holiday in the land of koalas and kangaroos will ensure you'll have more than one g'day.
Digital Nomadism for Students
Study abroad on your own terms and at your own pace – without enrolling in a formal program.
How to Earn Academic Credit for Experiential Travel
With the right planning, your experiential travel experiences—including volunteering at home or overseas—may count towards your degree or diploma.
The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand Working Holiday Visas
From finding work to housing, Canadians share what they wish they knew before doing a working holiday visa in New Zealand
10 Things I Learned From A Decade of Working Abroad
From plan C to safe dinner-table conversations, here are 10 things I have learned from 10 years of working abroad.
DEPARTMENTS
Letter from the Editor
Verge's Contributing Editor reflects on more than a decade of travel with purpose.
7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Studying Abroad
Lessons learned from a semester abroad in the UK.
Facts and Myths: A Guide to Regional Work in Australia
Everything you need to know about "farm work" to get your second-year working holiday visa.
Thoughts on Becoming a Global Citizen - Q & A with Author Freeman Fung
The international speaker and transformation coach grew his career through studying, working and interning abroad.
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Laura White. Laura is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Laura White, who works as a freelance producer - Canada and worldwide
Laura White got her start in television by playing dead. After offering to play a dead body for a friend’s feature, she made her first contact in the business - which quickly led to ten more. She talks to us about sending television crews around the world, gives tips on climbing the ladder in the world of unscripted television, and tells us what will get your resume sent to the bottom of the pile.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Laura. Watch the series of videos below.
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Michael Bouliane. Michael is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Michael Bouliane, who works in corporate social responsibility - Canada and worldwide
Michael Bouliane believes in being a life-long student, and is always learning and adapting to the new trends in his sector. He talks to us about working for corporate clients as well as NGOs, adjusting to Beer O’clock, and relishing the moments he gets to be in a “Robin Hood” role. With more than 15 years in the industry, he gives us his best advice on how to kickstart your career, and what he looks for most when hiring.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Michael. Watch the series of videos below.
Contents: Social Entrepreneurship - International Careers
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Careers for Globetrotters: Spotlight on Social Entrepreneurship
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Meet Rachel Faller, a social entrepreneur working in sustainable fashion. Rachel is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our Careers for Globetrotters series, which takes a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living and working abroad - and explores out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Rachel Faller, a social entrepreneur working in sustainable fashion
Rachel Faller successfully operated her no-waste ethical fashion company, tonlé for more than 15 years, splitting her time between San Francisco and Cambodia. She talks to us about being a Fulbright Scholar, becoming an unintentional businesswoman, and what it takes to run a business in Cambodia. Find out how your closet and the Great Pacific garbage patch are related, listen to Rachel’s best advice for aspiring social entrepreneurs, and find out what lesson she had to learn when she first arrived in Cambodia.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Rachel. Watch the series of videos below.
Read more...
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Nathan Reyes. Nathan is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Nathan Reyes, who works as a Protection Delegate with the ICRC
Nathan Reyes has kindly agreed to be profiled in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We are taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Nathan speaks four languages and has worked in conflict zones around the world, including a UN Peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an LLM in International Law, and a Master's in International Development, at the time of interview, Nathan was working on his third mission with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as a special delegate in Colombia.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Victor. Watch the series of videos below.
Contents: The Thrifty Traveller Issue
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Contents: The Thrifty Traveller Issue
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Meaningful travel that costs less
Study abroad for free • Top destinations to teach abroad for 2024 • How to land a destination staffing job • A guide to virtual volunteering • Minimalism on the road - Issue Text:
Latest Issue
FEATURES
Top Destinations to Teach Abroad for 2024
With more than one billion English language learners worldwide, the TEFL industry needs new teachers. The top destinations for teaching abroad in 2024.
How to Study Abroad for Free
Those who study for degrees abroad may find the bargain—and experience—of a lifetime.
How to Land a Destination Staffing Job
Travel and develop intercultural communication skills with these hands-on field positions.
A Primer on Virtual Volunteering
Why you should consider volunteer “abroad” online—and how to get the most out of online volunteer placements.
DEPARTMENTS
A Guide to Interning at the United Nations
Getting your foot in the door and making the most of a UN internship.
Becoming a Travel Ally
We can all do better to support racialized and marginalized travellers abroad. Here's how.
The Benefits and Challenges of Volunteering in Hostels
Latin America and backpacker hostels go together like bread and butter.
Becoming a Minimalist on the Road
On the perils of luggage separation anxiety and learning to let go.
Contents: Third Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Sahar Ghadhban. Sahar is the third in our upcoming series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters column. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Sahar Ghadhban, who works as a Foreign Service Officer in Canada & Russia
Sahar is the third in our upcoming series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters column. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Sahar tells about the seven-year path she took from her first internship in Algeria to getting hired as a foreign service officer. Find out why quitting her job at Global Affairs was the best thing she could have done to get her dream job, what she did after she didn’t pass her first post-secondary public service exam, and what it takes to get paid to learn Russian.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Sahar.
Read this edition >
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Doug Lau. Doug is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Doug Lau, who works as a Public Health Consultant in Kenya
Doug Lau has kindly agreed to be profiled in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Doug Lau didn’t originally plan to specialize in global public health—he majored in international relations—but opportunities led him to a specialty he now loves. He talks to us about being an Aga Khan Foundation fellow, gives us tips for making yourself valuable to a development organization, and why if you’re stood up for a meeting in Tanzania, you should head for the bar!
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Doug. Watch the series of videos below.
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Victor Mings. Victor is the latest globetrotter to be featured in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Latest Issue
Meet Victor Mings, who works as a Software Engineer in the Netherlands
Victor Mings has kindly agreed to be profiled in our new Careers for Globetrotters series. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Victor Mings has worked in Austria and the Netherlands and made the switch from aerospace engineering to software development. He talks to us about switching specialties, what he did to salvage a bad interview and land his current job, and the magic of the IAESTE internship program (and why you should Google it right now).
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Victor. Watch the series of videos below.
Contents: Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Allie Elwell, who works as a unit publicist in Prague. Allie is the first in our upcoming series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters feature issues. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Meet Allie Elwell, who works as a unit publicist in Prague. Allie is the first in our "careers for globetrotters" series of profiles where we take a look into the lives of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out how they got there.
Meet Allie Elwell, who works as a unit publicist in Prague.
Allie is the first in our upcoming series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters column. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Before she started working as a unit publicist for major television productions, Allie Elwell didn't even know the job existed. However, once she got a taste of the whirlwind of set life, she was hooked. What was supposed to be a five-week contract, has turned into four years in the industry with no end in sight. You can often find her running around on set and scheduling behind-the-scenes shoots, while chugging coffee and juggling three cell phones. She doesn't have time for sugar-coating the details, and gives us her no-nonsense take on working abroad.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Allie.
More >
Contents: Second Special International Careers Issue
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Careers for Globetrotters
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Meet Diane Tisdall, who works as a resource development manager in Mongolia. Diane is the second in our series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters feature issues. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
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Meet Diane Tisdall, who works as a resource development manager in Mongolia. Diane is the second in our series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters feature issues. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Meet Diane Tisdall, who works as a Resource development manager in Mongolia.
Diane is the second in our upcoming series of profiles in our new Careers for Globetrotters column. We'll be taking a look into the lives and backgrounds of people who are living their dream of working abroad - and find out the steps they took to get there.
Diane Tisdall lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, working for World Vision International. She is responsible for expanding private sector support for World Vision’s programmes in the region. Diane talks to us to about misconceptions, bundling up for winter, and how to take advantage of Canada’s youth internship programs.
This special issue is a series of video interviews with Diane.
Read this issue >
Contents: Fall 2015
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Fall 2015 Issue
Growing Global - article dek:
Volunteers on sustainable agriculture projects are (green)thumbing their way around the world.
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Spring
Features
Palming the Problem Off
For poor farmers In Nicaragua, palm plantations mean environmental destruction, chemical exposure—and a paycheque. Is there an alternative?
Home Free
Is there such thing as a free holiday? Maybe not, but housesitting comes pretty darn close.
Room to Grow
Organic farms in remote Costa Rica offer volunteers a model for sustainable living.
How Dangerous is Delhi?
Is it safe for women to study abroad in India? Perceptions can differ widely from reality.
Departments
In Case of Emergency
Ask these questions before buying travel insurance.
Top 5 Things Organizations Wish Volunteers Knew
Volunteer-sending organizations share the inner secrets (not really) of their work.
Verge Q & A: Working in International Development and Humanitarian Assistance
Development professional and author, Maia Gedde on what it takes to break into the field.
International Internships: What's Your Return on Investment?
Landing an international internships takes initiative—but in a global economy, the payoff is huge.
From Farmer to Farmer
Volunteers help grow food security, one farmer at a time.
Turkey, With All the Trimmings
In Istanbul, a shave and a haircut is very serious business.
Video
Reality Check: Teaching in Port-au-Prince, Haiti
A day in the life of a teacher in the Caribbean country.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Fall 2014
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Fall 2014 Issue
Galapagos: Can Travel Do More Good Than Harm? - article dek:
Why tourists may not be just another invasive species
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Features
In Photos: Beyond Ankor Wat
In shoulder-width tunnels four storeys underground, Cambodia's precious stone workers dig for that one gem that will lift them from poverty.
Galapagos: Paradise on the Brink
Tourist visits to this fragile ecosystem could soon reach more than a quarter of a million per year. Is it possible for your trip-of-a-lifetime to do more good than harm?
One Life in a Billion
When Carly Vandergriendt witnesses an accident in India, she is left wondering what the value of a human life is in a country where people aren't at a premium.
Departments
Inbound: From the Field: Editors' Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few weeks.
Packing for a Purpose
Another great reason to pack light.
Great Excavations: Volunteering on Archaeological Sites Worldwide
If you have a penchant for the past and don’t mind a bit of dirt under your nails, diggers are in demand.
The Beat of Mali
In the Sahel desert, music is the voice of its people.
Write of Passage: Working as a journalist in Thailand
Armed with a journalism degree, Mai Nguyen thought she was prepared for her internship in Thailand. But a run-in with police taught her there’s a whole new set of rules here.
The House That Friends Built
Solidarity, social justice and affordable digs in Mexico's largest city.
The Wecome Sound of Silence: Temple Stays in South Korea
Get some respite from Seoul's fast pace through a South Korea temple stay.
The Bakiga Bridesmaid
Trina Moyles had been a bridesmaid before—but never in a wedding like this.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Your Health Overseas
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Your Health Overseas
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Dealing with health conditions overseas; leaving home when you can't leave home; choosing a legit volunteer organization.
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Dealing with health conditions overseas; leaving home when you can't leave home; choosing a legit volunteer organization.
Features
How to Travel with a Pre-existing Condition
A pre-existing medical condition need not stop you from travelling. Here's what you need to know.
Facing a Serious Medical Diagnosis Abroad
Receiving an unwanted health diagnosis is never easy. But what if you're living overseas?
9 Ways to Travel Meaningfully From Home
The COVID-19 pandemic has us confined to our quarters for the time being. We've come up with a few suggestions for how to keep that travel bug alive and well.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of our favourite blog posts over the past couple of months.
5 Classic Reads That Will Transport You Around the World
A travel reading list that will help you through a pandemic.
8 Signs Your Volunteer Program is Legit
What to look for in an organization to ensure that the work you do has a positive impact for everyone involved.
5 Budget-Friendly Locations to Study Abroad
Dust-off your passport because, believe it or not, study abroad is affordable.
The Ultimate Guide to Packing Light
Lighten your load with these tips.
How to Decrease Your Travel Footprint
Planning your trip for zero-waste travel.
Contents: Unpack Your International Placement
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Unpack your International Placement
Medical Volunteerism
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Avoiding the pitfalls of international health and medical volunteer placements
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Fall
Features
Indonesia’s New Marine Ambassadors
For young Indonesians, a new land of opportunity could lie under the sea.
Do No Harm: Overseas Medical Volunteering
Volunteer health and medical placements abroad can be enormously beneficial, or terribly irresponsible. Here are five ways to avoid common pitfalls.
Farm Volunteering: How to Decode the Listings
Golden goose or red herring? A veteran WWOOFer shares his top tips for choosing a volunteer farm placement.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months.
Crowdfunding: My Trip; Your Dime
There's a big difference between getting people to pay for your wanderlust and garnering support for a worthy cause.
How to Become an Expedition Leader
Verge asks veteran guide and instructor, Jade Bielski, just what it takes to become a top-notch expedition leader.
International Volunteering for Artsies
Don't underestimate the contribution someone with an arts background can make on an international development project.
How to Find an Internship in Switzerland
For recent graduates looking for an unparalleled first work experience, Switzerland offers a wide array of internship possibilities.
Budget Airlines: No Frills Means No Frills
On the upside, we had a lovely (frantic) side-tour of Rome.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Relocate Your Office Abroad
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Relocate Your Office Abroad
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Convince your boss you can work remotely, teach at an international school, UK graduate hiring schemes, and more
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Convince your boss you can work remotely, teach at an international school, UK graduate hiring schemes, living lightly in Bolivia, backpack volunteers in Belgrade, and more.
Features
How to Convince Your Boss to Let You Work Remotely
Showing your employer that you can get the job done from any location takes planning, communication and commitment.
7 Human Trafficking Myths That Need to Be Busted
Too often, sound bytes, generalizations and misconceptions mask the true complexity of this global problem.
Preventing TEFL Burnout
5 strategies for coping with the stress of teaching in a foreign country.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months.
Q&A: International Work as a Teacher
Verge asks a veteran teacher and Head of School at an international school in Rome, just what it takes to teach at an international school.
Living Lightly in Bolivia
At a Bolivian hostel run by a Canadian mother and son team, guests learn from the locals.
5 Graduate Hiring Schemes
Finishing a degree and finding work can be a daunting prospect. These UK-based graduate schemes could give you a leg up.
Backpack Volunteers in Belgrade
As the number of displaced persons arriving in Belgrade surges, backpackers are lending a hand at refugee centres.
Showering With a Friend in Burma
A volunteer discovers that in Burma, the concept of privacy exists only for those who can afford not to share.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Navigating the Tourism Explosion
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Tourism Explosion
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Ayahuasca tourism explosion, expats displacing the locals, safe couchsurfing and more
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Ayahuasca tourism explosion, expats displacing the locals, safe couchsurfing, international work in tourism and hospitality, and more.
Features
Are You Living Abroad Like the Locals, or Displacing Them?
In cities around the world, exploding tourism and expat cash are driving prices up, and locals out.
Ayahuasca Tourism: Shamans, Charlatans and Thousand-dollar Retreats
Whether it's a quest for self-awareness, a cure for mental maladies or just the next big high, travellers are turning a traditional Amazonian healing ceremony into a multi-million dollar industry.
Why Social Entrepreneurship is Thriving in Siem Reap
Cambodia's tourism boom is helping it rebuild. A growing group of locals and expats are making sure it's done responsibly.
Computer Training in Rural Nepal
A small team of adventurers brings computer labs to remote Himalayan villages.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months: Ditching home-ownership for a life of travel; trading a soul-sucking job at home for work abroad; study abroad lessons that aren't strictly academic and how living in another country may shift your long-held sense of work-life balance.
International Work in Tourism and Hospitality
The tourism and hospitality industry is immense, with career opportunities around the world.
International Conference Travel
For academics, scholars and researchers, travelling to international conferences means sharing ideas, accessing new resources and expertise and, of course, eating free pastries.
Safe Couchsurfing
For travellers on a tight budget or anyone looking for a truly immersive experience, the utility of couchsurfing is obvious. But is it safe for solo female travellers? The answer might surprise you.
5 Ways to be a Great Couchsurfer
Appreciation, thoughtfulness and willingness to pitch in go a long way.
Pandas Are Not Cute
And other Beijing revelations.
Contents: Travel on the brink
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Travel on the Brink
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Mourning the loss of travel; Galapagos: Paradise on the Brink; The Hidden Costs of Volunteering on the Cheap; How To Work "Abroad" in Your Own Backyard
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Galapagos: Paradise on the Brink; The Hidden Costs of Volunteering on the Cheap; How To Work "Abroad" in Your Own Backyard
Features
Mourning the Loss of Travel
For many people, not being able to travel is a profound loss and the grief is real. Here's how to deal.
The Hidden Costs of Volunteering on the Cheap
A budget philanthropist gets more than she bargained for.
Galapagos: Paradise on the Brink
When travel recovers, tourist visits to this fragile ecosystem could soon reach more than a quarter of a million per year. Is it possible for your trip-of-a-lifetime to do more good than harm?
How To Work "Abroad" in Your Own Backyard
Sometimes, satisfying your wanderlust is as simple as re-discovering your own country.
Departments
The Mourning After
Volunteers in Cameroon promote widow rights instead of widow rites.
Bringing Medicine to Panama's Jungle... via Boat
A three-day river journey to a remote community in Panama's jungle is all part of the job for Floating Doctors volunteers.
One Life in a Billion
When Carly Vandergriendt witnesses a traffic accident in India, she is left wondering what the value of a human life is in a country where people aren't at a premium.
Packing for a Purpose
In case you needed another reason to pack light.
Contents: Thorny Issues in International Volunteering
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Aid Worker Care
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For the dedicated people who deliver humanitarian aid, the cost of altruism can be steep.
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Humanitarian aid: helping the helpers, the thorny issue of orphanage volunteering, questions to ask before moving or volunteering abroad, learning a language for real, learn how to teach at an international school, survive a season as a fire lookout, and more.
Features
Humanitarian Aid Work: Who's Helping the Helpers?
Working in disaster and conflict zones exacts a high mental toll on aid workers. Recognizing the fact would be a good first step.
How to Really Learn a Language
Six strategies to boost your language learning.
6 Questions to Ask Before Becoming an Expat
A veteran expat's best advice—and some words of caution—for aspiring nomads..
The Thorny Issue of Orphanage Volunteering
Well-founded criticisms tangle with on-the-ground realities. Should volunteers be part of the mix?
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months.
Andy Steves’ Guide to Planning a Weekend Excursion
Tips for organizing your ultimate study abroad weekend away.
How to Get a Teaching Job at an International School
We asked a veteran international teacher, recruiter and author what it takes to take your teaching career on the road.
Dear Aspiring Overseas Volunteer
Before you pack your bags, there's a few things I need you need to know.
Surviving a Season as a Fire Tower Lookout
How a decade of international work and travel helped me survive four months alone in Alberta's boreal forest.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Spring 2015
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Spring 2015 Issue
Could You Be a Digital Nomad? - article dek:
Location-independent jobs for the outwardly mobile
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Spring
Features
Top Jobs for the Outwardly Mobile
Becoming a digital nomad is quickly becoming one of the easiest ways to work abroad. These careers may be your ticket to becoming location independent.
In All Fairness
When it comes to tipping guides and porters, crunching the numbers may not give you the right answer.
Take It and Leave It
Just how much are a couple of used mountain bikes worth in Cuba? More than you could know.
Departments
Inbound: From the Field: Editors' Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few weeks.
Around the World By Thumb
42,000 kilometres later, ultra-hitchhiker Thomas Francine gives his favourite mode of transportation two thumbs up.
All in the Family
How to make sure the welcome mat stays out at your homestay.
Go With Your Gut
How could simply sticking to your diet enhance your cultural experience overseas?
Spanish Language Central
If "learn to speak Spanish" is on your to-do list, you'd best add Guatemala to your bucket list.
The Hidden Costs of Volunteering on the Cheap
A budget philanthropist gets more than she bargained for.
Healers of Lake Bunyonyi
A Ugandan traditional healer and a medical doctor are working together to tackle the evil spirit of malnutrition.
Video
Reality Check: Study Abroad in London, England
The biggest challenge of studying abroad in London? There are just too many other things to do!
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: The Future of Travel
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The Future of Travel
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Regenerative Travel; Respectfully Navigating Cultural Differences; Family Volunteering Abroad
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Regenerative Travel; Respectfully Navigating Cultural Differences; Family Volunteering Abroad
Features
The Future of Travel
Has the global pandemic hit the tourism reset button? Industry insiders weigh in on what post-pandemic travel could—or should—look like.
Regenerative Travel: A Step Beyond "Do No Harm"
Reimagining the idea of travel to one that actively improves the places that people visit.
Understanding and Navigating Privilege While Travelling
Being able to travel is a privilege we sometimes take for granted. How can we develop a keener awareness of how we’re perceived abroad?
Tackling Uncomfortable Conversations Abroad
How do you navigate sensitive topics respectfully when local attitudes and beliefs are far different from your own?
Departments
Family Volunteering
From cultural understanding, building empathy and modelling positive behaviour, the benefits of volunteer abroad opportunities for families are many.
Volunteering in Canada's North
In the polar bear capital of the world, volunteers get a glimpse of the frontlines of climate change.
How to teach ESL in Japan
The demand for English teachers in Japan is on the rise. Here is how to get started.
Squat Toilets
Keeping spiffy in the trailside biffie—the (literal) lowdown and dirty.
Contents: The Changing Face of Meaningful Travel
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The Changing Face of Meaningful Travel
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Features
Wildlife Volunteers Needed — Now More Than Ever
Nearly two years after the start of the pandemic, many wildlife conservation centres and animal sanctuaries are in dire need of help.
Study Abroad Needs to Fix its Diversity Gap
The value of studying abroad as part of post-secondary education cannot be overstated, and racialized students have been missing out. But this is starting to change.
The Ultimate Guide to Au Pairing
How to find work—and thrive—as an au pair abroad.
How to Make the Most of a Remote Internship
With international internships moving online, here’s what you need to know to best benefit from a virtual placement.
Departments
Social Justice, Colonialism and Reforming Voluntourism
Travellers are beginning to recognize privilege; a huge step forward in conversations about voluntourism. A Q&A with author Pippa Biddle.
Travelling Home: Diaspora Youth In Search of Their Roots
Study abroad, international work and volunteer programs, help diaspora youth reconnect with their ancestral homes.
Surrendering to the Siesta
After a few weeks of embarrassing sunburns and complete boredom, I began the process of letting go.
Contents: Summer 2014
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Early Summer 2014 Issue
Plan your summer (or winter) with seasonal work abroad - article dek:
The global job market remains in a rut. But there is still plenty of seasonal work out there for travellers.
- Issue Text: Latest Issue
Features
The People of the Grey Bull
British doctor Stephen Fabes witnesses the challenges of delivering medical aid and building trust with nomadic peoples in Kenya.
International Jobs for All Seasons
Seeking an endless summer (or winter)? Five of the hottest—and coldest—short-term overseas jobs.
The Mourning After
Widows in Cameroon are treated as second-class citizens. Cuso International volunteers work to change that.
Worldwise: Collaring the Painted Wolf
Tracking and collaring the elusive and endangered African wild dog.
Departments
Voluntraveller: Great Expectations
How to be an effective overseas volunteer—and an occasional tourist.
To the Dogs
Four organizations that are fighting to save street dogs.
Career Profile: The Packable Polyglot
Say goodbye to nine-to-five with a career as a freelance translator.
Workwhere: Have Skis, Will Travel
It's a seasonaire's dream. Why so many people get sucked into the liftie lifestyle.
How to Work "Abroad" in Your Own Backyard
No passport required for these work "abroad" programs.
Q & A with American Gap Association Executive Director, Ethan Knight
The AGA's founder talks with Verge about setting standards for gap year program providers.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: For the Health of the Planet
- article header:
For the Health of the Planet
- article dek:
International work in healthcare; conservation volunteers; facing up to over-tourism and more
- Issue Text:
International work in healthcare; conservation volunteers; facing up to over-tourism and more
Features
Finding Healthcare Jobs in the UK
A recent grad's tips for getting work with the world's fifth largest employer.
Hazardous Environment School
Things have gone badly south. Is it time to summon your inner warrior, or call up Mr. Nice Guy?
International Volunteering: The Challenge of Returning Home
Spoiler: Unpacking your overseas experience will be about as interesting to your friends as unpacking your backpack.
Happy Hour for Reef Reconstruction
In Southeast Asia, volunteers are working to rebuild coral reefs one beer at a time.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of our favourite blog posts over the past couple of months: Dog-sitting in Switzerland; being an outsider in Spain; studying abroad is no holiday; seasoned travellers experience culture shock too.
International Work in Health and Medicine—An Overview
Worldwide inequalities in the availability and quality of health care means that international demand for medical and health professionals is enormous.
Are We Saying Goodbye to Madagasgar's Lemurs?
In an impoverished nation, wildlife conservation is not always top-of-mind.
Living Abroad Amidst Civil Unrest
How do you navigate the complexities of civil unrest without feeling like even more of a bumbling foreigner?
Postcards From the Centre of a Tourism Explosion
Armed only with selfie-sticks, masses of tourists jostle for their very own "authentic experience".
Lessons From Working "Abroad" in Canada
A prospective employer asks how you handle stressful work situations and your answer involves a tense meeting—with a grizzly bear. You know you have their full attention.
Culture Shock Canadian-style
Milk comes in bags, the Mounted Police drive cars and, for a Brit in Canada, nothing is what it seems.
Contents: Travel in a Changed World
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Travel in a Changed World
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Leaders in sustainable travel, volunteering for retirees and more!
Image: SPTO & David Kirkland - Issue Text:
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Features
7 Great Destinations for Sustainable Travel
From tourism laws protecting the natural environment to policies supporting ethical cultural tourism, these countries are leading the way.
Not Just For Kids: Volunteering Abroad for Retirees
People with decades of experience bring valuable skills to a volunteer placement.
Top Study Abroad Destinations for 2022
Sometimes the biggest challenge is deciding where to go.
Departments
How to be an Amazing Volunteer: Q & A with Susan E. Gibson
With decades of field experience in the international development sector, author Susan E. Gibson knows what it takes to be a great overseas volunteer.
International Job Hunting Strategies That Work
Advice from recruiters and expats to help you land that job abroad.
Preparing to Apply for a Job Abroad
Make your approach to job-hunting location-specific.
Tips for Making Study Abroad More Affordable
The perceived cost of studying abroad stops many students in their tracks. Here are 9 ways to avoid breaking the bank.
How to Become a Safari Guide
Looking for a life change? Try an accredited field-guiding program in one of Africa's biodiversity hotspots.
Contents: Road Schooling Issue
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Road Schooling Issue
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Taking your work and school on the road • The best destinations for digital nomads in 2023
• Taking your kids out of school to travel • Gap year primer • How to teach English in Morocco • And lots more... - Issue Text:
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Features
Top Destinations for Digital Nomads
Making the leap to working remotely is easier than ever before. But that doesn’t mean the red tape has disappeared altogether. Here’s what you need to know before opening your mobile office—and the top destinations to set up shop.
Should You Pull Your Kids Out of School to Travel?
When carefully planned, travel with kids can be as educational as any classroom experience. But schools may take a little convincing.
6 Steps to Supporting Your Kid in Their Quest to Study Abroad
If you’ve raised an adventurous, independent kid, chances are at some point they’ll end up an ocean away from you. Here's how to help set them up for success.
Gap Year Primer
Any gap year expert or veteran knows the secret to making the most of this opportunity: good planning.
Departments
Q & A with The Last Tourist
Canadian filmmaker Tyson Sadler set out to explore the impacts of travel on the communities we visit. He hopes to spark difficult conversations about the way we interact with destinations.
How to Teach English in Morocco
Find out why demand is high in this up-and-coming destination for TEFL teachers.
A Guide to Community Tourism Experiences
What is community tourism? Where can you find community tourism projects? And why are local communities embracing it?
Keeping the "Wild" in Wildlife Tourism
With wildlife tourism, the distinction between what's ethical and what’s not isn’t always obvious. Here are some guiding principles for your next trip.
Running Abroad
Being a runner, imperfect though I may be, has anchored some of my most important travel moments.
Contents: Travel Realities vs Expectations
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Travel Realities vs Expecations
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Adapting to a new work culture, #vanlife for real, true cultural immersion, and more
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Adapting to a new work culture abroad, #vanlife for real, true cultural immersion, community alpacas in Ecuador, coping with loneliness abroad, and more.
Features
Working in Laos: How to Adapt to an Unfamiliar Work Culture
Slow down and don't miss lunch. How hard can it be?
Livin' The Dream: The Realities of #VanLife
Stranded in a Walmart parking lot and other remarkable Instagram moments.
Everyone Owns the Alpacas
For two volunteers in Ecuador, community living takes on a whole new meaning.
Coping with Loneliness Abroad
Thriving in a new country means getting past the sense of isolation and embracing the excitement of a new challenge.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months.
A Leg Up for Kilimanjaro's Porters
Operating on a shoestring budget, this non-profit is working to improve conditions for porters in Tanzania.
Working with Kids in Post-conflict Settings
Uncertainty, ruptured routines and boredom can have serious consequences for children in refugee camps.
Accidental Teacher
There's a lot more to cultural immersion than shopping at the local market.
Move Over Saint Christopher
Stuck in a security line? Late for your next train? Saint Expedite could be your go-to guy.
Contents: Con Voyage
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Con Voyage
Don't get taken for a ride - or fool yourself about your travels - article dek:
Can ad-hoc volunteer groups really help with refugee relief efforts?
- Issue Text:
How to avoid scams, keep your cash—and still have fun. The ethics of elephant trekking. Are ad-hoc volunteers helping or hindering refugee relief efforts in Greece? Safety on the road: mental health, LGBTQ challenges and risk management abroad. How to get a job in international development.
Features
Elephant Treks: Don't Get Taken for a Ride
Elephants, freed from the cruelty of Thailand's logging industry, now face an equally grim prospect: Tourism.
Con Voyage
How to avoid scams, keep your cash—and still have fun.
A Duty to Care
Are ad-hoc volunteers helping or hindering refugee relief efforts in Greece?
A World Apart
When you’re alone and far from home, mental health issues can be magnified. How to cope during a semester overseas.
Departments
Safe Passage
Risk Managers' top tips for staying healthy, happy and safe while studying abroad.
Different Times of the Month
For young women in many other cultures, Aunt Flo's arrival brings fear and shame. These organizations are working to change that.
Healthcare Work in International Development
It takes a special skill-set to work as a healthcare provider in an international development setting. Here's what you need to know.
Cultural Crash Course in India
Volunteering at an ashram offers a peek into one part of India's rich culture.
Playing it Straight
Kaitlin Ellen Bardswich imagines a world where she doesn’t have to mask being queer while travelling abroad.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Finding a Fresh Start Abroad
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Finding a Fresh Start Abroad
Current issues in international work and volunteering
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Cleaning up the environment, getting a job in an emerging economy and more.
- Issue Text:
Should I volunteer with an anti-human-trafficking program? Cleaning up the environment, getting a job in an emerging economy, working internationally as a journalist, choosing a TEFL certification, sea turtle sanctuaries in Mexico, and more.
Features
Should I Volunteer with an Anti-Human Trafficking Program?
Stories of human trafficking survivors stir strong emotions. The desire to help is not a bad one; but the question is, how?
Work Abroad: The Blue Ocean Approach
A case for launching your international career in emerging markets.
Trash Talk in Panama
A volunteer discovers solving waste problems isn’t as simple as a quick clean-up tutorial.
Burma & the Art of Motorbike Safety
No, the stamp in your passport is not a motorcycle license.
Departments
From the Field Blog: Editors’ Choice
A round-up of Verge editorial staff’s favourite blog posts over the past few months.
At the End of Your Bucket List
What happens if you meet your untimely end while abroad? Here’s what you need to know.
Teaching English Abroad: 6 Considerations For Choosing a TEFL Certification
Having a TEFL certification can mean better schools, better pay, and may even be required for a work visa. But which kind of course should you choose?
Q & A: International Work as a Journalist
Verge asks veteran journalist and founder of the Global Reporting Centre, Peter Klein, what it takes to become a journalist working internationally.
Sea Turtle Sanctuaries: Building a Culture of Conservation in Mexico
In communities suspicious of environmental stewardship, international volunteers and dedicated local conservationists work to shift attitudes and save turtles.
Pedro the Jaguar and Other Residents of the Village Padre Cocha
Walking the ocelot, fending off marauding monkeys and avoiding being eaten. There's never a dull moment for these wildlife refuge volunteers.
And more! Read this edition >>
Contents: Winter 2014
- article header:
Winter 2014 Issue
Why overseas non-profits want you to volunteer - article dek:
New research sheds light on the reasons organizations take on international volunteers.
- Issue Text: Latest Issue
Features
Why international non-profits want you to volunteer
New research sheds light on the reasons organizations take on international volunteers
Bringing medicine to the Panamanian jungle, via boat
A three-day river journey to a remote community in Panama's jungle is all part of the job for Floating Doctors volunteers.
Moving mountains in Nepal
Faced with insurmountable poverty, there's little that many Nepalis can do to elevate themselves. Against the odds, Vishu Sijali is trying to change that.
Video
Careers for globetrotters: Freediving instructor
The first in our new series of videos exploring international careers, and ways to make a living from your passion. Meet Mark Rogers, who runs the only freediving operation in the Caribbean.
Departments
Workwhere: Get a career edge via travel
Be strategic about your international experience and stand out from the crowd.
Voluntravelller: How to be a star volunteer
An element of uncertainty accompanies any international experience. Here are five tips to help you get and give the most as an international volunteer.
Worldwise: The business of butterflies
How the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is empowering rural farmers to build their own businesses.
And more! Read this edition >>
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We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage Canada Periodical Fund.