“I’d like to do something meaningful while I travel, I just don’t know where to start”
Familiar?
Here are a few ways you can give back when traveling as a digital nomad.
With your skills
Photo credit: This can be something that is easy for you but makes a big difference for someone else. I helped a family in Cuba to set up Airbnb. They didn’t speak English and didn’t know anything about marketing. It became their main income stream.
I’ve also helped several other local hospitality businesses like hotels, restaurants, and tour operators to optimize their marketing.
Recently I discovered nomadsgivingback.com, which is all about inspiring and empowering you to give back to local communities.
Supporting local non-profit organizations
Photo credit: From those that protect the environment, animals, human rights, or whatever you care most about. Many are centered around culture too, like projects teaching kids martial arts or dance to help them stay out of drugs, etc.
I’ve gotten involved in everything from turtle rescue centers to activities for homeless kids.
Stays with local families
Photo credit: Homestays where you stay with someone in exchange for help have been around for a long time. While many used to do it for “free” accommodation, a clear trend is more are doing it because they genuinely want to help and learn about the culture. This can be anything from wine-making in Toscana to language classes in Latin America.
workaway.info and worldpackers.com are two places to get you started!
Connect and boost the local community
Photo credit: Attend events, and exchange ideas with nomads and the local community. Team up with others and create new communities. This can range from entrepreneurship to food, music, sports, or any area you like.
Social media and Whatsapp groups are usually good channels to get up-to-date on what’s going on and spread the word about whatever you’re organizing. Sites like Meetup.com are also worth checking out.
Donate stuff
Photo credit: From clothes to other things. You can plan for this before you go. It’s also a great way to get rid of things you don’t really need when you’re leaving a destination.
I know I’m not the only one traveling with a suitcase that always ends up overweight…
Support local businesses and initiatives
Photo credit: Shop and eat in local restaurants. Go to local markets. Use local guides and support initiatives that benefit locals too rather than work as a superficial show for tourists. Help clean up the local’s favorite beach. What others ideas come to mind?
Invest to support the local economy
Photo credit: In ideas, people, businesses, property – only your imagination sets the limit. 😉
Show others what’s possible
Photo credit: I’ve spent a lot of time in countries where a flexible lifestyle or traveling alone as a woman isn’t common yet and often share tips with those who are interested in more freedom and choice.
In what ways can you inspire others and open their minds to new possibilities?
Spread the word
From talking about a destination you love to problems everyone might not be aware of. Or showing how others can make an impact with lists like this. 😜
What else would you add?
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