The Volunteer Viewpoint

I can personally attest to the benefits of helping others abroad. While volunteering at a nursing home in Cartago, a small town just outside San Jose, Costa Rica, my passions for travel and helping others merged. Assisting those who truly needed and appreciated my help while getting to see a new part of the world was a dream come true. Working alongside nurses who redefined compassion inspired me more than words can express. Taking care of people at an age that we will all reach eventually humbled me and changed my perspective on life. I not only learned a substantial amount about myself, but about the Costa Rican culture. My time there was so rewarding that upon my return, I instantly craved to have a similar experience.
Thankfully, the company with whom I traveled, the International Volunteer Headquarters (IVHQ), sends volunteers to numerous destinations, and I set my sights on India. Whether via films that may or may not accurately portray Indian culture, books, or my addiction to Indian food, my love of the culture abounds in my life. It seemed only natural that I would go there one day, but upon the realization that IVHQ had a program in India, that day became sooner rather than later. I only had to decide what to do for my volunteer project this time around. Since last time I assisted the elderly, I opted for the other end of the age spectrum and signed up for child care of the children of Tibetan refugees in Dharamsala, a small town in Northern India.

Volunteering abroad is a fantastic opportunity provided by many organizations. When selecting the one that is right for you, it is important to thoroughly research as much as you can about your different options and read reviews of former participants. I had an immensely positive experience volunteering with IVHQ, an organization based in New Zealand that sends people to many different countries. Cross-Cultural Solutions and IS Volunteers are two other reputable companies with high ratings that assist in volunteer placements. Another consideration when selecting an organization is what kind of volunteering you wish to do. Whether you enjoy healthcare, childcare, conservation or construction, there is bound to be something for everyone. Most volunteer organizations are staffed with people eager to help set you on your journey!

Granted, there are fees associated with the experience to cover costs of food and housing provided by local families, which can act as a deterrent to potential volunteers. Thankfully, there are online fundraising services available such as GoFundMe, an organization through which you can raise money to support my next adventure in India. YouCaring.com and Razoo are other sites that provide a means for fundraising. Some of these sites take a small percentage of donations for their service but conveniently transfer donations right into your bank account. Another option is to ask friends and family directly to support your cause.

Bir: Tibet in India

Known for its natural beauty, simple way of life and numerous Buddhist temples, the north Indian village of Bir is truly a hidden treasure. Bir and Delhi are polar opposites. Delhi bustles at all hours in a state of mass chaos whereas Bir follows a slower, calmer schedule. Also, its people are almost entirely Tibetan refugees and Buddhist.

1) Getting there is not easy... but it's worth it. There are two options to get from New Delhi to Bir. If you opt to fly, know that there is a significant risk of a flight cancellation or delay due to unpredictable weather. The other option, the bus, takes about 12 to 14 hours and generally makes only one stop. The bus is substantially cheaper as well, and not an uncomfortable ride. The modern buses feature seats that recline completely, air conditioning, free water bottles, blankets, and occasionally a typical Indian movie.

2) Jump off a cliff! For an extremely reasonable fee, a trained paragliding pilot will help you soar through the air and behold the beauty for which Bir is renowned. It may seem daunting and frightening at first, but the experience is well worth the nerves!

The view from above

3) Consider volunteering- living with a host family and teaching young monks enriched my experience in Bir tenfold. The home cooked meals, hearing about Tibetan culture from those who practice it every day and living in an authentic home all while helping their community flourish is immensely gratifying and humbling and widens your horizons vastly. A particular program I recommend, one which takes care of everything you need during your time as a volunteer abroad, is that which is hosted by IVHQ.

4) Visit nearby Dharmasala- this larger village near Bir boasts gorgeous views, offers savory food typical of the area, provides extensive opportunities for high-quality souvenir shopping at reasonable prices, and is home to a beautiful monastery often visited by the Dalai Lama himself.

Who Should Go? 
Bir is a perfect destination for anyone wanting to experience a more peaceful and calm pace to life. Try to go in the summer for a break from Southern India's sweltering heat.