The 10 best spots for a spot of voluntourism

A voluntourist is the name given to those who choose volunteering as a way to explore an overseas destination. By working with, and living in, the local community the volunteer can really get to know the country, its culture and its people. All the countries listed below offer heaps of volunteering opportunities whether they be law internships, medical placements, volunteer teaching, work on environmental projects or work in social and community projects. Here are the reasons why – other than the stimulating and rewarding work – volunteers are heading to these 10 voluntourism hot spots.

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1.       Brazil

Brazil is a country of unbelievable geographical, cultural and economic diversity. Contrasts abound, typified by the majesty of Christ the Redeemer overlooking the misery of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas below. The city’s cultural diversity is showcased in the famous carnival but Brazil also offers great sandy beaches, stunning cloud-topped mountains, pristine rainforests, plains, savannahs and the mighty Amazon River.

2.       Vietnam

If the hustle and bustle of Hanoi does not hold you then Ba Vi National Park offers plenty of chances to take in panoramic views, seek out wildlife and hike in splendid isolation. Vietnam also has some truly chilled beach spots such as those on the island of Phu Quoc.

3.       Nepal

Nepal is the ideal location for those who love adventure and the outdoors. There are plenty of opportunities for activities like white water rafting and extreme mountain biking. It is undoubtedly the lure of Mount Everest and the opportunities to trek in its foothills that draws many volunteers to Nepal.

4.       Mongolia

Mongolia appeals for its remoteness and difference. Around a third of Mongolians belong to nomadic herding tribes living a life unchanged for centuries. With natural sights ranging from bio-diverse mountains to the evocative wilderness of the Gobi desert, Mongolia is a great place for those who love to get away from it all.

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5.       Moldova

Moldova is a small, beautiful country where Romanian and Russian influences mingle. It is like stepping back in time to when life was lived slower, people were friendlier, food was organic and the countryside unspoilt. Whitewashed homes, sunflower filled fields, inviting caves and serene lakes are all part of its many attractions.

6.       Burma

With the lifting of the tourism boycott in 2011, now is an ideal time to discover this previously hidden country. Make sure to visit Burma’s relatively unknown Angkor Wat at Bagan where there are more than 4000 evocative historic Buddhist temples.

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7.       Sri Lanka

While for many looking to volunteer India springs to mind it is worthwhile considering Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka offers palm-fringed beaches, tea plantations, deliciously sweet mangos and rickshaws in abundance. Much smaller in scale and more manageable than India, the island is an increasingly popular choice.

8.       Bolivia

Bolivia lies at the heart of South America but a long way off the tourist trail. There are opportunities to trek in the Andes, relax by the shores of Lake Titicaca, visit volcanoes and salt lakes, or explore the tropical forests of the Amazon Basin – all of which you will be able to do far away from the tourist crowds.

9.       Samoa

This laid back South Pacific island is for those who love palm-fringed white sand beaches and diving or snorkelling opportunities aplenty.

10.   Jamaica

Lovers of reggae can make a pilgrimage to where it all began and try and grasp the cultural and social forces that led to its creation whilst they get to grips with the patois and language of the Jamaicans.

 

Resource Box

More great places to volunteer overseas

No list can be exhaustive so here are some other ideas to consider.

Discover Burma

Find out more about the hidden delights of Burma.

More off the beaten track travel destinations

10 ways to make a date in London amazing

If you’re heading to London for a romantic date with your partner or new love you will find oodles of things to do. But with so much choice how can you make the best of your time together and enjoy the city too? Here is a guide to the top ten ways to make your London date amazing. 

1. Walk

Forget the crowds and sweat of the tube, the best way to get around London is on foot. Walking through new areas will heighten your sense of adventure and give you and your date a chance to explore side streets and squares together.

2. Head to the river

The Thames is a big silt-filled river at the best of times, but a stroll along its banks can be a romantic way to take a rest from the crowds of the city. Head to the South Bank for picturesque views of St Paul’s and the city, or further out to places such as Richmond for country charm.

3. Hampstead Heath

Pack a picnic and your swimsuit in summer and head to the heath for a romantic walk through nature. This expanse of rolling heathland and woods is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with someone special.

4. The National Gallery

This central museum located on Trafalgar Square is an art haven in the centre of the capital. Entrance to the permanent exhibitions is free and there is plenty to explore. Stand next to your love match in front of a Turner and let the sparks fly.

5. Half-price restaurants

Taking your time over a romantic meal makes any date intimate and London has such a wide variety of eateries to choose from. London dating can be expensive if you plan to eat out several times a week. But there are many websites that offer discounted meals, so book in advance and enjoy half-price dining with all the flair of a top-notch restaurant.

6. Hire a Boris Bike

For the active dater who wants to explore the city further than is possible on foot, there is another way. Grab a Boris bike from one of the many blue hire stations inside central London and cycle around the city. 

7. Borough Market

Foodies will have a ball at this long-established farmer’s market that buzzes with London charm. Take your date on a tour of the market and sample international culinary delights along the way.

8. The Monument

For a cheaper and less crowded aerial view of the city, head up the Monument on the north side of London Bridge. For £2 you can climb the 311 steps to the top and enjoy spectacular views over the city.

9. Regent’s Park

Of all of London’s central parks the most romantic and wild is arguable Regent’s park. Once inside the park grounds the air seems to freshen, and as sounds of London Zoo resonate around you, it is easy to let your imagination run free and get lost with your partner.

10. Plan ahead

It’s great to be spontaneous, but when it comes to a date in London, planning is the key to success. It’s no fun wandering about waiting for something to happen. For dating tips you can follow the eHarmony UK Twitter profile for the latest info. Then decide where it is you want to go, and once your there, who knows what could occur!

Resource box

Walkit.com
Urban walking guide for iPhone users

The Regent’s Park
A guide to the popular park

Taste card
Half-price dining deals

Top 10 tips for investing

To ensure that money makes a good return, investors need to do their homework. Use these 10 pointers as a guide to making wise investment decisions.

Conventional wisdom says that a fool and his money are soon parted. While most investors could hardly be called fools, that doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to making regrettable decisions – especially those new to investing. To avoid expensive errors, consider these 10 points before assigning any money.

1. Assign a fixed amount

Decide how much you have to invest and stick to it. Don’t be tempted to spend more money if an investment goes awry.

2. Gauge your level of risk

The level of risk indicates the potential for money to be both made and lost. People who are investing in order to make money should choose relatively ‘safe’ options such as ISAs or bonds issued by the government, known as index-linked gilts. Those with money to play with can take the greater risks associated with stocks and shares – and potentially reap greater returns.

3. Diversify

Like eggs, investments should not all be put in one basket. A diversified portfolio reduces risk. Investors can manually invest in a number of different areas or sign up to something like a global equity fund, which will do it for them.

4. Keep calm

Make all investment decisions rationally. Seek second opinions on any advice you may receive.

5. Understand what you’re investing in

If you’re investing in a company, make sure you understand how that company works and what it does. Simply throwing money at a business that vaguely seems to be doing something interesting isn’t investing, it’s speculating. Buying shares is effectively buying a piece of the company, so do your research – reading its annual report is a good start.

6. Avoid fads

The investment industry is susceptible to fads like any other. For the first-time investor, these fads are best avoided. By the time news of a money-making certainty has reached the level of the masses, it will be anything but a certainty.

7. Understand pricing

You should always check the recent price performance of any share you are thinking of investing in. However, just looking at the fluctuations is meaningless in itself – you must understand why any changes have happened. Check the news to see how industry or management changes may have affected the company.

8. Set limits

Decide on a target profit for shares and sell them when this is reached. Similarly, set a maximum loss to dictate at what point to sell loss-making shares. This technique can help prevent novice investors from making large losses.

9. Respect the stalwarts

While investing in a start-up may seem glamorous, the chances are that it won’t be the next Big Thing. With their lack of demonstrable abilities, start-ups may have the potential for high returns, but they also have the potential for failure. Large companies with proven track records are far safer bets.

10. Make use of available tools

There are numerous tools available that can help investors reduce risk. For example, software available from http://www.sungard.com/apt can be used for portfolio construction, factor modelling and risk reporting.

Image sources (1,2)

Resource box

Which?

The beginner’s guide to investment

Moneywise

Expert opinion on the best investments for 2012

CNN Money

Preview of investment guru Warren Buffett’s annual letter

10 Types of Coffee

Who doesn’t like the intense coffee flavour? You have probably tasted some different types of coffee but I’m sure that you would like to try more and more. Coffee is an experience of different textures, colours and flavours.

 

Espresso

It represents the most intense type of coffee flavour. It is the original one and if you are brave it can be served without sugar. But if not, please, don’t sweeten it too much because it may lose its essential bitterness.

Caffé Latte

It is a typical French coffee. It is prepared with an espresso and a generous amount of steamed milk. Some people like with a bit of milk foam and others prefer without it.

Caffé Mocha

It is a variant of caffé latte. It is made with an espresso, steamed milk and chocolate syrup with milk foam over the top.

Cappuccino

It is probably the most famous Italian coffee. Although it can be made in different ways, not everybody makes a good one. Once you have added the coffee and the steamed milk, it is very important to create very solid milk foam; this is the essence of this coffee. Then you can add a little cinnamon or chocolate powdered topping.

Carajillo/Correto

Although carajillo (Spanish coffee) and correto (Italian coffe) are not exactly the same, they would be in the same category. Correto is an espresso sprayed with liquor such as grappa or cognac.  Carajillo is a large espresso sprayed with liquor (the most known is cognac or brandy but with whisky or rum is also fine) as well but with a very important difference. First, put sugar and the liquor in a small crystal glass. Burn the liquor and remove it with a spoon until the flame was disappeared. Then, add the coffee. Put a cinnamon steak and a little slice of lemon.

Irish Coffee

Put hot black coffee into a mug and then serve the Irish whiskey in there with a little amount of brown sugar (better than white sugar) and mix all together. Finally, gradually add a layer of cream with the spoon, without mixing with the coffee.

Granita Caffé

It is a cold espresso. Once you have prepared the coffee let it cold in the fridge. Once it is cold mix it with a glass of crushed ice cubes. Add sugar to taste.

Café Sour

It is prepared with Kalua, a Mexican coffee liquor. Mix sugar, lemon juice, a beaten egg white, crushed ice cubes and liquor in a whisky sour glass.

Frappé

It is a cold drink and it has to be served in a large glass. It is made in various different forms. In a blender combine cold milk with ice cubes, vanilla ice cream, coffee and a bit of chocolate and mixture well blended. It is a delicious combination to be had in summer.

 

Passion me

It is a coffee originated by the Spanish chef and the coffee brand Lavazza in 2002. It is made by an espresso, maracuyá juice, crushed ice cubes and topped with some mint leaves. Add sugar to taste.

The ten best gifts to experience father’s day together

Father’s day is coming up and it is time to honour your old man with a great gift. Surprise him this year with an ultimate experience instead of presenting him a pair of socks. There are plenty of great gift ideas and if you are smart you make sure you get experiences for two so you can join in on the fun.

1. A day out in the sky

There is probably no bigger thrill than flying a light weight aircraft. 

2. An evening of tasting wine

In case your dad prefers a quiet evening with a glass of wine over a day of paintballing. Wine tasting classes can be a lot of fun. Get a few people together and try several bouquets of wine over a scrumptious meal.

3. Speeding together

Always wondered how it would feel to speed down the racetrack in a red Ferrari? Chances are your dad does as well. Book him an hour of racing in the car of his choice and treat yourself at the same time.

4. Meet the wildlife

Your dad took you to the zoo when you were little and now it’s time for you to return the favour. Only you will do it better. Instead of visiting caged animals you will meet some magnificent wildlife and hold them in your own hands. Britain is home to some amazing wildlife including birds of prey. Visit one of the many fowl farms where you get the opportunity to fly prey birds in their natural habitat.

5. An afternoon on the greens

Organise an afternoon of golf at your nearest golf course. Most clubs offer gift cards for singular lessons, tournaments or even entire weekend breaks. 

6. Fire up the barbeque

There is nothing better than a nice little barbeque on a sunny afternoon. Buy your dad a funky apron or a set of new spatulas for the barbeque. Chances are he wants to use them straight away and fires up the barbeque before he even gets the chance to thank you.  The result: a great gift for the entire family. 

7. A game of paintball

Invite the entire family for a game of paintball. It is fun and will bring the whole family closer.

8. Do the locomotion

Is your dad one of those old romantics who is nostalgic about everything from his childhood? Than book a train ride on a vintage steam train for two. The day will take you through the lush green countryside and you can hop on and hop off whenever you please. This is a great idea for anyone who likes to go back to a time where trains were a fancy mode of transport.

9. Enjoy the views from above

Balloon rides are a great way of spending some quality time with your dad. Marvel at the stunning views over the British countryside whilst you enjoy a long catch up with your dad.

10. Include mum

In case you have skipped mother’s day and would like to give your parents a combined present, give them one of the many experience gift packs available online. This is a great option for when you have run out of ideas and you want to give them something they will both enjoy.

10 creative uses for custom labels

Using a customised label can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Adding one’s own design to a blank roll or sheet of labels from a label manufacturer can make a gift, food or favour truly personal and help give it your own unique stamp.

The 10 creative ways to use a custom label to give your gifts that personal touch are:

10. Jam jar labels



Jar labels

A homemade jam or chutney is loved by all. As such, it would be a good idea to design one’s own label before giving them out this year. Incorporating one’s name and photo on to a design similar to that of a well-known brand such as Hartley’s Jam, making it read Harry’s Jam, say, could be interesting.

9. Beer labels

One’s own name designed on a home-brewed beer bottle would appeal. For example, Steve’s Scrumpy, Bill’s Brew, Adam’s Ale or Insider Cider could do the trick.

8. Wedding cookies

A great wedding favour for guests to take away is cookies. A homemade cookie in its own cellophane bag labelled with the couple’s names and perhaps an image of them would be nice.

7. Photo coasters

Applying a photo printed on a label to a coaster allows for the making of customised coasters. These could be used as inexpensive gifts to send out as a thank you for newborn baby presents or wedding gifts.

6. CD or DVD labels

Cover a CD or DVD disc with a custom printed label. It could provide for an attractive case to present a music or video compilation.

5. Address labels

A beautiful invitation wrapped in a customised label indicates a personal touch. It could also save writing the sender’s address several times over.

4. Gift bags and boxes

Rather than splash out on a customised printed box or bag for the gifts, use a carefully designed label on a plain bag or box. This could save money while creating exactly the desired effect.

3. Bath and body gifts 

This is one Mother’s Day gift to be remembered for. Giving someone a special homemade gift they could be pampered with could lift spirits. Bath salts and soap are easy to make and a collection mum would cherish.

2. Sweet jars

This Easter or Christmas fill a small glass jar with sweet treats and stick on a customised label to give it a personal touch.  It would spread the warmth of the holiday season.

1. Wine bottle labels

Wine labels

A homemade wine adds that extra bit to the drink. It could be a wine for wedding guests or a Christmas bottle of something special – either way it can be made more special by applying one’s family wine label. Gifts labelled with love go a lot further.

Resources

More custom label ideas

Get inspiration for hundreds of custom label uses

Homemade recipes for bath products

Learn how to create beautiful bath and body gifts

Italian wedding cookies

Discover how Italian wedding cookies can be made

Ten reasons to spend your summer in Britain

 

You might think Great Britain is not the ultimate place to enjoy your summer vacation but that was definitely before you read this post. So sit back and let me make you reconsider with this list of ten.

1. The great outdoors

London turns in to an open-air festival during summer. Everything can be enjoyed in the outdoors during the warmer months. Enjoy a movie on top of a skyscraper, an opera show in a park or a theatre show on the South bank. Anything goes; all you need is a picnic blanket and a nice bottle of wine to enjoy.

2. Individual style

British people are not fussed about the temperature outside. If it is June and it happens to be sunny you are perfectly within your rights to wear a summer dress. Even if the temperature is below 20 degrees.

3. Ancient heritage

If you like history and culture than the UK is your country. Think of historical places such as Oxford, Winchester and Belfast.

4. Fall in love with the seaside

Britain is home to some of the best seaside resorts such as bohemian Brighton or picturesque Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire.

5. The best tuition in Europe

If you want to spend a summer learning English, or any other language for that matter, you will find the best language schools that offer individual tuition in London. This also happens to be one of the most exciting cities in the UK.

6. Look around 

Britain counts numerous interesting landmarks that are worth a visit. Think of the Lake District, the Jurassic Coast, the Yorkshire Moors and Dartmoor National Park.

7. Eat outdoors

 

The Brits love a good BBQ and it is therefore legal to fire up the barbeque in almost any park or any beach. 

8. For the one who has a sweet tooth

Ice-cream is extremely popular in the UK and you will find all sorts, from traditional Italian ice-cream to frozen yoghurt. Especially try places that offer you the chance to mix different flavours of ice-cream with fruit, chocolate and biscuits.

9. Peace, love and music

 

The Brits love their festivals, whether you are in to rock music, theatre or opera you will find a dedicated festival for it! One of the most remarkable festivals might be Bestival, where the crowd dresses up like animals or space aliens all weekend long.

10. Multi-cultural

The high influx of immigrants has turned the UK in to one of the most multi-cultural countries in the world. So if you don’t have funds available to spend a holiday in Jamaica for instance, indulge yourself in to the Caribbean Carnival that is held every year in Notting Hill. It might not be the same, but it’s very close.

Not convinced or have I forgotten to mention your favourite spot? Please leave an individual comment in the box below.