Volunteer Vacations Blog

The best countries in the world: 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards

14 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news

Globe Aware volunteers will recognize several of our volunteer vacation destinations among this year’s favorites, celebrated for their rich culture, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

The best countries in the world: 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards

Europe dominated this year’s list of the countries Traveller readers have been choosing to go – matching what you were probably seeing all over Instagram

October 7, 2025
Condé Nast Traveller

Italy is a perennial favourite in our awards – when you see its scores for food, scenery and places to stay, well, that’s amore. More of a surprise is this year’s runner-up, though it shouldn’t be: in 2024, Qatar, with its world-class restaurants, museums and activities, drew more visitors than Malta and Jamaica. Once reclusive Bhutan is having a moment, thanks to its dragon-fired culture; Japan was rated highly for things to do and its streamlined transport; and you loved Thailand for its pungent food and famous welcome – a criterion that Morocco also embraced. In that spirit, a high five for Estonia: this is the Baltic nation’s first showing in our awards, with impressive scores for its slow-burn culture and outdoor activities.

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The History of Halloween: Why We Celebrate the Haunted Holiday

14 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news

Halloween season is here, and Globe Aware volunteers can join in the spooky fun. Learn how these customs began and discover the origins of Halloween’s favorite symbols and colors.

The History of Halloween: Why We Celebrate the Haunted Holiday

Discover the origins of trick-or-treating, wearing costumes and other beloved Halloween traditions.

Sept. 29, 2025
By Sarah Lemire
TODAY

Halloween season has officially arrived. Dedicated to all things spooky, Oct. 31 is the one time of year that being a witch, werewolf or vampire is not only allowed, it’s totally encouraged.

But did you ever wonder why we dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating on Halloween night? How about carving pumpkins or playing pranks?

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Meet the Expert Kimberly Haley-Coleman chats with The Philanthropy Guy about volunteer travel and volunteer vacations

10 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Since 1990, Kimberly Haley-Coleman has built long-term partnerships and projects across the nonprofit and for-profit sectors worldwide. Before co-founding Globe Aware, she served as Vice President of Business Development for aerospace firm Team Encounter and led international expansion efforts for Infotriever, a Canadian communications company. As Director of International Business Development at Telescan (now InvestTools), she developed strategic relationships across 20 countries, helping millions access free financial education tools. She also contributed to the launch of CNBC.com as interim Product Manager and co-developed Dcipher, an AI-driven investment analysis engine that provides free, real-time portfolio insights.

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How and why young adults should volunteer abroad and serve abroad short-term

10 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news


Marco sits down with Globe Aware founder Kimberly Haley-Coleman to explore the impact of volunteer vacations and volunteering abroad. In this inspiring episode, they discuss how young adults can make a difference through short-term service trips, also known as volunteer vacations, to gain cultural awareness and travel with purpose. Discover practical tips for responsible travel, explore global volunteering opportunities, and learn how serving communities worldwide can broaden your perspective.

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How volunteer vacations can bridge critical gaps for community populations at high risk

7 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news

Eunoia Health Tech bridges critical gaps for community populations at high risk of lacking life’s basic needs. In this episode, the hosts interview Kimberly Haley-Coleman, president of Globe Aware, on global community, growth and funding challenges for non-profits, and how, through service abroad, volunteer vacations and voluntourism, you can help yourself and others.

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The 7 Best Tourist Destinations in Cuba: Attractive Stops on the Other Side of the Hemisphere

6 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news

Cuba, known for its turquoise beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, has long been a dream destination for travelers. Globe Aware volunteers find that its music, salsa, and communities offer an authentic experience, with seven must-visit destinations that capture the island’s essence.

The 7 Best Tourist Destinations in Cuba: Attractive Stops on the Other Side of the Hemisphere

Vietnam.net
September 25, 2025

Cuba, the Caribbean island famous for its turquoise beaches, classical architecture, and unique culture, has long been a dream destination for many international travelers. The country is not only celebrated for its natural beauty but also for its historical landmarks, music, salsa, and the liberal lifestyle of its native communities. For those embarking on a journey of discovery, there are Cuban tourist destinations that everyone should experience to fully appreciate the essence of this remarkable island. Below, we suggest the seven most outstanding Cuban destinations that should not be missed.

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5 Unique & Popular Fall Festivals in the US

6 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Globe Aware volunteers can enjoy more than pumpkins and cider at fall festivals. Quirky favorites include glass-blowing pumpkin events and even running with sheep. These offbeat picks showcase the unique charm of America’s harvest season.

5 Unique & Popular Fall Festivals in the US

Tay Belgeri
Oct. 2, 2025
Travel Awaits

Every year, the US’s most popular publications take a fine-toothed comb to the country’s top harvest and fall festivals. Given America’s love for the cozy and spooky season, there are dozens of popular fall festivals in the US to choose from.

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Globe Aware founder Kimberly Haley-Coleman on volunteer vacations and service projects

2 October 2025
Globe Aware
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Categories: Globe Aware news

Positive news and information about people and organizations throughout the country. This episode features an interview with Kimberly Haley-Coleman about Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes volunteer vacations and service projects worldwide.

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Circle of the Panda with JD Ross

30 September 2025
Globe Aware
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In this episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast, host JD welcomes Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and executive director of Global Aware. Kimberly shares her journey from a successful corporate career to leading impactful short-term service projects in over 25 countries. She discusses the inspiration behind Global Aware, the importance of ethical and culturally immersive volunteering, and the life-changing experiences that come from serving communities around the world. Kimberly also reflects on the challenges and rewards of international service, the value of human connection, and how giving back can bring joy and meaning to both volunteers and those they serve. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about service, empathy, and making a difference—one project at a time.

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Global Student Voices, Scott Martin of Global Student Solutions

29 September 2025
Globe Aware
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Can One Week Abroad Change Your Life? Ethical Service with Globe Aware Founder Kimberly Haley-Coleman. In this episode, host Scott “Coach” Martin sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore the world of short-term international service learning. Kimberly’s organization, Globe Aware, offers one-to-two-week “turnkey” volunteer projects in 26 countries, handling all the logistics so participants can fully immerse themselves in the culture and the work. Projects are concrete and definable, from installing floors for single mothers to assembling wheelchairs for landmine victims.

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