Derek and Amy Weichel recount their unforgettable Thanksgiving adventure in Thailand. Discover more about their international volunteer experience with Globe Aware.
Last Thanksgiving, our family embarked on an unforgettable journey to Thailand for an international volunteer trip with Globe Aware. We were joined by three other families, making us a group of 15 adventurers, eager to serve and experience God’s beautiful creation in a new corner of the world.
Globe Aware volunteers, these destinations are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable New Year’s experience. We wholeheartedly agree with the two volunteer vacation spots highlighted on this list!
By Amanda Teague
December 5, 2024
The Manual
If you want to ring in the new year in style, there are plenty of amazing places around the world that know how to throw a party. Whether you’re seeking epic fireworks, bustling nightlife, or a more laid-back vibe, the world has something special to offer. From iconic cities buzzing with excitement to more remote options where you can celebrate in peace, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to go for New Year’s Eve.
Five destinations from Laos to Japan proudly represent Asia, with a mix of popular spots and under-the-radar destinations. Three of them are Globe Aware volunteer vacation destinations!
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 names 30 countries, regions, and cities you must visit next year
By Cheryl Sekkappan
October 28, 2024
Time Out
There are too many to count if we’re talking about must-visit places of all time in Asia. However, specific destinations in the region are ripe for a visit in 2025, whether because they’ve recently become more accessible or have a brand new attraction you want to be the first to catch. That’s where Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 comes in, with its handpicked list of 10 countries, 10 regions, and 10 cities you must book next year.
Thailand has again won top honors in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025, with Chiang Mai named among the “Top Cities.” Globe Aware volunteers can explore this beautiful city during their volunteer week in Thailand.
October 25, 2024
Travel And Tour World
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is excited to share that Thailand has again earned distinguished honors in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. In its fifteenth edition, Best in Travel showcases 30 essential destinations for the upcoming year, featuring Chiang Mai as one of the “Top Cities.”
Many Globe Aware volunteers forget about Laos as it borders the Southeast Asian tourist trifecta of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Find out why you shouldn’t miss out on this remarkable volunteer vacation destination.
By Emily Manthei
Oct. 2, 2024
Islands
Many travelers forget about Laos as it borders the Southeast Asian tourist trifecta of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In 2023, Statista reported over 28 million tourist entries into Thailand, while the Lao News Agency reported only 3.4 million visitors to Laos in the same year. What’s more, Trip.com reports you can spend as little as $30 to $50 per day as a budget traveler to stay, eat, and see the sights. To discover Southeast Asia beyond Thailand’s postcard-worthy beaches, check out this landlocked jewel’s mountains, rivers, ancient temples, and great food without the crowds.
September 4, 2024
American Association of Orthodontists
As a second-generation orthodontist, Dr. Drew Lombardi had an orthodontic practice in Fort Lee and Jersey City, New Jersey for 40 years until his transition to retirement in October 2023. Considering how to spend his time in retirement, Dr. Lombardi was eager to use his professional knowledge to give back to people in need.
As summer draws to a close, it doesn’t mean our volunteers’ travel plans have to end, too. On this list, you’ll discover at least one destination that will ignite your wanderlust, with many of them being locations where we have Globe Aware programs!
September 1, 2024
By: Megi Canco
Travel Off Path
Just because summer’s coming to an end doesn’t mean your travel plans have to, too.
The insufferable crowds have started to dissipate, temperatures are coming back down to Earth, and best of all, airfare to some of the world’s most incredible destinations has plummeted, giving adventurous travelers on a budget the opportunity of a lifetime.
A gem of Southeast Asia, Laos attracts visitors who love natural beauty, intriguing culture, and off-the-beaten-track experiences – without the throngs. Here are 10 places where Globe Aware volunteers can discover the treasures – and pleasures – of Laos.
By Dave Stamboulis
Aug 20, 2024
Lonely Planet
A gem of Southeast Asia, Laos attracts visitors who love natural beauty, intriguing culture and off-the-beaten-track experiences – without the throngs.
The country’s low population density means that many of the landscapes here are untouched by humans, which means exciting adventures for outdoor lovers. Yet in Laos’ cities and towns, visitors find historical treasures, alluring temples and a warm welcome from Lao locals.
International Globe Aware volunteers should be aware that Cambodia is actively working to boost tourism by hosting cultural events, lowering visa costs, and more.
August 9, 2024
Travel And Tour World
Cambodia, known for its rich cultural heritage and the iconic Angkor Wat, is grappling with a slow recovery in its tourism sector since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The figures from the first half of 2024 have painted a bleak picture for the industry. The number of foreign tourists arriving at Siem Reap’s airport has plummeted by 67% compared to the same period in 2019, with only 313,145 arrivals. This stark decline underscores the challenges Cambodia faces in revitalizing its tourism industry. So the visa fee reduction will serve as a potential booster.
Globe Aware destinations, like the Galápagos Islands, are raising their visitor fees, similar to other popular locations. Discover the reasons behind these fee increases and learn how to prepare!
Tourist hot spots are implementing measures against overtourism. Will this impact your next trip
June 5, 2024
Deseret News
By Caroline McDonald
With the summer travel season approaching, popular tourist spots are planning ahead with new rules and fees to control crowds. This is according to The New York Times, which outlined recent measures taken by Bali, Amsterdam, Paris and Milan — all popular destinations for tourists.
