Travel to the Caribbeans – Responsibly!

Over the years, people have traveled for various reasons – some travelled to escape the everyday routines; yet others longed for a romantic getaway; and some others had a strong urge to go on what could be called an adventure escapade.

There is now, however, a new form of travel that is beginning to raise its head. It is called ‘responsible traveling’. These trips would be just like any other trip; the only difference being that these travelers would then partake of charitable giving in the part of the country that they are in.

The idea isn’t to donate money or clothes. It goes beyond that. They need your time and smaller items like a pack of crayons will also be appreciated fully.

If you decide to do a trip to the Caribbean Islands any time soon, let us tell you about the places where you might be able to turn into a ‘responsible traveler’.

Very few people know the truth behind the glossy outer cover of the Caribbean Islands – it is a place riddled with poverty. Most travelers will never be exposed to this form of reality that this place manages to hide with such ease. Almost every island has some children’s homes or orphanages that it runs – most of which would be locally operated and receive little or almost no help in the form of funds from their government.

Bahamas – Ranfurly Homes for Children

This organization at Mackey Street on New Providence Island provides for a haven for children who have suffered abuse or been orphaned.

When heading to the Bahamas, take along –

• Pens, scissors or other school supplies
• Underwear (children aged 8 – 18)
• Facecloths
• Towels
• Basic toiletries

Jamaica – SOS Children’s Villages

This is nondenominational, private and nonpolitical welfare organization. The home currently houses around 99 children.

When going to Jamaica, take along –

• Underwear for the children
• Basic toiletries
• School supplies – pencils, crayons, notebooks
• Diapers

Dominican Republic, the DREAM (Dominican Republic Education and Mentoring)

The DREAM believes in accepting educational material that has been hand delivered.

If you’re heading to the Dominican Republic, you could carry along –

• Spanish – language books
• Art supplies – balloons, paints, paint brushes, molding clay, glue, pipe cleaners
• Band Aids, mosquito repellent, Q tips
• School supplies – notebooks, rubber bands, masking tapes, scissors, chalk, pencils, markers
• Educational toys  – Dominos, puzzles