The last two decades have seen the growth of a particular type of tourism activity known as voluntourism. Also referred to as volunteer tourism, volunteer travel, or volunteer holidays, voluntourism is a form of volunteerism. In essence, it means tourism that combines travel to a destination with voluntary labor for a worthy cause (excluding paid working holidays).

Perceptions of the meaning of voluntourism differ. For example, some might see it as a holiday that may involve engagement in altruistic activities, perhaps for the benefit of a local community. Alternatively, it may be seen as a combination of service, adventure, and professional development or networking, typically matched with the tourist’s personal interests. Or it may simply be about meaningful and ethical holiday choices that offer authentic ...

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