At home, we know which charities are dedicated to particular groups in need. If we want to support children's education, we know where to send a donation. If it's the United Way or the Cancer Society, then we pick up the phone and request a donation pick up. That tradition of charity and giving has moved mountains! So many have achieved what was previously thought to be impossible, simply through the kindness of others. For those lucky enough to be able to afford a Caribbean vacation, charity can be continued while abroad. But don't send money!
The Caribbean region possesses some of the most beautiful and rare natural landscapes in the world. Delicately unique ecosystems hold unusual plant and wildlife species. Historic colonial landmarks are erected alongside ancient ruins from indigenous cultures living on the land thousands of years before the Europeans arrived. The climate itself is wonderful, with its warm equatorial sun and fragrant ocean breezes. The magnificent resorts offer guests luxury, leisure, adventure and an experience they won't soon forget! It is no surprise why so many travelers flock to the region every year.
Yet part of visiting a foreign country is exploring beyond the resort. Stepping out onto the streets of the local village or town provides a wonderful opportunity to get a real feel for the culture. For the more popular destinations one needs to venture a little beyond the immediate resort area. The quaint street food vendors always have delicious local fare to nibble on, and the shops provide a wealth of goods to browse. One element that is far more visible when visitors explore beyond the tourist areas, is the living conditions of poverty stricken local residents. Travelers may be approached by beggars, particularly children or the elderly. In the face of such innocence and abject need, it can be very hard to resist the urge to give cash.
As the 'rich tourist' you will be seen as an easy target for charity, in particular, money. Do not give coin or cash to those who approach you. Instead, bring items from home like travel size toiletries, pencils, erasers, pads of paper, crayons, felt pens, or small packs of sweets. Some organizations advise against giving these sorts of things because the recipients may turn around and try to sell it rather than use it. While that is a valid point, it is a far better option than giving money. Choosing to give money to beggars not only shows them where you keep your money, but it also shows that you are carrying it in the first place - and therefore makes you a target
Yet part of visiting a foreign country is exploring beyond the resort. Stepping out onto the streets of the local village or town provides a wonderful opportunity to get a real feel for the culture. For the more popular destinations one needs to venture a little beyond the immediate resort area. The quaint street food vendors always have delicious local fare to nibble on, and the shops provide a wealth of goods to browse. One element that is far more visible when visitors explore beyond the tourist areas, is the living conditions of poverty stricken local residents. Travelers may be approached by beggars, particularly children or the elderly. In the face of such innocence and abject need, it can be very hard to resist the urge to give cash.
As the 'rich tourist' you will be seen as an easy target for charity, in particular, money. Do not give coin or cash to those who approach you. Instead, bring items from home like travel size toiletries, pencils, erasers, pads of paper, crayons, felt pens, or small packs of sweets. Some organizations advise against giving these sorts of things because the recipients may turn around and try to sell it rather than use it. While that is a valid point, it is a far better option than giving money. Choosing to give money to beggars not only shows them where you keep your money, but it also shows that you are carrying it in the first place - and therefore makes you a target
As the 'rich tourist' you will be seen as an easy target for charity, in particular, money. Do not give coin or cash to those who approach you. Instead, bring items from home like travel size toiletries, pencils, erasers, pads of paper, crayons, felt pens, or small packs of sweets. Some organizations advise against giving these sorts of things because the recipients may turn around and try to sell it rather than use it. While that is a valid point, it is a far better option than giving money. Choosing to give money to beggars not only shows them where you keep your money, but it also shows that you are carrying it in the first place - and therefore makes you a target for theft.
If you are still unsure about how to be charitable while on vacation in the Caribbean, do some research on local charities before leaving home. Investigate which organizations receive donations and distribute them to local families in need. If you wish to support schools or hospitals, try contacting local authorities for information on charitable donations. Helping those in need can continue while on vacation in the incredible Caribbean region!
About the Author:
If you are still unsure about how to be charitable while on vacation in the Caribbean, do some research on local charities before leaving home. Investigate which organizations receive donations and distribute them to local families in need. If you wish to support schools or hospitals, try contacting local authorities for information on charitable donations. Helping those in need can continue while on vacation in the incredible Caribbean region!
About the Author:
BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on punta cana resorts at BookIt.com!