mckenna clarke

They say that everything is more fun—masaya—in the Philippines. Known for having some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world, along with white sand beaches, waterfalls, and majestic bright green mountains, the Philippines should be on everyone’s travel list. Even getting around can be fun. Instead of taxis, you’ll find jeepneys (WWII jeeps converted into bus-like transportation) and tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars for passengers). While you’re in the ’Pines, try fresh, sweet mangoes; sour soup called sinigang; and if you’re feeling brave, balut: boiled fertilized duck egg. If you’re looking for adventure and a whole lot of fun, the Philippines is the place to be. Here are four travel destinations to plan your vacation around:

Two billion dollars. That’s the amount organizations and individuals spend each year on voluntourism, a type of travel that combines tourism with service. An estimated 1.6 million voluntourists embark on trips ranging from a few days to a few weeks to third world countries each year. By definition, voluntourists have little or no formal skills or training. Voluntourist experiences are typically run by non-profit organizations, many of which have received criticism recently for focusing more on the short-term needs of participants than on the long-term needs of the locals.