Be an African Warrior

At three of Cheli & Peacock’s 14 eco-tourism lodges in Kenya, Saruni Mara, Saruni Samburu and SaruniWild, anyone can learn the survival skills of world-class warriors in the Masai Mara. For one week (or a few days) each individual is trained and taught in the same way as a junior warrior of the Masai. Under the tutelage of their ‘Moran,’ or Warrior class, students gain survival skills, become naturals with a bow and arrow, track animals, craft tools and build a nomadic home. Under close instruction, the apprentice sees how the Masai and their warriors view the world and live amongst its wild creatures.  It is an unforgettable first-hand experience with bush skills, folklore and ancient wisdom of these unique people. Rates vary from $390 per person to $630 based on travel dates and occupancy. This excursion must be booked in advance, visit them online to learn more.

Greenloons, previously mentioned, also offers a 15-day Zambia Community Work & Safari vacation. Set against the backdrop of incredible Victoria Falls, students volunteer with teaching and education outreach projects in the small town of Livingstone. They’ll spend their time helping with school refurbishment projects, adult literacy, art and sports programs and other hands on activities. Price is $1599. Click here for more information.

India Opportunity

In rural India the Jeevan Paying Guest Unit was founded by local residents concerned about the plight of the poor in the Kanda area of Uttarakhand, India. The venue invites tourists from all over the world to study and become immersed in the Kumaoni sustainable village lifestyle, culture, environment and spirituality. Visitors are also invited to take part in locally organized cultural events allowing the eldest members of the community to share their tradition with the youngest. Check out their website. Note: Home stays vary from 1 to 25 weeks.

Exotic Florida

Florida will always be the go-to spring break destination. If your young adult is determined to fly to the panhandle state offer a side trip to the Florida Keys. Home to the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef, earning it title of the “Dive Capital of the World” the Florida Keys can be an enriching spring break opportunity for those interested in marine life. Visitors are invited to work on coral restoration efforts with marine scientists from Key Largo’s Coral Restoration Foundation to help restore endangered staghorn and elkhorn corals ― two reef-building species with the best chance to propagate and create new habitats.  To learn more about coral reef restoration activities check out their website.

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