To win tourists back to the country after the recent devastation, the Japan National Tourism Organization lists some top reasons to visit the Land of the Rising Sun again.

Once an expensive country to visit, now there are deals to be had.

Want to satisfy your wanderlust cravings and do some good at the same time this spring break?
A surge of alternative spring break (ASB) trips have emerged in the last few years to satisfy a growing number of socially-conscious young people and those who are no longer happy with the typical spring break party vacations. Opportunities are plentiful. There are numerous destinations and ample ways to contribute and do something meaningful and gain insights into community and environmental development. You can volunteer in a low-income school, help out on an archaeological …

Family Travel Forum Consulting (FTFc) released their report of teen travel trends based on the submissions of 5,700 teens, ages 13-18, who entered their Teen Travel Writing Scholarship.  The findings provide insight on what we can expect from this generation of younger travelers. Today’s teens are undoubtedly more global-minded and are willing to travel far from home. They are service-oriented and are keen on exploring distant cultures.
– 48% of teen applicants have traveled outside the United States by their 18th birthday
– Africa-Middle East saw the largest increase in teen travel …

Volunteer or service travel is thriving, and that is not surprising given the gratification it provides the traveler. The desire to give back however,  is not limited just for those with the greatest means. Farther Foundation is a not-for-profit scholarship organization that provides support for low income high school students to participate in educational travel programs that broaden their horizons and raise their aspirations for success. More and more, the programs their scholarship students choose contain opportunities to provide volunteer service to the communities where they travel. During 2009, the …

Yesterday’s New York Times article confirmed what we have been saying, voluntourism or volunteer travel is resilient during this recession because people will find creative ways to source and pay for their travels if they feel their travels have value and meaning. Certainly, there will be adjustments and compromises as cost becomes a bigger factor in the decision-making process. But as the article noted, teens, in this case, will continue to go on service trips because these experiences are far too important for them to forgo. Schools are requiring …

As part of our on-going series, Budget Volunteer Vacations , we spotlight low cost, no frills volunteer travels to various destinations around the world. These trips do not include airfare, but meals and lodging are often included at no cost or for a minimal cost of $100-$200. These trips are great add-ons to your vacations!
Looking for a low-cost, challenging, and fun volunteer vacation this year? Washington Trails Association (WTA) hosts week-long work parties for adults, teens and families. For $150 ($125 for WTA member) they will provide you with a …

Today’s teens are developing an appetite for traveling and volunteering. A recent analysis done by the Family Travel Forum (FTF) revealed “at least 51% of American teens have traveled outside the U.S. by their 18th birthday, and that 15% more of these young travelers were involved in service projects compared to 2007 results.” FTF editor, Kyle McCarthy, said, “The 15% increase in teen voluntourism seen since last year may be due to a heightened awareness of our interconnected world, from the environment to Darfur to President Obama’s campaign for change.” …