Imagine combining the thrill of international adventure with the fulfillment of making a tangible difference in the world. That is the driving mission behind Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing short-term volunteer vacations across more than 25 countries.

In a recent podcast episode-S45 E01: Travel with Purpose-host Global Giving sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to discuss how travel can become a powerful force for good.

What Are Volunteer Vacations?

Volunteer vacations turn standard travel into an opportunity for service, cultural immersion, and mutual learning. Instead of passive sightseeing, travelers work side-by-side as equals with local communities on projects chosen and led by the host destinations.

Key features of Globe Aware’s “adventure in service” trips include:

Short-Term Commitments: One-week, fully coordinated experiences designed to fit into busy work and family schedules.

Hands-On Impact: Projects ranging from building homes and installing concrete floors for single mothers to assembling wheelchairs for landmine victims.

Cultural Immersion: Opportunities like taking wildlife counts under the full moon in Zimbabwe or connecting deeply with local cultures in Costa Rica and Kenya.

Sustainability & Equity: Focus on projects that promote long-term sustainability and cultural respect while treating locals as equal partners.

Why Showing Up Matters: Moving Beyond the Checkbook.

A central focus of Kimberly’s conversation is the debate over direct financial aid versus hands-on volunteer work. While donating money plays an important role, physically showing up creates human connection and trust that money alone cannot buy. Service work transforms both the giver and the community receiving support. By working together on sustainable, local-led initiatives, volunteers gain practical perspective on international development and leave a lasting positive impact.

Ethical Travel: What Good Service Looks Like

Ethical volunteer travel requires careful planning, community partnership, and cultural humility. Under Kimberly’s leadership, Globe Aware ensures that every program meets high ethical standards:

Community-Driven Choice: Local communities choose the project type and methodology.

Safety and Organization: Trips are fully coordinated from start to finish to ensure safety, efficacy, and meaningful cultural engagement.

True Equality: Volunteers serve alongside community members as peers rather than outside supervisors.

Meet the Founder:

Kimberly Haley-Coleman brings a wealth of international leadership experience to the nonprofit sector. Founded in 2000, Globe Aware stems from her background in international business development and finance, having previously held key roles at CNBC.com, Space Services International, and Investtools.

Her accomplishments include:Education: MBA in International Business, MA in Art History, and a BA from Emory University.

Leadership Roles: Chairman of the Executive Board for the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA).

Recognitions: Recipient of the Texas Business Hall of Fame Award and long-time Hall of Fame member, SMU Guest Lecturer, and multiple-patent holder.

Advisory Roles: Active engagement with the Building Bridges Coalition and the United Nations ECOSOC Consultative Status Committee. Ready to Make Your Next Trip Count?

If you are looking to rethink how you travel and want your next journey to be both thrilling and impactful, a short-term volunteer vacation might be your ideal next step.

Listen to the Full Episode: Check out S45 E01: Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware on your favorite podcast platform (17 min 49 sec).

Learn More & Book: Visit Globe Aware to explore upcoming volunteer programs across 26 countries.

The post Travel with Purpose Podcast – Global Giving: How Globe Aware Is Redefining Volunteer Vacations appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Are you looking for a unique family volunteering experience… say, in the Philippines? Read about a volunteer, Jenny Trusa’s week-long volunteer experience in Nueva Ecija with her family. From renovating classrooms and baking Filipino bread to cooking traditional meals at a local children’s home, here is her day-by-day reflection on how voluntourism with kids transformed her perspective on gratitude, community, and connection.

Good day!
My name is Jenny Trusa, and I am thrilled to share our incredible volunteer experience in Nueva Ecija last week. My family and I had the privilege of dedicating our time and efforts to a meaningful cause, and it was nothing short of unforgettable.

First and foremost, Don, our daughters, and I had an absolutely wonderful volunteer trip; it was enriching, inspiring, and filled with joy. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by our dedicated coordinator, Ge-ge, and her lovely family, who hosted us in their home. Their kindness and generosity made a lasting impression on us.

We cannot thank Ge-ge enough for her incredible hospitality and excellent coordination. She went above and beyond to ensure that our experience was seamless and enjoyable. Not only was she incredibly organized, but she also treated us with genuine warmth and kindness, making us feel at home every single day. Her family embraced us wholeheartedly, caring for our daughters as if they were their own, something Don and I deeply appreciated.

Throughout our stay, we were touched by the warmth and sincerity of the entire community. The people we met were kind, welcoming, and full of life. Their generosity and hospitality made us feel like family, and the bonds we formed will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Our time in Nueva Ecija was documented through a series of reflections and experiences, each of which deepened our appreciation for the power of kindness, gratitude, and connection. 

Here’s a glimpse into our journey: 

**DAY 1 – Gratitude Snapshot**
*Name one thing for which you are grateful.*

As a family, we are incredibly grateful for the better lifestyle we have and the opportunity to give back. Our children, ages 7 and 9, were especially thankful to meet our host family and be welcomed with open arms into the local community. They were overjoyed to make new friends, play traditional games, and experience the kindness and generosity of the local children. Seeing them laugh and play so freely reminded us how human connection transcends borders and backgrounds.

**Day 2 – Moments That Mattered**
*Describe a moment from today that made you smile or feel something deeply.*

Today, while working at a school project site, painting classrooms and constructing blackboards. We were struck by the reality of the school’s condition. The chairs were broken, the classroom was scorching hot despite having three electric fans, and yet the children were so happy, so full of joy. They didn’t complain. They embraced their circumstances with contentment, and that moved us deeply.

Our kids spent the day playing with local children, running around as if they had known each other forever. The pure and simple happiness on their faces made our hearts so full. It reminded us that joy isn’t about material things; it’s found in the connections we make and the love we share.


**Day 3 – Acts of Kindness**
*What’s one kind thing you saw someone do today or that you did for someone else?*

Today, we baked traditional Filipino bread and distributed it to the community. It was a small gesture, but seeing people’s faces light up as they received a warm piece of bread was deeply fulfilling. It reminded us that kindness doesn’t have to be grand it can be as simple as sharing food, offering a smile, or making someone feel valued.

What touched us even more was how the locals, even those with little to spare, shared their own small acts of kindness. Whether it was helping a neighbor carry groceries or offering a kind word, generosity flowed so naturally among them.


**Day 4 – Personal Growth Check-In**
*What challenged you today? How did you grow because of it?*

Visiting the orphanage was an eye-opening experience. We met 23 beautiful children, each full of hope and joy despite the hardships they face. We wanted to do something special for them, so we prepared lunch meals. The biggest challenge was cooking using the traditional *Kalan de Uling*, an earthenware stove where firewood or charcoal is used instead of gas. Getting the fire going and strong enough to cook was difficult, but with the guidance of our wonderful host family, we made it happen!

It turned into a fun bonding moment; we cooked as a team, laughed through the struggles, and finally served *adobong baboy* (pork adobo), the children’s favorite Filipino dish. Their excitement and gratitude made every effort worthwhile. Today, we learned that challenges can turn into beautiful memories when faced with patience, teamwork, and a shared purpose.


**Day 5 – Local Lens**
*What’s one thing you admired or learned from the local community today?*

One of the most beautiful things we witnessed in the local community was their unwavering kindness. Despite life’s challenges, they continuously show up for one another, offering support and warmth without hesitation.

From the very first day, we felt like family, even though we had just met. The people here genuinely care about each other’s well-being, creating a strong sense of togetherness. It’s a place where neighbors look after each other, where smiles and laughter are abundant, and where generosity flows effortlessly.

We also admired how safe and peaceful it felt, walking through the streets, we could feel the trust and love woven into the fabric of the community. It’s a powerful reminder that a strong and connected community is one of the greatest gifts in life.


**Day 6 – Beyond the Self**
*How did today’s experience shift your perspective about the world or your place in it?*

Our experiences over the past days have shifted our perspective in a way we never expected. We realize now how truly fortunate we are. Not just in what we have, but in the opportunities we’ve been given. Meeting people who live with so much joy despite having less has humbled us beyond words.

We’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from material wealth but from a heart full of love, gratitude, and connection. The world feels bigger and yet more intimate now; we see it not as separate places but as one shared home, where kindness and generosity bridge all differences.

We leave this experience with hearts full and a renewed commitment to living with more compassion, gratitude, and openness.


**Day 7 – Forward Thinking**
*What’s one small change you’d like to bring into your life back home as a result of this experience?*

One change we want to bring into our lives is a deeper, daily appreciation for what we have. Seeing families who live with less, yet radiate happiness, reminded us that we should never take anything for granted.

We want to simplify our lives, spend more time together, give more freely, and build stronger connections in our own community. We also want to teach our children that kindness, gratitude, and human connection are far more important than possessions.

This experience has changed us, and we hope to carry this newfound perspective into our everyday lives, making small but meaningful changes that will last a lifetime. – Volunteer Jenny Trusa

Ready to head to the Philippines with family? Learn more here!

The post The Ultimate Family Volunteer Vacation Experience: 7 Days in Nueva Ecija, Philippines with Globe Aware appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Navigating airports efficiently can make or break your travel experience. Long security lines and chaotic terminals often cause unnecessary stress before your journey even begins. In this exciting episode of the Globe Aware Adventures in Service podcast, host Pei Zhong shares unexpected airport hacks designed to save you time and hassle, whether you are flying solo or embarking on a volunteer vacation.

Discover surprising strategies that most travelers completely overlook. Learn about essential items that dramatically speed up your journey, unexpected things you should photograph before taking off, and insider secrets to bypass common delays. These quick six minute travel tips will completely transform how you prepare for your next flight.

Ready to explore the world and connect with new cultures? Tune in to the full episode for game changing advice, then visit www.globeaware.org to plan your next meaningful travel adventure.

Listen Here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JhET9CdRfM9YXbTpAwf9C?si=acfaa871f24c4edd

The post Airport tips that WILL surprise you! appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

https://abcnews.com/GMA/Travel/tsa-launches-program-allowing-travelers-past-security/story?id=136258039

The TSA has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a new initiative that allows non-ticketed TSA PreCheck members past airport security checkpoints to meet arriving loved ones, say goodbye at the gate, or enjoy terminal dining and shopping. What do you think of this new initiative?

The post TSA launches program allowing non-travelers past security appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2026/09/09/christmas-comes-early-in-the-philippines-as-ber-months-kick-off-four-month-countdown/234414

The Philippines has officially kicked off its famous four-month Christmas celebration with the arrival of the “ber months.” Filipinos embrace this long-standing tradition to bring joy, relief, and a sense of hope amidst economic and seasonal challenges. Globe Aware volunteers can experience this unique cultural holiday spirit firsthand by joining a volunteer vacation in the region: www.globeaware.org.

The post Christmas comes early in the Philippines as ‘ber months’ kick off four-month countdown appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Looking to make a real difference in the world without quitting your day job? In this episode of the “crazywheelz” podcast, host Ben sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder of the non-profit organization Globe Aware.

Globe Aware specializes in short-term, one-week volunteer vacation projects across 26 countries, creating meaningful cultural exchanges while empowering local communities.

If you’re hesitant to take the leap, Kimberly’s primary advice is simple: “Do not be led by fear.”

• Program Structure: 1-week programs (Sunday to Saturday) priced around $1,500 (tax-deductible, covering lodging, meals, materials, and local coordinators). 
• Learn More: Discover volunteer destinations, podcasts, and cultural guides by visiting Globe Aware or exploring their social channels.

The post People Helping People – Lessons from Globe Aware appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Are you preparing for an upcoming international trip or a volunteer service vacation? Packing for a journey abroad can feel overwhelming-it’s easy to load up on “just in case” items or forget the essential tools that make travel smoother.

In the latest episode of Globe Aware Adventures in Service, titled “What NOT to pack & Some Surprising Things You SHOULD Bring!”, we dive into practical tips to help you pack smarter. Overpacking adds unnecessary weight, creates stress, and leaves no room for souvenirs or essential project supplies.

Whether you’re gearing up for travel days or getting ready for hands-on volunteer activities with an organization like Globe Aware, we’ve got you covered. 

Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify: What NOT to pack & Some Surprising Things You SHOULD Bring!

The post What NOT to Pack (And Surprising Must-Haves) for Your Volunteer Vacation appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Mastering international travel with little ones comes down to clever preparation and adjusting your family’s daily rhythm on the go. Discover game-changing packing strategies and stress-free routines that transform long-haul journeys into smooth, enjoyable adventures for the whole family. Bring your kids on a Globe Aware volunteer vacation, available for all ages, at www.globeaware.org. 

By Dianne Apen-Sadler
AP

From baby-proofing your hotel to keeping kids entertained on the flight, here’s what you parents need to consider before booking that trip.
Travelling with babies and toddlers can be daunting for parents. Questions about air travel, what to pack and safety are often top of mind, especially on long-distance flights and international trips.

“Travelling with kids is a whole new world,” said Dr. Shannon Thompson, a paediatrician at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, adding that it’s important to “enjoy your kiddo on your trip” as much as you can.

Here are some tips and tricks for parents to travel safely with young children – and have fun with them, too.

Look for amenities like cribs and high chairs before you book

Before you decide where to stay, consider your options for baby-proofing.

Check whether items like portable playpens, cribs and high chairs are offered to guests. If you are staying somewhere with stairs, a balcony or a pool, inquire about baby gates; if they are not provided, see if they are available for rent nearby or consider bringing travel-friendly foldable mesh gates.

Pack electrical outlet covers and wipes to clean any dirty surfaces your kiddo might touch.

For babies, safe sleeping is still essential on vacation. Children younger than one should sleep on their back on a flat, firm surface such as a mattress in a bassinet, crib or playpen with nothing more than a fitted sheet, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The organisation also recommends babies sleep in the parents’ room – but not in the parents’ bed – for at least the first six months.

You should also consider how you will get to your lodging: Will you fly in and rent a car or take a taxi, or take public transit from the airport? Will you mostly be driving or walking?

For parents, these factors can determine whether you want to bring a stroller and a car seat, both of which you can gate check for free when you fly, or rely on using a sling or baby carrier.

Plan for snacks and diaper changes on the plane

“Flying with kids is one of those big, intimidating things,” Thompson said. “I think the biggest thing to think about is always safety and then of course their comfort.”

While children under two can fly in their parents’ lap, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency recommends securing them in their own safety seat, such as a car seat certified for use on planes. This requires buying a seat for your child.

For long-haul or international flights, ask the airline if they have bassinets available.

Baby food such as formula, puree pouches and breast milk are not subject to the 100 millilitre rule when passing through security, but only for use during your trip (so you won’t be able to bring excessive amounts) and you might be asked to prove its authenticity.

In addition to snacks, don’t forget to carry on diapers, wipes, a portable changing pad and sealable plastic bags for disposal. Bring extra clothes to layer or change in case of accidents or messy spills.

Swallowing and chewing can help with ear pressure, so nursing little ones or giving them a bottle or pacifier can ease discomfort during take-off and landing.

Speak with your pediatrician beforehand if your child is prone to ear infections, and before travelling abroad, ask them what vaccines may be recommended.

Keep kids entertained on and off the plane

For flights with young kids, Christy Slavik, owner of the travel agency Mom Approved Travel, recommends “having little surprises that you can distract them with” – such as sticky mats for travel-sized play doh, suction cup toys and other games that are small and light to pack.

If sightseeing once at your destination, think about ways to make activities more fun and interactive. For art museums, bring notebooks that kids can draw in, or ask them what types of animals they can find in the paintings, Slavik said.

“Kids need a mission. They need games,” she said. “You have to get creative sometimes when you’re travelling.”

Exposing children to other cultures, foods and languages can also be fun. Some may enjoy picking out snacks at markets, for example, or learning foreign words for their favourite dishes and activities.

There are options for places to stay that are family friendly, with amenities such as pools or games. For those travelling abroad on a budget, many hostels offer private rooms for families so they don’t have to share a dorm-style room with bunk beds. Hotels and hostels provide the opportunity to meet other travellers, including fellow children who can become playmates.

The perks of travelling with extended family

Helping mums actually enjoy their vacation – and relax amid the stress that can come with planning and travelling – is a core goal of Slavik’s travel agency.

One way parents can get a break is by planning trips with grandparents or other family members.

This helps with babysitting duties, while also allowing loved ones to have special bonding time with kiddos. Just make sure they also have their own down time and aren’t wearing themselves out, Slavik said.

“When you bring grandparents to a vacation, you’re giving them the opportunity to experience those moments together,” she said.

The post Top tips and tricks for travelling internationally with young children appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

By Mina Elwell
AOL

Discover how smart planning and local expert guidance can safeguard your trip against unexpected natural disasters. Learn essential travel safety strategies and navigate unexpected emergencies with confidence. Globe Aware when help address your concerns when you book a volunteer vacation at www.globeaware.org.

Maybe you planned your summer vacation in Cancun for August, the heart of hurricane season. Maybe you just touched down in Hawaii and are getting ready to hit the beach when you hear there’s a tsunami warning. Maybe you just started a hiking trip through the forests of California during a particularly dry September and smell a little smoke on the wind. Natural disasters can strike at any time, leaving devastation in their wake. You may be wondering: If there’s any chance a terrible storm or emergency situation may hit while you’re on your trip, what do you actually need to do to give yourself the best chance of a fulfilling travel experience, and more importantly, to stay safe?

To find out what travelers should do when they realize their vacation may be impacted by a natural disaster, Islands spoke to Victoria Fricke, the owner of luxury travel agency Vic’s Vacations which specializes in creating custom itineraries and handling trave; logistics for clients. Her main piece of advice: “Stay calm and look for plans B, C and D.”

Fricke is no stranger to this issue. She shared that she has worked with clients whose trips were threatened by fires, tsunamis, and most frequently, hurricanes. Across the board, she said, her clients have had to cancel unsafe plans, change trip dates, and shelter in place until the danger passed. During the Maui wildfires in 2023, Fricke said she had to help clients who were in the path of the disaster, sharing, “We had to evacuate them to another island, find a hotel on that island and work to find new air days later as the airlines were inundated and we couldn’t get one out immediately.”

What you can do to prepare for natural disasters while planning your vacation

Some natural disasters are extremely unpredictable. While you may know that Japan has a high chance of earthquakes, you can’t really plan your trip to Osaka to avoid them. All you can do is be prepared and know what to do in an emergency. That’s not true of all natural disasters, however. According to Victoria Fricke, hurricanes are the most common natural disaster experienced by the travelers she works with, especially those headed to the Caribbean between June and November. Hurricanes are a lot more likely to occur during hurricane season, so travelers going to affected regions should be prepared. While there are significant deals on flights and hotels during this time, those savings come with risks.

If you decide to book a trip to a destination with a higher chance of being impacted by natural disasters, Fricke says you definitely need travel insurance. While it can be expensive, it may save you money in the long run. Although you’ll have to wait to be reimbursed for covered expenses, it’s far better than ending up stuck with a serious, unexpected bill.

Fricke recounted a story about clients who had to extend their trip due to a hurricane. “My clients were reimbursed for the cost for their hotel room those extra nights, their friends on property without insurance weren’t,” she told Islands. “The insurance cost they had paid was $180 for their trip. The cost of the three nights was about $2,000.”

Stay calm and get informed if you hear that a natural disaster is coming

If you’ve already arrived at your destination and find out that a major storm, wildfire, or other natural disaster may be about to hit, you’re probably going to feel overwhelmed, if not terrified. Not only are you at risk of missing out on the trip you have been dreaming of for ages and losing significant money by changing plans, but you and your loved ones could also be in serious danger. As stressful and upsetting as the situation may be, Victoria Fricke urges travelers to stay calm. Then, it’s time to gather information from trusted sources.

As scary as the situation is, it’s important to listen to the right people when it comes to information about natural disasters. While others around you may be feeling panicky, Fricke recommended: “Listen to local authorities and weather outlets to determine when the storm will hit … Don’t allow social media, speculation from non credible sources or other tourists allow you to panic. The best thing you can do is calmly wait to hear what local authorities and resort staff inform you to do.”

Change your flights as quickly as possible

While you may be tempted to wait and see what’s going to happen, Victoria Fricke says that when it comes to flights out of areas facing natural disasters, there is no time to waste. Otherwise, you may find yourself scrambling to figure out the best thing to do if your flight is canceled due to weather — alongside everyone else who decided to take a vacation that week.

If you think there’s any chance your flight out of your destination may be canceled, you should change your plans immediately. You will probably have to extend your trip either way, and if you wait until your flight is actually canceled, you could end up spending a lot more. Fricke explained: “If this happens keep in mind they are modifying all passengers, not just you. That means it could take days to get on a new flight. As soon as you know the potential hit, modify your flight to one to two days after … Moving ahead guarantees a seat on a flight vs hoping you get one.”

Depending on the situation, if you want to lave the area quickly and cut your trip short, that could be possible, too. Fricke shared that in the past, she was able to help multiple clients get out of the path of a hurricane before the storm even hit by encouraging them to make a fast decision. She explained that the key is always making the change early, “Whether it’s departing from your trip earlier than planned to avoid the threat all together or finding a new flight a couple of days later after the weather has calmed down,” she advised.

What to do if you have to ride out a natural disaster

If a natural disaster is coming and you have heard from reputable sources that you should shelter in place rather than evacuate, there are still things you can do to stay safe and improve your experience. Before anything else, Victoria Fricke advises plugging in your phone, laptop, or tablet and making sure you’re able to stay connected in the event that you lose power. Not only will this help prevent boredom, but it will also allow you to communicate with loved ones and stay informed about what to do and how long the disaster may last.

If you have enough advance warning, Fricke recommends stocking up before the disaster begins and before local shops close up for safety. She suggests picking up some water and snacks, just in case you can’t go out for a while. Don’t go overboard, though. Fricke cautioned: “Don’t allow fear to push you into being an inconsiderate person- just go grab some supplies for an overnight and missed meal if needed.”

The post The Best Travel Safety Tips For When A Natural Disaster Threatens Your Vacation appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Several popular international destinations-including Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the Bahamas- have recently updated their entry requirements, visas, and digital arrival procedures for American travelers. Staying informed on these changing entry policies and digital declarations is essential for tourists planning overseas travel to ensure seamless airport check-ins and hassle-free border clearance. Globe Aware can assist you when planning your travel abroad, visit www.globeaware.org

Here is exactly what American travelers need to know to navigate these new rules and avoid getting turned away at the boarding gate.

1. Vietnam: The New Digital Arrival Card

The Change: A mandatory Digital Arrival Card is now required before you clear immigration.

If you are flying into Vietnam via Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), you can no longer skip this step. Vietnam has replaced the old paper arrival slip with a mandatory electronic declaration that generates a QR code to speed up border processing.

How it works: You must fill out the form online up to 72 hours before your arrival in Vietnam. It is completely free and asks for your passport info, flight details, purpose of visit, and where you are staying. The catch: The Immigration Department strongly advises completing this pre-arrival form before your departure to avoid delays. You need this form even if you are just transferring through Ho Chi Minh City to another domestic flight in Vietnam, as transit passengers are only exempt if they are staying in the airside transit area.

Where to get it: The official government portal is prearrival.immigration.gov.vn. Watch out for third-party sites trying to charge you a fee.

2. India: The Return of Air Suvidha

The Change: A mandatory health self-declaration form (Air Suvidha 2.0) is back.

Following a WHO alert regarding an Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, India has temporarily brought back mandatory health screening for all arriving international passengers. Importantly, there is no outbreak in India; this is purely a precautionary border measure.

How it works: You have to fill out the form online up to 24 hours before you land. You will need to detail your recent travel history and list any potential exposure or symptoms.

The catch: This health declaration applies to all travelers regardless of nationality or final city in India, including passengers transiting through hubs such as Singapore, Dubai, or Kuala Lumpur on their way to India. Airlines may check for this submission at the boarding gate, and you must be able to show the confirmation receipt upon arrival. If you don’t have it saved on your phone or printed, you could face issues.

Where to get it: Fill it out for free at airsuvidha.civilaviation.gov.in

3. Sri Lanka: A Free Visa Win

The Change: The government fee for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) has been completely waived for Americans.

Good news for your wallet: Sri Lanka has dropped the application fee for its tourist e-visa for travelers from 40 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

How it works: You still absolutely must apply for the ETA before you arrive. You just don’t have to pay the processing fee anymore.

The catch: The free visa is valid for 30 days and allows for double entry. If you want to stay longer, you will have to apply for a visa extension upon payment of the applicable visa fee. Be careful, as many third-party websites will try to charge you this fee even though it is now free; only use the official portal at eta.gov.lk.

4. Thailand: Slashing Visa Exemption Times

The Change: Visa-free stays are being slashed from 60 days back down to 30 days for many Western travelers.

Thailand recently approved a major restructuring of its visa exemption policy. While the exact enforcement date depends on when the rule is formally published in the Royal Gazette (taking effect 15 days after publication), the writing is on the wall for long-term travelers.

How it works: Visitors from 59 countries and territories will soon be capped at a 30-day stay upon arrival, rather than the 60 days they have enjoyed recently.

The catch: If you were planning to spend two months backpacking through Chiang Mai and the southern islands, you will soon need to apply for a formal tourist visa in advance or plan for a border run.

5. The Bahamas: Testing Digital Customs

The Change: The country is testing a new digital arrival card to replace the old paper customs and immigration forms.

The Bahamas is slowly modernizing its borders. They have launched a pilot program that combines immigration and customs into a single digital form.

How it works: Right now, this is only a “soft launch.” The digital card is only available for select visitors arriving on specific flights.

The catch: Because they haven’t published a master list of which flights qualify, you shouldn’t panic if you can’t find the form online before your trip. If your airline doesn’t prompt you to use the new digital system, you will simply fill out the traditional paper cards while on the airplane.

The post These 5 Countries Just Changed Their Entry Rules For Americans This Summer appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.