Tips on Hiring Taxis at Airports

After a long and tiring flight, the last thing you want to worry about is the possibility of being defrauded by greedy, illegal and unscrupulous taxi drivers. Airports in unfamiliar countries are often vast and confusing places, even for seasoned travelers. It's wise to learn as much about the value of the currency as possible, so look online to check the latest exchange rates and try to become familiar with the terminology. Looking after your spending money will obviously be one of your main priorities as a traveller, after securing your most affordable airfare, and sourcing the best possible accommodation for your money.


Groups of persistently hustling taxi drivers are to be found at all busy places, even at the world's best airports and the most secured ones. It's a good idea to avoid them at all costs, for your personal safety. Ask airport officials for location of the main taxi ranks. At Miami, for example, official advice is to find a taxi cab that is clearly marked with the words "taxi" or "taxicab" prominently displayed on both sides of the vehicle. The licence number must also be clearly visible in at least six locations within the car, as should the driver's identification documents. This advice is valid for taxis in most cities, in the west.


Knowledge is power. It's a good idea to prepare for the trip by reading accounts on popular travel websites, where other people review and write about their experiences. They can provide you with a wealth of useful information, such as how much to expect to pay for your journey. Most taxi firms are metered, although sometimes it can be a good idea to agree a flat rate at the start of your journey if it is some distance. Make sure you have plenty of cash in the local currency as your driver will find it annoying if you don't have any, and you will find it stressful. Be polite and don't forget to give a tip if you think he or she has done a good job. How much will depend on the location, but between five and ten percent should be adequate. Lastly, relax and enjoy your stay!

Global Humanitarian Experiences for Philanthropic Travelers

As long as you have a spirit to serve and passion for volunteering, you have what it takes to be a humanitarian.

"Whether you're an accomplished physician, a student in nursing school, or someone with zero medical training, there are plenty of organizations (religious and otherwise) looking for volunteers," explains the travel blog of HCCMIS. You can help treat and improve the living conditions of third-world nations by learning more about the following organizations and embarking on the trip of a lifetime. 

Project Hope

Medical volunteers for HOPE participate in ship-based care in partnership with the U.S. Navy. HOPE volunteers also participate in land-based projects that provide medical assistance to needy people worldwide, including major disaster relief efforts. In 2004, volunteers helped mitigate the Tsunami devastation in Southeast Asia. HOPE volunteers provided aid to Katrina victims in Gulf States during 2005. Five years later, HOPE relief workers assisted Haitian earthquake victims.

Volunteers in Latin America, West Africa and Oceania also participated in health education and humanitarian assistance missions. The goal: remediate disasters and improve the quality of life for people throughout the globe by executing educational and health care services.

Embark of any of the current HOPE opportunities: 

• Nurse Educators (Shanghai): Qualified graduate-level nurses will teach undergraduate nursing students.

• Physical & Occupational Therapists (Haiti): Volunteers will train and mentor local techs specializing in PT and OT.
  
   



• Physician Faculty and ESL Teachers (Shanghai): Qualified recruits will teach students about basic medicine, physical sciences and comprehensive English.
  
   



• Various Volunteers (South Africa): Recruits will carry out the HOPE Centre chronic disease project.
  
   



• Health of Women and Children Program (Dominican Republic): Team of diverse volunteers will promote global health program.
  
   



• Physician Specialists (Haiti): Physician Specialists will assist with Hôpital Albert Schweitzer and the health system. 

Global Crossroad: Nepal & Other Destinations

The Himalayan country of Nepal suffers from severe poverty and sickness. Global Crossroad offers life-changing Nepali experiences for volunteers who want to embark on an adventure as well as help heal the sick or make a difference in an orphanage.

Nepal volunteer programs include:

• Teaching English to Buddhist Monks



• Working in an orphanage



• Volunteering in nature conservation or medical/health care



• Becoming a photojournalist



• Impacting the lives of underprivileged children through Mini-Venture Nepal programs 



• Discovering the beauty of Nepal through Summer Escapes program, including community work   

Volunteers will participate in a language and cultural immersion orientation program in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. During two phases, you'll learn about the county's history and the negative wear-and-tear effects of the modern world. Volunteers become submerged in Nepali culture and way of life for a more rewarding experience. 

Fees include meal plans and accommodations for projects and traveling. You'll receive three meals a day full of local ingredients and traditional cuisine. GlobalCrossroad.com also explains that international volunteers will stay in a permanent residence called a "home base, either with a host family or in a project hostel." 

Individuals with a passion for traveling, new experiences and humanitarian service can also venture to an array of worldwide destinations through Global Crossroad services. Help disadvantaged and at-risk children in Argentina. Care for individuals in Kenya who are infected with HIV/AIDS. Support Thailand locals as they strive to achieve economic opportunity by generating projects, such as a fish farm and animal husbandry. Other countries include Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Uganda and more.