At the end of 2005, I decided that I needed a break. I’d been planning a trip to China for some time, but I was ready to go earlier than I expected. A search of “volunteering in countries near China” led me to World Youth International.
World Youth International was founded in 1988 by the late Robert Hoey, and has since facilitated meaningful volunteer opportunities for more than 3000 Australians, and provided access to basic services such as healthcare and education for more than 40,000 people across the globe.
Following the signing of a three-month peace treaty, I was lucky enough to experience the culture and people of Nepal for just over three months. Volunteering at an orphanage and helping out at a couple of different schools, it was a life-changing experience that I would highly recommend.
South Asia is full of life, culture, and stunning landscapes. In India, you’ll see the beauty of the Taj Mahal and feel the energy of cities like Delhi. Pakistan is a land of mountains, like the Karakoram range, perfect for adventurers. Bangladesh has peaceful mangrove forests in the Sundarbans, and Nepal is home to the mighty Himalayas and spiritual temples. No matter where you go, the people’s warmth makes every visit unforgettable.
The islands of South Asia have their own magic. Sri Lanka offers golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient ruins to explore. The Maldives is a paradise with clear blue waters and overwater bungalows. Bhutan, known for its happiness, has monasteries on cliffs and a deep connection to nature. Even the British Indian Ocean Territory is untouched, with coral reefs and calm lagoons to discover.
Traveling through South Asia is about more than seeing new places—it’s about connecting with the culture and history. Imagine sipping chai in a busy market, hiking in Nepal’s mountains, or relaxing on a beach in the Maldives. From Afghanistan’s rugged mountains to Bhutan’s peaceful valleys, each place has a story to tell. South Asia invites you to explore and make memories that last forever.