Since you will be volunteering in another country, away from your usual mode of transport, this post will provide general tips for using the local public transport whilst you are on your volunteer project with Kaya.
What’s so great about public transport?
- By using the local transport, to immerse yourself in the culture of your chosen country. This is a great way to explore further afield in your spare time, by yourself or with new friends
- It enables you to travel responsibly around your chosen destination. Hiring a car can be worse for the environment due to the amount of emissions released. Jump on the train or a reputable travel bus to reduce your carbon footprint whilst you’re out and about.
- You can relax once onboard your chosen method of transport – Let the drivers take you to your destination. After all, they know what they’re doing.
- You can travel longer distances – Don’t be afraid to venture outside the country as long as it’s safe to do so and you have the right documentation to travel outside the country; make the most of your volunteer experience and see what else there is to discover.
Before you use public transport, don’t forget:
- Always listen to the advice given to you on the ground – the local team will know more about current safety advice.
- Does the local public transport operate at night? In some destinations, public transport doesn’t run after dark, so make sure you know the running times of your chosen mode of transport so you can make it home safe. In others it may not be safe to do so.
- Don’t be afraid to be picky with the taxis – make sure you are happy to go in the vehicle and with the driver.
- Make sure your taxi driver turns the meter on or you agree on a set price before starting your journey to avoid any over expensive trips or arguments.
- Be sure to take some small currency out and about with you – many taxi drivers are unlikely to have change or may tell you they don’t have change to force you to pay more for your journey.
- Always ask where the lifejackets are if you are travelling by boat.
- If you are travelling by bicycle or motorbike, make sure they are in good working order and be sure to always wear a helmet.
- Only take the valuables you need and make sure they are safely tucked away to avoid them being stolen.
Whether it’s by jeepney, tuktuk, boat or bicycle, make sure you keep safe and enjoy yourself when you are volunteering with Kaya. Check out our destinations to find out where you can have your next travel adventure!
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