The trips focus on really seeing the countries realistically, as they truly are. The people, the communities, the cultures, the schools, and the nature are seen from the RV window in REAL LIFE! just as it is!, not a “show” put on for tourists!
As a participant, you will travel (100% at your own expense) to a destination, where you will help the community to your best ability.
AS A CIVILIAN TREK MEMBER:
Living the trip is everyday! One day we may start out and the destination might be the famous Machu Picchu the pre-Columbian 15th-century Inca site l, and another day it may be Pozo Almonte, a little known town of 1500 persons! But, in those little known, off-the-beaten-path places and towns, you may find the most rewarding observations and experiences – by “living” the trip.
These are the times you must, take a breath, sometimes close your eyes, and maybe even pinch yourself, to realize where you actually are! You are living next to “new neighbors” who have accepted you, not as a “tourist”, but as a person (with also your home with you) who has the interest to visit their small town, and interact with them.
They really want to “show” you everything, again not as a tourist, but a friend from a far away place. We were often asked from other foreign tourist we met enroute – “have you had any problems?” The response usually was, the main problem we had encountered was: saying NO! No we can’t stay any longer, NO, we can’t eat anymore of the homemade bread, NO, we could not take that shirt off your back! And on and on. The people were so friendly, and most of all SINCERE!
THE GIVING BACK – We were advised to bring some children’s clothes, some school supplies, and photographs from home, of our home, town, and family to show enroute. These items all “broke the ice” with our new neighbors.
Some of our people showed the children (and the adults also) what their areas have to offer, especially the birds and nature, they were so surprised to see we had the birds in our materials, and they appreciated this learning of birds and also flowers. They taught us about many plants used for medicines, and new fruits that we never knew existed!
Besides the tourist attractions, we visit small country schools, community halls, coffee plantations, sugar factories, handicraft areas, farms and grain elevators, and many other offbeat places. At the schools, we visit with the permission of the staff, and see the everyday school life. Afterwards, we leave some school supplies, and share photos with the children and teachers. Also maybe send an old computer from home afterwards to them.
The trek staff has a emt or paramedic present, and many times there is an opportunity to do a community blood pressure check, and this is also done in the rural areas, while the groups sees the points of interest. The people are so grateful that we show an interest. Most of the time there are some retired nurses, who also participate in this. - This is part of the GIVING BACK! This is enjoying the tourism, the countries, and the people, and leaving with a great feeling of the experience! Nothing against the Cruise Ship Tourist, but only the RV tourist can do this!
THIS TRAVEL EXPERIENCE REALLY GIVES YOU A GOOD FEELING – NOT ALL TAKING, BUT ALSO GIVING!
AS A FIREFIGHTER OR EMERGENCY SERVICE PERSON:
Our group orginally formed in California over 30 years ago, and became disorganized, with several members just giving a hand by themselves, we are now in the process of a re-organization to better serve our neighbors south.
Most firefighters have a 3 week vacation.
As a participant, you will travel (100% at your own expense) to a destination, where you will help the community to your best ability.
ON ARRIVAL; you will report to the designated Fire Department, debriefed, and reside at the station (no hotel bills), usually you will eat with the members of the department, however you may wish to buy your own food.
DURING THE 3 WEEK STAY: Two weeks you will be required to teach your skills at the department and participate in everyday calls and duties. For example: If you are a expert in pump rebuliding .. demostrate how to rebuild the pumps, and after take care of them.
The THIRD week of your stay - is FREE time, and you can spend at the beach, or wherever you wish to.