GIVE - Pacific Northwest Volunteer and Responsible Tourism Excursion

Customer Reviews

• V

  Victor

  · July 17th, 2025
  It was an amazing and life changing experience! I got to go white water rafting, ziplining through the cloud forest, and participate in a cacao ceremony. I highly recommend it. The only things I wasn't the biggest fan of was only one day white water rafting. When I signed up it said it was two days and it would've been more fun if it were two. I would also recommend less days on the eco farm. Also, the food accomodations weren't the greatest when it came to allergies. So just try to be mindful for yourself.
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  GIVE Volunteers commented on this review

  So glad to hear the experience was life-changing and full of adventure! Thanks so much for the honest feedback too. We’re always looking to improve, and this kind of insight really helps. Hope to see you on another journey soon!
  Trip date: June 2025
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  Brittany

  · June 24th, 2025
  I like honest reviews not just good reviews, so…you are thinking about Give – Laos. The first thing I think you should know is that it is hot, really hot. Not Arizona desert (lived there for 5 years) hot, not US South (lived there for 4 years) hot. This is a totally different hot, and they do NOT provide air conditioning once you are fully immersed in the rural village, because it is not a thing there. So, keep this in mind and think of ways you can pack a portable cooling device. I fully recommend bringing a solar or battery-operated fan to assist. If you want to go big, bring a portable single room/cubicle unit to cool off your accommodation at night. Just remember that electricity is like gold, so it is recommended that you use it sparingly. Now that we are past that, it was a great experience. Others who went on Thailand stated that was more vacation-y while this was more volunteer like. You spent you AM teaching English to the kids, your PM doing a permaculture or construction project. Evenings were usually a nice learning experience or helping the village. For example, we taught basic words to assist the ladies of the village in selling their wares or we learned to cook a native meal. The men took us fishing on their boats and the ladies taught is how they weave. The people of the village are what will draw you back. They were all lovely people who are more than willing to share everything and help you with anything. They also have a great sense of humor, and they speak and understand enough English that there is not a point where it becomes uncomfortable. Watch out for Leanne, that lady is a hustler and will talk you into spending all your money at her booth, lol! If you are willing to get past the heat (or go in the winter months), this is a great volunteer fulfilling experience.
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  GIVE Volunteers commented on this review

  This is amazing—thank you for keeping it real and still sharing so much love for the experience! That Laos heat hits different, but we’re so glad the warmth of the village made it all worth it. We really appreciate you highlighting both the challenges... Show more
  
  Trip date: June 2025
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  Zack

  · June 18th, 2025
  Costa Rica was beautiful and the guides there are amazing
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  GIVE Volunteers commented on this review

  Hey Zack, we’re so happy to hear that! Our guides and community partners will love reading this. Thanks for being part of this experience.
  Trip date: June 2025
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  Sofia

  · June 8th, 2025
  I have completely fallen in love with this organization and what they’re trying to do!! I hope everyone gets to experience a trip like this at some point in their life and learn more about all kinds of cultures around the world!!
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  GIVE Volunteers commented on this review

  Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re so happy to hear how much you love GIVE and our mission. We couldn’t agree more, experiencing different cultures is truly life, changing, and we hope everyone gets the chance to take a trip like this someday.... Show more
  Trip date: June 2025
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  Ciara

  · June 8th, 2025
  This trip is truly an amazing experience, i never thought I would learn so much from all the guides and they always make sure to keep us safe and having fun. I have created a community here that I will never forget and these people have pushed me to grow and pushed me out of my comfort zone in many ways. I cant wait to come back to visit the guides, all the beautiful people and places I met throughout this trip, and my fellow volunteers that have grown to be my family.
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  GIVE Volunteers commented on this review

  Thank you for sharing, Ciara! We’re so glad the trip helped you grow and connect in such meaningful ways. It’s amazing to hear how strong the bonds became with the guides, the community, and your fellow volunteers. That's what it's all about! You’ll... Show more
  Trip date: June 2025