COLOMBIA, the land of sun and emeralds, boasts a diverse geography including tropical coasts on both the Caribbean and Pacific, as well as several snow-capped mountain ranges and extensive coffee farms. Here one can find a history as long as it is beautiful, with colonial cities standing alongside ancient ruins and modern resort towns. Despite the violence that continues to scar the face of this intriguing nation, Colombia has experienced positive economic growth as of late and is re-establishing its place in the tourism market.
You can volunteer in three locations with varied attractions while taking classes. The first city is the metropolitan capital of the country, Bogota, where you can take in the vibrant nightlife and the famed Museo del Oro. The fashion center of Medellin will give you the opportunity to wander the famed gardens or admire the variety of architecture styles. Finally, the colonial city of Cartagena moonlights as a Caribbean resort, which attracts tourists interested in history as much as watersports. There are placements in Social and Educational projects, including an orphanage. There is a kindergarten for children of low-income families and a program to prepare orphans to become valuable and functioning members of society. Volunteers may also help out in a hospital or at the language school.