With less than a week before I leave the UK, today, I will be sharing with you my plans for the next six months and what I will be doing in each of the different locations. 

As this is a travel blog, it makes sense to share where I’ll be going and what I’ll be doing. From From trying out a group tour to volunteering and potentially working abroad!

July: Split, Croatia

I am heading over to Split, which is in Croatia (oh my goodness, that’s so soon). I am heading there first because it is such a beautiful area, and I want a little time just to relax before doing anything more strenuous. I will spend a lot of time exploring the city, swimming in the sea, and taking loads of pictures. I honestly cannot wait!

Still in July: Croatia, through to Albania and Greece

I am traveling through Croatia, then Albania, and, and then I will finish in Greece. This will be part of a group tour called Intrepid Travel. The tour will begin in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and I will head through Albania, exploring several cities along the way, and will then finish in Corfu, Greece. The trip offers so many options, including plenty of museums and tours, plenty of beaches, and plenty of bars! This is ideal, as I am someone who enjoys learning to some degree, but also loves beaches and alcohol! 

I am interested in knowing if any of you have ever been on a group tour because, on the one hand, I really like the idea. After all, it seems like an easy way to meet people. Plus, I won’t need to do any of the planning because that is the tour guide’s job! Although, I am aware that group tours often have mixed reviews. 

I chose Intrepid Travel as the company because they value sustainable travel and aim to provide authentic experiences of places. I recommend looking into different tours and companies, as there is a wide range, and each company offers something slightly different. Some group tours focus on luxury travel, some emphasis on partying (to the point where you don’t really do anything else), and others focus on sports. However, that must be a positive, considering that it means there is likely to be something for everyone. There are also tours specifically for women (with plenty of choice), accessible tours, and tours created for LGBT+ individuals.

August/September: Greece

I will be in Greece for at least a month. It may be longer. I want to spend time there because it would be nice to spend a bit longer somewhere and see everything I’d like to. Obviously, I want to visit Athens, but I also want to explore the islands and potentially even climb Mount Olympus. I also really want to see turtles again! 

Furthermore, it would be lovely to connect with locals and fellow travellers. Whilst family friends will be there for a short period (which was unintentional). But, it would be lovely to catch up with them as well, when in Greece.

September/October: Bali with Think Pacific

This will certainly feel different from anything that I have experienced before. Rather than staying in a hotel or hostel, we will be staying with a ‘host family.’ They will provide accommodation and meals, and we will join them in various activities. To give you a flavour of what it entails, I will be working with a small group to support small businesses and NGOs. 

I will fully explain this in another post. Still, I became dubious about volunteering abroad after reading about the ethical issues that emerge. One of the benefits of Think Pacific is that businesses, NGOs, and communities approach them for support. Whilst they work with businesses, communities, and governments toward objectives. The program is also advertised as a cultural exchange. Therefore, I am convinced that they are company that responsibly provides volunteering opportunities.

I probably had too much time on my hands. Still, I looked into some of the local businesses that Think Pacific works with, and they seem impressive. There was one that sold local art and offered workshops. 

However, being in a homestay is what I am most nervous and excited about! Because as much as you may interact with locals when travelling, it doesn’t equate to staying with a family!

October: Bali and perhaps more of Indonesia

I am unsure about how much time I will spend in Bali after the placement ends. I will definitely want to explore the area further because of its culture and scenery. However, I know that it is also an area that faces numerous challenges due to over-tourism. I imagine that I will gain more insight when I am there, although I know I won’t be there in ‘peak season.’ 

I know that there are other stunning areas nearby in Indonesia. I might move from Bali and explore different parts of Indonesia.

November: Cambodia

The reason for going to Cambodia is that I will be volunteering part-time with PEPY Youth. PEPY Youth is an NGO that provides educational support to young people in rural areas. When I am there, I will mainly be helping with content creation. I need to learn more about Cambodia before arriving. Still, again, it has stunning temples, national parks, and a fascinating culture. I also found out that I will be based ten minutes away from town!

December: Australia

First things first, I really want to see the Great Barrier Reef. Surely, there will be plenty of cute fishies, even if now, there are, unfortunately, far fewer cute fishies than there once were. I would like to join a discussion or an initiative that addresses the challenges facing the Great Barrier Reef. I want to learn more about conservation (even though I didn’t really like science at school). Also, some family/family friends live there, and it would be nice to see them as well!

December: The UK

It will be Christmas. Therefore, I will be heading back to the UK for a bit. It will be great to catch up with friends and family, and I imagine that it will feel strange returning after being away for so long. My birthday also happens to be on Boxing Day. So, if you’re also a December baby, then I’m sure you know the struggle! 

I have no idea what’s next. The plan at the moment is to continue travelling until the middle of 2026, but I don’t know where to go. Which is okay because it then means there is nothing rigid in place, and I can plan it as I go and become more experienced.

Finally, thank you for reading this post. If you wish to read more about my travels, if you are interested in ethical issues revolving around travel (including ethical and responsible tourism), or if you want to overcome doubts about travel, then this blog is for you. Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on the next post. 

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