Reviews

Provider: Therapy Abroad Inc.

Program: Thailand: Speech, Occupational & AAC Adventure

Getting to see multiple parts of Thailand was incredible, from the clinical site to the elephant sanctuary to the adaptive rock climbing. I loved getting to see more of the country than just the square.

Provider: RVF International

Program: Teach English in South Korea with Housing & Flights

It was always my girlfriend and I's dream to teach English abroad. Early on we thought it was never possible in the near future. We didn't know where to start, luckily we found RVF. Meeting with us right away and providing step by step guides to make this dream become reality. Our recruiter Harrison has been very hands on and answers all of our questions in no time. Overall, a complicated process what made easy with RVF.

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT: Alpine Adventure - Switzerland, France and Italy

Travel For Teen’s Alpine Adventure gave me opportunities that no other company could top. Whether it was zip lining through the Swiss Alps or even paragliding from above the French Alps, these experiences were truly a once in a lifetime experience. Cultural experiences were also at the forefront of the trip with nights filled with delicious cuisine from all three countries. To wrap it up, there’s nothing I would’ve have traded for such a great trip, and I recommend this to any teen wanting to get out of their comfort zone.

Provider: MAXIMO NIVEL

Program: Volunteer in Latin America! Costa Rica, Guatemala, & Peru

I spent my time in San Jose teaching English in a High School and Daycare centre. Both of these placements were extremely rewarding and a great way to experience the local culture. The project staff and staff at Maximo Nuvel have been excellent. I have found the programme extremely rewarding and will definitely do this again! A great way to see the world and give something back to local communities.

Provider: Therapy Abroad Inc.

Program: Thailand: Speech, Occupational & AAC Adventure

I had an incredible time with this experience. I learned so much about therapy in another part of the world and about the Thai culture. It helped me to see from another perspective that will contribute to how I am as a future OT practitioner. The foundations we were at were very supportive of our learning, allowing us to think outside the box and feel like real OTs. I also think the cultural experiences (especially the elephant encounter) were extremely meaningful to being fully immersed in the culture and created memories that I will never forget.

Provider: Cerca Abroad

Program: Dental Shadowing in Greece

Hi, my name is Brianna, I am from Toronto, Canada. I decided to join Cerca Abroad, specifically their dental shadowing program, to gain more experience in the dental profession. I also decided to choose this program because of my Greek heritage roots. This opportunity has not only allowed me to connect with the Greek community, but also to explore many different areas of Athens, including trying different ethnic foods as well as exploring historic sites of Athens. The last couple of weeks I have been in the dental clinic shadowing many different procedures, including tooth extractions and root canal treatments as well as getting hands-on experience with the actual dentists themselves, practicing some surgical techniques as well as my own, personal canal treatment. Overall, I highly recommend this program to any students who are interested in pursuing dentistry in the future. The Cerca team has made this transition to Athens very smooth and they’re always willing to help you when you have questions. I also want to say I’m grateful to the staff and patients here who have come to the clinic here. Dr Costas has made this experience very memorable for us and he always answered our dental-related questions. For that reason, I highly recommend this program to anyone.

Provider: International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Program: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

I participated in IVHQ's South Korea program in October 2026, including Culture Week and the Teaching volunteer project. While I genuinely enjoyed several things, I was disappointed with the overall organization, communication, and lack of guidance throughout the program. Before sharing my experience in South Korea, I want to mention that my interactions with IVHQ have been very positive. I originally planned to volunteer in Costa Rica in April 2026, but unfortunately had to cancel following the unexpected death of a coworker a week prior to my travel date. I work as a 911 dispatcher, and the circumstances surrounding her death were particularly difficult for me. Although I initially tried to continue with my travel plans, I ultimately couldn't go. IVHQ was incredibly kind and understanding throughout the process and credited me with most of what I had paid toward a future program. I genuinely appreciated how they handled the situation. South Korea was already somewhere I had been interested in visiting, so having that credit available was a big part of what motivated me to book this program. Unfortunately, while my interactions with IVHQ directly have been very positive, the organization and support provided during the South Korea program didn't meet my expectations. My biggest disappointment was Culture Week, which cost $660. Several activities advertised as included on IVHQ's website, such as Korean stamp carving, a calligraphy lesson, a War Memorial tour, a Blue House hike, and a visit to HiKR Ground, either didn't take place or weren't provided as advertised. For example, the calligraphy lesson was a brief children's activity in a museum hallway where we spent about five minutes writing our names with a brush and ink, with no real instruction. I understood before booking that the schedule could vary, and I had no issue with activities being moved to different days or times. However, I didn't expect the actual activities to differ so much, especially those explicitly listed as “included” on IVHQ's website. To make things more confusing, the itinerary advertised on IVHQ's website, the separate itinerary the local team sent on their Zoom in Seoul website before I arrived in Korea, and the activities we actually participated in were all different. Given the cost and the fact that Culture Week was advertised as an opportunity to experience and learn about Korean culture, I expected something more structured and educational for adult participants. Instead, much of the week felt like sightseeing, with limited explanations about the places we visited and some activities that seemed more appropriate for children. For reference, here's what we actually did during Culture Week: - Monday, October 5: A one-hour guided tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace, approximately 20 minutes at the National Folk Museum, and about an hour of free time in Myeongdong. We were given meal vouchers to use at three restaurants within a few minutes' walk of the accommodation for lunch that day. - Tuesday, October 6: A Korean language lesson, lunch at a hot pot restaurant, a visit to Jingwansa Temple, and about 20 minutes at Eunpyeong Hanok Village to walk around and take pictures. - Wednesday, October 7: A stop at Jogyesa Temple, a walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, lunch at a traditional Korean buffet-style restaurant, and walks through Insadong and Ikseondong with little time to stop or explore. We also briefly stopped at a craft museum for a stamp scavenger hunt, which seemed to influence most of our walking route. We also participated in a kimchi cooking class, which was my favorite part of the day. - Thursday, October 8: Approximately an hour-long guided tour at the National Museum of Korea. There were so many people on the tour that we often couldn't see the exhibits the guide was discussing before the museum guide moved on. We then took a short walk around Hangang River Park, had a buffet lunch at Ashley on the river, and spent about an hour at the Hyundai Department Store. - Friday, October 9: Visit to Namsan Tower, lunch at Namdaemun Market, and a brief stop at the King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-Sin Museum specifically to complete what seemed to be children's craft activities, including writing our names with a brush and ink (which I think was supposed to be the “calligraphy lesson”), coloring a lucky bag, and making a keychain. We were seated alongside young children completing these activities, and the three adults in my tour group were the only participants without children. We weren’t given the option to explore the museum further. We finished with approximately five minutes on the rooftop of the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History. We visited some interesting places, but our guides often provided little historical or cultural information, and sometimes couldn't answer questions about the locations. Some historical sites and museums were limited to very short visits, while we spent considerably longer in shopping areas. We also had to pay for our own transportation each day, which I hadn't expected given the $660 cost. Unlike the volunteer program page, which specifically states that volunteers are responsible for their own transportation, the Culture Week description made no mention of this additional expense. Since many attractions were free or inexpensive, I struggled to see how the experience justified the cost, even with accommodation included. That being said, I really enjoyed the Korean language lesson, the guided tour at Gyeongbokgung Palace, visiting several temples and markets, and participating in a kimchi cooking class. The week definitely had some worthwhile experiences. I experienced similar organizational issues during the volunteering portion of my trip. I had signed up for the Teaching project, hoping to gain practical experience working with children. However, I received no placement-specific orientation or meaningful guidance about what I would be teaching, the English proficiency of the particular students I'd be working with, or what was expected of me. On my first day, I was given materials to make vocabulary flashcards and then taken to a location where I was essentially left to figure out how to work with the children. Thankfully, another volunteer who had already been there showed me what she had been doing. I have a TEFL certification but limited practical teaching experience, so I had hoped to learn from a local teacher or coordinator while contributing to the project. I wasn't expecting someone to do everything for me, but I would have appreciated some basic direction about the students and their learning goals. What made the lack of guidance particularly disappointing was that IVHQ's website specifically stated that volunteers would work closely with teaching staff and receive support from local teachers. The program guide also described preparing classes with a local coordinator. IVHQ even advertises the program as suitable for people without teaching experience. I understand that volunteering requires flexibility and initiative, but I think there's a difference between expecting volunteers to take initiative and leaving them to figure out how a teaching placement operates without basic direction. Based on how the program was advertised, I expected at least some opportunity to collaborate with or learn from experienced staff. I also spent a day volunteering at a dog shelter, which I enjoyed. It was a nice surprise to learn that we could try other programs while we were there, although there was similarly little direction about what volunteers should be doing. Unfortunately, I became ill during the week and later had to return home early due to a family emergency, so my volunteering experience was shorter than originally planned. Because of that, I can't speak to what the remainder of the teaching experience would have been like. I do want to emphasize that everyone I interacted with on the local team was polite and friendly. I never felt unwelcome or uncomfortable, and my criticisms are about how the program was organized and the level of communication and guidance provided, rather than how I was treated personally. If you're looking for a highly informative, well-organized cultural experience with knowledgeable guides and opportunities to really learn about the places you're visiting, I honestly think you could put together a more personalized and cost-effective itinerary on your own. Many of the places we visited were free or inexpensive, and I would have preferred spending more time at the locations that interested me rather than rushing through some of them to go shopping. Similarly, if you're looking for a structured volunteer placement with clear expectations, guidance, and opportunities to learn from experienced staff, this particular program might not be the best fit. Based on my experience in South Korea, I wouldn't personally choose to volunteer with IVHQ again. However, I recognize that different countries, local teams, and volunteer projects may operate very differently, and I wouldn't necessarily discourage someone from considering IVHQ altogether. For anyone interested in volunteering with IVHQ, I'd strongly recommend asking detailed questions about the specific placement, the activities actually included, daily schedules, additional expenses, accommodation arrangements, and the level of support provided before booking. One other thing I'd mention for LGBTQIA+ travelers to South Korea, particularly those who are trans or nonbinary, is the accommodation situation. I'm nonbinary and have a male gender marker on my identification, but I appear more feminine. I stayed in a private room at the temple, but the bathrooms were shared and separated by gender. Although the individual toilet and shower stalls were private, I sometimes felt uncomfortable using the men's facilities. I knew before traveling that attitudes toward LGBTQIA+ identities might be different from what I'm used to, so I wasn't necessarily expecting the accommodations to account for my particular situation. I also want to emphasize that nobody at the temple ever made me feel unwelcome or uncomfortable. However, looking back, I wish I'd booked a private hotel room with my own bathroom, especially since I believe the cost would have been similar. It's just something I'd encourage other trans and nonbinary travelers to consider when choosing their accommodation.

Provider: The TEFL Academy

Program: Online Level 5 TEFL Course

Completing the Level 5 TEFL Diploma was a rewarding experience. The course enhanced my teaching skills, strengthened my understanding of ESL methodologies, and equipped me with practical strategies to create engaging, effective, and learner-centred English lessons.

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT for Younger Teens: Hola Costa Rica

Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️

Provider: Scotia Personnel Ltd

Program: Exploring Hospitality & Culinary: Work in UK Hotels

If you are thinking about working abroad or exploring new caregiving opportunities, do it through Scotia Personnel! I used their programs to au pair in the United States and Australia, and I am currently working senior care in Canada. Every single chapter has been unforgettable. Beyond the deeply rewarding nature of caregiving, the programs have connected me with a massive community of like-minded travelers. You never feel alone because you are constantly meeting others who share your passion for adventure. It is a fantastic, life-changing opportunity that I recommend to anyone.

Provider: The TEFL Academy

Program: Online Level 5 TEFL Course

This TEFL course was easy to follow, and the material was really interesting. I learned about how to explain grammar and run a classroom. The platform was smooth and stress-free. If you're thinking about doing it, just go for it!

Provider: Gotoco

Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe

I loved the experience and all the people I got to meet as a result of it, it was so nice to connect with people in all stages of life but as a trainee teacher and also within the schools itself, everyone was really lovely and we got to learn so much about Thai culture which was really fun

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT for Younger Teens: Hola Costa Rica

Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT for Younger Teens: Hola Costa Rica

Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️

Provider: Cerca Abroad

Program: Physical Therapy Shadowing in Greece

Hello, my name is Cassidy, I come from Denver, Colorado, USA and I go to Whitman College. I chose to intern this summer because I wanted to experience other cultures outside the United States. I also wanted to gain some more experience in the physiotherapy world. During this internship I have learned so many different things, whether that was electrotherapy, stone therapy or how to move or maneuver somebody who is in a coma. I’ve learned so many different things and I am really grateful that I’ve been able to experience so much within this internship and learn so much from my peers and those around me. I am very happy with my internship experience with Cerca Abroad. It truly has been a life-altering experience and I hope to take what I learned here in this program and apply it back to America and my practice in the future. I one hundred percent enjoyed my stay in the country. Thessaloniki is a beautiful city. The food is amazing. There’s so much to do. All the people have been so much more than welcoming to me and my friends. It’s been a very great time. Hopefully I will come back when I’m older and visit again.

Provider: That's Mandarin

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

At That's Mandarin you have small classes with a great structured lessons. The teachers are very helpful and make the words and phrases applicable to daily life. The best part of learning is being in a group with people that are also doing the same thing.

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT for Younger Teens: Hola Costa Rica

Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️

Provider: That's Mandarin

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

I really like that's mandarin for many reason ; 1 . small classe which help get better easily and lot of laoshu which help varie the way of education and learning ; 2. good ressource with the nihao cofee platform ; 3. good mood in the school

Provider: Travel For Teens

Program: TFT for Younger Teens: Hola Costa Rica

Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️

Provider: Cerca Abroad

Program: Medical Shadowing in Greece

Hi, my name is Paxton, I go to UC Berkeley. I came to the Athens Metropolitan Hospital for a two-week program. I got to see a lot of different stuff at the hospital. I got to see the clinic as well as the OR. In the clinic I got to see cardiology and neurology and in the OR I got to see orthopedic surgery and plastic surgery. I think this program has been very valuable for me as a premed student. I would say that I actually gained a lot of insight during this experience. I got to see some medical fields that I otherwise wouldn’t have gotten to. The program itself has been super amazing and the staff has been super accommodating, especially on helping me get all my documents in order and navigate Athens. Being in Athens has also been absolutely amazing, beautiful city, lots of great landmarks. I was able to see Hadrian’s Library, the Acropolis, and many great things. So, I definitely enjoyed my time here.