Workaway.info is a platform designed for cultural exchanges, particularly relevant for individuals looking to volunteer during their gap year. It operates by providing a space for work seekers and hosts to connect, enabling travellers to work in exchange for food and accommodation.
Workaway.info has a system that allows users to find hosts from top destinations including Africa, Asia, Central America, and many more. The website also outlines specific opportunities in countries such as Canada, Costa Rica, Thailand, Greece, Colombia, Vietnam, Brazil, and South Africa.
The site isn't just confined to individual work exchanges; it allows interactions across a range of host types. These encompass families and homestays, community projects, NGOs and charities, teaching projects, house sitting assignments, and other non-typical tasks like boating, sailing, and animal care. The diversity of this offering lends the platform more universal appeal.
Workaway.info contains resources for different categories of users. Solo travelers, traveling couples and families, as well as language learners have dedicated guidelines they can follow. The site also provides tips on travel safety and other sources of support for travelers such as insurance information. Additionally, there's a provision for identification verification, adding a layer of security and accountability for all parties involved.
Workaway.info takes it a step further by offering planning tools to its users. Workawayers can map their journeys using the platform's features which include over 50,000 opportunities worldwide. The platform also enables users to find a travel partner or connect with other Workawayers in their vicinity. It promotes language exchange by allowing users to find a language buddy and learn new languages.
In an effort to encourage continuous use and engagement, Workaway.info offers a badge system. Users can earn badges and showcase their achievements on their profiles, adding a gamification element to the platform.
Verdict: Workaway.info is a multi-faceted platform promoting cultural exchanges by connecting volunteers with hosts worldwide. It caters to a range of user types and provides resources and tools to enhance the travel and work experience. The badge system helps encourage user engagement and adds a rewarding aspect to using the platform.