There’s an unparalleled satisfaction in the hard-earned fruits of labour and the invigorating scent of fresh soil combined with the bracing ocean air. However, when the topic shifts to unpleasant odours in lavatories, well, that’s an entirely different narrative.

During our voluntary stint at a backpacker’s lodge in East London—a familiar holiday spot from our past—we gained first-hand insights into the challenges wielded by a toilet brush. It’s remarkable how seemingly trivial tasks, such as pushing the flush button or using modest amounts of toilet paper, can pose difficulties for some holiday guests. Nonetheless, we navigated these bathroom battles and emerged triumphantly.

Creating Opportunities

In 2020, our plans to relocate to New Zealand were abruptly halted due to grounded flights and closed international borders. As we awaited the reopening of global passages, we seized the opportunity to volunteer at Wild Lubanzi in the Eastern Cape. No longer confined to dreary office routines or prolonged screen-staring sessions, we revelled in the sunshine, relishing ocean vistas, mountain treks, fresh seafood, and dips in the sea. Well, during intervals when I wasn’t engrossed in remote work, web coding, or design tasks.

Constructing and up keeping structures is no trivial task, especially when dealing with elements like rock walls, flooring, and screeding. Nevertheless, the sense of accomplishment we garnered outweighed every drop of perspiration and occasional bloodshed. Future visitors to Wild Lubanzi will savour the results of our labour. Treading upon cool cement floors, lounging on the chilly rocks, indulging in the grapes we planted in the small vineyard, or sipping on the wine that was made from it. All while gazing at the ocean from those rocky seats in front of their temporary abode.

Legacy

Leaving behind something destined for long-term appreciation is an immensely gratifying sensation. Our creation at Wild Lubanzi only lacked some plant additions to finalize its appearance. But as the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day, right? Roots, seeds, and cuttings were carefully nestled in the shallow holes and specially curated soil regions amid the rock walls’ framework. Hopefully, we’ll witness its magnificence sometime in the future when everything flourishes.

The Perfect Spot

Our time in the Eastern Cape was maximized to the fullest. The locale we fashioned serves as the ideal refuge to unwind after a day’s toil—offering a breathtaking view of the ocean below and glimpses of village life higher up the mountain and across the surrounding hills. Some days you would see the dolphins toil in the bay, and the whales travelling past heading to their breeding and feeding grounds.

We also acquired skills in bread-making, preparation of freshly caught seafood, witnessed local fire dances, encountered marine life like sea cows, and observed locals adeptly spearing fish.

Travel and Workaway Tips

Having been frequent patrons at Wild Lubanzi, we secured the opportunity to volunteer owing to our connections with residents. If you aspire to volunteer at this location, direct contact remains the recommended approach. Wild Lubanzi is not listed on WorkAway, Couch Surfers or any of the other volunteering sites. They do, however, have a webpage with all their contact details listed on there.

For individuals seeking unique and fulfilling volunteering experiences across various locations and countries but unsure of where to start, considering a WorkAway opportunity is highly advisable if you lack direct contacts. It enables budget-friendly travel, exposes you to diverse places, and facilitates encounters with individuals who might evolve into lifelong companions. You may even chance upon a new home and become part of an unexpected yet cherished family.

Step out of your comfort zone, contributing to meaningful causes while immersing yourself in personal encounters with diverse people and cultures, far beyond the purview of a mere tourist. Whether pursuing long-term commitments or shorter opportunities, a plethora of options abound.

Travel Expenses

I have to acknowledge that it’s not all leisure and recreation. Incurred expenses, while often inclusive of food and lodging, necessitate covering travel costs and allocating funds for discretionary spending and other ventures. While a far cry from a luxurious paid vacation, the eventual worth derived from such experiences transcends mere monetary value.

Be prepared to toil hard, perhaps even tending to less appealing tasks like cleaning malodorous toilets, and occasionally enduring minor injuries. The skills acquired and experiences garnered in such settings are unparalleled and contribute immeasurably to one’s personal growth. No formal education can impart these same lessons or prepare you for the richness of everyday living and experiences.

Be Safe, Not Sorry

Wherever your travels take you, relish every moment but exercise caution. Ensuring someone is aware of your whereabouts and activities at all times is paramount. Trust your instincts—if something feels awry, heed that inner voice, typically more observant than you realize. Associations like WorkAway can offer a safety net in times of adversity, assisting with preparation and management of unforeseen circumstances. It is best to avoid the circumstances completely if at all possible, instead of taking a risk with your safety, or your life.

Remember, travel plans might be disrupted by unforeseen circumstances such as lockdowns or unexpected events. Having contingency plans or exploring local alternatives is always prudent.

Should you embark on a WorkAway volunteering venture, don’t overlook leaving behind contributions that will be cherished for years to come. Perhaps consider planting vegetation to enhance the locale. If it’s edible, even better. Communal gardening often forms the cornerstone of many remote communities, and any skills you can impart to the local community will be cherished and appreciated.