Aruba has launched a new voluntourism initiative encouraging travelers to use their Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to visit the sunny Caribbean island and engage in meaningful voluntourism programs, called Aruba VTO.
The program includes voluntourism hotel packages with participating hotels and resorts. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba combines breakfast on the beach and sunset cocktails with a visit to the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary and a beach cleanup.
Water lovers who stay at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort can help coral reef restorers and participate in turtle nest monitoring, mangrove rehab, culling lionfish and more.
Travelers and locals participate in a beach cleanup in Aruba. (Photo Credit: Aruba Tourism Authority)
The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino’s Service Stay package includes volunteering at the donkey sanctuary with free daily breakfast and spa treatments for two.
Aruba’s official website also provides a pre-made VTO request letter from the island for workers to send to their employer to use their volunteer time.
Additionally, travelers are encouraged to take the Aruba Promise, a pledge to express gratitude for the land and its people by traveling mindfully, reducing their negative impact and being kind to the people and places they visit.
“Aruba is more than just a beautiful destination, it’s a place where meaningful experiences and mindful travel go hand in hand,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “With Aruba VTO, we’re inviting guests to go beyond sightseeing and build a two-way connection with the island – one rooted in reciprocity, meaningful connection, and lasting impact. It’s a chance to experience Aruba with purpose, engage more deeply with our community, and be part of a shared promise to help preserve what makes our One Happy Island so special.”
The island, which launched a meaningful travel campaign earlier this year, is teaming up with social media maven, Corporate Natalie, to share what an Aruba VTO looks like. During her time in Aruba, the influencer participated in a beach cleanup and volunteered at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary.
Now through August 12, travelers can enter a new sweepstakes with a chance to win a custom out of office message from the influencer herself.
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