Established in 2007 by Jodi Nelson, Play It Forward hosts trips to Peru-Amazon regions, Machu Picchu, Kilimanjaro and Guatemala. Each destination has its own country host/guide, each of whom works with Jodi to assure participants have a safe stay in their particular country. Each guide or host is trained based on the criteria of their particular country to handle outdoor emergency response situations.
Adventure Travel with a Moral Compass
According to the web site, Jodi Nelson’s desire to start Play It Forward stemmed from her love of adventure type travel, but it was really her desire to help others, in more ways that just writing a check, that prompted the volunteer piece of each trip. By giving back through service projects built into each trip, every one wins. It is “adventure travel with a moral compass.” For example, a 10-day trip currently planned to Guatemala includes two days of building a home or energy efficient stove for local families. Play It Forward travelers give their time and energy to improve the quality of life for those in need, This goes a long way to building bridges with people in other countries—one of the key goals of Play It Forward; Connection.
Which Excursion is For You? Trip-o-Meter Ratings
Each trip include a rating scale called a “Trip-o-Meter” which rates a trip according to comfort level, culture shock and physical activity. Each rating is based on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being “low” and 5 being “high.” Consider this rating for Kilimanjaro: Activity, 5; culture shock, 4 and comfort 3. This 16 day itinerary includes four days of service work, two days of safari and but six days of “climbs” up various peaks of Kilimanjaro. Not for the weak, and as such probably a trip one needs to be in good physical shape to attempt. On the other hand, the trip to Guatemala is rated 3 for physical activity; 2 for culture shock and 4 for comfort, which would certainly be an easier trip for most to manage.
Adventure, Culture and Fun
One of the goals of Play It Forward goal is to provide as much cultural experience as possible on its adventures. As such, it strives to provide local lodging to its participants that could include staying in eco-lodges, and local hotels. Travelers are given a list of items to bring. All means of transportation such as bikes and kayaks, as well as sporting equipment, are provided. Trips aren’t just about hiking, biking and kayaking, however. Excursions, touring and enjoying local activities, such as yoga and salsa classes are also included in each trip.
Adventure travel combined with volunteerism offers a great travel alternative for those who want to give back while learning about new cultures and people. Play It Forward, a travel adventure company based in Minneapolis St. Paul offers 7-16 day trips to various countries in an attempt to fulfill its mission – volunteer, explore and connect.
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