Wednesday, June 13, 2018
For those with wanderlust wanting more from a holiday than just the usual pursuits, now is the time to book a holiday to Scotland to learn a new skill, go on a spiritual journey, or even ‘work’ and gain valuable experience in a local community.
Research has found that global travellers want more emotional, life-changing wellness journeys rather than the old programming, treatments and classes*. In addition, learning a new skill whilst on holiday is important for many people, with millennial travellers especially choosing to add to the CV whilst exploring new adventures**.
From volunteering to look after birds in Orkney, to learning to chop wood in the Highland woodlands, to waking-up – phone signal free – near a deserted beach in Fife, or chilling out at a Tibetan monastery in Dumfries, there are many ways to experience a little bit more of Scotland this summer and feel the better off for it.
Work it
Volunteering on Orkney and Shetland
North Ronaldsay is the northernmost island in the Orkney archipelago. Although comparatively isolated (accessible by plane), wild types looking for an adventure might like to make the trip to the island, which lies further north than the southern tip of Norway. There is evidence of Iron Age settlements and visitors will find themselves in the flight path of migrating birds. There is also the possibility of seeing porpoises and dolphins. The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory has two volunteer vacancies at its base throughout the year. These are ideally suited to keen birdwatchers looking at a future in conservation or simply help out at the observatory while enjoying the island lifestyle.
Alternatively, volunteers are needed at the North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival to help rebuild a historic structure which is essential to the conservation of the rare, seaweed-eating North Ronaldsay sheep. The festival runs from 29 July – 10 August 2018.
Famous for its knitwear, the Fair Isle, near to Shetland, is a magnet for new settlers looking to experience the island’s way of life, rich as it is in community spirit. Those looking to spend more than just a few days’ visit might like to volunteer at the Bird Observatory on the island.
Tags: Scotland, Travel Destination News
