Travel to Samoa to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro
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Backpacking or traveling in Samoa?

  • Discover true Samoan culture, learn about fa'asamoa, dance and sing, explore the beautiful rainforest, waterfalls and exceptional beaches on this small archipelago in the middle of nowhere.  
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Studying in Samoa?

  • There are two universities on Samoa, one of which is a medical one, with a limited number of studies to choose from. Studies are taught mainly in English! 
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Internship in Samoa?

  • There are few internships available on Samoa for foreigners, but there are options in marine conservation, with children and possibly with international organizations. 
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Volunteering in Samoa?

  • Volunteering is mainly through large organizations such as the UN, but there are also options in conservation and education if you search carefully. 
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Working in Samoa?

  • There are mainly jobs to be found in the tourism industry, but if you have good qualifications you can also find a job in other companies such as banks. 
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Work as a digital nomad in Samoa?

  • If you want to feel like you're on vacation every day while working in the meantime, Samoa is the perfect place! Internet is pricey, but in turn the cost of living is affordable. 
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Living in Samoa?

  • You will find a small expat community in Apia and very friendly and open locals on the rest of the island. It is a safe country, cheaper than most countries in the west and you are surrounded by tropical paradise. Living in Samoa is peaceful, adventurous and fun! 
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CHECK COUNTRY INFORMATION  CHECK PREPARING AND INSURANCE  CHECK ACTIVITIES AND STORIES 

 

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Preparation & Packing

Packing list for Samoa, travel insurance for Samoa, and taking your belongings

Packing list for Samoa, travel insurance for Samoa, and taking your belongings

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What to take to Samoa: brief

To check and pack:
  • Documents: a passport valid for at least another 6 months, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient proof that you can support yourself during your stay. For some European nationals, a pre-arranged visa is usually not required for shorter stays for tourist purposes, but always check the current regulations.
  • Money: the Samoan tala (WST). You can withdraw cash and pay by card in Apia, but cash is convenient on smaller islands and in villages.
  • Personal care: sunscreen with a high protection factor, lip balm with SPF, and mosquito repellent. The sun is strong, and mosquitoes often reach you before you reach your repellent.
  • Outdoors and handy Items: a reusable water bottle, sunglasses, and a dry bag – there is a chance you will spend a lot of time at waterfalls, beaches, and natural pools.
  • Clothing: light clothing for tropical weather. Additionally, bring something that covers your shoulders and knees for visits to villages, churches, and cultural events. Shoes: water shoes for coral beaches and rocky coastal areas. Flip-flops are handy, but not always sufficient.
  • Medicines and travel first-aid kit: a small first-aid kit with ORS, plasters, tweezers, and painkillers. Facilities are more limited outside Apia.
  • Mosquitoes and sandflies: bringing DEET or Picaridin is useful.
  • Technology and equipment: Type I travel adapter (Australian/New Zealand model) and possibly a power bank if you use your phone a lot.
To consider:
  • A snorkel set for the colorful reefs.
  • A UV-protective swim top for long days in the water.
  • A lightweight sarong or cloth. In Samoa, this functions effortlessly as a beach towel, skirt, blanket, or towel.
  • Earplugs if you are sensitive to roosters crowing you awake at 4 a.m.
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What knowledge is useful when you go to Samoa?

  • Knowledge of Fa'a Samoa, the traditional Samoan way of life, is perhaps even more important than knowledge of the weather. Family, community, and respect play a major role in daily life.
  • On Sundays, public life largely comes to a standstill. Many shops close, and church services are important to many Samoans.
  • Learning a few words of Samoan, such as "Talofa" (hello) and "Fa'afetai" (thank you), is often appreciated.
  • Also useful to know: Samoa is famous for its umu, a traditional underground oven in which meals are cooked slowly.
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Are there mosquitoes in Samoa?

  • Yes. Especially during the wet season and around stagnant water.
  • Mosquitoes can spread dengue and sometimes other mosquito-borne diseases. Malaria does not occur.
  • More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.
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Are there sandflies in Samoa?

  • Yes. Especially around beaches, mangroves, and damp coastal areas.
  • Although they are less notorious than in New Zealand, they can still cause quite a bit of itching.
  • More about sandflies and sand fleas.
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Can you buy DEET in Samoa, or other mosquito repellents?

  • Yes, especially in Apia and larger stores.
  • In remote locations, the selection may be limited, so preferably bring enough from home.
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Can you buy a joint or weed in Samoa, or bring it to Samoa?

  • Cannabis is illegal in Samoa. Use, possession, sale, and import can result in severe penalties.
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Health, Insurance & Safety

How does healthcare work in Samoa, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Samoa, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Samoa, and which insurance do you need?

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What is the quality of healthcare in Samoa?

  • In Samoa everything is chill. Not only the beach life, but also the health care is good, free and there are few epidemics.
  • There are both private and public institutions in Samoa.
  • Most doctors are trained abroad, mostly in Australia and New Zealand.
  • The national hospital is located in Apia.
  • In complex cases, patients usually have to be evacuated to Australia, Japan or New Zealand.
  • There are also no decompression chambers in Samoa. In the case of compression sickness, people usually have to be evacuated to Suva, Fiji or Auckland.
  • Local pharmacies often have a limited stock of medicines. If you are dependent on medicines, bring your own.
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How does the public healthcare system work in Samoa?

  • The quality of public health care is generally good, but this does vary between cities and more remote areas.
  • There are shortages of health care personnel and facilities, which means that care is limited.
  • There are two larger hospitals (in Apria and on Savaii) and 11 more rural health centres. Most care is provided in Apia. In rural areas, there are usually only nurses present.
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How does the private healthcare system work in Samoa?

  • Private care is very limited, but often of better quality and with shorter waiting times.
  • There are several private care centers, but these are concentrated in Apia.
  • Most foreigners opt for private care.
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How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Samoa?

  • Samoa does not have a general practitioner system. With limited care, people generally just go straight to the nearest clinic or hospital.
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How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Samoa?

  • Dental care generally does not meet international standards.
  • For good oral care, LBJ Tropical Medical Centre in Pago Pago (American Samoa) is a good option.
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How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Samoa?

  • Maternity care in Samoa is reasonable, but limited. Maternal mortality is below the average for the region.
  • (Traditional) midwives (TBAs) play an important role in Samoa.
  • Travel times to healthcare facilities are long, as are the waiting times once you get there.
  • As a foreign mother-to-be, it is probably wiser to spend your pregnancy and delivery in a country with a more extensive healthcare system.
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How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Samoa?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Samoa?

  • Samoa is reasonably safe for expats. There is some crime, but not much serious crime.
  • Places where you should be careful are downtown Apia (especially when you go to the pub) and at the sea wall along the harbour.
  • Theft and pickpocketing are the most common. House burglaries also sometimes occur.
  • There are many stray dogs and sometimes they attack. Stay away from the dogs and be careful when you are exercising, for example.
  • Samoa experiences extreme weather such as cyclones (especially November to April), earthquakes and tsunamis. Pay close attention to local warnings and make sure you know what to do if something like this happens.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Samoa?

  • Mosquito-borne diseases are common in Samoa. For example, there are sometimes outbreaks of dengue and zika and chikungunya. So make sure you protect yourself well against mosquitoes.
  • There are also infectious diseases that are transmitted via water and food. It is therefore advisable to only drink boiled or filtered water and to avoid raw food.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Samoa?

  • In 2009, Samoa changed from driving on the right to driving on the left!
  • The roads in Apia and the main roads around the islands are usually reasonable, but watch out for holes and bumps in the road surface!
  • The rest of the roads are often unpaved.
  • Don't be surprised if you share the roads with pedestrians and cattle. This is normal, but can be dangerous in the evenings!
  • Many roads go through small rivers. Be careful with these crossings, because sometimes the current can become very strong in a short time.
  • Taxis are widely used. Make sure you use a good and reliable company, or find a good taxi driver through someone else.
  • Buses are mostly not on time or not showing up on time, slow and unreliable.
  • Renting a car is an option, but the chance of getting roadside assistance is minimal. In any case, make sure you choose a four-wheel drive.
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What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Samoa?

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What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Samoa?

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What insurance can you choose as backpacker, emigrant, expat, intern, nomad, student, volunteer or traveler abroad?
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What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for activities, backpacking or travel to or from Samoa

Advice and decision support
Insurance
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What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for emigrants, expats and nomads in Samoa

Advice and decision support
Insurance
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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

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What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.
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Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.
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What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
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What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

Round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance

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What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.
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What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
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What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

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What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.
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Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.
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What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”
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What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

Insurance for working abroad

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What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.
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Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.
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What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.
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What insurance do you need to work abroad?

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International insurance for working abroad or digital nomads
What is insurance for working with animals abroad, and why do you need specific insurance for jobs, internships, and volunteer work abroad?

What is insurance for working with animals abroad, and why do you need specific insurance for jobs, internships, and volunteer work abroad?

Insurance for working with animals abroad

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What is insurance for working with animals abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad with animals means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid, unpaid, or internship work abroad, where minor or major risks are involved.
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Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for work abroad.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work. Almost all standard insurers exclude working with animals from coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work. All over the world, there are reserves, rescue centers, and zoos where you can roll up your sleeves as a veterinarian, intern, or volunteer. Working with animals or wildlife is not without danger. No matter how cute they may look, or how tame they may behave. All animals can suddenly bite viciously or lash out with a claw or beak. Not only can this result in nasty injuries, but it can also transmit diseases that you would rather not have, and certainly not abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
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What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • That you have insurance that provides sufficient coverage for the work you will be performing.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
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Which insurance do you need for working, an internship, or volunteering with animals abroad?

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International insurance for working abroad or digital nomads
What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work?

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work?

Volunteering abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
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What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.
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What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Internship abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.
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What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

Studying abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.
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What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

Take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad as expat or emigrant?

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What is an expat insurance?

  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.
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What is an emigration insurance, or insurance for moving and living abroad?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
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Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.
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What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks
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When can you also live abroad for a longer period of time with travel insurance?

  • There are also special expiring travel insurance policies that provide coverage without you having valid health insurance in your home country, however, these travel insurance policies are not intended for emigration or expats, but for stays outside your home country of up to a few years, for study, temporary work, volunteer work, and longer trips.
  • See the information at International Insurances for backpacking and travel abroad
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What insurance do you need for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

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Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page
Insuring, troubleshooting and safe travel abroad

Insuring, troubleshooting and safe travel abroad

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Insuring and taking care abroad

Table of contents
  • Why get specific insurance when going abroad?
  • How to survive disasters abroad ?
  • How to insure activities abroad?
  • Which Insurances apply for internships, staying, studying, volunteer work or paid work abroad?

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Reading & Remembering

Samoa: Updates & Travel
Samoa: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Samoa: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Content about Samoa shared by WorldSupporters

Samoa Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips
Going abroad?

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Related topics and terms

Related regions:
Related countries and regions:
Check more: JoHo.org
Naar Samoa reizen om te backpacken, te studeren, stage te lopen, vrijwilligerswerk te doen, te werken, te leven als digital nomad of je te vestigen
Reizen in en emigreren naar Samoa

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Image Ga als (stagiair) dierenarts of dierenverzorger naar locaties met beperkte toegang tot medische dierverzorging bijvoorbeeld op de Cook eilanden, Vanuatu of de Australische outback
Ga als (stagiair) dierenarts of dierenverzorgen naar locaties met beperkte toegang tot medische dierverzorging bijvoorbeeld op de Cook eilanden, Vanuatu of de...
Image Werk mee met de dagelijkse werkzaamheden op een biologische boerderij
Werk mee met de dagelijkse werkzaamheden op een biologische boerderij. Tegen kost en inwoning werk je op het land, met de boerderijdieren of je helpt bij het oogsten van...
Image Ondersteun bij de lessen op een lokale basisschool op deze paradijselijke eilandengroep
Ondersteun bij de lessen op een lokale basisschool op deze paradijselijke eilandengroep
Activities abroad: home bundle

Main content and contributions for activities abroad

,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

 

Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

Activities abroad

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    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.
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    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.
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    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

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      Activities abroad: for experiencing countries and cultures abroad

      Activities abroad: for experiencing countries and cultures abroad

      Bundled content for experiencing countries and cultures during gap year, travel and backpacking abroad

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      Activities abroad: for languages courses and learning a language

      Activities abroad: for languages courses and learning a language

      Bundled for languages courses and learning a language

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      Activities abroad: for sports, adventure and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for sports, adventure and outdoor abroad

      Bundled content for sports, adventure and outdoor during travel, gap year and backpacking abroad

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      Activities abroad: for intern, volunteer and work abroad per sector

      Activities abroad: for intern, volunteer and work abroad per sector

      Intern, volunteer or work abroad per sector

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      Themes: home bundles per activity abroad

      Themes: home bundles per activity abroad

      Themes: main theme pages for emigration, moving and living abroad
      Activiteiten in het buitenland: startbundel

      Activiteiten in het buitenland: startbundel

      Worldsupporter: home pages and bundles

      Worldsupporter: home pages and bundles

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      Image How does healthcare work in Samoa, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the healthcare system work in Samoa, and which insurance do you need? What is the quality of healthcare in Samoa? How does the public healthcare system work in...
      Image Packing list for Samoa, travel insurance for Samoa, and taking your belongings
      What to take to Samoa: brief What knowledge is useful when you go to Samoa? Are there mosquitoes in Samoa? Are there sandflies in Samoa? Can you buy DEET in Samoa, or...
      Image Samoa: Updates & Travel
      Why travel to Samoa? Samoa is a small archipelago in the Pacific Ocean with a rich cultural tradition.
      Countries & Destinations: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about the countries and destinations in the world

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Africa: country bundles

      Africa: country bundles

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      Asia: country bundles

      Asia: country bundles

      Country bundles of Asian countries

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      Central America: country bundles

      Central America: country bundles

      Europe: country bundles

      Europe: country bundles

      Country bundles of European countries

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      Middle East: country bundles

      Middle East: country bundles

      Country bundles of the Middle East

      Abu Dhabi, Dubai & United Arab Emirates - Bahrain - Egypt - Iran - Iraq - Israel - Jordan - Kuwait - Lebanon - Qatar - Saudi Arabia - Syria - Turkey - Yemen

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      North America: country bundles
      Oceania & The Pacific: country bundles

      Oceania & The Pacific: country bundles

      The Australia & Oceania/Pacific continent consists of many small island countries and islands territories.

      List of countries:

      • Antarctica (continent)
      • Australia
      • Fiji
      • Kiribati
      • Marshall Islands
      • Micronesia
      • Nauru
      • New Zealand
      • Palau
      • Samoa
      • Solomon Islands
      • Tonga
      • Tuvalu
      • Vanuatu
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      South America: country bundles

      South America: country bundles

      South America: country bundles

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      The Caribbean: country bundles

      The Caribbean: country bundles

      Country bundles of Caribbean countries

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      Countries: habits, food customs and philosophies per continent and country in the world

      Countries: habits, food customs and philosophies per continent and country in the world

      Countries: how to see happiness from the eyes of another country and continent

      Countries: how to see happiness from the eyes of another country and continent

      Countries: emigration, moving and living abroad: per continent and country

      Countries: emigration, moving and living abroad: per continent and country

      Countries: the worst time to go abroad and the best time per country or region

      Countries: the worst time to go abroad and the best time per country or region

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      Image Vets Beyond Borders
      Vets Beyond Borders is an animal welfare foundation that uses volunteer veterinarians and veterinary assistants to improve the lives of animals and developing...
      Organizations & Services: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about organizations and their products and services

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together, learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Organizations: home page
      Organizations in the spotlight: home bundle

      Organizations in the spotlight: home bundle

      Organizations in the spotlight: home bundle

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      Organizations for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting

      Organizations for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting

      international law

      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in administration, tax and legal consulting

      Administrative, tax and legal consulting abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
      ......Read more on this page
      Organizations: for agriculture, grape picking, farming and vineyards
      Organizations: for animal protection, animal care and working with wildlife abroad
      Organizations: for au pairs, youth work and child care abroad
      Organizations: for bush camping and working at a campsite abroad
      Organizations: for catering, hospitality and entertainment abroad
      Organizations: for civil society and social work abroad
      Organizations for corporate business services

      Organizations for corporate business services

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in corporate business services

      Corporate business services abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for customer services abroad and help desks
      Organizations: for diving, snorkeling and water sports abroad
      Organizations: for education and schools abroad
      Organizations: for expatriate insurances, travel insurances, and emergency call centers
      Organizations: for gap year activities abroad and sabbaticals
      Organizations: for internship placement abroad
      Organizations: for insurances and finance abroad
      Organizations for IT, engineering and construction

      Organizations for IT, engineering and construction

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in IT, webdevelopment, engineering and construction

      IT, engineering and construction abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for language travel and language teaching abroad
      Organizations for marketing, communication and PR abroad

      Organizations for marketing, communication and PR abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in marketing and communication

      Marketing, communication and PR abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
      Organizations for moving, international relocation and transport abroad

      Organizations for moving, international relocation and transport abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in transport and international relocation

      Moving abroad and relocation services abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:

      Moving abroad and relocation

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      Organizations for nature conservation, environmental protection and working in nature abroad

      Organizations for nature conservation, environmental protection and working in nature abroad

      Costa Rica rain forest - Jungle

      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in environmental protection, sustainability and nature conservation

      Nature conservation and environmental protection abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for nonprofit projects, development work and international cooperation
      Organizations: for online work as digital nomad, freelancer, or independent entrepreneur from abroad
      Organizations: for outdoor activities and sports
      Organizations: for paid employment abroad and international recruitment

      Organizations: for paid employment abroad and international recruitment

      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad

      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in hotels, resorts, guesthouses, ecolodges, bed and breakfasts and hostels abroad

      Working in hospitality and tourist accommodations abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad

      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in healthcare

      Providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad

      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in psychological assistance, coaching and mental health care abroad

      Psychological assistance, coaching and mental health care abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for real estate, brokerage abroad and property rental abroad
      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad

      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad

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      Organizations: for research, R&D, data collection, data analysis and scientific work abroad

      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work in research and science

      From R&D to data collection and data analysis

      Research and science abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
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      Organizations: for student support and student associations
      Organizations: for tour guidance and adventure tours abroad
      Organizations: for tourism and organized travel and leisure work abroad
      Organizations: for voluntary work mediation and project placement abroad
      Organizations for yacht and shipping crew and working on a cruise ship abroad

      Organizations for yacht and shipping crew and working on a cruise ship abroad

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      Activities, internships, paid work, services or volunteer work on cruise ships, sailing yachts and other ships

      Boat crew, deck hand or working for an international shipping organization

      Working on a yacht or cruise ship abroad: by position

      For job roles and duties related to activities, internships and jobs abroad, see:
      ......Read more on this page

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      SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

      FAVORITES
      Icon Werk mee met de dagelijkse werkzaamheden op een biologische boerderij
      Werk mee met de dagelijkse werkzaamheden op een biologische boerderij

      Werk mee met de dagelijkse werkzaamheden op een biologische boerderij. Tegen kost en inwoning werk je op het land, met de boerderijdieren of je helpt bij het oogsten van de biologische groenten en fruit. Je verlijft meestal in een eigen ruimte op het erf of bij de familie in huis.

      Icon Samoa: Updates & Travel
      Samoa: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Samoa?
      • Updates Samoa

        • Travel in Samoa?

        • Samoa is a small archipelago in the Pacific Ocean with a rich cultural tradition. The islands have Polynesian influences, and the beaches, jungle-like forests and waterfalls are in many cases protected.

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      TOPICS : check associated topics and more activities

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      Go abroad!

      Move or live abroad? check your options with The JoHo Insurance Foundation

      Study or travel abroad? check your insurance options with The JoHo Foundation

      Naar het buitenland (NL)?: Je vertrek voorbereiden of je verzekering afsluiten bij studie, stage of onderzoek in het buitenland

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