Volunteer tourism is the new trend in travel: where you do social service on vacation!

As Volunteer Tourism gets popular, India’s French township of Auroville provides peace and quiet in exchange for jobs

It is 5.50am and my father and I are on our two wheelers, heading towards the organic farm where we are volunteering in Auroville, the French township in Tamil Nadu.

Vibrant art installations are a delight for volunteering visitors at Auroville(Divya Rai)

Such art installations can be spotted all over Auroville (Divya Rai)

What is volunteer tourism?
Also called Voluntourism, travellers participate in voluntary work while on holiday, typically for charity

At Tanto’s pizzeria, they hand roll the base in front of you and ingredients are sourced from local farms (Divya Rai)

“Indians take too many pictures!” says a non-Indian girl. “And send so many Facebook requests!”

How to volunteer at Auroville

Go through SAVI (Auroville’s body for students, volunteers and interns). The application process is available at www.auroville.org. SAVI has details for both, informal and academic internships. It needs a commitment of minimum two months and the stay is charged according to your requirement of accommodation and facilities. September to February is the peak season for tourists, and you need to plan well in advance. The weather is warm and humid in these months; it often rains without warning. Auroville has almost negligible nightlife and it is so by design. Languages spoken are English, Tamil and French. Mode of payment for Auroville bodies is ‘Auro-card’, which is issued by the Financial Service Center.

Food wastage is a big no at the Solar Kitchen (Divya Rai)

The Brunch Insider’s View

If you are looking for a nice place for a complete rejuvenating and relaxing experience then head to the Quiet Healing Centre. It is a place where you will be able to discover a deep sense of contentment, happiness and peace. (Source: Trip Advisor)

The Matrimandir in Auroville is a must-visit for parctitioners of Internal yoga. Known as the

Temple of The Mother, it was built over 37 years. It was initiated by The Mother of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. (Source: Lonely Planet)

Those who are fans of good dark chocolate, must surely pay a visit to Mason & Co. From here you can take your pick from flavours like espresso and coconut. These are made using organically-grown cocoa as well as cocoa butter from local farms.
(Source: Conde Nast Traveller)