Cooking Programs Abroad

Ever thought of traveling to Uganda? It’s a peaceful, vibrant country known for its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming people. Ugandans are famous for their hospitality and love collaborating with international volunteers. Our volunteers are resourceful and community-driven self-starters aged 18-65 working year-round in integrated community development programs, supporting schools, organic farms, health centers, and women's groups. All placements begin on the 1st and 15th of every month, lasting 2 to 12 weeks. Volunteers bring encouragement, creativity, and compassion to our communities through various impactful activities: -Organizing arts, crafts, and sports in primary schools -Supporting meal preparations, daily chores, and child care at boarding schools -Mentoring and training underprivileged aspiring athletes -Clearing land and planting food crops and trees -Assisting in pharmacies and laboratories at rural clinics -Mentoring young mothers in child care, nutrition, breastfeeding, and family planning -Assisting in maternity hospitals -Helping rural communities develop small business skills Visit our website for more information and apply today to make a difference!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

This 17-day journey offers an enriching blend of thrilling adventure, deep cultural immersion, and impactful conservation work in the heart of Costa Rica. Start by immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture in Quepos with Spanish lessons, cooking, dance, and surfing classes. Explore rich biodiversity in Manuel Antonio National Park and engage in a transformative cultural exchange with the indigenous Boruca/Térraba communities. The adventure culminates with a meaningful volunteer experience at the sea turtle conservation project in Osa, where you’ll contribute to protecting one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Are you seeking adventure, cultural discovery, and a chance to make a positive impact?

Dive into the vibrant life of Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina's diverse range of short programs designed to offer both adventure and learning. Whether you're passionate about dance, gastronomy, or the arts, our programs provide a unique window into the rich culture of Argentina, paired with optional Spanish lessons to enhance your experience. Why Choose Adventure Travel with Mente Argentina? Mente Argentina offers more than just travel; we provide experiences that engage and educate. Each of our programs is designed to offer a deep dive into a specific aspect of Argentine culture, facilitated by experts and locals. Combined with the option to learn Spanish, these programs allow you to fully engage with the community and gain a profound understanding of the local lifestyle. Embrace the spirit of adventure in Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina, where every program promises not only learning and fun but also an authentic connection to this dynamic city.

Come and join the leading Spanish-language immersion program in Mexico! Iguana Abroad offers you the chance to live in one of the best locations in Mexico and learn Spanish in a fast, authentic, and immersive way. Whether you are a complete beginner or you already speak advanced Spanish, our personalized courses will bring you to the next level! Our trips include 30+ hours of Spanish tuition, a unique program of cultural immersion, and a series of excursions to diverse and exciting locations around Mexico. Iguana Abroad will take care of all the details: Spanish lessons, excursions, activities, and much, much more! Get in touch today to find out more!

Play games with Asian elephants, snorkel in crystal blue waters, and immerse yourself in village life as you explore a country known for its warm people. Our programs take you off the beaten path for an unforgettable journey through Thailand. This includes: Thailand Adventurer – Travel from the mountains to the beach and Chiang Mai to Bangkok as you go rock climbing, snorkeling, and rafting. Plus, interact with Asian elephants. Thai Elephant Conservation Project – Learn how to be an elephant trainer while doing hands-on tasks at an animal sanctuary. Ocean and Rainforest Service – Explore Thailand’s vibrant ecosystems as you snorkel pristine reefs, learn conservation techniques in ancient rainforests, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of a unique seaside community. Come with Nothing – Dive into service projects at three remote villages in Northern Thailand, and then spend time with your host families as you learn about local life in this culturally immersive program.

We will explore the historical city of Chiang Mai, basking in the down-to-earth charm of this northern gem, shopping at local markets, enjoying a traditional Thai massage, and seeing lavish historic temples. Get ready to spend a day white water rafting down the mighty Pai River, taking in the scenic mountain surroundings and enjoying each other's company on the quiet river banks. Next, get ready for the Southern islands as we swap the jungle for the beach! We will swim, snorkel, scuba dive (optional), trek, and relax through this idyllic part of the world on the tropical island paradise of Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. Finally, jump into the bustling hub of Southeast Asia, Bangkok. Explore culturally historic icons, including the Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, and Ayutthaya, before immersing yourself in the fast-paced street food scene, savoring pad Thai, and hunting for a bargain on Khao San Rd.

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful exchange. This program combines adventure, service, and immersion to help you grow personally and globally. Learn traditional crafts, share meals with host families, and experience resilience and hospitality in every community. Conservation work, ethical travel practices, and local partnerships ensure your impact is responsible and real. With leadership training, guided reflection, and mentorship built into the experience, you'll return more confident, connected, and prepared for what’s next. Whether you're taking a gap year, earning credit, building your resume, or seeking clarity and purpose, this journey meets you where you are—and helps you grow beyond it. Travel deeper. Grow bolder. Reach out to Learn More!

Our Work & Travel Canada program gives U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 a chance to experience the beauty of our northern neighbor while earning money throughout the year. Start with an arrival orientation in Vancouver or Toronto and continue with job support throughout your program. If you already have a job in mind we can also help you organize your 12-month working holiday visa! A Working Holiday is an opportunity to travel and explore a new country while taking on short-term jobs at places like ski resorts, restaurants and hotels or in manual labor positions. We offer pre-departure support, including visa application information and general advice, as well as job search and travel support throughout your time in Canada.

Spain attracts travelers with its old-world charm and vibrant people. Explore the country in a way most tourists never will! Beyond experiencing ancient sites and modern cities, you become exposed to a beautiful and untainted Spain. Dive into an unforgettable and authentic experience through community collaboration in our partner local communities on this student travel program to Spain! Focus on environmental conservation as you connect with locals. Our Spanish adventure takes you through all the must-see places and beyond the tourist track. These are adventures you do not want to miss! Program Options: Spain: Sustainable Communities & Mediterranean Culture - 17-day high school program through Madrid, Malaga, Granada, and Barcelona

Journey through Italy and Greece to experience the ancient foundations of Western civilization while immersing yourself in vibrant modern culture. Begin in coastal Salerno as you explore Pompeii, hike Mount Vesuvius, and ferry to Capri’s turquoise waters. Continue to Rome to walk among the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and lively piazzas filled with street performers. In Athens, dive into mythology and archaeology as you explore the Acropolis and ancient temples. Conclude in seaside Nafplio, discovering coastal villages, classical theaters, and Mediterranean landscapes.

GoEco offers a wide variety of social work volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide. These programs provide support to children and adults in need, especially those facing one or more layers of disadvantage in society. Our programs aim to support these children and adults, as well as the local communities overall. A few examples of our social work programs include our Girl Empowerment in Cape Town, South Africa, our Community Aid in Rajasthan program in India and our Social Work Internships program in San Jose, Costa Rica. We also offer programs that help those with special needs, in both Israel and Chile. No matter which program you choose, your social work will make a difference both to these individuals and in these communities.

Join our one-day cooking course and learn to prepare traditional Italian cuisine. Choose from various topics, including hand-made pasta, fish and seafood, meat, vegetables, rice and risotto, bread, and pizza. Of course, our chef is open to discussion and we can tailor the course based on your personal preferences and specific diet. Experience cooking in a professional kitchen with a chef. And then? You have to taste everything you cook, of course! Practice the Italian language and learn idioms and expressions, too. Price list: Individual = 90€ 2 participants = 70€ 3 and more participants = 60€

Seeds of Change seeks to train young biology students in comparative microbial bioinformatics to give them a leg up in this burgeoning field. Students study microbial bioinformatics because microbes are central to all environments on the planet, drive biogeochemical cycles, and perform functions vital to all life forms. Before students travel to Costa Rica, they are introduced to the Joint Genome Institute’s (JGI) Integrated Microbial Genomes and Microbiomes (IMG/M) platform, a gateway to sophisticated genome databases and analysis tools. The five interactive pre-trip modules present a seminal case study that applies the fundamentals of genetics (DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation and gene regulation) to an insect-bacteria symbiotic relationship. Once in Costa Rica, students work with a partner to generate their original research question and use their new-found expertise in microbial bioinformatics to develop a poster of their research. Students engage in off-site activities that include guided hikes in the cloud forest, a zipline adventure in the cloud forest, a coffee tour, a horseback ride in the cloud forest, and a sea turtle marine research experience.

Journey to Vietnam this summer with Westcoast Connection and discover an ancient culture filled with unique and elegant beauty. As you discover this amazing country for yourself, you will be treated to spectacular views, flavorful foods, and exhilarating adventure. Engage in rewarding community service projects from the North to the South with children and an organic farming community. By the end of the program, you will be won over by the hearts of the Vietnamese. Westcoast Connection is a qualified Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

Live in dormitories and hotels in Dharamsala for the majority of your stay and participate in daily Tibetan Immersion and Mutual Learning Partnership programs. Students spend some time learning the Tibetan language, music, art, cooking, and philosophy, and get to share cultures too! Since relocating to India, Tibetan refugees have struggled to maintain their culture and identity. The mass movement has caused social and financial instability as transplanted families attempt to re-establish businesses, careers, and cultural harmony. Equally challenging has been the cultural disconnectedness as Tibetans attempt to live and strive in the Indian culture, quite different than their own. While the Tibetan refugee situation is a heated political issue, GoBeyond does not intend to incite political fervor, but rather to help the children and families who are suffering in our world. We seek to share cultures and stories and broaden horizons through educational exchange programs with Tibetan refugees. During your time in Dharamsala, you'll also embark on short excursions including a visit to the Dalai Lama's Temple. Students will meet prominent members of the Tibetan community.

Join the educational trip to Spain offered by Seville Abroad. This is a truly memorable and unique way to gain a deeper love and respect for the country’s language as well as develop more interest in your future studies. Our Spanish educational trips help you learn firsthand about a lot of things - language, way of life, culture, and history. You will have the chance to add the program with “family immersion”, allowing you to experience daily life, habits, customs, and local foods of a local family. Our network of host families consists of hospitable people who welcome foreigners with open arms. They are eager to share their life as well as experience the culture of visitors. They are typically affluent families who are respected and known in their local community. The trip will be based in Seville because of its truly Spanish characteristic. Although it is a cosmopolitan city, it boasts of rich artistic historical legacy. From Seville, you will participate in a broad selection of excursion together with other students. If you cannot find a trip that matches your preferences, let us know and we will design a trip you will enjoy.

This is a comprehensive and educational program for aspiring outdoor instructors and guides. Expect to learn advanced hiking and rock climbing skills while building a comprehensive logbook and co-instruct in real-life group settings where you will refine your skills in a dynamic environment. Block One: Three Months Spend your time training directly with one of our highly qualified technical instructors, who will cover the skills you need to obtain your NZOIA Bush 1 and NZOIA Rock 1 qualifications. During the first three months, you'll learn how to prepare for top rope climbing and abseiling sessions while following a safety management system. You will prepare and plan for various rock and bush instructor scenarios and learn about the native flora, fauna, and Te Ao Māori concepts. Understand and interpret how the weather affects different landscape aspects to ensure individual and group safety in the backcountry. Block Two: Three Months You will start this training block as a co-instructor while assisting on one of our Adventure Guide Programs. You‘ll also begin preparing for your upcoming NZOIA Bush 1 and NZOIA Rock 1 Assessments.

A true tropical paradise with breathtaking nature, stunning views, world-famous white-sand beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, and incredible biodiversity—Hawaii is a dream destination for young people from all over the world. This exciting adventure program will take our students to some of the best destinations on the Hawaiian islands, introducing them to one of the most diverse and most awe-inspiring ecosystems in the world. They will marvel at the natural beauty of Honolulu – washed by the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, with colorful seaside villages, and some of the world’s most spectacular beaches. Students will learn about Sustainability, Biodiversity, and Aquatic Ecosystems in a fun and engaging way, based on our Experiential Learning Method. They will also participate in community service projects with our Hawaiian partners, protecting animal habitats and fighting deforestation, sea pollution, and climate change.