Since I have an insatiable thirst for seeing new places, I would be torn between seeing as many places as possible, and staying in a few places for a longer period of time.

In the end, however, I believe the latter would win my internal-instinct vote, and I would choose a few places to focus my efforts.

I would begin in Bali, a place I have been before and therefore am slightly comfortable. I am already interested in teaching English in Southeast Asia, and so would spend 20 or more hours a week teaching either wee-kids (aged 6-8) or middle-aged adults. On the weekends and during my free time I would focus my efforts on the sea-life in the area and their preservation. I went snorkeling on my short trip to Bali, and the water was filled with trash and the reef was obviously suffering. Even something as simple as cleaning up the beaches of Bali would make a big difference.

After living and working in Bali for 6 months to a year I would move on to Africa. Ideally I would do shark research and preservation in South Africa. I would research great whites around seal-island. Eventually, after a few months, I would migrate north and work in a community building schools and teaching in Tanzania or Zimbabwe.

After working on schools and getting involved in the community (learning about the local customs, etc) I would fly over to South or Central America to do more ocean/wildlife research. I would work with sea turtle preservation.

The entire time I am abroad I would chronicle my travels with journal-writing and picture taking. Also, I would immerse myself in the culture and try to eat as many interesting and cultural foods as possible.

Upon returning home, I would travel throughout my own community, trying to recruit people to volunteer as well. For those that cannot afford volunteer vacations, I would organize fundraisers in order to send those who are motivated on a once-in-a-lifetime traveling/volunteering experience. With education and fund raising, hopefully the cycle would continue and anyone, regardless of financial status, would be able to partake in the program.

• ultimate adventures trip