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The Do Good Bus Volunteer Experience in Los Angeles-Voluntourist Video

What happens when you put together a group of people who don’t know each other and send them off to volunteer in Los Angeles? A lot of laughs, good times, and making a positive difference. That’s the idea behind the Do Good Bus, an organization that creates fun volunteer experiences with local nonprofits in the city.

Heather Newgen Profile PhotoBy: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

The Do Good Bus introduces volunteers to local nonprofits and creates a fun environment where people can connect with like-minded folks and give back. The organization is all about bringing others together for a good cause, but there’s a catch. You have no idea where you’re going to volunteer. When you get on the Do Good Bus, you don’t know where you’re doing and that’s part of the excitement.

The Do Good Bus wants there to be an element of surprise. But, it also puts everyone on the same boat, or in this case bus. Nobody knows where they’re going or what they will be doing so everyone is in it together. In addition, there’s no preconceived ideas or opinions about the organization. Volunteers have an open mind and are ready to work.

It’s brilliant! The Do Good Bus has designed a unique way to make great new friends and do something good at the same time.

Cofounder Rebecca Pontius came up with the concept when her friends would always ask how to get more involved in the community like she was. The mysterious component combined with volunteering was a huge hit and the Do Good Bus has helped increase awareness for local causes immensely since it started a few years ago.

I spent an afternoon with The Do Good Bus and had an unforgettable experience. Watch as I hop on the bus with a group of people I’ve never met and head to an unknown destination.

 

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Travel Responsibly while Enjoying a Luxurious Holiday at Careyes

Travel Responsibly while Enjoying a Luxurious Holiday at Careyes

Understanding the effect you have on places during your globetrotting journeys and trying to make that effect positive is vital for maintaining the environment, wildlife and local communities. Responsible travel is something we should all be aware of in order to minimize the harmful results our actions have on the planet.

From its beginning 40 years ago, Careyes, the family owned exclusive resort located on the south Pacific coast in Jalisco, Mexico, has understood this approach. While the extravagant tourist hotspot is known for providing guests with a luxurious getaway, it’s also known for its green and sustainable practices, as well as its non-profit the Careyes Foundation. The organization has helped improve the well-being of the local community in four main areas: Sea Turtle Protection and Conservation, Sports and Recreation, English Language Training, and the Contemporary Art and Community Program.

Here’s just some of the wonderful things they’ve done:

-Focused their philanthropic efforts on protecting the endangered sea turtle population. In 1983, only 11 turtles would lay eggs on the Careyes coast each year. Now, more than 2,000 sea turtles come to nest on Playa Teopa annually, thanks to the Sea Turtle Protection and Conservation Center.

-Created programs in the ten rural villages surrounding Careyes, reaching a population of more than 7,000 people. The Foundation’s dedicated team of staff and volunteers have built strong relationships in the local communities, creating partnerships that are truly cooperative and, therefore, sustainable.

-Taught local children bike polo, hiking, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, while instilling an appreciation for nature and the importance of respecting the environment.

-Started the Children’s English Book and Lessons Program (CEBLP) in the rural coastal region of Costalegre, which comprises Careyes and its surrounding villages, and is predominantly reliant on the tourism industry as the major source of employment. This makes it essential for children to become bilingual in order to pursue a variety of meaningful careers and contribute to the development of their communities.

-The Careyes Foundation has partnered with a team of specialists to develop the Beyond Borders series; a set of customized, English-Spanish workbooks tailored specifically to the educational needs of the children of Costalegre. Our team of volunteer teachers follow the curriculum’s natural language learning instructional methodology to deliver biweekly English lessons to over 1,200 children.

In addition, Careyes limits outdoor lighting at night to conserve energy and avoid the light pollution that detracts from the stars, their villas are built to maximize cross ventilation (which reduces the usage of air conditioning), and all roads have been constructed by hand with rock or dirt so asphalt isn’t used.

The resort is comprised of private villas with large infinity pools overlooking the ocean, bungalows, ocean castles, casitas, five al fresco restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine, and the Careyes Polo Club, complete with two regulation-sized Bermuda grass fields.

Careyes is a premier destination where you can partake in an array of outdoor activities such as yoga, whale watching (in season), exploring the surrounding jungles, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, tennis and horseback riding. Or you can simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings while leisurely strolling and relaxing on unspoiled beaches.

It’s a magical, yet ethical experience, complete with five-star hospitable service and plenty of adventure!

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The Do Good Bus Volunteer Experience in Los Angeles-Voluntourist Video

What happens when you put together a group of people who don’t know each other and send them off to volunteer in Los Angeles? A lot of laughs, good times, and making a positive difference. That’s the idea behind the Do Good Bus, an organization that creates fun volunteer experiences with local nonprofits in the city.

The Do Good Bus introduces volunteers to local nonprofits and creates a fun environment where people can connect with like-minded folks and give back. The organization is all about bringing others together for a good cause, but there’s a catch. You have no idea where you’re going to volunteer. When you get on the Do Good Bus, you don’t know where you’re doing and that’s part of the excitement.

The Do Good Bus wants there to be an element of surprise. But, it also puts everyone on the same boat, or in this case bus. Nobody knows where they’re going or what they will be doing so everyone is in it together. In addition, there’s no preconceived ideas or opinions about the organization. Volunteers have an open mind and are ready to work.

It’s brilliant! The Do Good Bus has designed a unique way to make great new friends and do something good at the same time.

Cofounder Rebecca Pontius came up with the concept when her friends would always ask how to get more involved in the community like she was. The mysterious component combined with volunteering was a huge hit and the Do Good Bus has helped increase awareness for local causes immensely since it started a few years ago.

I spent an afternoon with The Do Good Bus and had an unforgettable experience. Watch as I hop on the bus with a group of people I’ve never met and head to an unknown destination.

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Beware of Volunteering Solutions India Program-Awful Experience

The Volunteering Solutions program in Delhi, India is highly unethical and I strongly advise against  working with the organization.

By Heather Newgen

I considered myself to be an experienced volunteer. I had one successful international volunteering trip under my belt, so why wouldn’t I know what I was doing? I was a “pro” now, so I didn’t really need to do much research on organizations since they were all the same and have good intentions.

It honestly never occurred to me that anyone would be unethical when interacting with volunteers, or create scams to sucker us into a program that was unprofessional. I once naively thought this, which is utterly embarrassing. I learned I was completely wrong when I signed up with Volunteering Solutions in 2009, and it was a hard lesson, but one worth knowing.

I actually had an uneasy feeling about them from the start. My gut tried to warn me, but I pushed the red flags aside telling myself I was overreacting. Unlike the previous year when I went to Morocco with Cross Cultural Solutions who prepped us well, Volunteering Solutions was difficult to get in touch with. I had a million questions, but no one would email me back.

Finally, around 1:00 a.m. one night, I received a phone call from out of nowhere. It was someone at Volunteering Solutions, and they said they’d talk to me about concerns I had. I thought it was odd, but I was happy to talk to someone from the organization. I reluctantly paid the program fee, but I wasn’t overly excited like I thought I would be. I again dismissed any weird feelings and left for New Delhi.

Someone from the organization picked me up, although really late after I arrived, and took me to the volunteer house, which was the cockroach infested, dirty basement of the country director’s beautiful and luxurious home. There was about 20 girls sweating to death in a small space. People were sleeping on the floors trying to cool down and many were breaking out into heat rashes because there was no ventilation or windows to open.

I know some people right now are probably thinking I’m a spoiled Westerner who thought I was going to stay at a Four Seasons type of resort, but that truly isn’t the case. I’d sleep in a tent on the ground if I thought my money was going towards a good cause.

I was horrified by the accommodations, but tried to not pass judgment just yet, however, several other girls expressed their concerns when I arrived. American dollars/Euros go a long way in India, and clearly, the money didn’t go towards our housing, so people were questioning where the program fee was going.

I barely slept that night because it was so suffocating, but I woke up the next morning looking forward to the next few weeks. For breakfast, we went into the country director’s house and sat down at the table. We were given a piece of white toast, with a little butter and some yogurt.

Again, I’m not trying to come across as a high maintenance person, but now I was starting to wonder where our money was going. It’s not so much what food we were given or what the volunteering housing looked like, I was more confused as to what we paid for.

I was still hopeful that the money was given to the school in the slums we’d be going to, but I soon discovered that wasn’t the case. I moved out of the basement after the first night, as did a few other girls. It was too uncomfortable, miserable and filthy. We checked into a hotel down the street, which we were happier at.

I was also eating at the hotel instead of the volunteer house because the food was better and more nutritious. Needless to say I didn’t get a refund for the accommodations or meals from Volunteering Solutions, but it was my decision to leave, so I didn’t ask for my money back and I wasn’t expecting to get it back.

The first week of the program was orientation, so every day we walked to the volunteer house, which we realized quickly was a waste of time. I wished we were volunteering instead of learning about Indian bread. It was frustrating.

While I wasn’t enjoying Volunteering Solutions, I did love meeting the other volunteers and getting to the know Delhi, the culture and local people. Some of the girls who left the housing with me were so distraught that they changed their flights and went home early. They were over the entire situation and had enough of the program.

I didn’t blame them one bit, but I was determined to volunteer. I made it this far into the trip and I was going to work with street kids in the slums no matter what.

The first day of volunteering, we went to one of New Delhi’s roughest neighborhoods. In an area full of rubble and debris was an alley where kids gathered on a cement floor to interact with us.

The country director drove us in his car and dropped us off. There was no introduction to the children or the adults in charge, there was no guidance on what we were supposed to do, and there was no schedule. I guess we could stay there as long as we wanted and then take an auto-rickshaw back. The situation was totally uncomfortable and I felt like we weren’t wanted there.

The project description on VS’ website stated volunteers would help prepare meals, create a fun environment for the kids through new activities and games, and teach English, which I had never done before, nor was I prepared to do. It was never explained what we would actually be doing, and yes, I absolutely should have been more clear and asked questions. I take responsibility for that. I really just didn’t know better, which is mortifying looking back.

So I went with colored chalk, pens, toys and games for the kids, but I was yelled at when I arrived saying I must teach. Teach what? There were no supplies, no lesson plan, and no instructions. There was just an older woman sitting in the middle of the different aged kids reciting the A,B,C’s over and over to them.

Heather Newgen at school in New Delhi slums

I was unskilled, untrained and had no business being there. I was embarrassed for the program and myself. They didn’t have the kid’s interest at heart. They just wanted to send people there to make it seem like volunteers were needed, but I don’t think we were.

I didn’t know what to do, so I took out the chalk I brought, put some of the older children in a group, and taught a few math problems. My being there did not make a difference and I certainly didn’t have the impact I thought I would.

I didn’t want to go back. I was ashamed. In addition, I didn’t feel safe going to the slums alone. After we were taken once, we were expected to go on our own. Not sure how anyone was supposed to remember how to get there without a map or directions…
To make matters worse, we later found out the NGO of the school hadn’t received any of the money he was promised from the program manager. A volunteer with VS, who is now a life-long friend, told her family about our experience. They lived nearby and her mom went to the school with us the next day to find out what was going on.

It was then we knew we were being lied to. Volunteering Solutions was a total scam—at least in India. I can’t speak for the other countries they are in. I confronted the country director and instead of addressing my concerns and trying to be helpful, he and his wife started screaming at me. I asked repeatedly where my money was going and wanted to see a breakdown of how they spent volunteer’s program fee. Reasonable things I thought, but apparently not.

They kept side stepping the question by turning things around on me. I asked why our money wasn’t partly going to the NGO as he had said and I was met with more hostility.
I didn’t back down and continued to ask questions, but they refused to do anything but yell. His wife kept saying, “I can’t believe you would ask us these types of questions in our own home,” and acted as if I was trying to get inappropriate information out of them. Crazy doesn’t even begin to describe the situation.

Another volunteer witnessed the contentious argument and was outraged by their behavior. It was unbelievable. I’m not sure if the country director is still there today, but this happened in 2009 and I know just a couple of years ago he was still working for Volunteering Solutions, which is shocking.

I went back to volunteer a couple of times, but felt it was pointless. So I checked out of the hotel, stayed with new friends I made and vowed to spread the word about Volunteering Solutions.

I don’t ever want another person to go through the nightmare that I did. When I got home I started doing research and found a slew of negative reviews all mirroring my similar experience. I also started a group on Facebook called ‘Beware of Volunteering Solutions” where others told me they had written bad reviews of the organization and were threatened to be sued by the program if they weren’t taken down.

I was taken aback that they would go that far. I’m sorry that I didn’t do my homework ahead of time, and it’s my fault that I was so ignorant about voluntourism, but here’s what I have learned:

–Listen to your instincts. You get bad vibes for a reason.

–Do your research. I can’t stress this enough. Do not sign up with a program before you’re 100% sure they’re professional and legit. Don’t just read the reviews on the organization’s website. Who knows if they’re actually real or not?

–Don’t work with kids if you’re unskilled or untrained, especially if you’re just volunteering short-term.

–Know exactly what your volunteer assignment is going to be ahead of time. Also, find out if you’re expected to go to your project alone.

–There are positive experiences to be had volunteering abroad and domestically. It’s unfortunate that there are corrupt organizations out there, but it’s your responsibility as a volunteer to educate yourself and be aware of the issues with volunteering so you can avoid them. I strongly support voluntourism, however, it needs to be done in an ethical manner.

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Maui Vacation – 12 Travel and Safety Tips for Planning

Maui Vacation – 12 Travel and Safety Tips for Planning

Maui has always been a premier destination for its stunning beaches, romantic sunsets and beautiful landscape. While the island is a safe getaway for travelers, it’s important to always take precautions. Here’s some tips for planning your perfect holiday escape:

1. If you rent a car, do not honk unless it’s go get someone’s attention for safety reasons. Impatient drivers aren’t tolerated on the island.

2. Don’t leave open containers of food out, because there are bugs and insects that will immediately swarm it. And throw away your trash.

3. Don’t turn your back on the ocean, because an unexpected wave can knock you down while you’re coming out of the water.

4. Don’t swim after a heavy rain. The water gets murky, which attracts predators and you don’t want to be mistaken for their food.

5. Don’t leave your windows open while you’re gone. A sudden burst of rain could come at any time, and you don’t want your car or accommodations to be soaked.

6. Don’t park, sit or stand under coconut trees. If one falls on you, you can be seriously injured.

7. Heed the warning signs for the water. The North Shore and East Maui beaches have strong ocean currents and dangerous shorebreaks. Read the signs carefully and listen to locals about weather conditions. If they’re not going near the water, you shouldn’t either.

8. Beware of guidebooks that tell you to trespass in order to see a “secret” spot. If you have to go on a private resident’s property to see this secret spot, don’t do it. Homeowners don’t want you on their land.

9. Don’t drive at night on the Road to Hana. It’s windy and dangerous, and for those not familiar with it, it can easily be overwhelming. The 64 mile drive is tough to do in a day, so consider staying the night along the way. Also, make sure you have a full tank of gas when starting your journey. Gas prices are much higher after Paia. And go prepared with a map. Many sights you’ll want to stop at are poorly marked. There’s also a Hana app that you can download. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can book a tour. Finally, if you get car sick, take a motion sickness pill. The curvy road can be a lot to take at times, but so worth it.

10. Don’t touch or bother sea animals. Sure, a monk seal might be napping on the beach near you, but keep your distance. It’s for your protection and theirs. Same goes with sea turtles and any other sea life.

11. Always lock your car and room. While crime isn’t high on the island, petty theft does happen.

12. Always wear sunscreen. Chances are you’ll be spending the majority of time outdoors and the sun can be brutal, so take care of your skin. Stay hydrated and have fun!

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Kerry Washington and Zendaya – LGBTQ Community at Glsen Respect Awards

Kerry Washington and Zendaya Honored for their Support of the LGBTQ Community at Glsen Respect Awards

The GLSEN Respect Awards highlights the work of students, educators, community leaders and corporations who serve as role models, and have made a significant impact on the lives of LGBTQ youth.

This year, the honorees included Scandal star, Kerry Washington, who gave a powerful and emotional speech on stage.

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 20: Kerry Washington at the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on October 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for GLSEN)

“Sometimes I feel as if we are living through a horrific dream,” admitted Washington, who received the Inspiration Award. “It is a communal nightmare. The flames of terror and exclusion are being ignited by some of our most powerful leaders. These people who have been entrusted with the protection of our rights, the rights of all of us, the rights of we the people, have chosen instead to traffic in hate. We’ve gone from a White House lit in all the colors of pride, to a White House that literally preaches division and discrimination. And so, sometimes I worry, because the stakes are high and fear is rampant.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 20: GLSEN’s National Student Council members pose with Kerry Washington at the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on October 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for GLSEN)

Washington revealed her perspective on the future changed after she had kids, and she now sees the impact that younger generations can and will have.

“Children are not born to be molded and perfected by their parents. Children are born to us because we need to grow,” she said. “You are inspiring all of us to make the changes we need to make in order for the world to be a world that is deserving of your beauty, and your power, and your possibility.”

She continued, “You are collectively helping our country to become a more perfect union—and not just for some of us, but for all of us.”

Singer and actress Zendaya was also honored for her support of the LGBTQ community.

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 20: Honoree Zendaya at the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on October 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for GLSEN)

“GLSEN is honored to recognize Zendaya with the Gamechanger Award for her commitment to social justice,” Eliza Byard, executive director of GLSEN, said in a statement. “This award was created to spotlight the next generation of leaders, and Zendaya, unafraid to raise her voice on a host of issues affecting LGBTQ students and other marginalized communities, clearly exemplifies that leadership.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 20: Honoree Zendaya accepts the Gamechanger Award onstage during the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on October 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for GLSEN)

Other notable celebrities who attended the event in Beverly Hills to lend their support include Tony Goldwyn (Scandal), Billie Lourd (American Horror Story), Milo Ventimiglia (This Is Us), Chyler Leigh (Supergirl), Jeff Perry (Scandal), Darby Stanchfield (Scandal), Greg Berlanti, Jess Cagle, Wilson Cruz (Star Trek: Discovery), Charlie Carver (Blooms), Rosario Dawson (The Defenders), Tommy Dorfman (13 Reasons Why).

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 20: (L-R) Honoree Ose Arheghan, GLSEN National Student Council member Marcus Breed and Milo Ventimiglia pose with the Student Advocate of the Year award at the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on October 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for GLSEN)

For more information go to https://www.glsen.org/

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Same Kind of Different as Me – Shines a Light on Organizations Serving the Homeless

Same Kind of Different as Me Shines a Light on Organizations Serving the Homeless

Greg Kinnear, Renée Zellweger, Djimon Hounsou and Jon Voight star in an inspirational film based on a true story of friendship, forgiveness, and kindness, in theaters today.

Same Kind Of Different As Me, the first joint film partnership between Paramount Pictures and Pure Flix, is releasing in theaters on October 20, 2017. The screenplay was written by my good friend, Alex Foard, and stars Academy Award® nominee Greg Kinnear, Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger, Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou, and Academy Award winner Jon Voight.

In honor of the film’s message that acts of kindness can make a powerful difference, Pure Flix created an initiative for regional organizations around the country to host red carpet screening events. On October 18, 126 local red carpet events (resulting in sales of 75,000 tickets and showings on 410 screens) took place to benefit local communities and shelters, where attendees got a first viewing of the film and were reminded they can make a difference in their communities through their own acts of kindness.

“Same Kind Of Different as Me is a film with a life-changing message, that shows us how relationships can grow and bloom when watered with love, kindness, and compassion,” says John Ashmen, President of the AGRM (Association of Gospel Rescue Missions). “These events were an incredible opportunity to spread this message in communities coast to coast and engage attendees to give of themselves to their less fortunate neighbors.”

Pure Flix COO Steve Fedyski reiterates the importance of such events. “These red carpet events are a simple way to honor the spirit of this incredible, true story of Hall’s life and work, and the film is a natural extension of that. It is impossible to imagine releasing this movie without raising awareness for and helping the communities it portrays,” says Fedyski.

In the film, and in real life, Ron and Deborah Hall discovered a renewed sense of purpose when they began volunteering at a local mission in Fort Worth, Texas. But their lives changed forever when they became friends with a homeless man named Denver Moore, played by Djimon Hounsou in the movie. The story turns on this unlikely friendship, and the numerous lives changed for the better because of it.

Over the years, Ron Hall and Denver Moore visited more than 200 shelters across America to help raise an estimated $85 million for the homeless. Today, Ron continues the legacy by sharing their miraculous story through speaking engagements, fundraisers, and partnerships with various organizations at missions, universities, and churches.

Same Kind Of Different As Me is based on the New York Times best-seller of the same name, and recounts the inspiring true story of a successful businessman with a broken marriage, an emotionally scarred homeless man with sensitivity beyond his circumstances, and the woman who helped them experience a bond that crossed the socioeconomic divides that could have separated them.

For more information visit www.samekindofdifferentasmemovie.com.

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Volunteering in New Orleans with Camp Restore – Wonderful Experience!

Volunteering in New Orleans with Camp Restore – Wonderful Experience!

There’s nothing in the world that you can remotely compare New Orleans to, and that’s just one of the many charming things about NOLA. I first came to the Big Easy 12 years ago and fell in love with its vibrance, magical essence and lively, friendly spirit. I come back as often as I can to not only enjoy the local culture, but to volunteer.

Although it’s been 12 years since Hurricane Katrina swept through the city causing the levees to break and destroying anything in its path, areas of New Orleans still need to be rebuilt and helped.

So, I signed up with Camp Restore to give back in some small way. The organization is a Christian based non-profit, but you don’t need to be of a certain faith to volunteer with them. In fact, religion is not mentioned or discussed, at least it wasn’t with me, and I am Christian.

 

Heather Newgen helps cleans up the Lower 9th Ward

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

What I love about Camp Restore is that they partner with 80 to 100 local non-profits, which means as a volunteer you have a large selection of projects to choose from. So, for volunteers like myself who don’t have special skills like a construction or medical background, you can find something to do that helps make a positive impact on the community.

The two projects I chose were working in a food bank and cleaning up parts of the Lower 9th Ward—the area most affected by Katrina.

 

Heather Newgen volunteers at a New Orleans Food Bank

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

Camp Restore works hard to match each volunteer’s skill set with projects, which is one of the many reasons I would recommend them—they’re responsible.

Another reason they’re great, is they offer affordable housing for volunteers. They charge a flat per-person rate of $40/night Sunday-Thursday, and $25/night Friday-Saturday for lodging, three meals a day and project coordination. These rates reflect a hot breakfast and sack lunch Monday-Friday, dinner Sunday through Thursday, and a continental breakfast (cereal, danishes, fruits, etc.) on the weekends.

While I didn’t stay there since I have a friend in NOLA I always crash with, I did see the bunk style accommodations and they were clean, have a common area to hang out in, and there’s WiFi.

 

Volunteers I met at Camp Restore

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

In terms on transportation, you are responsible for getting to and from your project. But, you have several options. You can rent a car, ride share, take the bus, or the street car.

The employees I worked with at Camp Restore were really communicative before and during the trip. I felt welcomed and enjoyed my time with them.

They’re an organization that I would absolutely volunteer with again.

Here’s a vlog that shows my experience with them.

And here’s another vlog I did that shows you fun things to do in the city on your down time from volunteering.

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The London Pass – One Easy Ticket, Experience The UK Capital’s Attractions With

One Easy Ticket – The London Pass: Experience The UK Capital’s Attractions With

There’s a reason why London is one of the greatest cities in the world. The English capital is sophisticated, historical—yet ultra modern—with an infusion of diverse culture, food, arts, music and of course, good British ale. Plus, Brits are super stylish and know how to have a good time—think Prince Harry! And they have cool accents.

Carolyn Eastman and Heather Newgen having fun using the London Pass

There are so many things to do that it’s impossible to take it all in on one trip. So, to make the most of your time, I recommend getting the London Pass, which allows you access to over 60 attractions for free.

How does it work? You can purchase the pass online and either pick it up when you arrive in London, have it mailed to your house, or download it to your smartphone, which I personally think is the best option.

You can buy the pass for 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 days, and it activates as soon as you visit your first attraction. You will even get to skip the line at several places, and to save even more, you can add on an Oyster card that covers your public transportation needs.

I’ve been to this city several times, but this was my first experience using the London Pass. I absolutely loved it, because not only is it an amazing deal that saves you lots of cash, but I went to places I never would have before, which enhanced my time in London that much more.

Here are some of the fun things I did in one day. It can be done if you get an early start and manage your time well.

1. Shakespeare’s Globe

If you love literature and arts, then you have to check out Shakespeare’s Globe. During the 30 minute guided tour of the reconstructed Elizabethan theatre on the south bank of the River Thames, you’ll learn about the infamous playwright and see how plays were staged in Shakespeare’s day. In addition, you can explore the indoor museum at your own pace. Note: You can take photos during the tour, but no video.

Shakespeare’s Globe

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman:

2. Tower Bridge Exhibition

Not to be confused with the Tower of London, which is nearby but totally different. At the Tower Bridge, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most famous bridge operates and how it was created. You’ll also see the most beautiful panoramic views of the city and have the opportunity to daringly walk across high level glass floor panels that let you see London from a unique standpoint. If you’re afraid of heights like I am, then you can skip this part, but you do a get sticker if you can do it. You’ll also have access to the victorian engine rooms that have been preserved below the bridge.

Tower Bridge

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

3. London Bridge Experience and Tombs

At this attraction, you can experience the terror of a haunted house all year round. There are two parts to this one: First, you will be guided through medieval-style rooms below the London Bridge, each with a different live, theatrical rendition of some of the city’s darkest history. Next up are the tombs, which is where the real horror begins! It’s been rated as the U.K.’s scariest attraction, and after going through it myself, I concur! You will come face-to-face with evil clowns and other frightening creatures that will chase you, so don’t go alone. This part is not a guided tour, but you will be given instructions on what to do, and you will be with other visitors. If you like being scared then you’ll have a great time, but you will leave screaming!

London Bridge Experience and Tombs

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

4. Tower of London (Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress)

You could spend hours at this historic castle exploring the numerous buildings and admiring the royal Crown Jewels, so allow time for this attraction. One thing you must do is take a free tour with a Beefeater, which is a ceremonial guardian of the Tower of London. Nobody knows why they’re called Beefeaters, but they’re hilarious, knowledgable, and give great tours.

Tower of London (Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress)

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

5. River Thames Cruise

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Along the way to your next destination, you’ll see great views of the city onboard a river ferry. You can buy snacks and drinks on board, and the boat in enclosed, so weather is not a factor.

River Thames Cruise

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

6. The Shard

It’s one of the most recognizable buildings in London and home to high-end retailers, restaurants and a hotel! It’s also one of the best places to take in the most stunning views of London. You can go to the top of the skyscraper to enjoy ‘The View from the Shard,’ which boasts a 360-degree view for up to 40 miles of the city. In addition, you can make reservations for afternoon tea at one of the restaurants, or you can stop in for a cocktail at any of the bars. Going to the top of the Shard isn’t free with the pass, but you do get a discount, so definitely add this to your must see places.

The Shard

Photo by: Heather Newgen

View from the Shard

Photo by: Carolyn Eastman

In addition to the numerous things you can do and see with The London Pass, there are always special offers and discounts on theatre tickets and other great experiences.

The London Pass help makes your trip more affordable, simple and effortless. The pass is incredibly easy to use, and there’s even an app you can download that gives you helpful tips.

Every city should have a pass like this!

To see my experience in London using the London Pass watch my vlog.

For more information go to https://www.londonpass.com/

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Best Things to do in London with the London Pass-Voluntourist Video

No matter how often I visit London, I fall in love with the city all over again every time I’m there. It’s one of those places I can travel to frequently and experience something new each trip.

There are so many things to do, that it’s impossible to take it all in on one trip. So, to make the most of your time and money, I recommend getting the London Pass, which allows you access to over 60 attractions like Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle and many others for free.

You can purchase the pass online and either pick it up when you arrive in London, have it mailed to your house, or downloaded to your smartphone, which I personally think is the best option.

You can buy the pass for 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 days, and it activates as soon as you visit your first attraction. You will even get to skip the line at several places! To save even more, you can add on an Oyster card that covers your public transportation needs.

Watch this great guide for just a few of the cool things you can do with the London Pass.

Produced by: Heather Newgen

 

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