1. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. 4-12 weeks. First 4 weeks, $2195; subsequent weeks $220. The primary colours of the city are sandwiched between lush green jungle and golden yellow sands, and just when you think it can’t get any brighter, you meet the kids on your community project. We work with a number of groups in Rio de Janeiro which all offer a wide range of support services which aim to open up educational and social opportunities. Rio being Rio, there is a great emphasis on the arts and the project provides workshops on percussion, circus skills, capoeira (a mix of martial arts and music) and even graffiti. Various activities including recreational activities, arts and crafts courses, dance and music workshops and teaching English.

2. Carnival preparation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 4-12 weeks. First 4 weeks, $2195; subsequent weeks $220. Samba and sway your way through the streets and get a view of the carnival that travelers almost never get: from the middle of it! Over the years the Samba schools have become a crucial (and colorful) part of the carnival and the dance is a great way through which to learn more about the city and its people. Activities range from designing costumes and floats to helping build the stage, with plenty of time left over to explore one of the world’s most exciting cities at its vibrant best.

3. Favela renovation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 2-12 weeks. First 2 weeks, $1645; subsequent weeks $220. This is a wonderful opportunity to improve the physical and social conditions of life in the favelas and catch a glimpse of a world normally hidden from tourists and travelers. Competing against forest-clad mountains to the right and the cool Pacific Ocean to the left, Rio’s enthusiastic residents have somehow managed to create a city beautiful enough not to let down the neighborhood! Why not pay them a visit and help some of the poorest favelas become as bright as the rest of the city? This project mixes hands-on work renovating local buildings with attempts to educate youngsters about sexual health and the dangers of drugs. Rest assured your day will be varied, from painting, cleaning, and gardening to developing community events within the renovated public spaces.

Email us at: info@distinctive-destinations.com