"Travel with a purpose" is a good way to describe what an international work trip is all about. The emphasis of these trips is on developing relationships with local communities and sharing our time and resources with those who are in need.

Long Term Projects
Pura Vida allows the local indigenous communities to identify the needs -- we simply come and share. And once projects are started, we see them through to the end. You can be sure that the project you work on will not become a "ruin," but will be finished and maintained by other teams and the local workforce. Pura Vida is deeply involved in the local community as well, and always hires local labor to teach and work alongside our teams.

Teams typically work on church and community related construction projects. Our teams interact with the local population in ways that tourists simply cannot, taking advantage of relationships with local leadership built over the last few years. Meaningful contact between First- and Third World cultures is beneficial to both sides, and is usually a highlight of these trips.

Watch, Listen, and Learn
The people of the Third World have much to share with us. Time spent on a work trip has a way of clearing your mind and ordering your priorities. You may return home a changed person! A work trip to Guatemala or Kenya is an experience you will never forget. Come share your time and resources in a place where they can really make a difference. Step out of your comfort zone for a week -- you will be amazed what can happen.