Free 2 Month Sabbatical in Bahamas from Airbnb
Airbnb is looking for five people that are ready to just get up and leave on a free two-month trip to the Bahamas. Airbnb and The Bahamas National Trust, a local NGO that protects 32 national parks in the country, are offering five participants the life-changing opportunity to take time away from the everyday grind to live in an ecological oasis with the Bahamas Sabbatical.
In recent years, several Bahamians have stepped up to pave the way toward a more sustainable future for The Bahamas, bringing back traditional practices rooted in agriculture, ethical fishing, and coral reef revitalization. Through The Bahamas Sabbatical, these ongoing local efforts are complemented by The Bahamas National Trust’s mission as they team up with the participants tasked to support these growing industries, protect several national parks, and empower the community leaders shepherding these sustainability efforts.
Over April and May, participants will embed themselves into three beautiful island destinations – Andros, Exumas, and Eleuthera – are among those that weren’t impacted by the storm, as they dive into local cultures and complete various projects in important natural areas.
To apply, visit airbnb.com/sabbatical and complete the application form. Before applying, carefully read the selection rules available on the website. Sabbatical runs April 1 to May 31, 2020. Applications must be received by 11:59pm EST on February 18, 2020. Even if you don’t win, you can also sign up for Airbnb here and save $40 off your next stay.
Week 1 – 3: Help Restore Coral Reefs in Andros
The Andros Barrier Reef is the third-largest living organism on the planet — but it continues to be vulnerable to the changing climate. At the North and South Marine Parks in Andros, you’ll learn from passionate conservationist and master scuba instructor Katie Storr*, then dive into the work at hand: collecting existing coral, building and caring for coral nurseries, and transplanting new growth back into the reef.
Week 4 – 6: Support Ethical Fishing in Exuma
The red lionfish is widely recognized as a threat to the rich and diverse Bahamian waters, but in a strange twist of fate, it’s also a delicacy that has the potential to boost the local fishing industry. At the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park, you’ll join a team of lifelong divers and fishermen led by Andre Musgrove*. With Andre, you’ll learn about ethical fishing practices, and help create culinary experiences that pair lionfish with locally-grown produce.
Week 7 – 8: Promote Traditional Agriculture in Eleuthera
The preparation and use of bush teas and natural remedies are rooted in Bahamians’ proud African ancestry, but sadly, the bush tea practice is quickly disappearing. Omar McKlewhite*, a Master Gardener at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, has devoted his life to the study of endemic plants. With Omar, you’ll immerse yourself in this rich natural world, build a bush tea pop-up, and help conduct workshops to preserve this important part of Bahamian culture.
Offer Terms
Candidates must be over 18, available to be in The Bahamas for two months from April to May 2020 to volunteer for the NGO Bahamas National Trust and be able to speak good conversational English. Applicants will also need to demonstrate their commitment to contribute to island life.
The Bahamas Sabbatical is a project promoted by The Bahamas National Trust, endorsed by The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, and sponsored by Airbnb. The final selection of five participants will be announced on March 25, 2020. The sabbatical is open to residents, aged 18 or over from the following countries and regions: Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, mainland China, Denmark, Dubai, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, UK, and US. Selection rules available on the website.
