Biggest travel myth we've heard

Animal Experience International is a boutique social enterprise that helps people travel and volunteer with animals.

I think the travel myth we collectively have to stop believing is that volunteering can be free. There are some circumstances that people's sweat investment can make their stay free but most of the time their lodging, food, electricity, wi-fi, potable water and training all costs the place they are volunteering. The local families and professionals pay out of pocket for these things and some volunteers think the help they are providing off-set these costs. Volunteering doesn't need to break the bank but if it is free to the traveller, we need to ask ourselves who is paying for the things they are consuming?

Ethical volunteering and travelling means paying for your footprint.

Marine Volunteering in Honour of Icarus.

Many of us were bereft after the internet took a video of an angler fish and made poetry from it. If you haven’t seen her yet, it was a female angler fish nick named Icarus who for the first time in science was recorded swimming close to the surface of the water. Normally angler fish stay at the very bottom of the ocean, the only light they see is from bioluminescence from their own lanterns and other animals in the depths. Why did she swim to the surface? Probably because she was old and sometimes these things happen when fish get old. But the poets, artists and sensitive souls on the internet decided she wanted to see the sun on her face, she wanted to see light that she didn’t have to create by herself. Did this touch you like it touched us? Because I still have tears in my eyes for sweet Icarus.

But what are we to do with this emotion we have for the ocean dwellers? Of course we think you should volunteer! We have programs with sharks, sea turtles and dolphins (there are two group trips this year in Croatia)! Sometimes you stay on a boat, sometimes you tag animals, sometimes you help restore their environments. No matter what you are helping their populations and the ecosystems they live in. If you are interested in our marine programs check out our website to look through and see calls to your heart.

Want your friends to come travel with you? Forward them this email and you’ll both get 10% any program when you volunteer in 2025!

What is Enrichment... exactly?

Animals need psychological, physical and sensory stimulation to live happy and healthy lives. When an animal lives in the wild, it's constantly using it's physical body and it's brain to keep itself alive and engaged. Burrowing, hunting, nesting, playing with littermates, and sometimes playing in the natural world (Google: otters playing).

When animals are not in the natural world- in sanctuary or rehabilitative and medical care, they can grow bored, angry, stressed and sometimes even self harm. 

Enrichment is tools and activities we can make for the animals to make sure they their physical, emotional and psychological wellfare being is taken care of. 

Enclosure design is as important as the manual enrichment devices, tools, games and other stimulating activities. Natural flora, access to water, routine cleaning, socialization with other individuals, and occupational games with rewards; all help animals in an unnatural environment feel as close to nature as possible. 

In Thailand, every day we spend the afternoon making different enrichment for the elephants who live in sanctuary. From buring watermelons so they have to use their sense of smell, to making rafts with bananas so they problem solve on how to get treats from their ponds. In Guatemala we often make banana leaf origami stars with pieces of mango in them so the parrots have to use their beaks and feet while engaging their minds. In Malawi, fire hoses have been cut and sewed along one edge, straw and peanuts are stuffed into the other end and monkeys have to practice dexterity if they want an afternoon snack. 

Enrichment isn't just a fun activity for humans to think up, it's a deeply important part of animal husbandry, it's a way we can make sure the animals are having the best quality of life during their stay with us. 

tl;dr: Environmental enrichment is a term used to describe changing a captive animal’s environment in a way that improves the animal’s quality of life. 

Fix Georgia Pets guest blog

Partners in Change: How Local Businesses are Supporting Spay & Neuter Efforts

In the picturesque state of Georgia, where the charm of southern hospitality meets diverse landscapes, a silent crisis unfolds that affects its four-legged inhabitants. The companion animal overpopulation crisis, coupled with high euthanasia rates, presents a pressing challenge for the state. However, amidst this daunting issue, a beacon of hope shines through the collaborative efforts of local businesses and organizations working tirelessly to turn the tide through spay and neuter programs.

The Heart of the Matter: Georgia's Pet Overpopulation Crisis

Georgia faces a dire situation with its companion animals. The overpopulation of pets leads to numerous challenges, not least of which is the high rate of euthanasia. In many communities, shelters are overwhelmed, lacking the resources and space to care for the influx of homeless animals. This crisis not only affects the well-being of these animals but also places a strain on local communities and their resources.

Fix Georgia Pets: A Crusader for Change

At the forefront of addressing this issue is Fix Georgia Pets, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending pet overpopulation and the subsequent euthanasia of companion animals in the state. By focusing on spay and neuter programs, particularly in high-need communities, Fix Georgia Pets aims to reduce the number of pets entering shelters. Their mission is clear: to help every community in Georgia tackle this crisis head-on, ensuring healthier lives for pets and alleviating the burden on shelters.

Local Businesses: Joining the Fight

Recognizing the magnitude of the problem and the importance of community involvement, local businesses across Georgia are stepping up to support spay and neuter efforts. These businesses, understanding their role as pillars of the community, are partnering with organizations like Fix Georgia Pets to foster a culture of responsibility and care for companion animals.

Financial Support and Awareness

Many businesses contribute by providing financial support to spay and neuter programs. This funding is crucial, enabling organizations to offer low-cost or free services to pet owners in high-need areas. But their involvement doesn't stop at financial contributions. Businesses also play a key role in raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets, leveraging their platforms to educate the public and advocate for responsible pet ownership.

Hosting and Participating in Community Events

Local businesses frequently host or participate in community events aimed at promoting spay and neuter programs. These events serve as vital platforms for educating the public, offering services, and fostering a community spirit dedicated to addressing the pet overpopulation crisis. Through these events, businesses help bring the issue to the forefront, encouraging community members to become part of the solution.

Collaborative Programs and Partnerships

Innovative partnerships between businesses and local organizations exemplify the power of collaboration. For example, veterinary clinics may offer discounted services for spay and neuter procedures, supported by local businesses. Retailers might donate a portion of their sales to fund these initiatives. Such collaborations not only amplify the impact of spay and neuter programs but also demonstrate a community-wide commitment to resolving the crisis.

Volunteerism and In-Kind Support

Beyond financial contributions, businesses encourage their employees to volunteer in support of spay and neuter efforts, fostering a culture of community service and engagement. In-kind support, such as donating supplies or services, also plays a critical role in bolstering the resources available to organizations focused on reducing pet overpopulation.

The Ripple Effect: Beyond Spay and Neuter

The support for spay and neuter programs by local businesses and organizations has far-reaching implications. By addressing the root cause of the overpopulation crisis, these efforts contribute to a decrease in the number of pets entering shelters, thereby reducing euthanasia rates. Moreover, spayed and neutered pets often lead healthier, longer lives, reducing the burden on veterinary care systems and enhancing the quality of life for pets and their owners alike.

A Call to Action: Every Contribution Counts

The battle against pet overpopulation and high euthanasia rates in Georgia is a collective endeavor. Local businesses, by joining hands with organizations, play a pivotal role in driving change and fostering a more humane and caring society. Their contributions, whether financial, in-kind, or through raising awareness, are invaluable in the quest to ensure that every pet in Georgia has the chance to live a healthy and safe life.

Conclusion: A United Front for a Compassionate Future

As we witness the growing collaboration between local businesses and dedicated organizations, there's a sense of hope and optimism for Georgia's companion animals. This partnership, grounded in compassion and action, is a testament to the power of community and the positive change that can be achieved when we work together. By supporting spay and neuter efforts, we're not just addressing a crisis; we're building a foundation for a future where every pet is valued, cared for, and loved. Together, we can transform the landscape of animal welfare in Georgia, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all pets. 


Please learn more and visit our friends at: Fix Georgia Pets.

Who is AEI?

Animal Experience International (AEI) sets itself apart from competitors by focusing exclusively on animal-related volunteer experiences. This specialization allows the brand to offer a wide range of unique and immersive opportunities for animal lovers, students, professionals and adventure seekers.

AEI's Consent Based Tourism model is another differentiating factor that ensures all interactions are consensual from the communities hosting volunteers to the treatment of animals involved. This model promotes responsible tourism and ethical treatment of animals.

Additionally, AEI offers comprehensive support throughout the entire experience - from pre-departure training on cultural sensitivity and ethical travel to ongoing support during the trip.

Moreover, as a B Corp organization, AEI operates under high standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose which is not common among all competitors.

Lastly, AEI's small group trips led by a group leader provide an extra layer of comfort for those who may be hesitant about traveling alone or volunteering in foreign locations.

A wish for 2024


Happy holidays dear friends!! It has been quite a few years hasn't it? I don't know anyone who has gotten through without at least a little heart break.

The world is often very divided but up until recently it was fairly easy to sit in a small communal echo chamber and believe we all think the same way. The world has often been unsafe for people in particular bodies but only recently have pictures and videos spilled over into once were we solely got entertainment.

Travel is a massive privilege and not deemed a necessity- while mobility itself is seen a freedom.

While we sit in a world of paradoxes, of one filled with joy and cruelty, I find myself being so truly thankful to each and every one of you. Not only for traveling with us and helping us stay a float while continuing to fill our hearts as more animals continue to get help; but also for traveling at all. For believing - like we do, that travelling ethically and with consent means we will sometimes be uncomfortable but we will always be on the right side of history. Thank you for believing in us, for seeing us and for trusting us.

May 2024 be gentle on us while it crushes oppression.

Gap Year Radio Podcast

“We were trying to decolonize travel. We were trying to think more about equity, think more about entitlement, and travel and where its roots really are in white supremacy and in entitlement.” – Nora

This is how we started the conversation about ethical volunteering with animals on Gap Years (and beyond)! Why not be part of the ongoing conversation of ethics, consent based tourism, fair trade learning and having a great time while traveling.

Listen to the Gap Year Radio Podcast and let us know what you think!

https://gapyearradiopodcast.com/ep-807-ethical-animal-volunteering-with-nora-livingstone-of-animal-experience-international/

Help Sea Turtles

By bidding on a life changing trip!


We’re excited to be participating in SEE Turtles Sustainable Travel Auction! Bid on one of 8 incredible experiences around the world and the proceeds will help support sea turtle conservation efforts around the world. 

Check out our trip and all of the others and place your bids here:

https://www.charitybuzz.com/support/SEETurtles