Volunteer Travel: Slopping Sea Slime in Hawaii
We can think of a million reasons to go to Hawaii, not the least of which is to hang ten. (Campaigning for president is a close second.) But if you're heading to Maui later this month and forget your board, the Pacific Whale Foundation offers travelers a chance to get out on the water and in the process, do some good.

Volunteers gather at the Maui Coastal Land Trust every Friday morning at 7:30 to clear invasive species from inland fish ponds. It doesn't sound like much--even if it is a four-hour commitment--but their efforts protect ecosystems found only in Hawaii. Sure, there are better ways to spend an island vacation than removing slimy snails and stewing seaweed, but getting your hands dirty this time around means Hawaii's natural beauty will last through your next visit, too.

And if that's not enough? All volunteers get a swank free t-shirt, which could be good for scoring free drinks at the local Mai Thai joint. Now that's something we're willing to work for.

Jaunted