Beyond Good Intentions Workaway Volunteer Experiences at Krämars Farm

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the motivations, experiences, and reflections of Workaway volunteers at Krämars Organic Farm in Inkoo, Finland, between 2016 and 2022. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online to gather rich data from volunteers engaged in volunteer work. By employing a deductive thematic analysis, the study identified patterns and themes within the dataset derived through motivation theory and existing literature on volunteer tourism. These findings reveal diverse motivations driving individuals to participate in volunteer tourism, including a desire for authentic cultural immersion, personal development, and a sense of purpose. Volunteers' experiences at Krämars Farm are characterized by a sense of belonging, genuine connections with the host family and local community, and opportunities for skill development and learning. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of volunteer tourism dynamics, particularly within the context of travel motivations and sustainable exploration. Limitations include sample size constraints and potential biases in self-reported experiences. Suggestions for further research are provided.