Save a Buck: Bird Watching for Free

If you’re an ardent birder, you probably keep your binoculars and field guide handy, in case you can do some birding when you travel. But it’s not always easy to find the best viewing areas in an unfamiliar place or to know exactly what kinds of birds you might encounter.

Not to worry. There’s now a global website, wwwbirdingpal.org, that lists local bird watchers all over the world who will treat you to a birding expedition when you’re in their neighborhood. And they do it for free—simply because they love to share their passion with others. Volunteers are listed by country, state, town or region; languages spoken; and availability (usually “anytime”).

You can e-mail them directly to make arrangements for your adventure.

Joan Rattner Heilman writes often on good deals and where to find them.