Volunteer Colombia: The host family and volunteer experience was incredibly kind and accommodating, even though I did not speak the language well. We did our best to communicate and often used google translate.
Volunteer Colombia
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
Excellent! Very accommodating and made sure I was taken care of for my entire stay.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
- Program: I was solo during the experience, there were no other volunteers where I was.
- Host Family: They had a dog! Which I was so happy about!
- Country: I could drink the water!
3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?
- Host Family: At times I wish my Spanish was much better because I would have wanted to communicate with my host family more.
- Country: Mucho calor! It was very hot in Cartagena, and I was not used to it.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
1. Prepare for the heat! If you are coming anytime between July and August, it will be very hot.
2. You will need to manage your own transportation while you are immersed. This may mean learning a bus line or two, or other means. Additionally, you are responsible for paying for this as well, its stated in the website and volunteer guide.
3. Do not bring cotton clothing. Everything you bring should be breathable and can withstand hot weather.
Volunteer in Colombia
5.1- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:
a. If you have dietary restrictions be very clear about that in the beginning.
6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):
The host family and volunteer experience was incredibly kind and accommodating, even though I did not speak the language well. We did our best to communicate and often used google translate. The food is amazing if you love food the way I do. All around this was an incredible experience I will never forget!
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:
The host family and staff were very clear once I was in Cartagena around security cautions I needed to take, such as not using your phone in public, and keeping your items on you at all times. The accommodations were fantastic!
I had an air conditioner in my room and the bed was very comfortable. People in Colombia are generally very friendly, and willing to try and speak with you whether you are fluent or not.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:
Program: Niños! The children were very fun at the school and wonderful to interact with. It was humbling to see the differences in the resources and education.
Host Family: Walks around the neighborhood and going to the beach. They treated me as if I was one of their own.
Country: My trip to Medellin was amazing. I very much enjoyed that city.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
Sara was my contact, and she was very consistent and answered any questions I had within a day.
9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?
Very comprehensive, and helpful.
9.2- How did you find Abroaderview website
Search engine and reviews.
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Sure!