I was nervous going in as I’m sure everyone is, but Maria Elena made me feel right at home. I worked at a kindergarten at first but the teachers went on strike so I have been working at the local Zoo which I am enjoying even more. If you are on the edge about signing up I have to say this was amazing and I think it is something everyone should try. Give it a shot you will nots regret it.
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
Very good, everything went very smooth. From being picked up at the airport to getting me settled at my work Maria Elena is the perfect person for the job! Don’t let her go.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
Program: Working with the kids was very fun, the first day we were all gathered in the courtyard. We sang songs, danced and the director introduced me to all the kids. I enjoyed working with the kids a lot but the teachers went on strike, so Maria Elena found me new work at the zoo which I ended up enjoying even more.
Host Family: I was surprised how welcoming my host family was, and how comfortable my room and house was, I was very happily surprised when I arrived.
Country: How crazy the drivers here are, you have to be very alert when crossing the streets.
3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?
Program: The first day is always the hardest mostly because of the language barrier. But I settled in after the first day and had a great time.
Host Family: There were no challenges here everything was perfect!
Country: Communicating in Spanish with the children and local people. At first it was rough but with Spanish lessons and speaking the language daily it became much easier.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
MAKE SURE to bring lots of warm cloths ex: wool socks!!, sweaters, jackets etc.
Sunblock bug, repellent
5- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:
a. The guide was very helpful, I think it mostly covered everything.
b. I would stress that you have to be adaptable to your situation, as things are very different.
6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):
I was nervous going in as I’m sure everyone is, but Maria Elena made me feel right at home. I worked at a kindergarten at first but the teachers went on strike so I have been working at the local Zoo which I am enjoying even more. If you are on the edge about signing up I have to say this was amazing and I think it is something everyone should try. Give it a shot you will nots regret it.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:
The food was delicious (better than home), my room was much more comfortable than I was expecting. The other volunteers and Maria Elena were very friendly and I will never forget them.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Program: My fist day at the Zoo, first we collected and cleaned all the empty bowls, then cut fresh fruit for the animals and fed them.
Host Family: Staying up late and playing cards, or Monopoly.
Country: Hiking to Machu Pichu, it was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
Very good although my mother did most of this from what she said it was very easy.
9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?
The website could use an update, it’s easy enough to navigate it just looks outdated. The reservation system worked perfect no complaints there.
9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website
I was looking into a volunteer company but they were much to expensive so after doing some searching you guys came up and you are a non profit charity.
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
I would be willing to speak to them through email if they were unsure about the conditions or had any questions.