What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in underserved communities. I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, experience a whole new culture, and contribute to a cause that would leave a positive impact on a community while also helping me grow personally and professionally.
Traveling has always been a part of my life, but being a part of something bigger, helping others, really pushed me towards this project.
Why did you choose Freepackers?
Freepackers stood out because of their hands-on, community-focused approach. The Construction and Renovation project in Bali offered the perfect blend of physical work, cultural immersion, and real-world impact.
I wanted to help improve infrastructure for schools and public spaces, and this program aligned perfectly with those values.
What was your favorite part about Indonesia?
Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart, became my favorite spot. The blend of art, spirituality, and natural beauty made every day feel magical.
From the terraced rice paddies to traditional Balinese dance shows, I felt constantly inspired. But the warmth and kindness of the local people made it truly unforgettable.
Hands-on volunteer work during a community construction project—making a lasting impact through teamwork
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made it extraordinary was working closely with locals to bring positive change to their communities. Knowing that I was part of building or restoring essential spaces like schools gave my trip lasting meaning.
Not to mention the friendships I made and the chance to grow in a new culture, it became unforgettable.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local coordinators were always available, ensuring we were safe, informed, and confident in the tasks we were doing.
They offered training on construction work and helped us adapt to cultural differences. Their support created a welcoming and productive environment where we always felt part of a bigger purpose.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had taken more time to explore the local villages and connect deeper with the community outside of the work site.
While I loved our project, I now realize how much more I could’ve learned by simply asking questions, listening, and engaging with locals during free time or after daily work.
I had friends do a similar project, who said they traveled with locals and learned so much about the local day-to-day life.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Mornings started with a community breakfast with all the volunteers, followed by planning sessions and/or training with our coordinator.
After lunch, we traveled to a local site for construction work, such as painting, carpentry, or landscaping.
We returned in the evening to relax, give feedback, or provide information about the next day. Each day was hands-on, fulfilling, and built on teamwork.
Progress on a school renovation site—part of a community-led effort to improve local learning spaces
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During free time, I loved exploring markets and enjoying traditional Balinese food. I also went to many temples that were unique and different in their own ways.
Weekends gave us the chance to see rice terraces, take yoga classes, or relax at local cafés. The island offered endless cultural and natural treasures that made every free moment feel magical.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
We stayed in a Volunteer House in the village of Pejeng Kaja. Rooms were shared with 4–8 volunteers and had amenities like fans, hot water, and Wi-Fi.
What I loved most was the sense of community. It is very different from back at home. From all the meals, stories, and laughs shared daily, it is easy to bond and feel at home.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Flexibility and adaptability are key. Tasks may vary based on what the community needs most at the time.
You might be painting a school one day and building a wall the next. Being open-minded and adaptable ensures you get the most out of your experience and contribute in meaningful, needed ways.
Be respectful of all the cultural differences. Just because it is different from yours does not mean it is wrong.
Volunteers working side by side to mix cement—contributing to meaningful infrastructure improvements
Would you recommend Freepackers to others? Why?
Yes, I’d recommend Freepackers to anyone looking for a purposeful and immersive volunteer experience.
They offered a safe and structured environment with meaningful projects and strong local partnerships. You leave knowing you’ve helped improve lives and gained memories that will stay with you forever.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit is perspective. Being abroad opens your eyes to how different and similar we truly are.
Having lives across the world, yet having so many similarities. You grow more empathetic, more adaptable, and more aware of global issues.
The best part is learning new ways of thinking and being.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Since returning, I’ve become more grateful, grounded, and globally minded. Volunteering in Bali taught me that small actions can make a big difference.
I now value community and simplicity more, and I’m motivated to stay involved in service both locally and internationally in any way I can.
I look forward to returning with a different outlook than what I initially went with.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel means making a positive impact while gaining a deeper understanding of the world.
It’s about giving as much as you take—learning from the people and cultures you visit, and contributing something real in return.
It’s authentic, responsible, and transformative for everyone involved.
