What inspired you to travel abroad?
I always wanted to volunteer abroad, especially in Africa. This is because I wanted to lead by example so that my friends and family could do the same. I also wanted to test my own abilities and get out of my comfort zone and push myself to do something alone without being accompanied by any friends and family members.
Why did you choose International Volunteers?
I love teaching and I am also a teacher. International Volunteers offered the best package which covered all my needs and living expenses. The International Volunteers accommodation is clean. Also, I had friends who volunteered with them and they spoke highly of the organization.
Made a couple of new friends while out and about on a Makunduchi village tour.
What was your favorite part about your host country/city?
Zanzibar is peaceful and having staff members from International Volunteers was actually one of the best parts. During weekends we were able to discover the island from horse riding to quad biking and kite surfing, all at an affordable price. The impact I also made in schools was measurable, I could see all my students eager to learn every day.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The staff were very professional, caring and ready to help any time. Also, my students, they were always ready and eager to learn, were respectful and joyful.
International Volunteers’ accommodations were great. Also, the chef’s food was delicious and healthy. Finally, I enjoyed Zanzibar and its people, I really loved it.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
It started from the airport, I got welcomed inside the airport and was taken to my driver. VIP STYLE! I had an orientation at the home base, then had time to relax and eat.
Afterwards, we went to stone town and moved around the streets and restaurants while going through my program. All my questions were answered. There was always a program coordinator around during the programs, so anything I asked got an answer and support.
This is Sara teaching and doing a fantastic job engaging the students in the lesson.
Did your program provide specific pre-departure Covid support? If yes, tell us what kind of support you received.
Yes, but when I went the Covid restriction was not that strict. I am vaccinated and I am aware of medical and health conditions, but they still advise me that I should be vaccinated and it's part of the country’s and programs requirements.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had time to stay longer, the more I stayed the more I had the chance of getting to know the people and the culture. The more I understood my students and their progress.
Time was always going fast and I ended up wanting to do more things but I did not have the time. I think 2-3 weeks is a more reasonable time to stay. Since everything is provided for you, you should take advantage of it.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I loved waking up with breakfast ready. Actually, I loved going back to the accommodation because of the food and A/C!
After breakfast we pop in our vehicles. International Volunteers have their own transport system so we are expected to use private transport and not public transport. We had 6-7 people per vehicle which is nice and comfortable.
Then we were at our project until midday and back at base for lunch. In the afternoons it's extra project time or you can relax at base or do some tourist things, shop, or chill at the beach.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I loved walking at the beach in the evenings, hearing the waves and spectacular sunsets like in the movies. Also, the sand at the beach was so white and soft.
I also loved the streets in Stone Town, it is like a puzzle, most people get lost. But as soon as you ask for help, people in Zanzibar are ready to help with a smile.
On this day we all worked together to focus on a health and water awareness campaign.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
Honestly our accommodation was a private house/villa. Very clean and smelled so good. It was in a very quiet and harmonious neighborhood near the beach. All rooms were fitted with A/C, heaters, and our laundry was always done for us.
There's also a pantry for coffee and snacks available for volunteers 24/7 and the food was very very delicious. The service is better than staying in hotels.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Not to be worried! International Volunteers staff members are always around, from the minute you arrive there's already a vehicle and team assigned to be with you. You also receive SIM cards and numbers for the team members.
WiFi is at the house and there is also Netflix for those who wish to sit and watch TV. Come with an open mind and you will enjoy everything.
Would you recommend your program/provider to others? Why?
Yes, most definitely, I actually regret that I did not spend more time. What International Volunteers offer is excellent, other organizations do not even match or can not be compared to International Volunteers. Everything written in the program description is given to volunteers and other volunteers end up extending their stay.
We had fun with a large group of nursery kids during their dedicated coloring time.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
It frees your mind and you end up learning about cultures and people. It makes you more Independent and curious to know more, it becomes addictive and you want to explore and learn more about the places you will be visiting. It is investing in yourself and you end up improving your mental health, in turn this makes you satisfied and happy.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I always think about the programs I have done. Also if my students remember me or not. It has made me be more positive and I keep on taking challenges so that I improve myself as a human being. I am more ready to offer help to my colleagues if I see them struggling with their work or task.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means that you travel while making a difference in whatever thing is that you like. You travel but make sure you interact with locals to understand each other's culture. Eat locally and appreciate the place you are at by leaving positive footprints and a memory to remember.
