What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired by wanting to connect the dots in a way I never could before, to finally visit the continent of my dreams, to learn something new, to be completely out of my comfort zone, and to help and support the people in Tanzania.
Why did you choose Viva Tanzania?
I chose Viva Tanzania mainly because I have a teaching and coaching background and because I want to support people not in the way I know, but in a way they need.
A walk during a project break
What was your favorite part about Tanzania?
My favorite part was the beauty of the countryside, the beauty and kindness of the people in my Viva Tanzania community, and the openness and the respect of the local people in Arusha.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
To see that everyone is making effort to get life going, and not seeing anyone standing or sitting together complaining how hard life is.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
I did not come to the program with the expectation that one would anticipate all my needs, but when I asked for something they managed it. I do appreciate all the effort of the management, the guides, and last but not least the Mamas, who prepared extraordinary dinner for us.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
As this was my first journey to Africa ever, I wish I would have taken less stuff and garments for myself, and much more learning materials, gifts, and/or tools for the program!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
After the usual morning routine within the community with the other volunteers, I spent my hours with the project and the people there. Subsequent to that, I went either all the way downtown or back to the hostel to meet the other volunteers.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I enjoyed listening to the other volunteers and their experiences in their projects, and meeting local people and listening to their stories. I also enjoyed going shopping, either for the project or for my family.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I chose the Nyumbani Hostel in Mianzini, Arusha. I truly liked the support of the management and staff, as well as the quality of my bed
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Every future volunteer should know that they are there to help others without necessarily getting everything under control as quickly as possible.
Would you recommend Viva Tanzania to others? Why?
The question is a little bit misleading. It always depends on the person if such a program will fit their purpose. The local people in my project deserve all help that can be given, and the same can be said for my provider. I rate them 5 stars out of 5.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit is the wonderful new skills I now own, the beautiful people I met, and to have no other option left but to step out of my comfort zone!
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I am much more clear on what matters the most in life, and that I will go back there as soon as possible.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
It means to respect different rules and regulations outside of my comfort zone, to let go of what is common at home but not in the country I was welcomed to as a guest, and to remain mindful and respectful of local people.
