Beyond Travels

When I first arrived in tena, I immediately felt so welcomed by Megan, and the 1-1 induction helped me settle in and get familiar with the town, going to the markets and finding my way around which was super helpful! I stayed with Clemente and Alena, who were both so welcoming, and I settled into daily life quickly, helping them in the house, working in their chakra and then working in the nearby town. Their house is in a really beautiful area, when I first arrived I thought that their back garden was the chakra as there were so many beautiful trees and plants around- waking up to the sound of nature was amazing! Whilst I did miss home occasionally over the 7 weeks, the weekly activities with other interns and 1-1s with Megan were great to just have someone to chat with- I also feel like without Megan I wouldn't have got the most out of my stay, knowing what new foods to try, and places to go in my free time was invaluable! Getting to eat soo many new fruits, and things like chontacuro was great, I might not have had the guts to do it without her!! Overall it was a great experience, that weekly activities were fun and I learnt a lot, the family and where I stayed was amazing and I really felt like I was integrating into their life- not just someone on holiday. The people, views and experiences are something I will never forget, I already want to go back <3

Staying with Patricio and Sylvia and being in the Amazon jungle truly changed me. It was a very healing experience and I learned so much about plant medicine and more about what I want to do in life. I left feeling connected to the forest, and very in tune with myself. They have a beautiful mirador where you can see rare birds which was amazing. They are very accommodating, and social! It really felt like a nice family. The program is structure itself is really nice just be prepared to walk a lot and stay hydrated. Megan was great and Andy truly made me feel safe and supported every step of the way. I definitely will be coming back!

During my internship, I worked in the clinic and on a shaman project. I loved working in the clinic. I loved Carmen and Cris — they made my experience. What I'm most proud of is having acclimated to a completely different culture. The most impactful part was my host family. Being the only white person in an entire community was difficult at first — from it I learned that integrating yourself in a new situation just takes time. I think I could have spent more time in the community during the weekends. Looking back, I developed my Spanish speaking abilities, and the idea of adaptability will definitely help me in my future endeavors. Beyond that, I became more culturally aware. I am grateful for all of the wonderful relationships I made while in Ecuador and all of the amazing people I met. I think I am more confident in my abilities and just more outgoing now in general.