Affordable Volunteering in Jamaica: Fees from USD365!

The guidance and preparation resources I received from IVHQ before starting my trip were invaluable. I was provided all of te information up front and walked through every single step that I needed to take in successfully moving forward through execution of my trip. The resources are there to read and ingest and the program management staff is always available within 24-hours. The local team and the tour company personnel that supported me were phenomenal. The communication was good and they set expectations and answered all the questions I had as it pertained to my visit and assignment. The impact from my volunteering stretched me out of my comfort zone by allowing me to understand the ways others move around on a daily basis and how accepting everyone is for individuality. If somone is hesitant about joining this program I would give the advice to leap into something they've never experienced and be prepared to learn about themselves as to how they are open to other cultures and ways of living, working, playing.

My favorite moment from the volunteer experience was meeting new people staying at the same volunteering accommodation but all doing different projects- was fun to explore new places and do fun excursions as a group and have the work fun balance throughout the volunteering experience. The biggest impact my trip had was growing my surgical skills as I got a lot of hands on practice on day one competency which will be useful for me to begin my last two rotational years of vet school. Be open to volunteering, as it is a fun experience if you want to travel and see new things.

This was my first visit to Jamaica. The first impressions I was given from the island was a peaceful "take it easy" lifestyle. As a Londoner, I felt at home in the fast pace of the morning, getting to work and utilising facilities like the local "bus park" and using the route taxis around the island. I greatly enjoyed the veterinary programme, it provided the opportunity to see operations, get involved, and see other parts of the island on client home-calls. Ensure you look up the exchange rate before you leave home, take Jamaican dollars for your day-to-day and US for expenses/tourist attractions. Also bring a variety of clothing for any changes to your programme.