Volunteering Solutions

I just returned from a volunteer program in Borneo. I was the only volunteer. The other volunteer, there were only 2 of us, was with another U.K. company. Volunteering Solutions the ONLY thing they do is charge you a high price to send you there. I feel like I have been SCAMMED by Volunteering Solutions. They only care about the money and that you send them pictures of the project or share your profile with them. To sign up for any program they force you to pay a fee of 199 euros. In my case, I asked for a single room and had to pay almost 170 euros extra, that's in addition to the 1,500 euros that the 12-day program costs (not including flights, of course). In total I paid about 1,900 euros. The other volunteer did NOT pay any fee to the company, and she did not pay anything for the single room and I did. I have claimed these amounts but they refuse and make excuses. The program met my expectations, in Borneo there is a Malaysian company that works all year round in this project, it is APE Malaysia (Animal Project and Envioriment Education). They are the ones who take care of absolutely everything. Surely it is better to contact them directly, and cheaper!!!

If you have never been to India, however always wanted to this is a great experience. From walking out of the arrivals hall in Delhi, being greeted by a friendly face is truly a wonderful way to begin. our accommodation in Delhi was in an apartment within a gated community, walking distance from shops, restaurants and bars. Briefings were thorough at every step of the experience and our questions and concerns answered and actioned. The school in Delhi gave a real insight into how a large portion of the population live. We were made to feel very welcome and both children and teachers seemed so grateful for our involvement. Due to the age range of between 4-15 were had been advised prior to arrival, that activities both fun and educational be our focus. Indeed we arrived armed with quantities of items for the children - colouring books, pens and pencils and clothing.Our second week in a different location at the foot of the Himalayas had us refurbishing two classrooms with the opportunity to engage and play with the children during break times. Our final week was effectively touring the Golden Triangle. There is a lot to take in both from a cultural and physical aspect however I would urge anyone thinking about India to take the leap and go. Incidentally this was my 10th visit to India and already planning another. India is a country of contrasts whith areas of poverty you cannot imagine, however you will be welcomed with wide, warm smiles together with often life changing experiences. Whilst as westerners, we may look at their situation and feel sorrow, its best to remember these wonderful people, in the main, have nothing else to compare life to - they are happy.

The website is good. The Pre Departure Information is useful. The service staff was helpful and my questions were answered immediately. I lived with a family and enjoyed that a lot. I was satisfied with the meals. The local coordinator was an experienced and friendly person. During the introductory seminar, we got a lot of useful information about Cambodia. We also learned some Khmer and me used simple words in the Khmer language like greetings, thanks, and numbers every day. Teaching basic language skills is a good idea. The local coordinator took us to the Killing Fields, where we got a lot of information about the events in the late 70's in Cambodia. He also took us to the War Tribunal and we all appreciated being part of historical moments.