Volunteer Name: Lauren Huber
Project Location: Cusco, Peru
Volunteered at: Girls Orphanage
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
Everybody was excellent. Everyone was supportive and ready available at any time. I felt very comfortable with everyone as if I as with extended family.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced? Name 2
Program: How patient the girls were with me in speaking Spanish. If I didn’t learn a word, they would teach me or look it up in the dictionary for me.
Host Family: How at home I felt in another country.
Country: Cuy! (guinea pig) I have to try it.
3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?
Program: In all situations, my lack of Spanish speaking was my greatest challenge.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
1. Wear sunscreen.
2. Set aside some time to practice some Spanish before coming.
3. Always carry your passport with you.
4. If you bring donations, be sure the appropriate people know about it, so they get to the right people.
5.1-Other things volunteers should know before coming here: (thats not in the orientation guide)
I’m sure it’s already there, but keep open an mind and take advantage of your time here.
6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):
This trip for me was the perfect combination of travel and volunteering. I loved the time I spent at the girls orphanage, as well as the time I spent traveling and exploring the country. It was great.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:
Ana Maria and Dante were the best host-family I could have asked for. I truly felt like I was with family during my stay with them. Everyone I met here was extremely friendly and patient with me as I learned Spanish. I absolutely liked my time in Peru, Cusco. I walked often and haven’t felt unsafe at any time.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:
Program: The time spent with the girls at the orphanage, it was all my favorite.
Host Family: Family meals with Dante and Ana Maria. Spanish lessons with Ana Maria
Country: Machu Picchu and daily walks.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
Emails were always answered within the day and there was always some one available when I called.
9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?
Everything was easy and efficient.
9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website (keywords, search engine, word mouth to mouth, recommended by .., other)
Search in Google.
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Absolutely.
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