Making memories that last 10 years later

I was involved in two projects during my 3-month stay in Kathmandu, Nepal in 2009 - teaching English to young Buddhist monks in a monastery (they were actually very naughty the little ones!) and working in an orphanage, where the children were so upbeat and loving, it made me want to cry. Both projects left a huge impact on me, so much so that I want to return some day.

My host family made me feel like I was a member of their own family, and they even gave me a Nepalese name 'Nisha' which I became accustomed to. I'm so glad I didn't stay in a hostel or hotel whilst in Nepal as I believe the experience would not have been as enriching.

Then there's the other volunteers you meet which have the potential to become friends for life! I met people from Australia, Canada, Denmark, UK, Germany, Singapore - we're still in touch after 10 years!