Why did you choose this program?
There were several reasons for choosing this program. I wanted to go somewhere French was spoken, not France, that's too obvious. I wanted to go somewhere where I could dive everyday. I have always wanted to see lemurs and Madagascar has always been high on my bucket list. When I saw this program I just knew it had to be done.
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Most of the trip I organized myself, but any questions I had were quickly and thoroughly answered.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Nothing I don't think, you learn as you go.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
An average day started with breakfast and then either one or two dives or dive/science training (depending on needs, weather and other factors). After the dives it was time for lunch, after which there were lots of activities to choose from.
Some examples include giving English lessons, receiving Malagasy lessons, learning to sail a pirogue, going to Laguna Blu (a luxury hotel and restaurant), snorkeling, whale watching, swimming, sunbathing, playing cards, walking to the baobaos, walking to see the flamingos... so many things to choose from!
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it and/or how did your views on the issue change?
Having travelled before there was nothing I was particularly worried about, except how I would get from the bus station in the capital to my hotel, late at night, trying to find a trustworthy taxi whilst carrying all my luggage (a lot of diving gear). As it happens, circumstances changed slightly and it wasn't something I needed to worry about at all.
What was the hardest part of your trip?
Having to leave. I have never wanted to leave a place less than our beach in rural Madagascar. Many tears were shed.