Why did you choose this program?
I chose this program as I knew I wanted to work with animals and sea animals in particular to have a chance to participate in the global effort of making beaches suffering from tourism and sea pollution more cleaner, more sustainable, and safer for sea animals. I also read in the reviews of the program that it was a new project, and therefore I wanted to contribute to its development, which corresponded with my interest in discovering new cultures in less touristic areas.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
My program provider helped me program my visa request as well as the practical elements I needed to be reminded of when travelling to Lombok, such as the religious requirement, but also what I could expect when arriving at the accommodation and being welcomed by the local team. They also helped me organise my trip by telling me what I needed to take with me.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
That they should be open-minded and should always say yes to any opportunity they are given to enjoy the program as much as they can. Certainly, the other volunteers will offer you to take part in their activities or weekend adventures, and not only will that help you make friends , but it will also help you discover places you might not have had thought of.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant in this program?
We wake up and get ready to drive to the project area after a stop at the coffee shop for those who need anything. Then we work for a couple of hours either cleaning the turtle nests, assisting the hatchlings, cleaning the beach, or cutting fish to feed the turtles. After that, we go back to the accommodation and have lunch. Then we go back to work until the sunset to enjoy a beautiful bonding time with the whole team. On the weekend, we have free time to discover the island or travel to nearby islands.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I was scared of not finding friends or being immersed in a culture I did not know of alone. However, the welcoming environment helped me overcome that fear and made me feel at home. Looking back, I regret ever fearing not feeling welcomed, as I miss that routine and the people I met and lived with.
Was the food good and adaptive?
Yes the food was delicious and fresh, it was very easy to ask the local team for more food and food that was good for vegetarians, gluten free, pescatarian etc…We had access to local dishes but always had a choice to eat more common food we might be more used to so that there was something for everyone.