Best Experience Of My Life

Before I left for Greece I was super anxious and afraid of the unknown. I was nervous it was going to be a big mistake or not what I expected. 12 weeks later and I can confidently say it was the best experience of my life and I have never been more sad to leave something/somewhere.

The local team was amazing the whole 12 weeks I was there. They were so welcoming and constantly checking in on us, wanting to hear feedback, and making sure we were having a good time. They were always there for any question, comment, concern, or even recommendations of things to do. I even had a unique situation where I unfortunately had to go to the hospital for a week, but the local team was so helpful and there for me every second, bringing me there, bringing me items I needed, and constantly checking in. I’m so thankful to have had them with me during my time in Greece.

Everyone at the dog shelter was also super welcoming and friendly. You can see how much every volunteer loves the dogs and how hard every one of them works to keep them happy, healthy, and well trained. It was so heartwarming to see a dog being adopted, or for one to come in so afraid and then seeing them come out of their shell playing with another dog and being so happy, or even seeing them improve with training or when they wouldn’t react to something they would’ve before. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to volunteer with this shelter.

The accommodation where the volunteers stay was also very good. You stay in a hostel that’s open to everyone, not just volunteers. It’s a really great way to meet so many people from all over the world. The staff at the hostel are the most incredible staff I’ve ever met anywhere. They are all super friendly, fun to talk to, and there for anything you need. The manager's are also very approachable, friendly, and there for any question or concern you may have. The cleaning people go to your room everyday and if you want/need your sheets changed they will do it for you if you ask them directly or reception.

The location of where you’re staying is also really nice because you’re so close to the metro, and popular places like Monastiraki, Plaka, The Acropolis, etc. You also get free time on your weekends and it’s very easy to travel to other locations or islands if you’d like to!

The meals we’re provided are good and come in good sized portions. The only thing is there’s not a big variety for what you can order, but I was also there for so long so I kept getting the same things. Sometimes the volunteers would eat 2/3 free meals and the last meal we’d treat ourselves and go out for it. I felt it was really nice to have those prepaid meals to rely on though.

All in all, I had the most amazing time. This trip was so rewarding and impactful and if I could go back in time and do it all over again, I 100% would. I am already registered for another trip with IVHQ with a volunteer I met on my trip!