Eat, pray, VOLUNTEER!

Leaving home and travelling to the other side of the world was one of the scariest things I've done... Until I arrived in Bali.

As soon as I arrived every worry that I had went away. Not only is Bali absolutely stunning but so are the people; they're the friendliest people ever.

The local staff are very nice and helpful. Kadek from Teblin (Sudi) House became family to me, she is so amazing and always there to help as well as great company when you want to sit out in the sun for a few hours and talk. Plus her little 3 year old daughter is a gem!

The staff at Green Lion were really helpful also. The coordinators showed us around, took us on trips, stayed in touch at all times to help with anything we needed and helped us fit into their culture.

The location of the accommodation is perfect because it is close enough to everything but still remains natural and cultured; unlike tourist areas. It makes it easier to socialise with locals and get the real Balinese living experience. Instantly Ubud became home to me.

The orientation was very well thought out and there is so much put into it. From the Bahasa language lessons, Batik painting class and Monkey Forest to the Balinese dance shows and group walks through the amazingly beautiful rice fields, the team tried to make us all have an amazing experience and they succeeded in my opinion.

Volunteering in the kindergarten was the most rewarding experience ever, the only downfall is that I didn't stay longer. Everyone is so welcoming and supportive and the children are amazing and so so precious! Their eagerness to learn is inspiring and their fun and free positive attitudes is infectious! I feel like they taught me so much and changed my life completely just as much as I helped them learn English. Forever grateful.

If that wasn't all great already, I met the best people who were also volunteers and create lifelong friendships with people from all over the world and I couldn't be more grateful.

I have already recommended IVHQ, especially Bali, to everyone that will listen and will continue to recommend this experience. It's the best thing I've done in my entire life and given the chance I would definitely volunteer with IVHQ again. Thank you IVHQ, Green Lion and the amazing people of Bali.