Best Experience of my Life

Leading up to the trip, I was very nervous. Visions was great about responding to all of our emails and questions immediately and their travel agent was very easy to work with to book flights. All of the information about the trip was easy to access and very clear. After being met by leaders and the rest of the group in the Lima airport, we were soon on our way to Cusco and then on to home base. Everyone was shy at first but after warming up we couldn't stop talking. Everyone became so close over the next two weeks and the friendships I made on this trip are some of the most impactful of my life. We are all still in touch. Everything about the trip was great, but there are so many similar organizations that I had trouble choosing before the trip. But what sets Visions apart is the full immersion you are able to experience. They keep your phones and devices for you. This was my first break from technology--and it felt great. It seemed daunting, but I'm so glad they did. Without any distractions you really learn to appreciate all the little moments. This isn't a tour, there is lots of service with the same consistent projects. You really get to see the impact you've made. And the food--many travel groups offer Western foods to students, but Visions really encourages you to try the local cuisine. Peruvian food is delicious and there is always a wide spread of dishes for dinner, even for the picky eaters. In addition to the service, you get to see quite a few ruins and hikes, not to mention the fun weekend at Machu Picchu. Somehow we did so much without ever feeling over-booked. The workshops were fun, and the pick-up soccer we played was a highlight. The time exploring the town was so fun and the independence was perfect. The leaders were all great. Fun, good-natured, and took everything in stride. But my favorite part of the trip was by far spending time with the other students on the trip. We made everything fun. I think there's something about being sore, tired, bug-bitten, covered in cement, and so much more that really brings you together. I absolutely recommend this trip to anyone looking for the experience of a lifetime.