Life-changing Trip

I spent my 2017 holiday season in Antigua, Guatemala, to volunteer with the Holiday Experience project, and it absolutely was one of the best trips of my life. In the 1 week that I spent with Maximo Guatemala, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a coffee plantation, an orphanage, and a disability facility. All three of these placements opened my eyes in different ways; I was pushed out of my comfort zone, and found myself appreciating all the little things as a result.

The Maximo Guatemala team was great in so many ways. They were warm and welcoming from the start, and very accomodating when I wanted to extend my stay. I was a little nervous going into it all, since this was my first time volunteering abroad, but from the moment I saw the bright yellow smiley face flag at my airport pickup, I felt instantly at ease :). By the time I left my homestay, it truly felt like a home away from home.

I came to Antigua wanting to give back over the holidays, but left with the realization that you don't have to wait for that time of year to do so. I'm grateful that my first experience volunteering abroad was such a great one. It has left such an impression on me that I'm definitely doing it again soon!