IVHQ Bali

Volunteering in Bali through IVHQ was truly a life changing experience. It was my first time traveling alone, and I was petrified to fly across the world and step out of my comfort zone. However, upon arriving, all of my worries subsided. The Green Lion crew was so welcoming and accommodating, I immediately felt at home. Over the next week, I had the opportunity to get to know many of the other wonderful IVHQ volunteers and coordinators, as well as experience complete immersion in Indonesian culture. Orientation week was very well organized and filled with fun activities, such as Bahasa language lessons, traditional cooking classes, and visiting the Ubud monkey forest. The accommodation exceeded my expectations -- our rooms were cleaned daily, there was a pool, and delicious Indonesian food was served buffet style three times a day. My second week was spent in Nusa Penida working on the turtle conservation project. We got to experience a more local way of life while caring for endangered species of sea turtle. Our days would consist of cleaning tanks, feeding the turtles, beach cleaning, and crab catching. In the evening, many of the volunteers would relax at the beachside Young Coconut Cafe to watch the sunset. Overall, my IVHQ experience left me with new friendships and a new perspective. I look forward to my next volunteering abroad adventure!