Volunteer Name: Jessica Taggart
Project Location: Cusco, Peru
Volunteered at: Health Care Center
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
The support could not have been better. Any questions and concern were Immediately addressed, and the volunteer coordinator Beatriz was able to take me to several historical sites, tours of the city, and assistance with the volunteering at the clinic.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced? Name 2
Program: How easy the process was to enroll on line and how streamlined the accommodations were.
Host Family: I felt like a member of the family and even get to celebrate Easter with the extended family.
Country: The amazing history and the spectacular mountain views.
3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?
Program: Finding my initial role in the clinic, although after a few days you get into the routine.
Host Family: I have not had “roommates” for many years, so I tried to be helpful and respectful of their home at all times
Country: My Spanish is very basic and communication can be challenging at times.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
1. Sunscreen, hiking boots, rain jacket
2. Pocket Spanish dictionary
3. Swim suit for the hot springs.
5.1- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:
a. Practice your Spanish while you are here
b. Take a salsa class
c. Learn to make Pisco sour
6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):
This program exceeded all my expectations. I loved the experience of staying with a host family, becoming more confident in my Spanish, and learning in an ambulatory care setting. It was amazing to enjoy all the culture and history Peru has to offer.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:
My accommodation was incredible. It was clean and secure. The people are extremely friendly and I was able to try a variety of authentic Peruvian food.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:
Program: Laughing with my coworkers at the clinic and with my Spanish teacher.
Host Family: Going to the market and trying all kinds of new amazing fruit.
Country: Machu Picchu will forever be in my memory.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
Emails were the best way for me to communicate and they were always answered promptly.
9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?
Very user-friendly
9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website (keywords, search engine, word mouth to mouth, recommended by .., other)
By a friend who recommended it.
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Yes.
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