4.7
From 1
to 5
Reviews
815
Recommend
10 / 10
TrustScore
9.49 / 10
Marianne Friedman
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Morocco - Rabat
My volunteering experience in Morocco was wonderful. I was only for one week and worked at the orohanage with toddlers. Everything very well organised and with good information.Good co-workers here in Rabat. They helped with everything. Talked and tought us things at the dinner table.The house was clean and spacious and in a good neighborhood. The food was alright. Everything was perfect and flexible.
The highlight of my trip was to be at the orphanage. To meet the marocan people and speek with them. Also Rabat is a fantastic and calm place.
The highlight of my trip was to be at the orphanage. To meet the marocan people and speek with them. Also Rabat is a fantastic and calm place.
Sonam Sadhnani
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Cambodia
I Had the most amazing 2 weeks in Cambodia. I experienced walking about in a massive flood pushed our tuk-tuk which had got stuck in the rain ate a cricket cruised down the streets of Phnom Penh on a motor seen amazing view of sunrise in Angkor Wat. I really enjoyed the food there the avocado shake and spring rolls are must try and their chocolate banana pancakes is something not to miss.
I definitely came home with much more love than I had to give through the amazing locals who were ever so friendly and welcoming. Above everything else had got to meet the amazing kiddos whom I've absolutely fallen in love with. I will recommend everyone to Volunteer in Cambodia with Volunteering Solutions. You can also find more details about my journey in my personal blog.
I definitely came home with much more love than I had to give through the amazing locals who were ever so friendly and welcoming. Above everything else had got to meet the amazing kiddos whom I've absolutely fallen in love with. I will recommend everyone to Volunteer in Cambodia with Volunteering Solutions. You can also find more details about my journey in my personal blog.
Karen Padilla
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
I like everything about the website it’s complete with all the information I need. Pre -departure booklet help me to prepare my class and myself.
I really love my project the kids and teachers are awesome. Accommodation and meals were excellent. Everybody in the staff team is good and kind.
Being with the kids helping them are the highlights of my volunteering experience. I think I learn more from them than them from me this is the best experience I had ever have. I have also shared a detailed blog about my journey in India which was posted in two languages Spanish and English hope you enjoy reading it and share your views.
I will definitely recommend this program and I am so glad I volunteered with Volunteering Solutions. See you soon!
Watch my video here – The journey full of Joy
I really love my project the kids and teachers are awesome. Accommodation and meals were excellent. Everybody in the staff team is good and kind.
Being with the kids helping them are the highlights of my volunteering experience. I think I learn more from them than them from me this is the best experience I had ever have. I have also shared a detailed blog about my journey in India which was posted in two languages Spanish and English hope you enjoy reading it and share your views.
I will definitely recommend this program and I am so glad I volunteered with Volunteering Solutions. See you soon!
Watch my video here – The journey full of Joy
Lydia Loxton
Verified Buyer
Tailandia
I was lucky enough to go to Thailand with Volunteering Solutions for the 3 Week Summer Volunteering Project.
The hostel where I stayed was pretty basic but did the job. I strongly suggest that you put your valuables in the safe downstairs behind the counter!!! From memory it doesn't cost anything but if you lose the key it's about £25 to get a new one. There are various nearby places that do laundry which are very cheap and charge per kg. The breakfast is very basic - bread (a toaster) jam fried eggs mini pancakes and frankfurter sausages. There is free wifi downstairs in the eating area and if you're on the first floor you might be able to use the wifi from downstairs but mostly there is no wifi in the rooms.
I was lucky enough to have JJ as my guide for the 3 weeks. He was lovely super helpful and a friendly man who totally took care of us the whole time! He is of Thai origin so knew how everything worked and he's also a very experienced tour guide!
The first full day was a boat tour which was a really nice way to see the sights and get to know the group.
There was an optional evening event of a 'lady boy' show which was quite expensive! You had to pay for that separately but transport there was organized for you. It was very bizarre indeed- a mishmash of snippets of musicals performed by LadyBoys. I guess Thailand is known for its LadyBoys so I am glad I went but it was about £25 - which was actually expensive!
Nightlife along Khao San Road is crazy- every night is like a Friday or Saturday night! Very cheap cocktails and loads of weird bugs you can eat here.
Going to a temple to teach children during the day was fun. We played lots of games and as a group bought lots of sweets to hand out to the children at the end. Always a nice gesture to say goodbye I believe.
If you love a massage then Thailand is the place. A foot massage is about £2.50 for half an hour.
We went to a huge market for an afternoon. As always be prepared to haggle! It's seriously hot always have lots of water with you - bottled water is like 20p and is sold everywhere!!
The Child Care Project was really amazing.
You basically just have to be proactive there weren't any set tasks with the children in the mornings you just kind of hang out. For me it was fine as I enjoy children's company but if you're not used to children I suggest you get there and just try and interact as much as you can.
Children love snap chat!! That can keep them amused for hours!
There are many temple trips and I would suggest you go as the temples are beautiful.
The week at Mr. Lee's elephant village was my favorite part. It was such an amazing project! The accommodation was super basic you are about 10 in a room on mattresses on the floor with mosquito nets. There is a basic shower with lukewarm water and sink as well as a flushing loo!!!
The people who look after you (the mahouts) are lovely super friendly. They sleep right nearby with the elephants. You wake up and get to see the elephants from your room - it's pretty special.
You get to wash the elephants in the nearby pond. It initially seems a bit gross to get in the water with the elephants poo floating around but it's fine.
There is no wifi for the week at the elephant village! I found it fine actually quite refreshing as it made you just stop and enjoy your surroundings instead of looking at your phone!! And socialize with your group!
One weekend we decided to go away. Half the group went to Cambodia (which was doable) and my group went to Khao Samed island. JJ kindly went with us. Again although it was a long journey it was worth it we just left the elephants village a day early.
The island was beautiful sea and beautiful sandy white beaches. Be aware of jellyfish though!!!!!
Another option given was to see bats coming out of a bat cave (extra cost) - totally worth it. It was incredible to see over 1 million bats leave the cave! A real stunning scene. You get to go in the cave before to see them all.
The trek at the national park is no big deal at all. I packed my trekking boots and everything but trainers would have been enough. We only hiked for about an hour and a half. But it was beautiful loads of wildlife! No need to buy special socks from the shop though pulling your socks up and wearing trousers is absolutely fine!!
Malaria tablets. All the people from England did not take tablets. However all the people from America did. Everybody was fine. If you're from America and you're torn I suggest you don't take them!
I suggest you take diarrhea tablets headache pills loads of mosquito repellent (but you can get it all cheaply out there!) and rehydration sachets- oh and sun cream. I had factor 30. Drink loads and loads of water!!!
I was pretty lucky and didn't get sick just be sure to wash your hands as much as possible and drink lots of water. Coconut water is super cheap (like 25p a bottle) and is really good for rehydration!
I did the summer project in India the year before and I have to say in terms of volunteering the project to India was better. Don't get me wrong I had an amazing time on this project but I got a lot more out of the project to India.
I also went to Kenya at Easter which was AMAZING. So if you do have questions about the 2 weeks special to Kenya or the Summer project to India or Thailand I am more than happy to answer them!! Just get in touch with Sahil The Operations Head. I'm going to do the 2 week special to Ghana this Easter! Can't wait.
Hopefully whatever project you decide you'll have a great time. Sahil and his team are super helpful and very quick to respond to any questions!
If you go to Thailand hopefully you'll be lucky enough to have JJ as your guide who really was wonderful. He even came with us on our weekend away to Khao Samed Island and kindly organized it all for us so we weren't ripped off!
The hostel where I stayed was pretty basic but did the job. I strongly suggest that you put your valuables in the safe downstairs behind the counter!!! From memory it doesn't cost anything but if you lose the key it's about £25 to get a new one. There are various nearby places that do laundry which are very cheap and charge per kg. The breakfast is very basic - bread (a toaster) jam fried eggs mini pancakes and frankfurter sausages. There is free wifi downstairs in the eating area and if you're on the first floor you might be able to use the wifi from downstairs but mostly there is no wifi in the rooms.
I was lucky enough to have JJ as my guide for the 3 weeks. He was lovely super helpful and a friendly man who totally took care of us the whole time! He is of Thai origin so knew how everything worked and he's also a very experienced tour guide!
The first full day was a boat tour which was a really nice way to see the sights and get to know the group.
There was an optional evening event of a 'lady boy' show which was quite expensive! You had to pay for that separately but transport there was organized for you. It was very bizarre indeed- a mishmash of snippets of musicals performed by LadyBoys. I guess Thailand is known for its LadyBoys so I am glad I went but it was about £25 - which was actually expensive!
Nightlife along Khao San Road is crazy- every night is like a Friday or Saturday night! Very cheap cocktails and loads of weird bugs you can eat here.
Going to a temple to teach children during the day was fun. We played lots of games and as a group bought lots of sweets to hand out to the children at the end. Always a nice gesture to say goodbye I believe.
If you love a massage then Thailand is the place. A foot massage is about £2.50 for half an hour.
We went to a huge market for an afternoon. As always be prepared to haggle! It's seriously hot always have lots of water with you - bottled water is like 20p and is sold everywhere!!
The Child Care Project was really amazing.
You basically just have to be proactive there weren't any set tasks with the children in the mornings you just kind of hang out. For me it was fine as I enjoy children's company but if you're not used to children I suggest you get there and just try and interact as much as you can.
Children love snap chat!! That can keep them amused for hours!
There are many temple trips and I would suggest you go as the temples are beautiful.
The week at Mr. Lee's elephant village was my favorite part. It was such an amazing project! The accommodation was super basic you are about 10 in a room on mattresses on the floor with mosquito nets. There is a basic shower with lukewarm water and sink as well as a flushing loo!!!
The people who look after you (the mahouts) are lovely super friendly. They sleep right nearby with the elephants. You wake up and get to see the elephants from your room - it's pretty special.
You get to wash the elephants in the nearby pond. It initially seems a bit gross to get in the water with the elephants poo floating around but it's fine.
There is no wifi for the week at the elephant village! I found it fine actually quite refreshing as it made you just stop and enjoy your surroundings instead of looking at your phone!! And socialize with your group!
One weekend we decided to go away. Half the group went to Cambodia (which was doable) and my group went to Khao Samed island. JJ kindly went with us. Again although it was a long journey it was worth it we just left the elephants village a day early.
The island was beautiful sea and beautiful sandy white beaches. Be aware of jellyfish though!!!!!
Another option given was to see bats coming out of a bat cave (extra cost) - totally worth it. It was incredible to see over 1 million bats leave the cave! A real stunning scene. You get to go in the cave before to see them all.
The trek at the national park is no big deal at all. I packed my trekking boots and everything but trainers would have been enough. We only hiked for about an hour and a half. But it was beautiful loads of wildlife! No need to buy special socks from the shop though pulling your socks up and wearing trousers is absolutely fine!!
Malaria tablets. All the people from England did not take tablets. However all the people from America did. Everybody was fine. If you're from America and you're torn I suggest you don't take them!
I suggest you take diarrhea tablets headache pills loads of mosquito repellent (but you can get it all cheaply out there!) and rehydration sachets- oh and sun cream. I had factor 30. Drink loads and loads of water!!!
I was pretty lucky and didn't get sick just be sure to wash your hands as much as possible and drink lots of water. Coconut water is super cheap (like 25p a bottle) and is really good for rehydration!
I did the summer project in India the year before and I have to say in terms of volunteering the project to India was better. Don't get me wrong I had an amazing time on this project but I got a lot more out of the project to India.
I also went to Kenya at Easter which was AMAZING. So if you do have questions about the 2 weeks special to Kenya or the Summer project to India or Thailand I am more than happy to answer them!! Just get in touch with Sahil The Operations Head. I'm going to do the 2 week special to Ghana this Easter! Can't wait.
Hopefully whatever project you decide you'll have a great time. Sahil and his team are super helpful and very quick to respond to any questions!
If you go to Thailand hopefully you'll be lucky enough to have JJ as your guide who really was wonderful. He even came with us on our weekend away to Khao Samed Island and kindly organized it all for us so we weren't ripped off!
Stephanie Evans
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
I thought it was a good balance of travel and volunteer. I liked staying in the volunteer houses it made it easy to get to know everyone interacting with volunteers from different parts of the world is fun and the meals were good. Our orientation session also rent very well that was really fun but kind of a lot to do in one day I find it a little tiring.
If I have to list 5 of my best moments from the entire trip it is -
1 – Volunteer with Street Children in Delhi
2 – Painting students classrooms in primary schools in Palampur
3 – Working at the Elephant Camp
4 – Our Taj Mahal tour was great fun
5 – And also the night outs with the whole group.
VolSol in-country staff were great very helpful and kind. I really enjoyed this program.
If I have to list 5 of my best moments from the entire trip it is -
1 – Volunteer with Street Children in Delhi
2 – Painting students classrooms in primary schools in Palampur
3 – Working at the Elephant Camp
4 – Our Taj Mahal tour was great fun
5 – And also the night outs with the whole group.
VolSol in-country staff were great very helpful and kind. I really enjoyed this program.
Rachel Strachan
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
I enjoyed all the cities we stayed in very much. Maybe spread out the visits to the temples a bit more. The accommodation was really nice and clean and the hotels in the last week were amazing. Maybe a bit more variety in the meals in Palampur is a little change that can be done.
The Orientation Session was informative and well set out. I really enjoyed my time on this trip whether it's volunteering with children in Delhi or working at the elephant village in Jaipur. I loved that we got the opportunity of painting the classrooms in Palampur the time I spent with the group our night outs and Taj Mahal is worth the whole trip. The Local staff were all very approachable and welcoming and were experienced and knew a lot about the cities and were always helpful. I definitely recommend this program.
The Orientation Session was informative and well set out. I really enjoyed my time on this trip whether it's volunteering with children in Delhi or working at the elephant village in Jaipur. I loved that we got the opportunity of painting the classrooms in Palampur the time I spent with the group our night outs and Taj Mahal is worth the whole trip. The Local staff were all very approachable and welcoming and were experienced and knew a lot about the cities and were always helpful. I definitely recommend this program.
Yetunde Olaniyan
Verified Buyer
Tailandia
I liked that the website was very easy to manoeuvre around and that it had a number of simple straight forward filters which could help narrow down and suggest options for where to go based on the criteria’s selected. I also liked the fact that there was detailed information on the different programs which provided information on the basics such as cost volunteer schedule the things you would be doing etc. These factors in particular are what made me decide to go volunteering with VS because the information was clear and transparent. This was quite different to other volunteer websites because they would require you to enquire further information by sending an email or so. This led me not to trust them due to lack of transparency. All I had to do on VS website was read about each program and make my decision based on which program interested me more especially because I didn’t have any idea on where I wanted to go yet.
I found the pre-departure booklet verrry helpful and useful. Everything I needed to know was in the booklet e.g. visas arrival departure etc. I knew where to go and what to do because of the booklet. I liked the way that the booklet went further by providing me with information about the country traditions and greetings in Thai to learn. This was very useful as I could already say basic phrases when I arrived in Thailand. Due to the advice in the pre-departure booklet I also bought a lonely planet Thailand phrase book which was so handy to have. I am very happy that the booklet was very detailed. Also it would be helpful to know that there is an onsite umbrella organization in Thailand and that there are volunteers that you will meet (which are not all from volunteering solutions). I realized I was the only person from VS.
The Operations Head Sahil was very helpful when it came to helping me prepare for my trip. He was very prompt with answering any questions or queries I had or would call me back. As a first-time new volunteer he provided me with a lot of information to help assure me that everything is planned and looked after. Knowing that I had a direct form of contact to speak to if I had any questions was very reassuring.
I absolutely loved my placement. One of the best experiences I have ever had. I can tell my future grandchildren about this! This was my first time volunteering abroad and because of VS I would love to do it again! VS made my experience enjoyable to the point where it didn't feel as if I was volunteering. It just felt right.
First of all being in the country was lovely as the locals were very friendly and made me feel welcome. I loved working in the school the staff at the school made us feel very welcome and were very hospitable. It was a great experience to know that the children were also learning English we taught them well. This was equally the same at the elephant village I felt I was part of a community and one of the locals. We were pretty much doing most of the things they were doing. In the elephant village we were very proactive in helping the elephants and getting food for them. Despite all the hard work we spent during the day it felt very rewarding when feeding the elephants and looking after them. The interaction we had when giving the elephants their food was worthwhile. They were actually wriggling their trunks asking for more food! All in all the experience in itself made me feel appreciated that this volunteering was worth the trip.
About the accommodations and meals
Week 1 – Teaching The accommodation was practical it did the job. I liked the fact that it was basic so we could get a feel of living with basic amenity conditions. I liked the fact that our windows were protected by mosquito nets and that we had a couple fans in our room.
We had to buy food while living in the house as meals are not included when on the teaching course. There were however a few restaurants nearby which were relatively cheap had wi-fi and had good food. The location of where we stayed was good as they had a big shopping mall which had a bank there. This was very helpful as I needed to exchange my English money into Thai Baht! That was a life saver!
Week 2 – Elephant village I loved the accommodation in the elephant village and enjoyed the experience of living in a rural area. The hammocks outside was my favourite chair to sit on. Everyone wanted to sit in there whenever it was free! The house we lived in for our homestay was spacious and included mosquito nets in the bedrooms. I also loved the fact that the elephants lived close to us because we could help out most of the time. Especially during our free time. The meals were great! I really enjoyed the meals our homestay family prepared. We were given a variety of dishes and had at least 2 options on what to eat. I was also able to help the host family with the cooking and they gave me tips on how to make the food myself. We also had a thai BBQ which was amazing!
They were very friendly and helpful. I liked the fact that before we started the volunteering that the staff showed us around Bangkok. It was a great way to introduce me to Thailand as a starting point. When we arrived in Surin the head co-ordinator Nam was very nice and informative. She provided us with information on each of our projects. The support staff team was very helpful when it came to assisting us especially when we wanted to explore the area they would help to book our transportation for us to pick us up and provide us with relevant information on good places to go to. Also they helped us when we wanted to travel to other cities or Islands in Thailand and assisted us with booking our travel and advising us on the best places to go or accommodation which is suitable. During the weekend I and a few other volunteers traveled to Pakchong – KAO Yai National park of which they helped assist us with. The support staff also helped assist me when I planned to go to Bangkok. They took details of my flight time and informed me the best time I should travel back safely to ensure that I made my flight on time.
There are so many good experiences I had hard to mention one! I would say the overall volunteering experience in itself. I loved the fact that I could spend each week doing two different projects it was the best of both worlds! I was very lucky because other volunteers that I met who applied through other agencies were not doing the same thing as me. I think it was definitely browning points for VS for having the two-week special. The overall experience was amazing being in the more rural parts and meeting locals. The school we were teaching in was absolutely lovely the children were so welcoming and friendly and the principle was so respectful and friendly. I absolutely loved spending time with the elephants in the elephant village. We took them to bath gave them food we could see how they interacted. It was such a great experience to be so close to such an animal and the animal responding well to you.
I definitely recommend. Like I said previously the 2 week special was definitely good because you could spend each week doing a different project. The projects in Thailand was amazing Volunteering solutions by far are the most informative organization in terms of preparing you for your trip and telling you everything you need to know.
I found the pre-departure booklet verrry helpful and useful. Everything I needed to know was in the booklet e.g. visas arrival departure etc. I knew where to go and what to do because of the booklet. I liked the way that the booklet went further by providing me with information about the country traditions and greetings in Thai to learn. This was very useful as I could already say basic phrases when I arrived in Thailand. Due to the advice in the pre-departure booklet I also bought a lonely planet Thailand phrase book which was so handy to have. I am very happy that the booklet was very detailed. Also it would be helpful to know that there is an onsite umbrella organization in Thailand and that there are volunteers that you will meet (which are not all from volunteering solutions). I realized I was the only person from VS.
The Operations Head Sahil was very helpful when it came to helping me prepare for my trip. He was very prompt with answering any questions or queries I had or would call me back. As a first-time new volunteer he provided me with a lot of information to help assure me that everything is planned and looked after. Knowing that I had a direct form of contact to speak to if I had any questions was very reassuring.
I absolutely loved my placement. One of the best experiences I have ever had. I can tell my future grandchildren about this! This was my first time volunteering abroad and because of VS I would love to do it again! VS made my experience enjoyable to the point where it didn't feel as if I was volunteering. It just felt right.
First of all being in the country was lovely as the locals were very friendly and made me feel welcome. I loved working in the school the staff at the school made us feel very welcome and were very hospitable. It was a great experience to know that the children were also learning English we taught them well. This was equally the same at the elephant village I felt I was part of a community and one of the locals. We were pretty much doing most of the things they were doing. In the elephant village we were very proactive in helping the elephants and getting food for them. Despite all the hard work we spent during the day it felt very rewarding when feeding the elephants and looking after them. The interaction we had when giving the elephants their food was worthwhile. They were actually wriggling their trunks asking for more food! All in all the experience in itself made me feel appreciated that this volunteering was worth the trip.
About the accommodations and meals
Week 1 – Teaching The accommodation was practical it did the job. I liked the fact that it was basic so we could get a feel of living with basic amenity conditions. I liked the fact that our windows were protected by mosquito nets and that we had a couple fans in our room.
We had to buy food while living in the house as meals are not included when on the teaching course. There were however a few restaurants nearby which were relatively cheap had wi-fi and had good food. The location of where we stayed was good as they had a big shopping mall which had a bank there. This was very helpful as I needed to exchange my English money into Thai Baht! That was a life saver!
Week 2 – Elephant village I loved the accommodation in the elephant village and enjoyed the experience of living in a rural area. The hammocks outside was my favourite chair to sit on. Everyone wanted to sit in there whenever it was free! The house we lived in for our homestay was spacious and included mosquito nets in the bedrooms. I also loved the fact that the elephants lived close to us because we could help out most of the time. Especially during our free time. The meals were great! I really enjoyed the meals our homestay family prepared. We were given a variety of dishes and had at least 2 options on what to eat. I was also able to help the host family with the cooking and they gave me tips on how to make the food myself. We also had a thai BBQ which was amazing!
They were very friendly and helpful. I liked the fact that before we started the volunteering that the staff showed us around Bangkok. It was a great way to introduce me to Thailand as a starting point. When we arrived in Surin the head co-ordinator Nam was very nice and informative. She provided us with information on each of our projects. The support staff team was very helpful when it came to assisting us especially when we wanted to explore the area they would help to book our transportation for us to pick us up and provide us with relevant information on good places to go to. Also they helped us when we wanted to travel to other cities or Islands in Thailand and assisted us with booking our travel and advising us on the best places to go or accommodation which is suitable. During the weekend I and a few other volunteers traveled to Pakchong – KAO Yai National park of which they helped assist us with. The support staff also helped assist me when I planned to go to Bangkok. They took details of my flight time and informed me the best time I should travel back safely to ensure that I made my flight on time.
There are so many good experiences I had hard to mention one! I would say the overall volunteering experience in itself. I loved the fact that I could spend each week doing two different projects it was the best of both worlds! I was very lucky because other volunteers that I met who applied through other agencies were not doing the same thing as me. I think it was definitely browning points for VS for having the two-week special. The overall experience was amazing being in the more rural parts and meeting locals. The school we were teaching in was absolutely lovely the children were so welcoming and friendly and the principle was so respectful and friendly. I absolutely loved spending time with the elephants in the elephant village. We took them to bath gave them food we could see how they interacted. It was such a great experience to be so close to such an animal and the animal responding well to you.
I definitely recommend. Like I said previously the 2 week special was definitely good because you could spend each week doing a different project. The projects in Thailand was amazing Volunteering solutions by far are the most informative organization in terms of preparing you for your trip and telling you everything you need to know.
Breanna Johns
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Philippines
I chose volunteering solutions because it was a great way to go for a gap year. I was looking for different kinds of volunteer work in different places all over Southeast Asia. Volunteering solutions were able to help guide me in the right direction and provide a variety of affordable opportunities.
Volunteer work is an indescribable fulfillment. I was in the middle of going to school for nursing when I felt as though I needed to figure out myself before I continued. And what better way to learn about myself by helping others and falling in love with the world. It's funny because you go into volunteering expecting to give but in the end you get more out of it than you could ever imagine.
I've learned an enormous amount here in the Philippines. Life here is simple and extremely beautiful. The children at San Joaquin taught me to love life and never take anything for granted.
The staff was kind enough to take time out of their day to help me repaint the nutrition center. I also got amazing support from Volunteering solutions on my journey and my fundraiser to rebuild the center. The children and families of San Joaquin were there every day to help me. I appreciate the efforts of everyone who pitched in. I'm only one person who happened to be here. All the money and support I owe a big thank you to my friends and family.
My advice to future volunteers would be to come into this project with a desire to help and motivation like you would for a full-time job. It's hard work. There's a lot of your own money and time you invest into it. It's what you make out of it. If you do all those things you'll leave feeling so blessed. All that hard work pays off. There's not a single moment I regret. Go into it with an open heart and open mind and you'll leave full-hearted and a better person.
Volunteer work is an indescribable fulfillment. I was in the middle of going to school for nursing when I felt as though I needed to figure out myself before I continued. And what better way to learn about myself by helping others and falling in love with the world. It's funny because you go into volunteering expecting to give but in the end you get more out of it than you could ever imagine.
I've learned an enormous amount here in the Philippines. Life here is simple and extremely beautiful. The children at San Joaquin taught me to love life and never take anything for granted.
The staff was kind enough to take time out of their day to help me repaint the nutrition center. I also got amazing support from Volunteering solutions on my journey and my fundraiser to rebuild the center. The children and families of San Joaquin were there every day to help me. I appreciate the efforts of everyone who pitched in. I'm only one person who happened to be here. All the money and support I owe a big thank you to my friends and family.
My advice to future volunteers would be to come into this project with a desire to help and motivation like you would for a full-time job. It's hard work. There's a lot of your own money and time you invest into it. It's what you make out of it. If you do all those things you'll leave feeling so blessed. All that hard work pays off. There's not a single moment I regret. Go into it with an open heart and open mind and you'll leave full-hearted and a better person.
Orlando Palacios
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Philippines
When my brother and I decided to go to the Philippines as volunteers on the English teaching program I personally did not know what to expect. All I knew from that country was what the T.V. says every day: insecurity problems famous boxers controversial politicians poverty. So I was ready to immerse myself into fewer commodities that I'm used to and give the best of me to make my effort worth for all the students we were going to teach. What I encountered at my arrival was something totally different beautiful landscapes a crowded but organized city and most important of all: nice and warm hearted people.
This is what the T.V. never mentions. People in the Philippines will treat you not as tourists but as a brother they will help you whenever you need it without hesitating if you are staying with a Filipino family you have hit the jackpot because you will now be a member of the family.
At school the kids were so nice and so lovely they relly enjoy having foreigners as teachers and they even make sure that one perceives their affection.
I will definitely go back again soon.
This is what the T.V. never mentions. People in the Philippines will treat you not as tourists but as a brother they will help you whenever you need it without hesitating if you are staying with a Filipino family you have hit the jackpot because you will now be a member of the family.
At school the kids were so nice and so lovely they relly enjoy having foreigners as teachers and they even make sure that one perceives their affection.
I will definitely go back again soon.
Mami Kawaguchi
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Tanzania
I enjoyed very much! It was very good opportunity to study and play with local students in Zanzibar. Local schools have a lot of differences compared with schools of my country. However I think to accept those differences might be the first step to getting along with local people. I enjoyed those differences too! I learned many things from them.
The house was comfortable and clean. All foods were very delicious. Even there are not internet connection I did not have any big problem with them. (It was good for me to take distance from the internet those days!)
Local coordinator was very nice flexible and his English is perfect. We could talk about our interests sometimes at night.
It is very easy to look for the project from location or term on the website. My page is also easy to find information and steps we need to complete. The service staff always answered to my question quickly and those answers made my feeling reassurance.
It was my first experience to teach English and Math for foreign students. Firstly I was very nervous but gradually I'd got along with them and I found that each student has their personality and advantages (and disadvantages). I hope I could spend more time with them and teach them. This experience has made me confident to spend time with children and it will be very useful for my future career.
Thank you very much for all your support. I would like to join other volunteer in the future if I have chances! I strongly recommend to join the volunteer program to my friends.
The house was comfortable and clean. All foods were very delicious. Even there are not internet connection I did not have any big problem with them. (It was good for me to take distance from the internet those days!)
Local coordinator was very nice flexible and his English is perfect. We could talk about our interests sometimes at night.
It is very easy to look for the project from location or term on the website. My page is also easy to find information and steps we need to complete. The service staff always answered to my question quickly and those answers made my feeling reassurance.
It was my first experience to teach English and Math for foreign students. Firstly I was very nervous but gradually I'd got along with them and I found that each student has their personality and advantages (and disadvantages). I hope I could spend more time with them and teach them. This experience has made me confident to spend time with children and it will be very useful for my future career.
Thank you very much for all your support. I would like to join other volunteer in the future if I have chances! I strongly recommend to join the volunteer program to my friends.
Merle Siegrist
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Nepal
I found the PreDeparture Information booklet very helpful. A section with brief facts about Nepal's history (civil war etc.) could have been added to give the volunteer a small summary of the political situation. And maybe a map of Kathmandu to roughly show where the volunteer accommodation is. But even without this the booklet contained all the important information.
The service was very reliable my questions were answered quickly. I really enjoyed the project. It took a week or two to get used to the work but after that I had a routine that I could follow and prepare for. The teachers were very friendly and caring.
I think my participation was appreciated by the teachers and they were happy to have an international exchange about our countries and cultures. For the students I think I did not have enough impact on their learning for them to improve. The accommodation and the food were good.
The local coordinator and her family were very nice. Whenever a problem occurred they would solve it they answered all the questions we had and gave us advice for our stay. My highlight was being involved in the Tihar-celebrations and feeling the hospitality of the teachers and our host family.
The service was very reliable my questions were answered quickly. I really enjoyed the project. It took a week or two to get used to the work but after that I had a routine that I could follow and prepare for. The teachers were very friendly and caring.
I think my participation was appreciated by the teachers and they were happy to have an international exchange about our countries and cultures. For the students I think I did not have enough impact on their learning for them to improve. The accommodation and the food were good.
The local coordinator and her family were very nice. Whenever a problem occurred they would solve it they answered all the questions we had and gave us advice for our stay. My highlight was being involved in the Tihar-celebrations and feeling the hospitality of the teachers and our host family.
Jasjap Singh
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Costa Rica
Personally I really liked that the website had the header bar showing what you had completed and what wasn't completed before you left for your trip. It made things very easy and helped a lot with staying organized. I found pre-departure booklet VERY INFORMATIVE! Which I thought is a very good idea to include all this information since individuals want to know much as they possibly can before leaving.
My experience volunteering with Volunteering Solutions was a great one but I think individuals have many questions before leaving to their desired country therefore I contacted the VolSol team and the replies to emails were very fast and helpful!
My friends and I had a blast working at our placement! Everyone was friendly and welcoming! Also had a great time assisting patients and working with staff.
The accommodation and meals were AMAZING! I don't have a single complaint or problem with our host family. They were super nice and made amazing food totally loved them all!
I was pretty good but I think a few simple adjustment could make life much easier for volunteers. For example showing volunteering which bus to take or how to get around would be very beneficial. We were taken on the bus with a staff member from our placement but for the next day we got lost trying it ourselves. Everyone in the area was very nice and helpful though.
Personally I loved hanging out with the host family or just having dinner with them. Such nice people and even though we couldn't talk much we made things work with google translate and all of us had a great time!
Thank you guys for running such great well-organized volunteering trips! I had a great time.
My experience volunteering with Volunteering Solutions was a great one but I think individuals have many questions before leaving to their desired country therefore I contacted the VolSol team and the replies to emails were very fast and helpful!
My friends and I had a blast working at our placement! Everyone was friendly and welcoming! Also had a great time assisting patients and working with staff.
The accommodation and meals were AMAZING! I don't have a single complaint or problem with our host family. They were super nice and made amazing food totally loved them all!
I was pretty good but I think a few simple adjustment could make life much easier for volunteers. For example showing volunteering which bus to take or how to get around would be very beneficial. We were taken on the bus with a staff member from our placement but for the next day we got lost trying it ourselves. Everyone in the area was very nice and helpful though.
Personally I loved hanging out with the host family or just having dinner with them. Such nice people and even though we couldn't talk much we made things work with google translate and all of us had a great time!
Thank you guys for running such great well-organized volunteering trips! I had a great time.
Naoka Kogure
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Morocco - Rabat
I really appreciate everything for this volunteering program. Volunteering at a nursery school was a good experience to me studying education. Kids at the nursery school are so cute and energetic. I have got a plenty of time to organize them so I should have planned much more! Even though there was a language barrier I could spend precious time with kids there. Also teachers were so nice to me and I really want to say thank you for accepting me.
Morocco is so exciting and amazing. Actually I like Morrocan food. It is really cheap and nice.
I was surprised that the weather is so cold especially at night.
Our Country Coordinator Ali is so nice and friendly. He always took care of us and supported the life there. And another staff at our accommodation was also so kind. This was the first time to visit Morocco as well as African countries so it could be so tough without their support.
Finally I really appreciate the support from the Volunteering solutions staffs. You always answered any questions and it made me so prepared for leaving.
This 1 week is definitely unforgettable one to me!
Morocco is so exciting and amazing. Actually I like Morrocan food. It is really cheap and nice.
I was surprised that the weather is so cold especially at night.
Our Country Coordinator Ali is so nice and friendly. He always took care of us and supported the life there. And another staff at our accommodation was also so kind. This was the first time to visit Morocco as well as African countries so it could be so tough without their support.
Finally I really appreciate the support from the Volunteering solutions staffs. You always answered any questions and it made me so prepared for leaving.
This 1 week is definitely unforgettable one to me!
Evie Raijmakers
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
I am really thankful for all the help we or our employment visa. I really liked the traditional welcome and goodbye. The kids were lovely and wanted to learn more however I expected them to be more grateful if they got something (f.e. balloons colors).
The accommodation is basic but good ( I especially liked Rajiv and his wife who I respect for doing this volunteering all year round. When I needed medicines within half an hour I got them thanks to all the help I got!
My favorite moments are visiting the Taj Mahal and when the kids take us into the slum to show their houses. I recommend this program as I learned so much about Indian culture and lifestyle.
I think we can learn a lot about Hinduism even though we are people with a different religion we are still friendly welcomed in all the temples to join the ceremony (f.e. Iskcon). I appreciate this!
The accommodation is basic but good ( I especially liked Rajiv and his wife who I respect for doing this volunteering all year round. When I needed medicines within half an hour I got them thanks to all the help I got!
My favorite moments are visiting the Taj Mahal and when the kids take us into the slum to show their houses. I recommend this program as I learned so much about Indian culture and lifestyle.
I think we can learn a lot about Hinduism even though we are people with a different religion we are still friendly welcomed in all the temples to join the ceremony (f.e. Iskcon). I appreciate this!
Melissa Pauler
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
I enjoyed my placement a lot. I spent the best 4 weeks here that I could have wished for. At my placement the kids were always happy to see me and wanted to learn something. Teaching them was so much fun.
Our accommodation feels like home. There is nothing to complain. Our rooms are nice and the flat is clean. The food is so good! Thanks to Shankar and Ramesh for cooking a delicious meal every day. My whole stay was organised very well. If I had any questions I received help.
I think the website is very good. It is informative and easy to understand. I had no problems while I was using the website. So for me there is nothing to improve as it is already very good. I am glad I had a pre-departure booklet. I felt more secure with it and could prepare myself for this adventure. I had some problems with getting my VISA and the staff helped me a lot with this problem instantly.
The whole trip was a highlight! I love the kids at my placement and I will miss them a lot. Same for the other volunteers - it is great to get to know so many people from all over the world. Even if we know each other only for some days or weeks it feels like we have been friends for ages.
I will definitely recommend this program. Keep doing this! It is awesome. I will definitely do a volunteering trip like this again. Thanks for everything!
Our accommodation feels like home. There is nothing to complain. Our rooms are nice and the flat is clean. The food is so good! Thanks to Shankar and Ramesh for cooking a delicious meal every day. My whole stay was organised very well. If I had any questions I received help.
I think the website is very good. It is informative and easy to understand. I had no problems while I was using the website. So for me there is nothing to improve as it is already very good. I am glad I had a pre-departure booklet. I felt more secure with it and could prepare myself for this adventure. I had some problems with getting my VISA and the staff helped me a lot with this problem instantly.
The whole trip was a highlight! I love the kids at my placement and I will miss them a lot. Same for the other volunteers - it is great to get to know so many people from all over the world. Even if we know each other only for some days or weeks it feels like we have been friends for ages.
I will definitely recommend this program. Keep doing this! It is awesome. I will definitely do a volunteering trip like this again. Thanks for everything!
Nia John
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in India
The Camp India website was good showed clear itinerary and what was included in the price. The pre-departure booklet was useful but could have included more info on the placement. I enjoyed my placement but it was pretty hard work especially the language barrier. The accommodation was good but basic a sofa would be nice. The food was very good and very nice hotels.
The in-country staff was very nice and helpful and really looked after you. The highlight of my experience was meeting new friends and seeing new things. Especially liked the light and fountain show and Chokhi Dhani village person and elephants.
The in-country staff was very nice and helpful and really looked after you. The highlight of my experience was meeting new friends and seeing new things. Especially liked the light and fountain show and Chokhi Dhani village person and elephants.
Jasmine Schmahl
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Philippines
This volunteering experience was so rewarding and opened my eyes to the world around me. This opportunity has given me a new perspective and I felt like I was able to truly make a difference in the lives of those I worked with.
Three of the best moment from my stay are:
1. Meeting and working with all of the wonderful children and many volunteers from around the world.
2. Being able to apply my knowledge and gain experience in the nutrition field
3. Pushing my limits and experiencing something new.
I would recommend VolSol to anyone I know is willing to volunteer abroad mostly because of the variety of programs. ?Absolutely wonderful experience!
Three of the best moment from my stay are:
1. Meeting and working with all of the wonderful children and many volunteers from around the world.
2. Being able to apply my knowledge and gain experience in the nutrition field
3. Pushing my limits and experiencing something new.
I would recommend VolSol to anyone I know is willing to volunteer abroad mostly because of the variety of programs. ?Absolutely wonderful experience!
Jaclyn Cifuni
Verified Buyer
Tailandia
While my visit in Thailand was absolutely incredible it's very hard for me to rank my time there. However one of my favorite moments during the program was the school at the wat pho temple. During my time there we broke off into groups where I met a little girl and instantly clicked with her. While working with her I taught her colors. She mastered the colors quite quickly and we began to color by number. It was fasinating to see her learn so quickly and really pay attention to me. As a teacher I work with students every day and I have honestly never seen a drive in students that wanted to work so hard in learning English. It was truely something I'll never forget.
As for my second best moment it would be staying at Mr.lees house and taking care of the elephants during this time I really came out of my element. From living together 19 of us together in one room to planting to cooking and taking care of an elephant I've never seen up close and personal gave me such joy.
Another moment I truely enjoyed was painting the school in surin. Giving back to someone who doesn't have it is so rewarding. When the project was over and taking steps back looking at what we created on this building was more than rewarding. Everyone at that school was thankful for what we had done!
The overall living experience was excellent. It was very comfortable and homely stay with all the facilities I could have asked for. The staff was also very friendly and supportive. They made the program easier and smooth.
I absolutely think my experience was worthwhile in Thailand this was the best trip I've ever been on. Thailand has taught me so over the past month that I will take and cherish with me forever! I'm already looking into a new program for next year!
As for my second best moment it would be staying at Mr.lees house and taking care of the elephants during this time I really came out of my element. From living together 19 of us together in one room to planting to cooking and taking care of an elephant I've never seen up close and personal gave me such joy.
Another moment I truely enjoyed was painting the school in surin. Giving back to someone who doesn't have it is so rewarding. When the project was over and taking steps back looking at what we created on this building was more than rewarding. Everyone at that school was thankful for what we had done!
The overall living experience was excellent. It was very comfortable and homely stay with all the facilities I could have asked for. The staff was also very friendly and supportive. They made the program easier and smooth.
I absolutely think my experience was worthwhile in Thailand this was the best trip I've ever been on. Thailand has taught me so over the past month that I will take and cherish with me forever! I'm already looking into a new program for next year!
Alexandria Grosso
Verified Buyer
Tailandia
I highly enjoyed working with the elephants. Those days were completely unique and living so close to them was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I also loved working with the students at the temple in Bangkok. I wish we were able to have more time with them there.
The week at the islands was amazing and a great end to the trip. Additionally all of the extra excursions that our program leader had planned for us (such as Muay Thai class visiting the bat cave and temples) were amazing!
I loved all the volunteer work. I do wish I was able to do more especially during the week working with the children at the daycare. It might have been because we were a big group of volunteers but I would have liked to have more responsibilities during our stay in Surin to feel like I was more useful and made an impact.
The location was the best part of the accommodation. The staff was very friendly and supportive. They made the program easier and smooth. I would recommend VolSol to anyone I know is willing to volunteer abroad mostly because of the variety of programs.
The week at the islands was amazing and a great end to the trip. Additionally all of the extra excursions that our program leader had planned for us (such as Muay Thai class visiting the bat cave and temples) were amazing!
I loved all the volunteer work. I do wish I was able to do more especially during the week working with the children at the daycare. It might have been because we were a big group of volunteers but I would have liked to have more responsibilities during our stay in Surin to feel like I was more useful and made an impact.
The location was the best part of the accommodation. The staff was very friendly and supportive. They made the program easier and smooth. I would recommend VolSol to anyone I know is willing to volunteer abroad mostly because of the variety of programs.
Juan Pablo Palacios Sánchez
Verified Buyer
Volunteer in Philippines
We had a good time!!!! our first week was really exciting! There are moments which I enjoyed the most are : 1.-Being at school with the kids enjoying the activities. 2.-Hang out with the host family and neighbors. 3.-Enjoying traditional dishes! 4.-Using local transportation like jeepneys! 5.-Sightseeing in the city.
Especially for the Filipino transportation we have to take! There are no jeepneys and pedicabs in Mexico! So we always enjoy our rides here!
We attend Tugop Elementary School from 8:00 am to 12:00. It's only 4 hours. We're working with fifth grade from 8:00 to 9:40. After that we work with Sixth grade from 10:00 to 12:00. We also give 1hour tutorials in the afternoons here at the volunteers center. Students are very nice! Very different from the ones we have in Mexico. They always ask us questions. They are very attentive. They enjoy the activities we do with them and they always do their homework! I couldn't believe when 5th grade said they wanted to stay in class rather than go out for break time! We assign different activities such as verb dictations tongue twisters story tellings exercises on the board writings readings memory games in teams. They always receive us with enthusiasm.
Sixth grade is very punctual! They are always waiting for us before the class starts! The other school teachers are very kind. They always give us Filipino snacks after classes so we're never hungry! We're glad that teachers let us teach not only English but also Music notation! Kids like music and they are learning fast! They sing well too! They can already read 8 bars staff in 4/4!
Last Wednesday we had a school event. The principal invited us to participate and meet students' parents and school supervisors. They let us sing and play guitars and the harmonica in front of them. It was really nice being there and hang out. We shared our similarities and our differences. We talked about food traditions and the words we have in common.
Going to Tugop is a nice trip. We walk through clean fresh air. There is no traffic only palm trees grass hills and gentle people who we can totally trust. Waking up early isn't difficult here as the sun rises at 5:00 am!
Our host family is also kind! They really treat us as family members. This last Sunday they took us to a resort called Cold Spring. We went with all the family! Kids are very friendly and they always call us Kuya (big brothers) it was nice to spend some time with the family! We laugh a lot!
We really want to volunteer again next year. We would like to stay longer but due to our jobs scheduled in Mexico we can't stay more than two weeks. However my brother and I are planning to come back. We love Philippines! In fact we're learning the language! We bought an English-Tagalog dictionary here in a local store.
For sure! I'm really glad to participate in the program. Teachers were very kind with us as well as the students. This was the opportunity I was looking for to grow as a teacher and also to learn from another culture.
Thanks for all your support! Hopefully I'll be back next year same project same destination. I loved it!
Especially for the Filipino transportation we have to take! There are no jeepneys and pedicabs in Mexico! So we always enjoy our rides here!
We attend Tugop Elementary School from 8:00 am to 12:00. It's only 4 hours. We're working with fifth grade from 8:00 to 9:40. After that we work with Sixth grade from 10:00 to 12:00. We also give 1hour tutorials in the afternoons here at the volunteers center. Students are very nice! Very different from the ones we have in Mexico. They always ask us questions. They are very attentive. They enjoy the activities we do with them and they always do their homework! I couldn't believe when 5th grade said they wanted to stay in class rather than go out for break time! We assign different activities such as verb dictations tongue twisters story tellings exercises on the board writings readings memory games in teams. They always receive us with enthusiasm.
Sixth grade is very punctual! They are always waiting for us before the class starts! The other school teachers are very kind. They always give us Filipino snacks after classes so we're never hungry! We're glad that teachers let us teach not only English but also Music notation! Kids like music and they are learning fast! They sing well too! They can already read 8 bars staff in 4/4!
Last Wednesday we had a school event. The principal invited us to participate and meet students' parents and school supervisors. They let us sing and play guitars and the harmonica in front of them. It was really nice being there and hang out. We shared our similarities and our differences. We talked about food traditions and the words we have in common.
Going to Tugop is a nice trip. We walk through clean fresh air. There is no traffic only palm trees grass hills and gentle people who we can totally trust. Waking up early isn't difficult here as the sun rises at 5:00 am!
Our host family is also kind! They really treat us as family members. This last Sunday they took us to a resort called Cold Spring. We went with all the family! Kids are very friendly and they always call us Kuya (big brothers) it was nice to spend some time with the family! We laugh a lot!
We really want to volunteer again next year. We would like to stay longer but due to our jobs scheduled in Mexico we can't stay more than two weeks. However my brother and I are planning to come back. We love Philippines! In fact we're learning the language! We bought an English-Tagalog dictionary here in a local store.
For sure! I'm really glad to participate in the program. Teachers were very kind with us as well as the students. This was the opportunity I was looking for to grow as a teacher and also to learn from another culture.
Thanks for all your support! Hopefully I'll be back next year same project same destination. I loved it!
About Volunteering Solutions
Volunteering Solutions Reviews, left by real genuine volunteers. Volunteering Solutions is a Top Rated International Volunteer Travel Company with low cost, affordable volunteer programs in over 26 countries starting from only £179 / $200. VolSol is accepting bookings for 2023 - 2024
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