Volunteer Abroad Reviews

My experience teaching English in Vietnam has provided me with a clear vision for my future. I have grown significantly in terms of confidence and I have improved my communication skills. Living in a different part of the world has also given me valuable insight on the differences in cultures across the world, and thus a better understanding and love for humankind. To anyone who is thinking of volunteering abroad, I highly recommend it. It may seem a little scary initially, however, the friendships and the memories you'll make will be worth it.

I have gained new social contacts from this experience, as well as a very clear picture on how different countries are from one another. The advice I would give to someone who is hesitant about joining the program is that this was an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life and that it helps you step out of your comfort zone and learn about other cultures. I never expected things to be as different as they turned out to be.

My IVHQ Program Manager was very helpful during my trip preparation, since the registration day until the day I flew to Nepal.

The local team was wonderful. They supported me fully at all times, not only with everything related to the project activities, but also with recommendations that helped make my stay in the city much more enjoyable and meaningful. At the end of the program, I had an accident, and I truly couldn’t have been in better hands. The local team was there for me from the very first day until the moment I had to board my flight back home. I’m deeply grateful for their care, guidance, and constant support.

Volunteering in women’s empowerment project in Nepal through IVHQ has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The women I had the chance to work with, were incredibly kind, eager to learn, and full of heart. Their warmth and determination made my time there unforgettable. It’s an experience I’ll carry with me forever, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to connect with such inspiring women.

Volunteering on the Teaching program in Lovina, Bali, has been an incredible lifetime experience. Of all the places I have travelled I have never felt so welcomed to their culture. Being a female travelling alone to volunteer, I felt so safe and the team were amazing at looking after me. The local community is also welcoming too where everyone wants to take the time to talk to you. Experiencing the Kindergarden and School was so valuable especially being a teacher from the UK. It was interesting to compare the differences between education and share some of my knowledge with the children and staff.

This is a perfect location to explore too away from the tourists and gives you a taste of the real Balinese culture. I can't wait to return! From the moment I joined IVHQ, the online support was excellent with an online training portal and videos to put you at ease. I am already planning my next volunteer adventure!

My advice would be to book the trip and not put off participating in the most memorable and rewarding experience ever! I would strongly advise to book more than 2 weeks as it is really not enough time...1 month would be ideal! It truly is about stepping outside your comfort zone and trusting the process. You really do get out, what you put into the program. I wish I had I had fundraised prior to my trip, to help make more of a difference in the community I volunteered in.