My Adventure in Bali Volunteering for a Marine Conservation

Valentina, a recent high school graduate with a passion for both marine life and global experiences, traded her Italian hometown of Bologna for the sun-kissed shores of Bali to pursue a unique adventure.  Driven by a desire to contribute to conservation efforts and explore a new culture, she chose the Bali Internships program, seeking hands-on experience working with endangered sea turtles. Here's her story!

Hey everyone! Valentina here, and I just wrapped up an incredible four weeks volunteering at a turtle conservation center in Serangan, Bali. If you're passionate about marine life and looking for a meaningful travel experience, let me tell you, this is it!

Connected through the World Wide Web

I found this opportunity through Volunteering Solutions website, which connected me with Bali Internships. Their program was exactly what I was looking for: hands-on experience working with turtles in a beautiful location. The application process was pretty straightforward; I filled out some forms, had a background check, and chatted with the Bali Internships team about my expectations. They took care of everything, including finding me a cozy guesthouse in Sanur.

Turtling Days of Fun!

My days at the center were filled with all things turtle! We cleaned tanks, helped with hatching, monitored nesting beaches, and even went snorkeling to collect seaweed for the turtles to munch on.  But honestly, the highlight was witnessing the baby turtles hatch – seriously, the cutest thing ever! We also gave tours to visitors, which was a great chance to educate people about these amazing creatures and the importance of conservation. One thing I didn't quite expect was how touristy the area around the center was. But hey, it's Bali!  Luckily, I got to explore other parts of the island, like Lovina, which was absolutely stunning with its waterfalls and lush scenery. It was a good reminder that Bali has so much more to offer than just beaches and parties.

About Solo Volunteering 

Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Volunteering solo? Isn't that lonely?"  Honestly, it can be a little daunting at first, especially being away from home. But trust me, you're never truly alone. I met so many incredible people from all over the world, both volunteers and locals. We shared stories, experiences, and even a few laughs (and tears) along the way.  It's amazing how quickly you can form bonds with people who share your passion.

If you're considering a solo volunteer trip, my advice is to embrace the unknown, be open to new experiences, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. And it's just very good. Life is unexpected. And you never know where you are going to be in a month or a year. Talk to people, try new things, and remember that it's okay to feel homesick sometimes. Just call home or hang out with your fellow volunteers; it really helps!

A Holistic Learning Adventure

Looking back, this experience was more than just working with turtles. It was about personal growth, cultural experience, and forming connections with people from all walks of life. I learned so much about Balinese culture, from the daily offerings to the strong sense of community. It truly broadened my perspective and gave me a deeper appreciation for the world around me.

So, if you're looking for an adventure with purpose, I highly recommend checking out Bali Internships. They offer a variety of programs to suit different interests, and their support throughout the entire process is fantastic.  Who knows, maybe we'll even cross paths on your own turtle-tastic adventure in Bali!