Volunteer Report: Paula’s Experience, A Journey of Conservation and Discovery.

Hello! My name is Paula, and I'm thrilled to share with you my incredible journey during my internship at Turtle Conservation in beautiful Bali. As an 18-year-old Mexican with a passion for learning and exploring new horizons, this experience has truly been life-changing.

Arrival and Warm Welcome

From the moment I stepped foot in Bali, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality. Rima and the driver who accompanied me to the center were incredibly friendly, offering valuable insights about the area and making me feel right at home. The atmosphere at the center was equally inviting, with fellow volunteers embracing me as part of the team from day one.

Integration and Responsibilities

It didn't take long for me to feel like a valued member of the team. Within the first week, I found my rhythm and began to understand the inner workings of the center. As I familiarized myself with the daily tasks and routines, I was entrusted with more responsibilities, such as giving informational tours to international tourists, collecting seaweed, cleaning turtle tanks, and even assisting with turtle releases.

While the experience was overwhelmingly positive, there were moments of challenge and reflection. I occasionally felt that my role lacked the excitement and hands-on involvement with the turtles that I had initially anticipated. Moreover, long hours between my internship work left me longing for more meaningful engagement. However, these challenges only fueled my determination to contribute in a more impactful way.

Recommendations for Future Participants

Reflecting on my time at the Turtle Conservation Center, I've compiled some recommendations for future participants. Embrace every opportunity to educate and engage with tourists, as their support is crucial for the center's sustainability. Stay prepared with essentials like a water bottle, fan, and personal disinfectant. Familiarize yourself with local transportation apps like Grab and Gojek for convenient travel. Prioritize language skills, as multilingual abilities enhance your effectiveness as a tour guide. Consider joining during hatching season for a more engaging experience with the turtles.

Highlights and Takeaways

Despite the occasional challenges, my experience volunteering in Bali filled with unforgettable memories. I gained invaluable insights into sea turtle conservation and developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of education in environmental preservation. Moreover, this experience ignited a passion within me to pursue a career dedicated to protecting endangered animal species worldwide.

Reminiscing the Best of Bali

As I bid farewell to this beautiful island, I can't help but reminisce about the incredible moments that made my time here truly special. From road trips to Uluwatu and boat trips to Nusa Penida, to indulging in delicious Indonesian cuisine and exploring Bali's stunning beaches, even when my phone get wet while watching the Kecak dance performance, each experience truly left an indelible mark on me. 

As I conclude my time in Bali, I'm filled with gratitude for the support of the staff, the friendships forged, and the invaluable lessons learned. While my journey here may have come to an end, the memories and experiences will forever hold a special place in my heart. Bali, with its charm and beauty, has captured my attention. I eagerly anticipate the day I can return to its shores once again. If you're considering having your own internship adventure in Bali, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seize the opportunity. Trust me, you won't regret it!