Nerves and check-lists as a UniBreaker prepares to leave for Peru

27 days! 27 days till I’m on a plane to Cusco, Peru! (Not that I’m counting or anything). It seems like there is so much to do before I leave. I’m constantly checking my To-Do list and frantically trying to tick things off it! I’ve just received my vaccinations and my arms are so sore, I can barely type, but it’s definitely making this whole trip a bit more real. This week we also had a webinar seminar with Ben (our UniBreak contact at Antipodeans) who gave us a complete run-down of Peru, the culture, our work there and the potential guinea pigs we’ll be eating! We also spoke with a girl who went through the same placement last year – her first-hand experience and tips were totally invaluable. I think one of things I’m most excited (and anxious about) is the teaching part of it. Working with kids is always fun and challenging and I really want to be a help to the teachers and school over there. This weekend my friend and I are going shopping for all kinds of visual aids and things for the school that are going to assist us and them. After Ben mentioned bringing a gift for our host family that is a sort of ‘everyday’ present, I think I’m going to find some great, lightweight and useful kitchen utensils that my host family can use.

It’s so great to hear we will have constant support from Jane (our In-Country Agent) over in Cusco itself – someone we can just talk to or ask if we have any issues or questions. And I’m really excited to meet the the rest of the volunteers! We’ve already got a Facebook group happening and we’re all exchanging flight details, gift ideas and tips, so it will be really good to meet everyone in person and form that tight-knit crew that was talked about at the seminar. And I think it will be so good being able to hang out and explore the area and culture and sites together on weekends – Macchu Picchu here we come!

Have to go! Lots to buy and do before I step on that plane!

Want to volunteer in your university holidays? Antipodeans Abroad are specialists in volunteer travel. Find out more at www.antipodeans.com.au