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First stop Malaysia...
How did you feel upon arriving into Malaysia?
On the way to the accommodation I thought great! Back into a new country, just what I'd wanted to do ever since I got back - drinking in all the sights and smells (not all good, but all interesting)!
How have you settled into life as a volunteer on your programme?
Fine I think, the 1st day at the zoo was a bit challenging, but it's been great since. I absolutely adore Wasabi (one of the orang-utangs) and shall find it hard to leave her. The work is fine, hard insofar as it's so hot. I can't remember the last time sweat dripped off my nose and into my eyes but I can tell you if you need any raking doing I'm your woman!
What is the accommodation and food like?
Accommodation is fine - a few teething problems with plumbing and elect but resolved. The beds are comfy and the fans are working overtime - it's a 20 min walk to the zoo and about 35-40 to town from the house which makes getting a taxi back from town a good idea! The food I really like, getting used to the chilli-ness of everything and enjoying trying new things even if I don't know what they are!
How are you getting along with your fellow volunteers, project staff and the locals?
I'm one of 2 older volunteers within our group so we've palled up - Barbara. There are 5 youngsters and 3 of those are zoo assistants, the other 2 being orang-utang project peeps. It's interesting that the youngsters seem to be waning in their enthusiasm as the project develops and are getting up later and later and seem tired quite a bit of the time.
It was great in Kuala Lumpur to find that Emma (I'd been on the safety course in London with her) was on the project and also Pam who had been in South Africa. Mary (project coordinator) is great and Aida at the zoo is lovely, great fun and very helpful. The locals are really friendly and it's like being a minor celebrity and getting used to being honked and stared at and enjoying waving and smiling at all and sundry.
What has been the highlight of your experience so far?
Spending time with Wasabi. I spent about an hour with her this lunchtime much of it on my own- she went through my pockets, undid my laces and licked the lens cover of my camera. We sat snuggled up together and I stroked her back and when I stopped she put my hand back on her back. She has the most adorable face and the softest top lip that she lets me stroke - aaaahhhhh.
Have you felt home sick or experienced culture shock and if so how did you deal with these feelings?
I haven't felt homesick; I have spoken to my mum once and I blog as you know. I've not really felt culture shock either - I feel quite well adjusted (my friends may disagree!)
How would you sum up your experience so far?
Great - loving it - next!
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Featured Traveller
Janet Horsley had an incredible time on her tailor-made gap year, blazing a trail through Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America, read her story here.
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