Last Minute Career break preparation...

With just a few days until she sets off, we caught up with Sarah to see how she was feeling about the exciting 8-month adventure ahead of her! Here's what she had to say…

How has the preparation for your trip been? What have you had to organise (house, pets)?
The preparations have been OK. I went away last year so I didn't have too much to do. I'd already moved out of my flat and put my stuff in storage. I only needed a few injections and had to buy a few bits and pieces such as phrase and travel books so it was all rather scarily smooth. 

How is the packing going?
The packing is an absolute nightmare. My Mum keeps coming in and asking me whether I'm taking this or that as she's washed it for me so I keep shoving stuff in. To make room I'm leaving my mascara and eyeliner at home so this is a first. Part of me thinks that my bag is not big enough (55litres) but to be honest I can hardly lift it as it is. I'm not sure that I'm taking the right stuff but I can always buy things when I'm away if needs be.

Have you said your farewells yet to your friends and family?
Yes and it was pretty hard to say good-bye. Even though I went away before for 6 months it doesn't make it easy. My little nephew is adorable and will be 2 when I'm away so I will miss him and my friend's little boy has just started school so you do miss out on sweet things. My mate has put together a kit of things to help or hinder my trip including an emergency tea bag, a map of London to remind me of home and a balloon to celebrate my birthday in April.

How are you feeling about the trip ahead of you?
It's all a bit unreal. I've wanted to go to South America for so long I can hardly believe I'm now going. Really excited about some of the things I'm going to be doing especially the volunteering in the Galapagos.

Have you had any last minute nerves?
Not so much nerves about the trip but nerves about the flight. I've been surprisingly laid back about the trip itself...

How are you getting to the airport and who with?
My mum was going to take me to the airport but we decided it was probably better I got a taxi as I don't like saying good-bye - I always cry even if I'm just going away for the weekend. 

Are you happy with the service you have received from Gap Year For Grown Ups?
The service from Gap Year For Grown Ups has been good. I got all the stuff I needed and Sam and Sally were really enthusiastic about Ecuador and everything so it was great.

Is there anything that you are nervous about or least looking forward to?
Bit nervous about the Spanish lessons as I was so rubbish at French at school but it's something I really want to do. I'm going to do the Inca trail in about June and I really hate heights so am having a few sleepless nights about that even though it's nothing like that. Daft really!

What are you looking forward to the most about your Gap Year For Grown Ups programme?
It has to be the tortoises in the Galapagos. Surely a highlight and a half.