Claire Dean, 30, Internal Auditor
Guatemala House Building Volunteers 

Guatemala House Building Volunteer

In total, how long were you away from home? 
5 and half weeks

What was your motivation to take a gap break? 
To do voluntary work and get to know a country I’ve not been to before.

How did you feel before you joined the programme?
I was looking forward to it. 

How did Gap Year For Grown Ups compare with your expectations?
Good.

What was the accommodation like?
Good – I had my own room and no problems getting to use the shared bathroom facilities.

What was the most memorable moment of your trip? Any anecdotes?
Working with a great bunch of project workers and meeting the other volunteers on the project – having a good group of volunteers made the work more enjoyable. I really liked being outside doing physical labour with a positive outcome i.e. the house for the family. I also enjoyed the interaction with the families we were building for despite the language barrier! Plus the scenery was amazing!

What do you feel you accomplished during your programme?
I was able to do the work that we were asked to do yet know my limits. I felt very healthy doing it and enjoyed myself.

How have you benefited from your experience? What do you feel you accomplished during your trip?
Being able to adapt to a very different situation and enjoy it. Plus we went back and did another couple of days on the project at the end of the holiday since we enjoyed it so much!

What advice could you offer to someone considering this programme?
Be prepared to work hard – some physical stamina and strength helps but everyone can work to the level they are comfortable to work at. It’s a great way to see some of the country away from the tourist places.

Guatemala House Building Volunteer
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