Arlyn in her classroom!

While on sabbatical from teaching, Arlyn volunteered in Nepal for one week. She is thrilled she had the opportunity and tells more of her story below.

Meet Arlyn, a seasoned teaching professional who recently won a week-long quest through United Planet while attending a local neighborhood auction.  Arlyn is no stranger to traveling and has been fortunate to have visited many countries during her career.

“I’m a very service-oriented person and I’d been thinking about doing a volunteer service trip for some time. With a lifelong interest in education around the world, the opportunity to teach English in Nepal was thrilling. When this opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance.”

Happy students playing outside the school

Packed and ready to go, she set off on her adventure.  Arlyn’s initial impressions of Nepal were through the plane’s window as she stared wide-eyed at the some of the highest peaks in the world.  Once on the ground, she marveled at the colorful clothing of the people she saw, was tickled to see monkeys wandering here and there, and amazed by the massive traffic congestion on the streets.

Cars, motor scooters, trucks and tractors lugging cargo all fought for space on narrow, one way roads often no wider than alleys.

The constant honking, gridlock and pollution was a shock to someone who thought she had seen chaotic roads in other countries. On her first day in Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu, she was eager to begin her adventure but anxiously wondered what everything would be like. Would she like her home stay? Would the food upset her stomach? What would teaching really be like? As she finally got settled into her home stay, she found she was able to relax and enjoy the beautiful moments of Nepal each day.

“Teaching for 6 days in Kathmandu was a wonderfully rewarding experience,” said Arlyn, “although it certainly had its challenges. Education is happening there; it’s just not built out to the capacity one would hope.”

The school, where Arlyn taught, was founded by a local visionary named Uttam Sanjel, who is working hard to provide a decent, affordable education to poverty-stricken children throughout Nepal. Because she arrived in Nepal as a seasoned traveler, she wasn’t as shocked by what she saw yet was still saddened by the poverty, pollution and lack of basic supplies available at the school.

The school rooms were filled with many benches on dirt floors. They were positioned in front of long, thin tables illuminated only by the light coming in through the lattice and spaces between bamboo walls. A few light bulbs hung strategically to illuminate the darkest corners. A blackboard, eraser and small pieces of chalk were all that functioned as teaching materials. Some content-area books did exist, yet they weren’t culturally relevant and often contained vocabulary that was too advanced for the students. On the narrow benches sat forty-five to sixty-seven uniform-clad students crammed so closely together there was hardly room to stand – as is customary- when called on to speak. Because of the sheer number of students in one room, it was very difficult for teachers to learn everyone’s names – thus they sometimes resorted to calling out numbers to identify them.

A typical interaction between student and teacher went something like ‘Student #42, what did you have for an answer to this homework question?’ The school was not able to supply typical items such as papers and pencils, computers or photo copiers. No gym or cafeteria, no rooms other than the school rooms themselves. There was no running water, other than a tap at the school’s entrance. Students had to bring their own pens and sometimes had to share. If one ran dry or broke, it became very stressful for the kids. Basic supplies are clearly a valued commodity and not easily replaceable.

“I thought about all the extra pens I have laying around my house and I couldn’t believe I didn’t bring a whole bag of them” she said while recalling the poverty stricken country. Despite the difficult conditions, her students were so eager to learn and happy to come to school every day. The children rejoiced as they were taught songs such as “You are my sunshine” and the “Hokey Pokey.”

They were enthusiastic and immensely grateful for everything Arlyn taught during her forty-five minute classes. When asked if they wanted to learn about American holidays, they enthusiastically shouted “Yes”! The myriad of questions they asked about America both warmed Arlyn’s heart and saddened her, knowing they have so little access to the wider world.

Students working hard in class

It did take some time for Arlyn to get used to certain aspects of life at the school.  For example, when everyone in the modest teacher’s room was finished eating lunch, they would throw their garbage in a corner on the floor, rather than use a wastebasket.

At the end of the day someone would come and clean it up, leaving a litter-free floor the next day. While this was an odd, foreign practice to Arlyn, she knew littering was very normal for the Nepalese people. She also mentioned the standard fare students ate for lunch included dry ramen noodles, and if they were among the lucky,their parents would bring them hot pails of food.

When the weather was nice, children would eat outside and then play together in the bare, open space. There were no aspects typical to a western playground such as slides or swings, just dirt and open air. Yet knowing no differently, the children still found joy in the simple art of play.

When asked what biggest teaching challenge Arlyn faced at the volunteer project site, she replied the noise level made teaching and learning incredibly difficult. Not only did she have to strain to hear individual students as they spoke, but the thin bamboo walls allowed her to hear neighboring classes loud and clear, along with children playing outside and the typical pattern of low-flying planes overhead. Trying to focus on one noise at a time proved difficult and frustrating. Speaking loudly enough for students to hear left Arlyn with a tired, raspy voice by day’s end. Needless to say, this was quite a different educational experience than in America.

Hindu temple in Kathmandu

It wasn’t all hard work though. During her time in Nepal, Arlyn was able to take advantage of several cultural excursions and time off. She saw Mount Everest, visited an organic farm, explored local shops, and enjoyed walks through neighborhoods, observing Nepalese people in their daily life.

One highlight was her visit to the biggest Hindu temple in Kathmandu.  She felt deeply moved when she had the opportunity to observe the sacred ritual of cremation over funeral pyres at the Ganges River.  “I was breathless, struck by the life that was over and the ritual that has sustained itself for millennia” she said.

Arlyn felt lucky that she was able to return to a nice family in a comfortable home each evening. Her home stay family lived in a house with running water and western toilets, for which she was grateful. She found the family very accommodating and they even offered Arlyn the first floor where they slept, so she wouldn’t have to travel up and down the stairs to her guest room.

She was also able to get to know the family’s children and extended family. Typical to many Nepalese households, the extended family lived together, separated by different floors. Brothers, sisters and grandparents all shared the house, living peacefully among bells, prayer and the thick smell of incense. There were some adjustments however.

“I never had a hot shower while I was there, and the electricity was frequently cut off for hours at a time, but I adapted” said Arlyn. Overall, she was very happy with her home-stay placement and understood the reality that her daily life in Nepal would look very different than in America.

Young Nepalese child

Arlyn’s biggest accomplishment while in Nepal? Because the tiny, under-stocked library at the school wasn’t open to students, she suggested that the teacher assign each child a trip to the local library at least once per month.

“I hope the teacher follows through – a library can open the world to them.”

Arlyn only spent 6 days teaching, but feels she gained just as much as she gave. The trip of a lifetime she called it, that everyone should have the opportunity to take.

Lilyanne, posing for a recent post on her well-known fashion blog, "Bleed For Fashion"

Meet Lilyanne, a fashion blogger from Vancouver with an edgy style and a passion for life.  I had the chance to catch up with Lilyanne about her recent Quest to Nepal.

It was great to hear about her trip—the people she met, the places she saw, the independence she gained—the list goes on.  Here are some of the highlights as well as a few pictures from her 4 week long journey.

According to the “about me” section of her incredibly popular blog, “Bleed For Fashion,” Lilyanne describes herself as, “Vancouver-based, Calgary-raised. Dreamer. Inspiration seeker. A wall that so few can hurdle across.”

She certainly took a trip outside her comfort zone while traveling to Nepal, and the “dreamer and inspiration seeker” portion of her personality was put to the test.

Considering this was her first time traveling independently to a foreign country, there were obviously aspects that took some getting used to, but all in all her trip was a success.

She remarked, “Overall it was really great.  There was a lot to get used to, but given the chance to stay longer I would’ve, and I’m determined to go back.”

Lilyanne’s first major adjustment was to the capital city of Kathmandu where she spent the majority of her 4 week trip.

A View of Prayer Flags in Kathmandu

She said the traffic and congestion was overwhelming at first; not surprising as it is the largest metropolitan in the country, and has nearly one million inhabitants.

After a week or so she was able to embrace the intensity of the city, and by the end of the four weeks she said, “I was able to see quite a bit–nothing really shocked me anymore.”

Another adjustment Lilyanne faced head-on was at the orphanage where she volunteered.  She quickly realized that the approach to schedules and following a routine is a bit different in Nepal than what she’s used to back home.

“It was up to me to schedule how much time I wanted to spend at the orphanage. It’s a very different structure; you have to be creative and think on the spot.  My priority was at the children’s home, and I tried to give everyone equal attention.”

One of adorable orphan children, Rajeshwori

There were 28 children at the orphanage she worked at and about 4 other volunteers who overlapped with her time there.  She made the most of her time by splitting the children into smaller groups so no one was left out.

Lilyanne was constantly impressed by the incredible children at the orphanage, explaining, “they’re amazing children! So smart– and they all have their own personalities.”

She recounted one of her most memorable experiences in Nepal, an experience that happened to combine her love for shoes with the joy and beauty of volunteering. During her days at the shelter, she couldn’t help but notice that many of the children didn’t have proper footwear—and some didn’t have shoes at all.

She and another amazing volunteer at the shelter decided to take the 28 children to a shoe store downtown and bought them each a new pair of shoes.

Shoe shopping!

As you can imagine, it meant the world to each of the young kids.  Lilyanne recalled happily, “to see their faces light up for something we so easily take for granted really warmed my heart.  For the first time in my life I really felt like I was doing something right.”

Another major adjustment she faced during her Quest was being without a set support system of family and friends.

“In a foreign country you can only rely on yourself.  I learned a lot about myself, and definitely became a more independent person.”

Throughout her time she also learned to lean on the staff and friends she made at the orphanage, remarking, “by the end I was so sad to leave; I made relationships with people that now feel like family.”

Her host family was incredible and had a huge impact on her trip. They made the transition into foreign life comfortable, loving, and exciting.

I could almost hear her beaming through the phone as she gushed, “I couldn’t have been happier with the family I was placed with.  I clicked with my host mother immediately—she spoke almost perfect English.” Laughing, she continued, “I’m also Vietnamese, and my host mother and I actually looked alike!  I was often mistaken as a local.”

Lilyanne also easily bonded with her host sister, and they were even able to spend time together at the orphanage during a holiday while her host-sister was on vacation from school.

Lilyanne and her host-sister on the last day at the orphanage

Though most of her time and energy was spent at the orphanage, she was also able to enjoy the culture and beauty of Nepal.

She got to go to some of the main Buddhist and Hindu temples around Kathmandu, and even witness an eye-opening live cremation at a Hindu temple.

She said it was fascinating to explore the beautiful temples, especially since religion is such a major part of the culture and heritage of Nepal in general.

During Dashain, “the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar,” she found time to travel to Pokhara, the third largest city in Nepal.

Beautiful Pokhara

She shared with her many followers in one recent post,

“I had the chance to be rid of the crowds, noise and pollution of Kathmandu and leave for higher ground for a couple of days. Located 200 km west of Kathmandu, Pokhara is the third largest city in Nepal.

Surrounded by beautiful peaks of the Himalayas, luscious green forests and the magnificent Phewa Tal lake, Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty and for some R&R.”

Her trip only raised her spirits further as she found more and more to love about the country of Nepal.

Lilyanne had an amazing trip and made a deep and meaningful impression on the people she met.  Here’s some advice she had to share—what a great approach to life she has!

“Go in with open heart and mind. In the beginning I struggled. I needed to remind myself this was my decision—I made it on my own—I had to just tell myself what I’m doing is for a purpose and I need to embrace it and live in the moment.  Remember: Stay humble and give back. You never know when you’re changing someone’s life, or saving it.”

A mother and daughter in Thimi

Thanks, Lilyanne, from all of us at United Planet. You made a meaningful impact on the lives of so many deserving children, and you’ll surely be remembered every time they look down at their feet!

If you’re interested in volunteering abroad in Nepal, here’s some more information about United Planet Quests, and how you can get involved in over 40 countries around the world! For more highlights from Lilyanne’s trip, including pictures and videos, be sure to check out her blog!

From 9/16/2011: “Relax. Be patient. You have more time.”

Ghana Bound!!

If you ever find yourself venturing around Ghana, those are the three things you will need to remember. But I’ll get to that a little later.

I want to write everything, tell you all of my experiences so far, but I have to accept that it would be impossible to do that. I think this post will have to be separated into short blurbs.

-I arrived in Accra Tuesday afternoon, was picked up by Sheila, an ICYE worker, and with some apprehension, jumped in a taxi to wherever I was being taken. Accra traffic is scary, to say the least.

-I’m staying in a hostel with 21 other volunteers as we go through a week of orientation. Being the only American, it’s been quite a cultural experience so far. The others are from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, and Sweden.

I definitely have it easiest when it comes to the Ghanaian English accent. The others know English, some better than the rest, but they have a very hard time understanding. Not in a mean way, but it’s interesting to watch them struggle.

Hostel for orientation week

They switch back and forth between their own languages and English to help each other understand. I don’t remember what it’s like to sit in the same room with everyone speaking English anymore.

-White people are ‘Oburoni’. Oburoni means white. White means rich (to them).

The men on the street come up, put their arm around you, attempt to make friends (sometimes more than friends), and will then try to sell you something.

-All my stressful preparation is paying off. Other volunteers are coming to me for things they need (good thing I brought a little extra of everything). I brought out UNO one night as well. Each country had some different rules, so we had fun making it up as we went.

-We started our intensive Twi language courses today. It’s…intense.

Drinking water in a bag

-I’m actually never too hot. I think good ol’ psychotic Minnesota weather is to thank for that.

-Now back to the title of this blog. We volunteers have been told numerous times that the hardest part of this adventure is already done.

We made the decision to move to Ghana.

William (the head guy here) says, “If you make it to Ghana, there is nothing you can’t do”.

He says that everything will come in its own time. I’m here for 6 months, there’s no rush to figure it all out. Just “relax” and “be patient”.

-Girl Worth Fighting For, from Mulan, has been stuck in my head for 3 days.

“When you travel you experience, in a very practical way, the act of rebirth. You confront completely new situations, the day passes more slowly, and on most journeys you don’t even understand the language the people speak….You begin to be more accessible to others, because they may be able to help you in difficult situations.”

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From 9/18/2011: “Naa Adwoa Shika”

Naming ceremony

That ^ is my Ghanaian name. Yesterday, we held a semi-traditional naming ceremony for all the volunteers.

Traditionally, after a Ghanaian woman gives birth, they keep the baby inside the house for 7 days.

On the 8th day, they perform an “outdooring”, and officially name the baby. The libation process is kinda complex, it involves dipping fingers into spirit alcohol and water, and placing symbolic drops in the baby’s mouth.

All the while, an elder wishes good morals and truth upon the baby. In the Akan culture, the first name is based on the day the baby was born (mine being Adwoa-monday).

Documenting all the new names

The second name is sometimes after an important family member/friend or it can be a name that means something good. Sampson, our Twi teacher who performed this whole ceremony, gave me Shika.

It means I bring wealth to wherever I go, I have a beautiful spirit, and I should have many many children. “2 children in 3 months” as Sampson joked. He’s a funny guy.

Our ceremony was minus the drops of liquid. Instead, we drank out of glasses. And let me tell you, 43% alcohol content was not my cup of tea…

Jean Charles, a seventeen-year-old senior at the John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Science in Roxbury, doesn’t remember his first trip on a plane — as a baby traveling from Haiti. He will never forget his second. In July, Jean flew over 30 hours to Mongolia via Washington D.C. and Beijing.  “I got very used to being in a plane,” he says. Many more unfamiliar experiences, however, were ahead for Jean.

Some of the group, ready to explore

Jean was one of 11 Boston Public School students and three teachers selected to join a three-week expedition to Mongolia as participants in the U.S. Department of State’s U.S.-Mongolia Emerging Youth Leaders Program. This October, Mongolian teenagers will travel to Boston to learn about journalism and the role of free expression in democratic society.

The program is supported by a grant from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and coordinated by United Planet, a Boston-based nonprofit that offers volunteer abroad programs; and iEARN, the world’s largest educational network for project-based learning.

Enrolled at Boston Latin, Quincy Upper, and Snowden School, as well as O’Bryant, the students represent the diversity and talent in Boston’s public schools.

They were each selected, says Caitlin Ferrarini, International Programs Manager at United Planet, because they were “involved in extracurricular activities, had an interest in journalism and free expression, were mature and independent, and were good students. We also tried to select kids who hadn’t had many opportunities to travel, especially internationally. A few kids were flying for the first time ever – it was really eye-opening!”

When they arrived in Mongolia, the students met their host families and visited schools, media outlets, an orphanage, historic sites, and nomadic herders in their ger tents (or yurts) in the desert.

It isn't every day one can "plank" in the Gobi Desert

They wrote newspaper articles and explored the meaning of free speech with their Mongolian peers. They learned to play games with goat anklebones and taught their hosts the latest Hip Hop dance moves. They heard harmonic throat singing, rode camels, and drank fermented mare’s milk. The American fad of planking – in which players compete to “plank” or lie like a board on top of unusual locations – may have found its champions when the Boston students planked on sand dunes in the Gobi desert.

Jean brought home a new sense that “the world is a lot smaller than I thought it would be.” He was struck that “as far away as they live, a lot of Mongolians we met spoke English really well – along with Russian and Mongolian – when Americans struggle to speak a second, or even one. Now I want to learn more languages myself.”

As a member of the Boston Student Advisory Council, Jean was impressed with the schools in Mongolia. “All the parents, teachers and students there are involved in the schools. I hope I can emphasize the importance of being involved in your school through my work on the Council.”

A boy and his goat

The American and Mongolian students are now staying in touch through Facebook, and can’t wait to see each other again when the Mongolians visit Boston this fall. “I’m saving up to take my host brother to the Galleria and shop for sneakers,” says Jean. “I’d love it if he could go to a Red Sox or a Patriots game.”

The Mongolian students will spend two weeks in Boston, visiting and learning; they will tour the Emerson College radio station, visit the BU Center for Investigative Journalism, interview homeless people, drop by the MIT Center for Future Civic Media, and more. The third week, they will be in Washington, DC, where they will tour Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court, visit the Smithsonian, and more.

About Mongolia

The whole happy group of travelers!

Mongolia, a landlocked country in East and Central Asia, is bordered by Russia and the People’s Republic of China. Mongolia’s political system is now a parliamentary republic; during the last century, its politics were similar to those in the USSR, until a democratic revolution in 1990 led to a multi-party system, a new constitution in 1992, and transition to a market economy. Since 2006, the media environment has been improving with the government debating a new Freedom of Information Act, and the removal of any affiliation of media outlets with the government. Market reforms have led to an increasing number of people working in the media, along with students at journalism schools.

The project is a program of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. It is being managed and implemented by United Planet (based in Boston, MA) and iEARN (International Education and Resource Network).

About iEARN

iEARN was launched in 1988 as a pilot project between the US and former USSR to demonstrate that students could use emerging new technologies to work together on meaningful educational projects that enhance the quality of life on the planet. It is iEARN’s vision that if students start working together globally from the earliest ages (5-19), they will learn better through experiential interaction with peers in other countries and learn that the world’s issues can be resolved by collaborative solutions. iEARN has grown to become the world’s largest educational network for project-based learning, with programs in more than 130 countries.

iEARN-USA was awarded the 2003 Goldman Sachs Foundation Prize for Excellence in International Education and is a 2004 Tech Museum Laureate winner for “technology benefiting humanity.” Please visit www.iearn.org andwww.us.iearn.org or e-mail: iearn@us.iearn.org iEARN-USA is based in New York City.

About MEA

The Mongolian Education Alliance is an independent non-governmental organization established in July 2004 as a successor to the education program or the former Mongolian Foundation for Open Society. Th mission of MEA is to strengthen and sustain the network of local and international partners that contribute to open society values such as transparency, accountability, participation, equal access in the Mongolian education sector; identify underserved areas of educational reform; and initiate projects supporting reform in teacher development, student center learning, and community involvement. MEA is the officially designated iEARN representative for Mongolia

About ECA

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State fosters mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries to promote friendly, and peaceful relations, as mandated by the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961.

ECA accomplishes its mission through a range of programs based on the benefits of mutual understanding, international educational and cultural exchange, and leadership development. We engage youth, students, educators, artists, athletes, and rising leaders in many fields in the United States and more than 160 countries through academic, cultural, sports, and professional exchanges. Striving to reflect the diversity of the United States and global society, ECA programs, funding, and other activities encourage the involvement of American and international participants from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities.

ECA exchange program alumni encompass over 1 million people around the world, including more than 50 Nobel Laureates and over 350 current and former heads of state and government.

I will never forget my first morning in Indonesia...

Sarah posing with some of the teachers at the boarding school.

Just as the sun was about to peek over the horizon, I was jolted awake by a strange sound. In a matter of seconds, the dark and silent city was hit by waves of high pitched cries, enveloping the sleeping houses and hills beyond.

It took a few heart-pounding moments for me to remember I was in Semarang, Central Java, and recognize that these loud, eery voices echoing out of the darkness were the Islamic calls to prayer.

Closing my eyes and listening to these rhythmic, haunting sounds gave me goosebumps.

It hit me for the first time that I was thousands of miles and worlds away from everything I knew.

Teacher Sarah!

I couldn’t wait to start my journey.

For six incredible months I lived and assisted teaching English at a Pondok Pesantren, an Islamic boarding school in Indonesia led by an expert of Islam called a Kyai.

It was a bumpy 15 minute drive from the nearest main road through steamy forest and scattered villages.

Eventually, a large sign welcomes you to the school, a collection of small buildings.

In the centre of the clearing, surrounded by natural mango trees and flowering bushes, was the home I shared with the family of the Kyai, my host family.

Some students and Sarah in the home where she stayed.

To the left were the student dormitories housing approximately 1,000 students and to the right, the classrooms.

A typical day for the students starts at 4:00 am when they arise to pray and read the Koran.

Standard curriculum classes, such as math, history, and English, start promptly at 7:00 am and last until 3:00 pm. After that, school activities are focused around religious studies and reading the Koran. Sometimes they continue until 10:00 or 11:00 at night!

I was always amazed at how everyone could get through the day with so little sleep. They liked to tease me by saying, “selamat siang” (good afternoon) if I woke up at 6:00 am!

My favourite time was late at night when the students finished their activities and I would relax and chat with them in their dormitory. Mixing English and Indonesian, we talked about everything.

Sarah with some of her happy students.

It was amazing living at a boarding school because I was was not only a teacher, but became a close friend to many of the students as well.

On my teaching days, I would walk from my home to the classrooms wearing my long, batik patterned skirt and brightly coloured hijab covering my hair, which I wore out of respect for the culture.

“Assalamu alaikum!” I would greet my class in Arabic and they would enthusiastically reply in unison, “Wa alaikum salam!”

The classrooms were often very crowded and I had little more than a whiteboard and marker to teach with, but we always had a great time.

Some more students at her school.

The children were so full of energy and every day we would practice our English through songs, acting or games.

Whatever we did, I was usually exhausted by the end of class but always walked out smiling. It was fulfilling to see the students respond so energetically to the lesson plans I worked hard to make for them.

I think the most important thing I took home from my journey was the cross-cultural experiences and exchanging of ideas and knowledge.

It’s now clearer to me than ever that to create a better world we need to foster respect, understanding and acceptance between people of different cultures, different ethnicities and different backgrounds.

I find it troubling how easily western societies associate Islam with terrorism. I can say from first hand experience that generalizing about a group of people like this is completely unjustified and wrong.

Beautiful view from the balcony at Sarah's project.

For the people I lived and worked with in my Islamic school, as well as those I met traveling around this predominately Islamic country, the primary values in life were taking care of family, helping those less fortunate and keeping their religious and cultural traditions alive. These people are some of the kindest and gentlest people I have ever known.

I feel extremely lucky to have experienced a Quest with United Planet in Indonesia. It allowed me to   immerse myself in life in another part of our world.

When I arrived I found a culture that at times left me feeling bewildered and confused. By the time I left six months later I had learned so much that Indonesia felt like my second home.

Sarah loved staying at the boarding school where she met some amazing students and teachers.

My mind has been opened more than I imagined it could be and the way I see the world, myself, and those I know will be forever changed.

I would like to continue working with people from all walks of life and continue fostering relationships and building cross-cultural b

ridges that are essential to make our world a better place for everyone.

This certainly will not be my last Quest!

Click here for more information about becoming a United Planet Volunteer in Indonesia!

Kimberly felt that her entire safety review before spending 3 weeks in Tanzania was over the top. She remarked, “I was warned about many things, including ‘not to look at people in the eye’ and other safety topics. I did not have an issue at all with many of the topics that were brought up. If you practice common sense in Tanzania, then you will have a good time.” We thought we should explain to our volunteers and to anyone else interested in staying safe while abroad, why we spend so much time preparing our volunteers and ensuring our host family and volunteer project placements are safe.

We love our volunteers!

We took some time to put together some information concerning ways to stay safe while abroad, and we want to reiterate the importance of being prepared; we may focus on safety too much, but hey, it’s better to be safe than to be sorry!  Plus, we’ll do the worrying for you so you can have more time to enjoy your trip…

Living and working in another culture is an unparalleled experience.

Too many travelers, however, miss out on opportunities to help communities in developing nations because of concerns about personal safety. How will you find a safe place to live? How will you ask for help if you don’t speak the language? Will you make friends who can advise you? What will you do in an emergency?

A volunteer making the most of her experience in Chile last December

Staying safe abroad is much the same as staying safe at home. It requires common sense, an understanding of local customs and lives, and supportive relationships with local residents.

Cultural immersion, rather than keeping your distance, is the key to a safe and life-changing adventure.

Becoming an accepted and engaged member of your new community will give you the awareness, knowledge, and sensitivity you need to avoid unsafe situations.

Your skills and energy are needed in many different countries. Here’s how you can make a difference without worry:

• Learn about your destination before you go. Read traveler forums, blogs, and accounts from people who know the country. Explore the streets, countryside, and transportation routes via Google Earth’s satellite maps and images.
• Arrange to live with a host family or in a hostel managed by local residents. They will be your first friends and support network in the country.
• Arrange to do meaningful work within the community. Real contributions will help you build real relationships.
• Learn the language as much as possible before your arrival.
• Be aware of cultural patterns and plan to take part in local customs. What is considered polite behavior and decent attire? What holidays, festivals, and other events will take place while you are there?
• Learn about the realities of daily life in your community. What are the challenges? What are the joys? Plan to share in both.
• Enroll in a reputable international travel program that provides pre-departure training as well as a network of in-country support.

Happy kids at a school in Tanzania

United Planet (www.unitedplanet.org) has been helping people volunteer in 40 nations for several years. Committed to fostering cross-cultural understanding to promote global peace, UP’s in-country coordinators have lived, worked, or studied in the region they manage. They provide personalized attention and planning for each volunteer as well as comprehensive pre-departure information and training.

On arrival, volunteers receive an on-site orientation by their in-country coordinator, who explains logistics, public transportation, emergency procedures, and local health and safety precautions. UP volunteers have 24/7 phone access to their coordinator, and coordinators check in regularly with all volunteers in the field. Host families, locations, and projects have been thoroughly vetted by the UP team.

By building relationships between volunteers, coordinators, and community members, United Planet ensures that their participants have all the preparation, tools and resources they need to stay safe while making a difference.

“My two children participated in a United Planet Quest to Peru last summer. They enjoyed their experience so much that this summer they are both going to Guatemala. Both of them truly loved what United Planet organized for them in Peru. Not only did they feel that they were helping underprivileged children in Peru, and making a difference in their lives, but they also bonded with their local host families, became more fluent in Spanish, and were able to travel throughout the incredible countryside of Cuzco. To feel that way is a very empowering experience for teenagers. It has opened their eyes to the world and given them more respect and understanding for other cultures.”

–Renata De Dalmas – Parent of two United Planet volunteers

We recently heard from Barbara, a Long Term volunteer who just arrived to Germany this January.  She has a great blog from her trip so far including delicious recipes and tales of her volunteer experience so far.  We included a couple entries here, as well as the link to the rest of her blog…Enjoy!

“Last Saturday we drove to Bernauer for some ‘richtiges Einkaufen’ (proper shopping) at the E-Center (Can you guess what the E stands for?). Our main goal was groceries and SIM cards, which we completed with ease.  However, with several hours of shopping, 2 hours walking the dog, and nothing but a traditional Deutschefruehstuck (German Breakfast, which consists of rolls, butter, cheese, jam, and coffee), poor Lex and I were exceptionally hungry by 6:00pm, when we got back to Werneuchen.

Though I am fairly certain these recipes are, in fact, truly delicious, I cannot be sure how tainted my perception was by my hunger that night. )
Guten Appetite!

Salatesosse (Salad dressing)
2-3 spoonfuls of fragrant Olive Oil
2-3 spoonfuls of lightly reduce Balsamic Vinegar (this vinegar should be distilled from grape, apple, and pear juice, or similar fruits)
1 spoonful of Clover Honey
Salt, Pepper, Tuscan spice blend, and Middle Eastern spice blend

Whisk all of these ingredients together in a salad bowl. Toss with salad greens to coat.

Kaese-Kartoffeln (Cheese Potatoes)
1 kg small/baby golden potatos, boiled
100-150g shredded Swiss cheese
Salt, pepper, olive oil

Preheat oven to 375F (C).
Quarter the potatos and place in a heavy casserol dish. Drizzel olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle on salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle the Swiss cheese evenly over the potatos.
Place in the middle of the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and the edges have started to turn brown.

UP/ICJA Quest: Host-Family, The First Days.

On January 27th our host family picked us up. We enjoyed a nice meal at their favorite Indian restaurant (which was DELICIOUS! I had the Chicken Tandoori and Lex had Snapper in red sauce), and then to their favorite Cafe for an after lunch espresso (in my experience this is very typically German after enjoying a large meal). It was wonderful to be able to speak German freely (during the Orientation Camp we were asked to speak English as not everyone could speak German), and I was very proud of Lex for practicing his German and enthusiastically participating in our conversations.

The Behms (our host family) drove us around Berlin center, pointing out important landmarks and sharing some of their own personal stories growing up in Eastern Germany/Eastern Berlin and living through the imposition and destruction of the Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall). Since both are artists (Our Host-Vatter (Host Father) is a percussionist (specialties are set/trap) and Host-Mutter (Host Mother) is a dancer (performer) and dance instructor) and both grew up in artistic families, their stories tended to focus on performance art and the use of performance art in political demonstrations. It’s absolutely fascinating and I can’t wait to learn more!”

Want to hear more about Barbara and Lex’s Long term Quest?

http://postgradexplorations.blogspot.com/

Interested in Long Term Quests to Germany? Check out our website for information about how YOU can travel and enjoy the gift of volunteering:

http://www.unitedplanet.org/volunteer-abroad/long-term

Vera, United Planet’s Executive Director in Tanzania, recently attended the Santi za Busara music festival in Zanzibar (Zanzibar is sort of part of Tanzania).

What a wonderful way to indulge in the culture of another country experiencing the power of music as a language which needs no translation.  Here’s what she had to say as well as some amazing photos courtesy of her husband Peter…

Sauti za Busara – Music Festival Zanzibar

Stonetown never gets as busy as during the annual Sauti za Busara music festival. 

Visitors from every corner of the world come to Zanzibar to be part of this event which hosts musicians from all over Africa.

The city is vibrant with the many people and the sounds of music played in the open air of the Old Fort, at the Stonetown waterfront.

And, lucky me, I got to be there again this year.

Stonetown, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is only a two hour ferry ride away from Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital and largest city in Tanzania.

Beautiful Stonetown

When the sea is calm the boat ride is a treat.

To see the aqua blue ocean, local fisherman in sailing boats called dhows, small islands with pristine beaches, and finally entering the port of Stonetown itself, with splendid views of some of the best kept buildings of the city such as the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum and the Tembo Hotel, are worthwhile the trip.

The island of Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar archipelago, has many beaches not too far from Stonetown.

White sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and amazing music...perfection!

Together with a friend I rented a car, and drove to Jozani forest to see the Colobus monkeys, found in Zanzibar only, and then continued to Paje, a town on the east coast of the island, to enjoy the beach for a few hours.

The music festival, held in February every year, lasts for 5 days.

One of my favorite performances this year was the Senegalese – Swedish band of Sousou and Maher Cissoko, playing West African kora music that just makes you want to dance.

A smiling musician enjoying the festival

There was also plenty of Taarab music to be heard, an East African coastal music style influenced by a mix of African and Arab music, and of which Zanzibar is the center.

Why don’t you come see and experience it yourself next year?

Read more about United Planet’s volunteer opportunities in Tanzania!

Pictures courtesy of Peter Stanley – www.photopoa.com

On September 23rd, we celebrated United Planet Day. This annual event is held on the Fall Equinox because it “is the only time of the year when the middle of the sun is positioned above and below horizon—shining on every location on Earth for an equal amount of time.” This “represents United Planet’s mission of fostering mutual understanding, improving the quality of life for everyone, and creating harmony among the people of the world.” While it was a day filled with activity, I also found it to be a time for reflection.

One of the purposes of our blog is to keep everyone informed of what’s going on here at United Planet. As such, I thought it appropriate to use this medium to show my appreciation for the time that I have spent as a volunteer in United Planet’s Boston office.

I’ve been working in the  marketing team for the past couple of months, and while I may not be having the same exciting and life-altering experiences (I think) that our volunteers overseas have – say, helping to improve the lives of impoverished children- I feel fortunate to have had this opportunity to volunteer.

What is it about this experience that makes it worthwhile? Most importantly, United Planet’s mission to foster cross-cultural understanding.  UP’s multikulti philosophy is certainly evident in the office, and the results are phenomenal! Our Boston team consists of people from all over the world and the diversity makes for a great working atmosphere. There is always something to learn from, or share with, the diverse staff.  Working with a team of individuals from various backgrounds allows for diverse perspectives that often lead to better work-related solutions, as well as hilarity.

Not to be overly sentimental or corny, but working with the team at United Planet has been delightful.  My teammates are charming, warm, witty and terribly fun to work with. That is not to say that we don’t work hard. We certainly do and the work that we do is rewarding because it holds the potential to make a positive difference in our volunteers’ lives.

In short, I thoroughly value the time I have spent volunteering with United Planet because of the positive and diverse work environment.

When the sunrise over the snow-capped Andes welcomed me to Chile, I knew I was in for a truly humbling and life-changing experience.  I was not disappointed.

As it had rained the night before my arrival, the normally smog-filled skies of Santiago were crystal clear.  I was able to capture photographs showcasing the natural beauty of the sprawling metropolis.  With each picture that I took, I was reminded that I was far from the flat plains of Indiana.

In Santiago during the first week of my quest, I traveled to my English-teaching assignment with my host sister, Elizabeth.  Every morning she would guide me to the “colectivo” station (shared taxi) which we would take to her school.  At her school, I worked with two English teachers who were responsible for teaching English to pre-kindergarten students through seniors in high school.  As a teacher in the United States, I observed that these teachers have a heavy teaching workload.  In addition to preparing for several different classes, these teachers also moved from room to room, carrying their teaching materials with them.  This is very different than the middle/high schools in the United States where the students usually change rooms. Also, my assigned school had only female students, thus giving me a different perspective on classroom dynamics.

The children I worked with were wonderful.  Some were very hesitant to speak English to me while others wanted to practice as much as possible.  I was fortunate to help some high school students with an oral presentation about their future careers.  The drive and motivation of these girls really impressed me.

For the second week of my quest, I traveled to Valparaíso.  I gave CAP presentations to students at a technical college who were studying English.  As I spoke, many students smiled and nodded.  I could tell they were learning something, which as an educator made me feel like I was making a difference.

During my two weeks in Chile, I was fortunate to live with two remarkable families.  Both of my host families opened their homes, hearts, and cultures to me.  They were so patient, really trying to slow down their pace of spoken Spanish so I could understand them.  I will always be grateful to them for their kindness and compassion.

My host families introduced me to Chilean foods and customs.  I grew fond of having “almuerzo” (a large lunch) and then later in the evening having “once” (a small meal).  They introduced me to “completos” (hot dogs topped with avocados, tomatoes, and mayonnaise), “sopaipillas” (fried bread but different from the Mexican version), and eating avocados on toast for breakfast.   Being that it was late fall in Chile, I learned that in order stay warm, wearing layers of clothing, including several pairs of socks, worked the best, as most Chilean homes and schools do not have central heating.

Throughout my quest, the generosity of the Chileans and the pride they have for their country instilled a sense of awe in me.  Whenever I needed help, such as getting the right seat on a bus or finding my way back home, someone was always there to help me.  Whenever I was introduced to someone new, he or she always spoke lovingly about his or her city and welcomed me to it.  I was lucky to be in Chile as they prepared for the World Cup soccer competition.  From commercials on television to merchandise being sold on the street, it was evident that Chileans are proud of their “fútbolistas.”

In short, every day in Chile was an experience I will never forget.  I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to travel there.  I am honored to have learned so much from so many wonderful, loving people.  A sunrise welcomed me to Chile, and a magnificent purple sunset over the Andes bid me farewell as I entered the airport for my journey back to the United States. Even though my quest is over, part of my heart will always remain in Chile.

Is your interest piqued? Visit our website to start planning your Chile Volunteer Quest!