I also loved my volunteer work. I am a nurse and worked in a clinic for my entire stay.

Alison spent eight weeks in Peru, in July and August of 2011, working in a women’s shelter and an animal rehabilitation center, while also immersing herself in Peruvian culture.

Probably the most fascinating of all of this is, of course, Machu Picchu. Only when you go there and see it for yourself will you realize how majestic it is, and fully understand why it is one of the seven wonders of the world. Not only are the ruins themselves amazing, but the views from being up in the mountains of the other mountains and of the rivers running through so far below you will take your breath away.

This was one of the best experiences of my life. I was a little unsure whether or not I was making the right decision before going, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat, in fact when it was time to come home I didn’t want to leave.

As we reported before, United Planet just donated some money to the Aldea Infantil in Cusco, Peru so they could buy materials to renovate and repair kitchens and living areas. They’ve been nice enough to send some photos of the work in progress. Fun stuff…