Experience:
Organisation:
Name: Jo
Hometown: London
Destination: Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre, South Africa
Project type: Conservation
Organisation: African Conservation Experience
What were your impressions of your destination?
The actual setting was beautiful, in the middle of the countryside of South Africa, although not too cut off from civilisation. It was a perfect place to have the project as there were a lot of game farms surrounding the centre, so many injured or unwell animals were brought to the centre.
Was the work interesting and challenging?
Yes it definitely was. We were kept quite busy, although we were given plenty of opportunity to leave the centre on organised trips to the town and other activities in the local area, e.g. Kruger National Park. The normal activities were quite repetitive, for example you were given a round of animals which needed to be cleaned and fed twice a day, 7 days a week, but it was nice to have a routine so you didn't have to keep asking what to do next. However, everyday there was something new to do, as new animals might come in or we might go on a bush walk to learn the spoors of animals in the bush. I was also taught a lot during my time there, though perhaps a little more could have been learnt during my 2 months spent at the project. Also the longer the time spent there and the more you prove yourself is rewarded with responsibility to look after orphaned animals brought into the rehab.
What was your accommodation like? Did you feel comfortable and welcome at all times?
The accommodation exceeded my expectation by a long way. It was basic, with beds, wardrobes, desks, lamps, and a toilet and shower in each room, but it was very clean and comfortable. Also it was nice to have a common room with comfy chairs and tables and a kitchen always available to us. It didn't have any TVs or computers but I thought this was much better as it meant I bonded with the people there more and also I appreciated the technology more when I got home.
Were you happy with the organisation and the staff that were responsible for you during your stay?
The organisation, ACE, was very helpful in getting ready for the trip. The list of things to bring was quite accurate although there were a few obscure items on it which weren't needed. One bad point to say about them was on my first night, the plans were changed and I stayed in a hotel room instead of in the project centre. I was left alone from 2pm till 5am, which did make me quite anxious, as this was my first night abroad by myself, not knowing anyone.
ACE were also very good in changing my flight, as I wanted to stay out in South Africa for a week to spend time in Johannesburg. They organised everything for me, including transfer to the house where I would be spending my week, all for only £50 extra for the flight. They were also very good when I was in two minds to change projects for 2 weeks to see a different project, and were understanding when I changed my mind to stay. The people on the project were very friendly and made me feel welcome. I found that the owner of the centre had very strong views and imposed a few of them on us, which took some getting used to, for example, having shoulders and legs covered up. However, after a while, these rules became part of the project and only caused problems a few times. The people there increased my enjoyment for the project as I really got on well with them, and I do actually miss their support and company.
Do you feel that you got value for money on the project?
Yes, I did get value for money, though I do believe that it could be done for a cheaper price.
Would you recommend the project to others?
Yes
