Name: Amy Berkhout
Programme: Himachal Pradesh
Dates: July-August 2007 (4 week programme)

What was your motivation to take a gap break? I finished school that year and wanted to experience something completely different to life back at home during the summer. I chose a volunteering programme because I liked the idea of being able to mix an amazing travelling trip with giving something to the country. How did you feel before you joined the programme? I was a bit apprehensive, as I would be travelling by myself for the first time.

What was the accommodation like? The accommodation was fairly basic (though luxurious compared to some of the stuff possible) but it was definitely liveable! Obviously there weren't necessarily western comforts but I found that if you arrived expecting this then it really wasn't a problem. What did you think of the programme? I really liked the format of combining voluntary work with the travelling and the trips like the Taj Mahal and trekking were amazing! The work I did was great (at the day care centre) and the kids were adorable. Did your programme and destination meet your expectations? It was quite different to how I'd expected it but it did meet my expectations! I feel that I achieved everything that I could have hoped for.

What was the most memorable moment of your trip? I couldn't give just one moment but I really loved staying with the Indian family for the first 3 nights, organising a trip to Manali ourselves and going paragliding. Another time was sitting 2,500m - above the clouds- on a mountain during the trek and watching the sun setting, which was such a great feeling. Also doing the hokey cokey with the children for the first time and seeing their faces was great, & the Taj Mahal trip too!

What do you feel you accomplished? I accomplished some personal goals, the first being actually going, and going by myself. I was really nervous but I was fine, the other volunteers were great and I've made some really great friends! I think I also experienced the real India as opposed to the tourist route. Staying with an Indian family and working with locals is a unique chance to see what it is really like and be totally immersed in the culture. How have you benefited from your experience? I don't know really, but some of my friends have told me that I'm a lot more confident and happy with myself. I think that experiencing the real culture and real social issues in India through my community work had made me appreciate my own comforts. I also appreciate having a hot shower (not a bucket filled with cold water!). What advice could you offer? I would advise them that India is a really cool place. You wouldn't believe how much is going on all the time. The first few days are so overwhelming as there is so much happening - the culture is so rich and beautiful. I'm so glad I went and I really miss being there.