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Name: Francine Bowden
Programme: Ecuador Language School and Street Children
Dates: 5th May - 16th June ‘07
How did you feel before you joined the programme?
I was really very scared and apprehensive before I left for Ecuador, excited too, but scared!
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How did Real Gap assist you?
Real Gap were great, it was really reassuring and comforting to know that there were people on hand if I needed help or had any queries. But I was left to my own devices also, which was great too, as I could do what I wished and it gave me great sense of independence.
What was the accommodation like?
The house where I stayed was great, just 5 minutes from the language school snd shops and restaurants. The lady I stayed with was fantastic, like a grandma! I had a lovely room, delicious food and Dora was just lovely. |
What did you think of the programme?
The programme was great, the Spanish school was so very helpful, I didn't know anything when I left England, and by the end of the two weeks I had learnt an unbelievable amount and therefore was able to get by during my six weeks in Ecuador. Working at the school/Centre was amazing, so rewarding and fun too, I played football, helped the children with their homework and with lunch and really felt like I was a help. And the teachers and staff were so friendly, and I wanted to bring the children home!! Great fun!
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What was the most memorable moment of your trip?
One of the highlights had to be a four day trip to the jungle with a really good friend I made in my first week, we went caiman spotting, red piranha fishing (I didn't catch anything!) and did lots of lazing around in hammocks. It was so beautiful, and so much fun.
I also had a few really great nights at a Cuban salsa bar on Thursday nights with my friends, where there was live music and we could show of our salsa moves, from our lessons at school!! |
Did your project and destination meet your expectations? Any anecdotes?
Definitely, it lived up to all my expectations and more, I really had the time of my life, and learnt a lot about myself, that I can actually survive on my own- and I think its put me in good stead for going to university this year.
Had uncountable laughs, getting a little creature attached to my hip in the jungle has to be one of them, or sinking knee deep in the mud or dancing with crazy men at the salsa club and not being able to keep up and then becoming unbelievably dizzy…(especially after the killer free mojitos)!!
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How have you benefited from your experience?
I have changed a lot I think, I have very different perceptions know and its extraordinary how six weeks away can make such a difference. I have caught the bug and can't wait to travel more, and I am no longer scared to do it, I have realised that I'm not actually rubbish with money and I can budget and that I can make friends really easily- which is great for your confidence. I also feel as though I have grown up a lot, and I know it all sounds really silly, but its been quite a journey, and a really great one. I have some really close friends and a lot of marvellous memories. |
What advice could you offer to someone considering this project?
I would say go for it, you'll be really scared but you will undoubtedly have the bestest time ever, make some great friends and do things you never thought you would do, I never thought I would visit the Amazon and see caiman crocodiles and monkeys swinging in the trees, and I truly believe if I can do it, anybody can.
Make the most of it and throw yourself in, you will surprise yourself, and be surprised at how much people will appreciate your input at your chosen project.
You must do it, it so, so fantastic!!
 Further information on the Ecuador Language and Street Children Programme
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