India Volunteer Himachal Pradesh

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.

Be prepared however for  ‘Indian time', overall between the volunteers this was a phrase we used for the sometimes chaotic ways in which things were done - especially when compared to the highly efficient world that we live in England.

A few packing tips as well - hand sanitiser is an essential! With regards to the work, if you want to work at the day care centre it's a good idea to bring some stuff like colouring-in books, bubbles (which the children love but aren't readily available) and basic books with lots of colour and bits to open etc.!

You need to accept that “15 to 30 minutes” means anything from 3 mins to 3 hours, to I haven't got the foggiest! Keep your eyes wide open to take in both the wonderful and bazaar, oh and be wary of the Indian head wobble! It can mean yes/ no/ ok/ maybe/ I don't mind/ or I don't care!