The experience of volunteering abroad was wonderful for me.
The reputation of Colombia in the UK is still of an extremely dangerous and hostile environment. People I spoke to before leaving always said - "How brave/why on earth are you going to Colombia?/it is so dangerous there? Aren't you scared? "etc. Because my husband visits Colombia regularly 2-3 times a year/does business there and had good friends there I know that the situation today is very different.
I like the Globalteer philosophy, the way in which money is spent/distributed and obvious care for local customs/conditions etc.
During the school holidays, at my placement, you had to think on your feet and be prepared to be totally flexible - but the kids were fantastic, resources and support provided were excellent and I had a wonderful time. Medellin in a lovely City in which to work and from which to explore parts of Colombia at weekends - and I felt totally safe there all the time.
The experience of volunteering abroad was wonderful for me - not only the placement but also the opportunity to live and work in another City/country and practice another language. The children are used to short term volunteers coming and going (which is good, makes it easier for volunteers and kids alike). They certainly appreciate volunteers when they are there and we all had good times together. From my point of view, the project, the placement and the service provided by Globalteer were perfect and exactly fitted my needs - so it was good value.
Will certainly recommend to friends.