Six months in. Advice to newbies.

Im going to talk about striking a good volunteer /life balance.

Firstly, Try to learn the local language. If I can do it. You can too.

Do something exciting.   Get your divers licence, climb a mountain, or enter a running race. You can  do it with strangers or with friends or alone.

Do something boring. See the latest hollywood blockbuster. Or download all four seasons of that cult hit science fiction show filmed in Australia. (Any guesses?)

Be prepared for random encounters and or blind dates. It might be the start of a very long friendship.

Be ready for a life of contrast. In the morning you might be touring a kampung or a slum. And in the evening treated to a free meal and drinks at the marriot hotel.

Catch public transport. Get off at the wrong stop.

You will lose your mobile phone in the backseat of a taxi. But dont freak out. You can keep the same mobile number as long as you still have the box!

Embrace Ambiguity.  I dont know what the hell that means. But it sounds cool.

If your angry about something and cant sleep at two in the morning. Dont just lie there..wake up. Get out your computer and  write a strongly worded letter to PTAN saying how disappointed, frustrated, aannoyed and outraged you are. And when your finished writing, whatever you do. Dont send that letter. Wait two days. And then send it.

Dont be alarmed if a monkey scratches you during a photo opportunity. Monkey bites on the other hand...

Please, dont give money to street children.

Finnally. Each assignment has its own challenges and uncertainties. Sometimes they are insurmountable. Just remember. International volunteers do not quit or leave early. They simply embark on the next adventure