I was recently asked to feature on another travel blog. Of course I leapt at the opportunity and was more than happy to answer some questions. Thank you to Dollys Quest for inviting me and allowing me to spread my passion. Here are the questions I was asked and my answers that followed.
Why did you begin your blog?
I’ve done a lot of traveling and have spent a lot of time volunteering at different animal organisations around the world. Often I get asked in my day to day life how I got involved. People are interested in my stories, and I like telling them. So what better way to share my experiences and give practical advice, than through a blog.
What is your goal focus of your blog?
By sharing my experiences and stories, I hope to create awareness about different animal organisations and the hard work they put in to ensure the safety and survival of the animals in their care. I want to inspire people to learn more about animals they may encounter on their travels or in everyday life. I also hope to encourage people to volunteer some of their time either at home or on their next adventure.
Where are you now and what are your upcoming travel plans?
Currently I am in London, UK. I only immigrated here from Australia about 8 months ago, so a lot of changes have been happening for me this year. I haven’t got another animal volunteer program lined up just yet. However I will be in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October where I will be indulging in my other passion, tango dancing!
Where is your dream travel destination?
Many years ago I would have said central Africa, to be able to work along side chimpanzees and gorillas. However that dream came true about 5 years ago. It would be incredible to return, to see the infants I helped nurture and witness their progress at the sanctuary. Now, I am aiming to volunteer with elephants and rhinos at a rehabilitation sanctuary in the south of Africa. However I would also love to visit areas of central/south America to volunteer with turtles, spider/howler monkeys and big cats. Orangutans in Borneo are also on my list! It’s too hard to have one dream destination, there are way too many!
Is there any advice you would give to an aspiring animal lover trying to get into the field?
Keep trying, keep applying and keep your interest and passion alive! Working with animals is extremely emotional and very hard, yet the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. If you need more experience then volunteer. There are so many places all over the world looking for hard working, dedicated, compassionate individuals to help with day to day duties. When you know what you love to do, but are told repeatedly that you’re not the right fit, don’t give up. I haven’t. Volunteering helps show how dedicated you are and what lengths you will go to, to get that necessary experience in the field. At the same time you will have such an incredible experience that will live with you forever.
Are there any inspiring words that you live by?
“The least I can do is speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves”.
Many animals are suffering due to human greed and ignorance. If I can help just one animal be heard and understood then I am happy. But I will not stop at just one. Everyday I am learning and everyday I hope to teach and inspire.
I often remind myself that “it’s not about the destination, its about the journey”.
That’s it! – I hope you enjoyed the questions and my answers.
Thanks for reading!
Please leave a comment about anything you read, or if need any advice. I would love to hear from you.
You can join my community on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with what I’m up to around the world! xx
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