Madagascar Marine Cnservation

Having never really spent any time away from home, I was incredibly nervous about going, but as soon as I got there and was met by my volunteer coordinator Chris at the airport I was immediately reassured. I'd never visited a developing country and I didn't really have any idea about what to expect on camp. While obviously not 5 star accommodation, the atmosphere on camp was fantastic. Everyone was so helpful and made me feel really welcome and over the 2 weeks I made some really great friends. My Project Coordinator Lisa was the best and she has really confirmed my belief that Marine Biology is what I want to do in the future. The scuba diving was amazing thanks to the incredible variety of wildlife and a really supportive dive officer Pete. I saw some amazing animals as well as getting the chance to complete a survey which will help towards understanding the problems that coral reefs in the area face. We also did an Environmental Awareness Day with the local children. It was great to see the kids laughing at our play but it was also important that we got across our message clearly. The only way to preserve the environment there is through educating the children and it was lovely to spend some time with them teaching them English and looking for animals. Apart from the volunteer work there was opportunity for some amazing trips. I went and swam with whale sharks which was a humbling and once in a life time experience. On the trip I also got to see humpback whales and mobular rays. On Friday nights also got to party with the locals which was a fantastic way to experience some of the local Malagasy culture. Overall, I had the most amazing time. 2 weeks was definitely not long enough and I would love to go back. To anyone who is considering going abroad with Frontier, do it! The combination of serious scientific research and unique outings and experiences was everything I hoped for and more. They were so helpful every step of the way and I couldn't have wished to spend my time with a better group of people in Frontier's little bit of paradise!

-Charlotte Aston