General Impression
Overall Rating: / 10
I was a first time volunteer when I left for Tirana, Albania. The first couple of days abroad were difficult as there is not always someone around who speaks English and you don't yet have a routine down. It wont take long, however, to realize that everyone there is very helpful and kind and the neighborhood isn't as tricky to navigate as you first thought. Altin is a good man who will show you around and help you with anything you might need as often as he can.It was heartwarming spending the morning, usually 8-12, with the young children and a couple of hours afterword with the older children from a nearby school working on their English homework. The children live in very poor conditions and I think the friendship and love the volunteers bring to their lives is very important, whether they realize it now or not. This is a place lacking financial stability so expect to rough it a little. If you come in the winter bring warm clothes and waterproof slippers for the shower room wouldn't hurt either.
I would strongly recommend volunteering in Albania. It is a beautiful place and it wont take you long to fall in love with the people and the culture.