Parting thoughts....

As the volunteers and staff departed from the enchantment of the jungle and made their way to Quito, the look of contemplation could be seen on all faces. The last 5 or 10 weeks had most definitely touched and changed people’s lives for the better. Many of those involved felt so content and at peace in the reserve; nothing could touch us, we didn’t need to think or worry about anything. Everyone got on so well and bonded immediately, creating a new family unit and friends were made for life. To know that this life changing experience was coming to an end and the thought of leaving new friends was devastating. But when looking back at the good times that we had, the different species we saw and the huge amount of amazingly clumsy incidents that occurred, on reflection the trip was, well....perfect.

The hardest thing now for all of those involved, is to somehow explain to people back home all of the ‘out of this world’ things that we have seen and done, but somehow I feel it will be hard for them to comprehend, as the noise, beauty and magic of the jungle has to be experienced first hand. I just want to take this opportunity to say thank you to G.V.I. for making this experience unforgettable and to the staff for being truly amazing!!...LEDGENDS!!
Emma Redwood - volunteer GVI Amazon July-September 2009

Parting thoughts....