Rebecca’s adventures in Mexico

“I love Latin America, but especially Mexico, because it gives me a certain feeling of home. The people, the food, the environment, it all made my stay so unique and I took a lot away from this trip.”

Rebecca traveled to Mexico with WanderWorld. There she spent time on Holbox at the Animal Shelter and in Guadalajara at the Youth Development Project. In this report, she talks about her unforgettable time on the ground.

I carefully read through the extensive information material that I received from WanderWorld. In addition, I also made a list of my own so that I would not forget the things that I personally still had to do. This included, among other things, some booster vaccinations that I still needed for the trip. Since I made a conscious decision beforehand not to get a picture of the place or the country itself, I didn’t do an excessive amount of research in that regard. I simply found it exciting to approach the matter without expectations. Thus, I was often more than positively surprised.

The first days after arrival went well, but I noticed that I needed a few days before I could really get used to my new surroundings and the daily routine. In my eyes, this is completely normal and is simply part of traveling, because you are confronted with countless new impressions. I also had to get used to the new weather conditions, as I was not used to the altitude and the heat. However, the body can adapt very quickly. What I was very happy about was that it was possible to get to know other people and travelers directly on site. To develop a feeling for my new surroundings, I walked a lot in the beginning. That way, you knew directly what you could do in your free time.

My first project was on the beautiful island of Holbox in Mexico. There I visited the Animal Shelter and took care of four-legged friends in need. To get to the project, I walked from my hostel every morning between 8:00 and 9:00. Once there, I first gave the animals food and water. Around 10:00 a.m. I had breakfast for the whole team. After that we continued with the cleaning of the enclosures or the area itself, which had to be maintained. Afterwards we had the possibility to play with the animals or to go for a walk on the beach. This was a great experience for both us and the animals. We had our daily routine, but often new tasks were added. During the afternoon we had free time and we could explore the island, spend time on the beach or visit one of the many restaurants.

For my second project, I visited a school in the big city of Guadalajara, Mexico. The organization’s goal is to give the city’s street children a perspective and thus a chance at a better life. The days there were all very different and no two were alike. Most of the time I worked alongside the school’s own educator. Together, we took care of the playful implementation and evaluation of pedagogical tests. With the help of these, we were able to find out if the children had mental health problems so that we could provide them with individualized and sustainable care. On other days, I helped with serving meals or assisted with the teachers’ lessons. The tasks were very varied and now and then there was even a kind of flea market especially for the children. Here they received donated food, clothing, toys and hygiene products.

During my time on Holbox I was very much on the beach and explored the island. There was always something new to discover. The island has a small and lively center, with many restaurants and bars. Beautiful beach bars can also be found along the endless sandy beaches. In the hostel itself, you could always meet many new people and there were various activities in which you could participate there. Especially the evenings were very nice, because we always watched the sunset.

In Guadalajara we walked around a lot or visited museums. The city has a lot to offer culturally and there is a lot that you can do. Not far from our hostel there was a street with a variety of restaurants, of which we tried several. Since we were out and about frequently, I also enjoyed spending time in our accommodation. We talked and cooked together, relaxed or kept a diary.

I love Mexican culture because it is so diverse. Although I already knew one or two things, I was able to get to know many new things. The people are friendly, warm and helpful. The food is very tasty and varied, as all the different places in Mexico cook their own traditional dishes. Life seems much more colorful, there is laughter and every day is valued. The serenity of the people has transferred to me and I have made many new Mexican friends.

I love Latin America, but especially Mexico, because it gives me a certain feeling of home. The people, the food, the environment, it all made my stay so unique and I took a lot away from this trip. It also made me curious about the rest of the continent and I’m sure I’ll be back soon.

I had many very nice moments, so it is really hard to choose one in particular. But I think the most beautiful I had on Holbox, because it is just such a beautiful island. The sunsets are amazing, just like the sea. I met great people there, some of whom I am still in contact with today and with whom I share many unforgettable experiences.

I was particularly fascinated by Holbox, simply because it is so beautiful there. It is a paradise and the people there are very nice. Even though the island is not overwhelmingly big, you can always find something new. Be it a more secluded restaurant with delicious food or a nice store with handmade things. You can find everything you need there and besides you get to know people from all over the world.

Latin America is very diverse. Each country has its own culture with diverse traditions and customs. I would say that everyone can find the right place for themselves in Latin America, because there are a lot of different places and countries. Also, I find that through such a trip you broaden your horizons and see how different but still versatile life can be. You gain experiences that you would never have had at home and you meet great people who become friends in a way.

I definitely became much more independent and self-confident through the trip because you are simply on your own. Of course you have contacts who are always there for you, but in the end you make many independent decisions and that has helped me a lot. I’ve also become more open in my dealings with people and don’t see many things as seriously as I did before. You realize how big this world is and that not every problem is a problem. I have also become more grateful for my life and all that I have.