Our first week on base- Pez Maya

Last Friday morning we were all wondering why on earth we were leaving the comfort of our homes to spend five to 10 weeks in the wilderness with stone-age living conditions.

Oh yeah, that’s why.

You might think all the volunteers are lying in hammocks on the beach and drinking out of coconuts. We are, but we’re actually very busy most of the time. Days start at sunrise. We share the duties that help run the base, including things like cooking meals, manning the radio and pushing the boats out and in every day.

The main focus this week for many of us has been to become certified as PADI Open Water divers whilst the existing divers have been brushing up their skills. On top of that, we have also been trying to pass our fish and coral tests so we can begin monitoring. Sightings this week include dolphins, sharks, lionfish and some gorgeous angelfish. We’ve also found time to drink a few beers, get to know each other and start building friendships. The seriously tanned staff has been friendly, very helpful and always positive, as you can see!

After a week we’re beginning to adapt, we’re not all so embarrassingly pale, and we’ve realized
that we can actually feel clean after a bucket shower.

Pez Maya Volunteers Over and Out

P.S.- Don’t forget your sunscreen or bugspray!

Our first week on base- Pez Maya