Expedition Comments

Coral Reef, Adam Powell

Miriam Lugg, Edinburgh university, UK

I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to any and all Opwall staff that helped make my experience in Indonesia one of the most memorable times of my life. I'm looking forward to returning. Thank you!!!

Lauren Montano, Salem State University

This whole experience was unforgettable. It opened my eyes to different options I am able to pursue. I hope I'll be able to join Opwall again.

Felicia Menard, University of Windsor, Canada

My project supervisor was first class. Excellent guidance.

Paul Fulbrook, Portsmouth University, UK

The Jungle training course was amazing, professionally run and I had lots of fun!

Laura Tooth, Durham University, UK

Indonesian Children, Adam Powell

Jungle training, Caroline Acton

Honduras

I had such an amazing time in Honduras, it really was so much fun, so thanks to everyone involved in getting the volunteers out there!!

Sophie Leaning, Leeds University, UK

I just wanted to let you know that I had an wonderful time on this expedition, and that I'd like to continue my involvement in operation Wallacea.

Angela Woodside, McGill University

It was tiring, sweaty and physically challenging everyday of the week, but the whole experience was worth every blister and sunburn! Honduras was a blast, and I'd be honoured to come back again in the Future.

Stephanie Johnson, Queens University, Canada

Thanks to Operation Wallacea for a fantastic opportunity, great people, fantastic dissertation support and an all round great summer.

Robyn Kent, Keele University, UK

Whoop whoop. I even got mash potatoes. Had a great time and was more than I expected. Great to be taught/led by people who are so enthusiastic about what they do!! Big up the bats and dung beetles.

Natalie Burrows, Beaumont School, UK

Amazing! An experience I will never forget!

Kirsty Wagg, South Bromsgrove High School, UK

Jungle fun in Honduras, Caroline Acton

Giant river otter, Dr Mark Bowler

Peru

After careful preparation I couldn't have anticipated the experiences I had and the things I saw. At the end of the month I was very comfortable in the forest and all the challenges of the jungle became its charms.

Kumary Ponnambalam, University of British Columbia, Canada

Even after months of preparation and excited expectation, nothing could have actually prepared me for the experience. This is truly one of the most beautiful places on Earth! It will be impossible to forget the things I've seen and the lifelong friends I've made. The challenges of the jungle I was afraid I would not be able to accomplish were so enjoyable that the word 'challenge' became 'adventure'.

Ruth Doherty, Queens University, Belfast

I was over-prepared for all accidents and emergencies, having brought along all medical items and then some. The projects were very safe and no one got ill. The packing list was perfect- I was ready for any occasion. The cooks were absolutely amazing. Mary and Sylvia were very nice and always had a good vegetarian alternative. The meals overall were delicious and the fruit juices very, very good. The rooms were perfect; there was plenty of space for stuff and sleeping. I had an amazing experience here. I gained research experience and learned about Peruvian culture through many conversations with the excellent guides. I would recommend Peru to anyone who wants to learn a lot and have a hell of a good time. Thank you Opwall!

Chelsea Vaughan, Smith College, USA

Excellently run on all levels, the planned conservation was superb and the professional dealings with any alterations to these plans well managed. We felt safe and secure at all times and yet the trip gave enough freedom to our students to feel like they were fully involved in scientific studies in a true wilderness. A truly excellent expedition, well organised logistically and one which allowed our students to become integrated fully in some truly worthwhile conservation.

James Kearns, Glyn Technology School, UK

Red Uakari Monkey, Dr Mark Bowler

Two male Giraffe, Alison Darlington

South Africa/ Mozambique

Words simply aren't enough to describe the breathtaking beauty of the place. There is nothing like the sound of lion roaring and the chitter chatter of birds at first light. It's like a little piece of heaven. I never thought that i could learn so much, meet such interesting people and see the magnificent and graceful creatures that David Attenborough brings to life on the TV screen.

Lauren Foley, University College London, UK

I had a fantastic time; it has been an amazing experience.

Suzie Morley, Leicester University, UK

The expedition has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Once in the bush we were immediately immersed into a world most people will never be able to imagine, let alone experience. From driving the dirt roads to sleeping amongst hyena, leopard, rhino and more, we experience the natural world in the most intimate way possible. The passion of the workers and guides was inspirational.

Matt Favazza, Salem State College, USA

Words cannot justify my time nor can photos. The guides were wonderful and knew everything. Learnt loads, saw some amazing things, met awesome people and had a laugh along the way.

Sarah Weidhaas, University of Prince Edward Island, Canada

Excellent experience with exceptional staff.

Clarendon College, UK

Elephants, Dr Martin Speight

Butterfly fish, Tom Mullier

Cuba

Amazing opportunity for everyone and really helpful and approachable staff to offer insight.

Dede Efueye, Queen Mary's University, UK

This experience has helped me become a stronger person and one that I will never forget.

Stephanie Wilson, Bath University, UK

This has been a fantastic expedition and has exceeded my expectations. If only we could have got rid of the sand flies!!

Laura Anstess, Barnsley College, UK

Really relaxed, social atmosphere on the boat between everyone, top notch Dive Master and diving really good. Really enjoyed seeing CIM and getting lectures from University staff.

Adam Lewis, Plymouth University, UK

Cuban Sunset, Emily Cook

Sunset in Egypt,  Mike James

Egypt

The food was excellent- it was nice to sample Egyptian cooking. I enjoyed meeting Egyptian students- I found them to be very friendly and very helpful. We were well looked after. I really enjoyed sleeping in open tents under the stars- it was great.

Julie Valentine, Liverpool John Moores University, UK

I have had a truly amazing week! The people here are fantastic and have made my stay a memorable experience! The food and surroundings have been wonderful, especially the stars at night beautiful, thank you.

Fiona Wilson, Henry Box School, UK

Hi, thank you all for this incredible life experience. It has been amazing throughout. Huge thanks to all the staff for making this possible. You are all very welcoming and friendly which has made this trip the success it has been for us all. The end surprises were excellent and rounded off a superb trip. Thanks for everything.

Charlotte Nicholson, Fakenham High School

What a week! You have given our students a memorable experience. Excellent instruction meant everyone was successful and gained a diving certification.

Jacqui Waring, Fakenham High School, UK

Terrestrail Egypt, Andy Milne