Annalena in the sea turtle conservation project in Bali

On March 10, my work at the turtle conservation center in Serangan began. After an introduction from the team, I got to know the site and my tasks: guiding visitor groups, feeding turtles, cutting fish, cleaning tanks, and caring for shells. The most emotional moments were when we counted baby turtles, buried eggs, or released the little ones into the ocean. Injured turtles were also brought to the center, where we cared for them until they could be released back into the wild.

The workdays were clearly structured: four hours a day, Monday to Friday. Every two weeks we went snorkeling to collect sea grass, or in the evenings to the beach for monitoring, where we observed turtles coming ashore to lay eggs. Once, we were able to witness a turtle laying her eggs at night, a respectful, almost magical moment.

The entire team was incredibly warm and helpful. After just a short time, I felt integrated and looked forward to the work every day. Especially inspiring was working alongside a group of university students from the neighboring island of Java, Adiba, Mareta, Albani, Radit, and Baim. We were about the same age and quickly grew into a close-knit group.

Beyond the project, deep friendships developed, both with other volunteers and with our coordinators, Rima and Trisa. They not only guided us but also introduced us to Balinese culture.

Right at the beginning, I was able to experience Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, complete with the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, traditional clothing, and the silent “Day of Silence.” I also participated in Galungan, another important Balinese holiday, together with the team.

These cultural insights were a privilege that tourists rarely experience in such depth. Over time, I even bought my own sarong and kebaya so I could dress traditionally at future festivals.

My homestay in Sanur became a real home away from home. The Balinese host family cared for us lovingly, whether with tips, small gestures, or support when someone was sick. With my housemates, Emily from the Netherlands, Nicole from Mexico, and Kim from Germany, it quickly felt like a little shared apartment in paradise. We spent almost every day together: trips to Ubud or Amed, snorkeling around the Nusa islands, surfing, or having meals together.

Through the program, I also met many other volunteers from India, France, Morocco, and Canada. Our group grew bigger and bigger, and we did something together almost daily. Our weekly rituals – Friday happy hour at the “Casablanca” bar or dinner at Warung “Bellissimo”, shaped the time and became treasured traditions.

There were so many experiences that I will never forget: releasing baby turtles into the open ocean, karaoke nights with Indonesian students, the team spirit, and the feeling of truly belonging to a community.

The passion of the local team for their work was contagious and motivated me to always give my best. One of the most moving moments was rescuing an injured turtle in my very first week. I was there when it was admitted and treated. And weeks later, I was able to see it released healthy back into the sea. That experience deeply marked me.

Three months flew by. Saying goodbye was tearful – I wasn’t just leaving behind colleagues, but friends and almost a second family. Back in Germany, I often feel a longing for Bali and miss it dearly. For me, it’s clear: I will return, at least once a year, and in the long term, also for a big trip through Indonesia.

Bali has become a second home for me. A place full of memories, friendships, and experiences that have enriched my life in a lasting way.