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United States
The Center was not as much of a learning experience as I had anticipated. Diego was quite reserved with us and did not seem interested in the work we were doing; directing us then retreating immediately to his quarters. I did not get a sense of leadership, vision or enthusiasm about his property; I spent 15+ hours picking overgrown grass out from between shrubbery (mainly cactuses). There was no yoga/ activities.
over 3 years ago
United States
The experience wasn't as educational as I had hoped. The descriptions and reviews suggested that Diego was trying to create a community on his land by building and growing food and herbs while teaching volunteers how to work with the natural land. Two days in we were the only volunteers there (volunteered with my boyfriend) and it was just us weeding plant beds that seemed left alone for months. While there isn't anything wrong with this- it just wasn't what was advertised and the only other person there was Diego, who kept to himself most of the time, so it was quite lonely. Peaceful though.
over 3 years ago
Italy
Diego is a really kind and true person. I liked the way he was creating a group with all the volunteers, we shared great experiences and emotions together. I truly connected with nature in the Center, it's a wonderful place and a space where to enter deeper in touch with your soul. I really liked the vegan food, the baths, the chants together, the Pambamesa and the cerimonies. Thank you Diego for opening your sacred space to us, for sharing your true self and permit us to do the same.
almost 4 years ago
Italy
Wonderful experience! Diego made us feeling at home, giving us the opportunity to express ourselves. It was not only work, but sharing time and experiences together, focusing on the connection with nature. We spent great days with him and the other volunteers and the place is really a place of peace. Gracias Diego!
almost 4 years ago
United States
I am SO grateful that I experienced the Center. Diego has created such a beautiful space that fosters a connection with nature, others, and above all, yourself. I ended up staying an extra week because I loved it so much. He is an AMAZING vegan cook, and shared his medicinal plants and spiritual ceremonies with us. I learned so much and he helped me meet locals and plan my future travels. It was magical.
about 4 years ago
United States
Diego was extremely welcoming from the moment he picked us up. His calm and kind attitude is exactly what the world needs in these uncertain times. His project is grand, it is rebuilding his house and the surrounding area to make a retreat center. I can't wait to come back when it's finished! In addition, we really appreciated how in the local area Diego was - La Merced is a beautiful little community and it was awesome to explore there every day and really get to know all the locals - the local immersion could not have been better!
about 4 years ago
Germany
Since i can find multiple reasons why you should avoid this place and unfortunately cant find a single reason why you should go there my final advise is to look somewhere else save travels & best wishes Ben
almost 4 years ago
This German couple stayed for two days and on the third day they decided to leave unexpectedly. In my view, they simply looked for every reason not to admit that they had made a bad decision by thinking they wanted to dedicate time from their trip to volunteering. They are people with no experience in field work who realized that they do not need a volunteer program that would place them in a situation of discomfort and pull them away from their high standards and life expectations. It’s a shame to find people so ungrateful for life, and at the same time I think their reviews are very unfair.
Germany
Unfortunately, I didn't feel comfortable at all. Mainly because of the accommodation. The pictures on the Worldpackers App, doesn't show the bedroom for the volunteers. We had to sleep in an old garden shed. Our bed was a big pallet with a mattress on top. Inside the shed, it was really cold and clammy. Comparing the accommodation with the hard work (mainly digging with crappie tools) and the 15$ per week, didn't feel fair. There wasn't any yoga classes or holistic therapies offered.
almost 4 years ago
Uruguay
Diego is a very kind, intelligent, and understanding person. The work is EXTREMELY HARD, there are many hours for the work that is done. It is really very tiring. the Center is closed, so my exchange was without food, I stayed less time than agreed and Diego was understanding. The Town is small and has some beautiful hot springs just like in the Center..
5 months ago
Mexico
Durante mi estadía en el centro realice trabajos de jardinería sencillos y tambien tuve la oportunidad de degustar comida vegana deliciosa preparada por Diego, el anfitrión fue flexible con los días de trabajo y descanzo, el lugar y pueblo es muy tranquilo y con la facilidad de ir a Quito en Bus en menos de 1 hr.
over 2 years ago
