Questions for Work Exchange Program in Concordia

Travel discussion for St. John
Post Reply
spflug
Posts: 3
Joined: Sat Feb 19, 2011 1:14 pm
Location: syracuse, ny

Questions for Work Exchange Program in Concordia

Post by spflug »

Hi!
So a friend and I have been accepted in the work exchange program in Concordia, St, John. Anyone have any insight they can offer about this program????

couple questions....

Are the hours flexible?

What kind of jobs are available?

how bad are the mosquitoes in July? (a little allergic to bites...ok alot) :)

Is the heat unbearable to work in?

How was the overall experience?

thanks!
inuny
Posts: 222
Joined: Wed Jul 14, 2010 9:57 pm
Location: New York

Post by inuny »

The mosquitoes are not too bad in July (compared to other months), but if you have reactions to them, you will need to use bug repellent.
User avatar
Chicken
Posts: 130
Joined: Tue Jul 20, 2010 12:25 am
Location: Missouri

Post by Chicken »

I did the work exchange last September and am returning in October/November to volunteer for another month. I had an amazing time. The staff there is great. I can't say enough good things about the experience I had there.

Are the hours flexible?
To a point. It depends on what your skills are and what jobs they need done. Most of the volunteers worked a little more than 6 hours a day so they could have a few free days at the end of their stay to kick back and enjoy the island.

What kind of jobs are available?
They run the gamut. I was there in September when camp was closed to guests, so we did a lot of the loud, heavy work. I was on the construction crew rebuilding tents. Some of the others were painting studios, some were powerwashing boardwalks. Since you will be going at a time when there are guests in camp, you could be doing things like working registration, housekeeping, landscaping or maintenance. Just about anything you can think of. It just depends on what their needs are and how your skills/interests match up.

how bad are the mosquitoes in July? (a little allergic to bites...ok alot) Smile
I've been on island in July before and they aren't that bad. You are lucky you are working at Concordia and not Maho. The bugs are absolutely horrible there. They are the worst at sundown, so just be sure to wear your bug spray.

Is the heat unbearable to work in?
I'll admit the heat got pretty bad a few days. But I was also lugging lumber up and down steps all day. Drink lots of water, drink lots of water and drink lots of water. Kent and company know you will not be used to the heat or the stairs. They will tell you a million times to take it easy at first and to keep hydrated. You also may be a little uncomfortable at night in July. The tents can be a little warm to say the least.

How was the overall experience?
Absolutely amazing. Wouldn't have changed a thing and I can't wait to go back!
Post Reply