The long path that has been taken in building the volunteer house for the Arajuno Road Project has been well documented, but now it is actually here, what is it like to live at the project?

I have seen been with the volunteer house right from when it was just cow pasture in the middle of the jungle until when the first volunteers moved in. Having just arrived back into the harsh British winter, I have a retrospective view of living in the jungle.

The house is situated at the bottom of the long outcrop where the Arajuno road runs along. The road that runs down the the house is unused, except by us and the locals walking down each day to tend to their crops and livestock. The house is hidden from view down a curving driveway and sits nestled amongst the trees. From the house 2 snowcapped volcanoes can be seen, with parrots, toucans, and the occassional monkey gracing the treetops.

The first phase of the house is complete, forming a U around what (one day) will be a central garden. There is one finished bathroom (with 2 more on the way) fully tiled with a hot shower, a dorm room sleeping up-to 6, 2 twin rooms, a coordinator room and office, a huge kitchen; with drinking water, a fridge, freezer and modern cooker, and equally big lounge. Around the outside porch are benches and hammocks where volunteers spend a large part of their time off.

The whole aim of the house was to be a home from home. Many people leave their homes not knowing quite what to expect when they arrive at the project. Pictures can only tell half of the story, and this is especially true of the Arajuno Road Project volunteer house. The real, overwhelming factor that shapes living in the house is the feel of the place. The tranquility is unmatched in pretty much anywhere I have ever been, with the surroundings playing a large part in that. The large spaces, open planning and the abundance of relaxation areas add to this, making it a nice retreat from the noise and clutter of the schools.

Living in the house is a communal affair, with everyone taking it in turn to cook meals and mucking in with the chores. The seating areas also bring people together making a social atmosphere, though the big spaces stop it from becoming too claustrophobic. The hammocks make good places to get a little space to yourself, and the stunning views and the end of the property are a worthy walk.

Perhaps the most notable thing about living in the volunteer house is how similar it is to living back home. There are no mud walls, leafed roofs or straw beds (though there are straw mats for the feng shui table), and you are not living with the wildlife. The lack of bugs, mosquitos and creepy crawlies is a relief to most of us (big thanks to the kittens on that one), and there are no signs of snakes. If you are looking for a true rustic jungle experience you probably won’t find it here, but it is right there on the doorstep if you want to go find it.

What is it like to live at the Arajuno Road Project? Well, it’s quite nice actually.