Volunteer Experience at Finca Noah (Lucrezia)

Finally it was here…. my vacation!

Where to? For me it was pretty clear, I was flying to Mallorca. Not that I'd never been there before, but this year my destination was Finca Noah — not a beach holiday, but helping where I'm needed.

With my suitcase and a big heart for animals, I landed in Palma. I sat down in a café and watched the tourists, all eager for their holidays under palm trees and cocktails at the bar.

I wondered if I should have gone to a hotel with a pool instead, or if I'd made the right choice, but I didn't have to think long — I wouldn't have traded places with anyone for all the money in the world.

So I drove full of anticipation to Farah's place, not knowing what awaited me.

At the gate, the welcoming committee was already there. With a hug and barking dogs, everyone welcomed me warmly. I had finally arrived!

During the tour, I quickly realized how large and clean the facility is. It also became clear to me that this is no petting zoo — there's a lot of work and love behind it, and I was looking forward to it…

The next morning the sun was shining and my first working day began. All 143 animals were already waiting and happy to see us, each in their own way.

I quickly learned how Farah likes things done. Cleanliness and orderliness of every enclosure and the supplies have a high value, and the work had to be done accordingly. But that's exactly what makes Finca Noah what it is today.

The working hours flew by, constantly moving from one enclosure to the next, always surrounded by all these affectionate and grateful animals who kept us company while we worked. Moments that are priceless. Even though it wasn't always physically easy, I felt a very special energy that drove me forward.

Since the beach is just nearby, you could let your soul relax there in the afternoon or do something together before getting back to work.

In the evenings, I fell into bed exhausted and slept more soundly than I had in a long time.

After a week, I flew back with a heavy heart, with a little cat in my luggage and many unforgettable memories.

I want to thank everyone I had the pleasure of meeting during my time at Finca Noah for allowing me to be a small part of it for a short time.

I also want to thank those who contribute to approaching the animals with love every day and helping each and every one of them to get the dignity they deserve…. even if it's just a mouse.

I've taken some of Farah's orderliness back to Switzerland with me. Now I (almost) pick up leaves from the floor daily and wash the food bowls twice…

You can still learn new things even when you're over 50.

For me it's clear, I'll come back sometime and can highly recommend this kind of vacation.

Thank you Farah for creating this little paradise full of dedication, not for your own benefit, but to pass on something that many people have forgotten:

Respect & love for animals

Lucrezia