DocTours Newsletter March 2014

Hi Everyone,

You hold the hand of many, Listen to the words of all, You become more than company, And are there at the slightest call, Bringing joy, laughter, warmth and song
Leaving with what you knew all along, That shared peace with a willing heart, Can be found in all of us
When we each do our part – Thank you –(Author Unknown)

We hope you enjoy reading about the recent experiences of volunteers – happy reading and happy Easter!

What’s New?  A Small Group Journey to Zambia

Have you ever dreamed of being driven in an open jeep through the African bush? Binoculars held tightly against your eyes, slowly panning the unbelievable colours of the sun rising across the horizon looking for anything that moves.  Springbok, Giraffe, Wildebeest, stunning birds and, if you’re really lucky, a pride of lions. Their cubs rolling in the grass with their mum anxiously looking for any signs of danger. Or a leopard lying on the limb of an African umbrella tree having just finished a delightful breakfast of leftover Kirks dik dik (a small deer), with vultures circling above patiently waiting for their turn to the pickings. On the way back to the lodge elephant slowly stomping through the bush breaking a limb of a tree with their trunks and curling it into their mouths, heading to a water hole to role in the mud and drink the cool muddy water. Not a worry in the world. Your home the award winning Mfuwe Lodge, where thatched rondavel type buildings are spread around two lagoons where an endless stream of wildlife comes to bathe.

And just when you think you’ve seen it all we take you to Chindeni bush camp, one of the most beautiful bush camps in the Luangwa. Here there is an unforgettable style and comfort in four opulent tents (with private facilities). The view from your private veranda is of the lagoon which attracts birds and animals from miles around. So settle back with a gin-and-tonic in the central lounge area at sunset – surrounded by ebony trees and the same brilliant views of the lagoon – and a family of wandering hippos!

Finally a short flight to Livingston where our accommodation is at the incredible Tongabezi Lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River, that leads to the nearby mighty Victoria Falls. Tongabezi is understated but refined with the exciting spirit of Africa. The unique cottages and chalets, superb views, sophisticated service and attention to detail, is just brilliant. Of course all meals, teas, coffees, standard beer and wines and some activities are included. So Vic Falls, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant here we come!!!

These private camps take a limited number of people. Therefore we will board our jeeps and travel to a remote corner of the South Luangwa Park to visit another camp, Kapamba Bush Camp that combines remoteness and some of the parks richest wildlife. Again this is all inclusive so all you need is your safari suit, camera and a real sense of adventure.

Something awesome – Volunteering by Mt Kilimanjaro

Dr Therese from Melbourne shares her experience working in a hospital in Tanzania:
The idea of volunteering overseas brewed in the back of my mind for many years.  Apart from being at that stage of life, family and career where it seemed more feasible to ‘give something back’, I had developed a love of travelling and figured it was time to take myself out of my comfort zone – both personally and professionally – and see how I managed.

I had no clear expectations of what the experience would be like and I certainly didn’t believe that I’d make much impact in just a few short weeks, but I was keen to help in any way I could. I spent a lot of time researching different volunteer organisations and decided on Doctours as it seemed to be well organised and flexible enough to meet my needs.  Still unsure of what I was heading into, I strode through the airport doors and headed to Africa.  Read more here. 

Something awesome – medicos in PNG

When I signed up to volunteer with Australian Doctors International in Papua New Guinea for six months last year, I didn’t realise I was in for a completely life-altering journey replete with unique medicine and unforgettable cultural experiences.

I’m a predominantly city dweller and relatively junior doctor with four years of hospital-based practice in Brisbane and a Diploma in Tropical Medicine from the United Kingdom. So, my time in New Ireland Province, a remote island group in north-east PNG, was always going to be a challenge. I couldn’t wait to start.  Read more here.

Help needed in Cambodia – May 2014

Is it your turn to volunteer?

Our friends in Siem Reap need a doctor to work in the medical clinic in May as they will be particularly short staffed.  The centre provides free primary health care for the local impoverished families and just two weeks will really make a difference to them.  Travel to work via tuk tuk every day and explore the awesome Angkor Temples on the weekend.

Please call or email us for more details.