“Work the World provided a framework, a means of bypassing the huge amount of Indian bureaucracy that goes with organizing a placement there, and expert support if needed”
Phil (physiotherapy elective)

Trivandrum is the bustling capital of the State of Kerala and enjoys a relatively good healthcare system. As with everything in India though, the class structure can open or close doors for you and healthcare is no exception. Split placements in Trivandrum can give you a fantastic insight into how Indian culture affects healthcare at differing levels, whilst at the same time providing the resource for you to undertake a more specialised placement.

We have developed strong relationships with both government and private hospitals throughout the city and have dedicated in-country staff there to support you and ensure you have a structured elective in an area that matches your interest. We have also developed a one-week course in Ayurvedic medicine that will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in this 5000 year-old medical science.

“(it) feels miles more personal than other big “Gap” organisations. This was helped along by daily yoga sessions, evening Bollywood movies and impromptu rooftop BBQs”
Natalie (nursing elective)

We have two Work the World houses, a five minute rickshaw ride apart from each other in Vanchiyoor and Kannamoola. Both accommodate 12 elective students in bedrooms shared between two or three, most of which have en-suite bathrooms. There is plenty of space to relax in the large living rooms and open balcony areas, and the two houses often get together for barbecues, free Malayalam language lessons or optional daily yoga classes.

One of the highlights of a trip to India is the food. Vinod and Mary, our caterers, are great cooks and the welcoming smells of sizzling spices after a long day at work will have your mouth watering and your stomach rumbling. Breakfast and dinner are included during the week and we always make sure the fridge is stocked with snacks, purified water and anything you might want for lunch and weekend meals.

“there is a fabulous camaraderie and a great willingness to include new arrivals in travel plans and share tips for survival at work”
Johanna (nursing elective)

With South India on your doorstep there will never be a lack of things to see and do! There are temples to explore, tailors that will turn gorgeous fabrics into the design of your choice, frenetic streets to wander around and delicious street food to sample. You are also close to Kovalum where you can enjoy beer served straight from a teapot... only in India!

On your weekends you are ideally placed to make the most of Kerala. Trivandrum is slotted in between the jungle and forests of the Western Ghat mountains and the laid back fishing villages and palm fringed beaches of the Arabian Sea. Many elective students travel together to backpacker-friendly Varkala for amazing seafood or to spot wildlife on a three day trek through the Periyar Tiger Reserve. You also have Kerala's famous backwaters to explore – a chance to see rural India at its best.