Experience report from Celina in Sri Lanka

I'm Celina, a medical student—and now a repeat offender when it comes to nursing internships with Travel4med. After my first stay in February 2024, I knew I'd be back! In August 2025, the time had come—this time not only as a participant, but also as part of the team. I look after the groups on site, do my nursing internship at the same time, and enjoy the perfect mix of work, vacation, and medical insights. 

Travel4med's all-inclusive promise is not just empty words. From vaccination advice to packing lists, from visas to flights—our team helps with everything to ensure a relaxed start to your trip. We are also always available on site. I know both sides: as an intern and as a supervisor—and I can say that you couldn't be better prepared for traveling abroad. 

The accommodations in Sri Lanka have undergone a huge upgrade: modern, spotlessly clean, and large enough to retreat to. At the same time, the relaxed, family atmosphere remains—and the sea is only 5 minutes away! In addition to the classic "welcome juice," there are now also really great evening programs at the villa: cooking evenings, yoga sessions, game nights—boredom? Not a chance. 

At the hospital, we work in small, specialized groups, which creates a sense of closeness and genuine exchange. I learned a tremendous amount from both the staff on site and other students. What was particularly cool was that during my first internship before starting my studies, I was assigned to a PJ student who explained so much to me. That's what makes it so special: you not only learn from the medical staff, but also from each other. 

After the clinic is before the surfing! Every day there are free surfing lessons right at The Shacks—the beach café where everyone meets up sooner or later. There's always something going on: excursions, yoga, sunsets. If you want to go even further: my highlight during my second stay was definitely the weekend trip to the Maldives—highly recommended! 

What impressed me most about both internships was the people. Participants from all over Germany and Austria, all with similar interests, all with a real passion for medicine, travel, and community. Friendships developed that still exist today—with regular get-togethers, vacation plans, and shop talk beyond the university. 

Head chef Uncle is a legend—and his food is probably the best in all of Sri Lanka. Together with Archie, who organizes everything related to the internship, the team ensures that you don't have to worry about a thing: from hospital clothing and transportation to your certificate. Archie knows everyone by name and puts his whole heart into his work—you can feel how much experience and dedication he has. 

I am grateful that I had the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka twice with Travel4med—first as a pre-med student and now as a medical student on the team. The combination of medicine, sunshine, friendships, and personal development is unbeatable for me. My tip: If you can, treat yourself to an internship in the off-season—smaller groups, more intensive support, and more room for genuine encounters.

And very important: pack your swimwear AND your stethoscope – you'll need both!