Volunteer Abroad in Fiji with Projects Abroad

  Fiji

Nadi

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months, 7-12 months, 1-2 years and over 2 years
Typical Duration of Program: 9-12 weeks
Dates: Inquire for dates

Description: Fiji is a stunning yet unusual place to spend some time on a volunteer project or work experience placement. Our voluntary projects in Fiji are a world away from the luxury tourist resorts which form many people's perceptions of the islands and projects are available for anyone interested in volunteering, including those on a gap year, career break or as summer work experience while studying.

Projects Abroad Fiji is based on the largest island of Viti Levu. This island is referred to as the 'mainland' by inhabitants of Fiji's hundreds of smaller islands.

Our Teaching and Care projects are located in and around the town of Nadi on the east coast of the island. Many travellers arrive into Nadi's international airport before flying or catching a boat straight on to their choice of island paradise. However, it is the poorer areas of Fiji's larger towns which are most in need of volunteer help.

You will live with a local host family who will provide you the very best that Fijian hospitality has to offer and you will find you rapidly integrate into the local community.

Highlights: Volunteering on a Placement Overseas in Fiji

The Pacific island archipelago of Fiji is world famous for its perfect white sand beaches and crystal clear calm turquoise waters, however its rugged emerald green interior with extinct volcanoes and cascading waterfalls is also well worth exploring. Furthermore, the physical perfection of the islands is only half the story, Fiji's relaxed, charming and gracious people will inspire you as much, if not more than the idyllic sunsets.

The population of Fiji is a complex mix of indigenous Fijians, Indo-Fijians, descendants of Chinese traders, other Pacific islanders and the British and European explorers and colonialists. Fiji was originally discovered by European explorers who stumbled upon the islands whilst trying to find Australia in the 17th century. As a volunteer living in Fiji for a longer period of time than most casual tourists you will have the chance to explore the many facets that make up modern Fijian culture and gain a greater understanding of the issues affecting Fiji today.

* Volunteer Travel and Tourism in Fiji

Volunteers in Fiji are spoilt for choice in terms of travel opportunities, both at the weekends or after finishing your volunteering placement. The island of Viti Levu where Projects Abroad is based is well worth exploring at weekends, with excellent trekking in the dramatic highland interior, remote villages and regular colourful festivals which will introduce you to the music and customs of traditional Fijian life.

Explore a little further a field and join the hunt for the perfect beach. The South West of Viti Levu boasts the best of the island's beaches with incredible scuba diving at the reefs at Nananu-i-Ra or at the Beqa lagoon. Or take a boat island hopping through the Mamanucas island chain, north west of Nadi for the ultimate in beach relaxation. It would take you months to explore all the islands, but travel through the archipelago has never been more accessible even for those on smaller budgets, so if you have the time, pack a hammock and sarong and head for paradise.

Cost in US$: USD 2,400 and up

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 16 and up

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Fiji Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992