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.

Volunteering on a Care or Teaching Project in Fiji

Our Teaching and Care projects are located in and around the town of Nadi on the east coast of the island. Many travelers 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 that 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.

For more information on our Care and Teaching projects in Fiji see the individual pages for each

Highlights

The Pacific island archipelago of Fiji is world famous for its perfect white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters. Along with these amazing sights are the rugged emerald green interiors with extinct volcanoes and cascading waterfalls. 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, British and European explorers and colonists. Fiji was originally discovered by European explorers who stumbled upon the islands while trying to find Australia in the 17th century. As a volunteer living in Fiji, you will have the chance to explore many facets that make up modern Fijian culture and gain a greater understanding of issues affecting Fiji today.

Volunteers in Fiji are spoiled when it comes to travel opportunities in the South Pacific. You can travel around the islands either during the weekends or after finishing your volunteering project. The island of Viti Levu where Projects Abroad is based is well worth exploring during weekends with excellent trekking in the dramatic highland interior, remote villages and colorful festivals that will introduce you to the music and customs of traditional Fijian life.

Explore a little further and join the hunt for the perfect beach. The South West of Viti Levu boasts the best of the islands beaches with incredible scuba diving in 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!

Intern Types

• Education
• Social Work
• Sustainable Development

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Registration fees
• Written materials abroad

Program Fees Include:

All accommodation with local host families, 3 meals a day 7 days a week, comprehensive travel and medical insurance, custom tailored placement, 24 hour in country staff support, and airport transfers.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

16 and up

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post 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