Another paradise that Lattitude offers its volunteers is Fiji, home to just under a million people and often the holiday of choice for many celebrities due to its lush landscapes, tropical climate and clear blue water.
It’s made up of 333 islands, so it’s an ideal tourist destination – for those who can afford it, that is. Only 110 islands are actually inhabited, but the main island Viti Levu and the smaller communities of Ovalau and Moturiki are where our volunteers are placed, often as community teachers. And that comes with an experience that no price tag can afford!
Viti Levu is where the populous capital, Suva, is located. It’s referred to as the ‘mainland’ and where the cultural and financial hub of Fiji lies. There aren’t as many beaches as there are on other islands, but there is still a wealth of stunning scenery to keep you mesmerised, such as waterfalls, mountains and national parks, as well as the vibrant Fijian culture.
Ovalau is the sixth largest island in Fiji, located 60km north of the capital Suva. It boasts a volcanic crater complete with lagoon and mountains despite being just over six miles wide. As it’s located a bit of a way off, there’s an airport which can take you to the capital, as well as a ferry service to take you across the many islands.
Moturiki has a population of 2000 and is made up of 10 villages, about 25 miles away from Suva – but even though it’s near, it’s a far cry from the capital city. The oldest human remains (from about 10,000 BC) were found on this island so there’s a lot of history to be found as well as the usual volcanoes and waterfalls!
In terms of the actual country, it’s a former British colony (hence the St. George Cross on their flag) so unsurprisingly one of the island’s official languages is English, making it easy for potential volunteers to communicate in their work. They’re also very passionate about rugby, and boast one of the best teams on the planet, so come match day, you’ll probably notice a similar atmosphere to one at home even though it’s over 10,000 miles away!
If you were to volunteer here, then you’d be interacting with the local community on a daily basis. Being a community teacher is by no means a simple job – you might be placed in a rural kindergarten one week and the next in a primary school in the heart of the city. If English is your native language then you’re sure to do well in a job where communication is key, and if you’re willing to get stuck in then you will no doubt fit into the warm communities as if you’d lived there all your life.
Check out some photos from our volunteers that volunteered in Fiji.
