Think Pacific

Program Reviews

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Ilan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

MuanaI Ira, Tailevu, Fiji 2019

My experience of volunteering in Fiji for around a month was absolutely amazing. Words can’t properly convey how memorable, adventurous and exciting the experience was for me. Living as a true Fijian, in a rural village for a month, eating their home-cooked food, going to church, attending their Kava ceremonies and working every day in a local school with immensly active children was a truly unique experience. Seeing how our 1 to 1 work benefited the children that were struggling in school was highly rewarding, especially when comparing what level of understanding they were on at the beginning of the 4 weeks with where they were at the end of the 4 weeks. Also, the action filled Saturdays were great fun and ensured that i had a strong friendship that will last a lifetime with the rest of the group members. Would definitively recommend!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising thing for me was how quick everyone settled down into their new homes, and although they were very basic, everyone felt very well cared for and comfortable with their new families
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Jack
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Leading in Fiji

Lead a project in the Namosi region this summer in a remote village called Naraiyawa. The personal development and self achievement that I got out of this project were something that I would never be able to gain from doing anything else. Would highly recommend volunteering with Think Pacific and further striving to become a leader post project. Think Pacific provide ‘the real’ Fijian experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in a culture which is impossible not to fall in love with. The people you meet and the bonds you will make are just some examples of the wonderful beauty of the Fijian islands - not to mention the pure aesthetic beauty which will surround you every day while you are on project. Fiji is a wonderful place and Think Pacific absolutely nails it with authentic experiences in villages and primary schools around the country.

What was your funniest moment?
Finding that a chicken had taken to my bag as it’s laying ground - eggs for breakfast!
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Will
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

June 10th programme

My experience was unique because we were in a very rural village with a lot of people ranging with ages religious beliefs and jobs so we all got a varied experience with all of the different families. We also got to teach in two different schools so we also got to reach more children and give me resources out making the trip even more valuable for the children and teachers of Fiji. I had a very unique experience as well because I was staying with the village pastor who had a lot to offer with his knowledge of Fiji and was able to teach us a lot about their culture and way of life right from the get go! With our dad we got to try a lot of things that other people in the village didn’t and I feel that this boosted our experience as we got to try things that TP volunteers didn’t

What was your funniest moment?
The only day it rained heavily in the village was the day we planned an overnight Lovo at the Terani’s farm. Best and funniest night in Fiji
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Gemma
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Experience of a Lifetime

By far the best thing I have ever done! Not only was I able to visit an incredible part of the world, I was able to really immerse myself in the culture and help a lot of people out while doing so. By far the furthest thing from Volun-tourism I have come across and something I will cherish for life!

I was able to meet some friends that I have still kept in contact with. You all become so close during the four weeks and they really do become your family. I really made friends for life on this trip.

The Think Pacific staff are phenomenal at organising and reassuring you both before and during the trip. Not once did I feel unsure of things or unsafe, which was hugely important to me when picking a trip. All of the group leaders are past volunteers, so you know they’ve been in your position which is really reassuring when you’re having a down day!

What was your funniest moment?
Meeting the Fijian families for the first time. We’re so curious about their life and they’re so curious about ours. Plenty of laughs were exchanged!
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Jade
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Bula

If your thinking of doing think pacific.. DO IT!!! I had the most incredible and rewarding month of my life in Momi Village. From the minute we arrived in the village you could see the energy, positivity and kindness of the fijians with children running to take your bags and everyone shouting "Bula" (hello). This project is so special because unlike many other projects you get to live with a fiji host family and truly experience fiji culture. Experiencing and embracing the culture of the village was by far my favourite aspect of the trip. Walking through the village and everyone inviting you in for tea and buns as you pass their house just displays the kindness and nature of the fijians. The most incredible experience living fiji style; simple yet so fulfilled with joy and happiness. A massive vinaka vakalevu

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Do not worry about being home sick because the Fijians are the most welcoming people ever and when I left the village I was homesick for my Fiji family!!! JUST DO IT :)
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Phoebe
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing from start to finish!

From my initial meeting about the potential trip I was already exited. I met some of the most amazing people whilst on project and created bonds that will last a life time! Throughout my time in Fiji I learnt so much about myself and developed my confidence, organisational skills and just had an awesome time whilst doing so! I love actually living with a Fijian family and getting an authentic experience on their culture and lifestyle, which is something that you are unlikely to have on a normal tourist holiday! The month away pushed my boundaries and I am so happy and proud that I have completed it with such amazing memories and lifelong stories! I can not recommend this experience enough! Absolutely incredible! If you are ever in doubt just do it!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
My family had given us a meat broth and the actual sauce was very tasty however I ended up eating a pig snout! It was so funny...
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Harvey
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Think Pacific Summer Project

I volunteered with TP in 2018 and had the most amazing and valuable month. This summer I had the pleasure of leading a project. My love for Fiji and appreciation for
TP only grew stronger over the month and was immensely special seeing others fall in love with village lifestyle, 1 to 1 teacher and the country as a whole just like I did. I’d whole heartedly recommend TP to someone seeking a challenge, personal development and exploring a wonderfully different culture. For the right individuals, this experience (despite potentially appearing short) can genuinely be life changing. My admiration for the charity and organisation is huge.. from U.K. side all the way to the other side of the world in Fiji is amazing. From the preparation work before departure all the way the the last day of project, the organisation is impressive - you can evidently see the progression and development that TP has gone through during its (current) 11 year journey - lastly, it’s clear to see that they use feedback and advise to continue to grow from project to project.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
From personal experience and from observing others, it’s incredible what a positive and open minded attitude can achieve. Hit this experience with open arms and take it as it comes and you will have an amazing time.
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Lucy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Tailevu

Had an truly amazing 4 week expedition with TP. My group were amazing and I have made some friends for life. The experiences I had during my time in the village were ones you could not get anywhere else. I was hosted by my Fijian family for 3 weeks along with my two (now sisters) felllow volunteers. My Fijian family and all the villagers were super welcoming and the most generous people I have ever met. Village life is something that can be daunting at first but it’s amazing when you get into it.
Teaching in school was challenging at first but the 1-to-1 support I gave to the pupils was very rewarding. It’s incredible how much progress they make, even in the short space of time.
Fiji has gained a big place in my heart! I wait to return!!!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The instant you drive/enter into your village and all the things you learn in briefing come flooding back and you panic!!! But all is ok, if you breathe, the leaders prepare you well.
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Holly
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Think Pacific

Amazing organisation! I loved every moment and was proud to be a member of Think Pacific when I was out there. The only thing I wrong was the fact it finished I could have easily stayed for a lot longer. It’s very well thought out, to the night time activities to keep us entertained all the way through to helping us find the best ways to travel and what to pack. I found before during and after the project everyone was very helpful and supportive which made the project a lot easier to take part in. I have said nothing but good words about Think Pacific such as their aims, the leaders, the project mangers, the kids we all taught and played around with and especially the family who are so quick to welcome you in with open arms and treat you as if you are one of there own

What was your funniest moment?
Just getting to know everyone, or watching the villagers dance
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Ellie-Mar
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best experience ever!

This month abroad has been the best experience I could have asked for! It’s so rewording work within the school and seeming your students develop. It was a whirlwind month but would not change anything !
Living with your Fijian family is incredible they are so friendly and welcoming, you're sure to leave with a second family. By immersing yourself within Fijian customs and cultures you will definitely get the most out of living within a traditional Fiji village.
Yes it will be hard and the food was the hardest part for me but I would not change it for the world.
Think Pacific prepares you well for all the teaching and sports coaching aspect of the project really well in your 2 day briefing before village life starts. All the info given in these sessions is so helpful !!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
To future travellers break up your journey going and coming back from Fiji it will be best for jet lag. Also pack lost of snacks for village life if your struggling with the traditional diet.