FIJI

In June I embarked on the adventure of a lifetime...

I traveled to Fiji solo but became part of a brilliant team of 24. A close friend from uni, Elsa, was one of the team leaders, having completed a project herself before. It's thanks to her that I was there at all. Her heartfelt recommendation encouraged me to look into the wonders of Think Pacific, a small company who works closely with the Fijian government and runs expeditions throughout the year. After browsing their website inside out, I knew it was a perfect fit for me.

Our first 3 days were spent in a lovely little resort, Mango Bay, where we had team building / briefing. This time together enabled us to get to know each other and what to expect on our project. We really valued our time here and took on board all of the advice dished out to us.

We were to spend the next 3 weeks in the most charming little rural village, Nadrala. On our way there, we stopped off in the town of Sigatoka to purchase the necessary clothing (sulus and the like).

When you reach the village you realise that you really are a world away from home, but the way they welcome you makes you feel like that's just where you're meant to be. One of the most special aspects of the expedition is your time in the village, where you really are treated like royalty. It's quite remarkable how much your family does for you with the little they have. Their culture couldn't be more different from ours, but our hands-on approach enabled us to learn its ins and outs. The village were really accommodating and patient. They not only spent time teaching us their traditions, but were fascinated by our own lifestyles. The families really took us in as their own, forever praising us and taking the best care of us too.

While we were here we volunteered in the two local primary schools. We focused on their Kindi programmes (essentially "reception") and the slower-learners throughout the rest of the school. Fiji are huge on their sport - netball and rugby in particular - so we played a lot of that with them also. We were able to make great progress in both of the schools which are sure to have lasting effects. The children and teachers were equally appreciative of all that we did which was really touching.

Our last 3 days were all about 'Rest and Relaxation'. For this, we stayed in the stunning 'Beach House' resort. Here we had the chance to unwind after a busy, challenging and stimulating few weeks. One of the girls and I did a spot of paddleboarding one evening as the sun set. We were both newbies but managed to stay upright the whole time! The following day, ten of us went on a boat trip to Yanuka Island, where we snorkeled, tucked into a BBQ and sunbathed. On the way out we spotted a pod of dolphins and on the way back, a mother and baby whale. Truly breathtaking. Our last night was complemented by a little awards evening which was a great laugh!

What had been a relatively spontaneous decision earlier this year turned out to be one of the best things I've ever done. I've come back from a month-long expedition with phenomenal memories, a whole new bunch of friends and a home away from home. I was able to do things you only dream of, couldn't imagine doing so with anyone else and build an unbelievably strong attachment to the village. Fiji will always have a place in my heart. It's beauty is thorough - not only does it boast the most stunning scenery but it's full of what must be the friendliest individuals in the world too! I will remember their carefree nature for as long as I live. The whole experience was truly one of a kind and I'll forever be thankful to TP for it.

S X