Mark volunteered as a community teacher in Fiji

Nestled away in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, straddling 180° longitude the Fiji islands are about as far away from England as you can get. For me that was as good a reason as any for choosing to apply to volunteer in Fiji, but the opportunity to gain worthwhile experience both in a working and cultural capacity also appealed. If you add to that the lush green landscape, the hot tropical climate and the welcoming friendly nature of the people there really isn't a better place to spend a few months or more.

My placement was based in the interior of the main island of Viti Levuin an area lacking in any of the development and infrastructure seen in the tourist areas. I was working in a small secondary school with More...