Frequently asked questions...
Bridge the Gap
What is Bridge the Gap?
What makes Bridge the Gap special?
Who is Bridge the Gap?
Bridge the Gap was founded in 2012 by Jenny Cahill to help the Mali Community reach their development goals for their community. She is assisted by an amazing team of people located all around the globe, all of whom have one important thing in common: their shared experience of Vorovoro and a passionate desire to help this community achieve their goals of diversifying their income, without having to compromise the integrity of their land or culture.
How can I help?
Bridge the Gap is a collaborative effort, and we welcome help from others who are also passionate about sustainable community development and using travel as a means to do good, meaningful work in the world. From behind the scenes work to helping to secure our next ethical partnerships, there are ways that you can get involved. Contact us for more information.
I'm with a school that would like to study on Vorovoro. How do we do this?
Great! We are currently ready to add our next study abroad partnership to our program and we would love to talk to you! Contact director Jenny Cahill to arrange a chat!
How long has Bridge the Gap been operating?
What qualifications do the Bridge the Gap staff have?
Every person on the Bridge the Gap team has been to the island before. Each of us came to the island to have an experience like the one you are interested in. After spending time on the island with the Fijians, we fell in love with Vorovoro and aim to continue to provide this opportunity to people while helping the Fijians sustain their livelihoods.
How can I learn more information?
You can look at the rest of our website, look at our social media, sign up for our newsletter, or contact us if you have any questions! We are happy to chat with you by phone at 317-296-4883, email, Skype - whatever works for you!
Vorovoro Island
Where is Vorovoro?
Vorovoro is located off the northern coast of Vanua Levu, the second largest of the 333 islands that make up Fiji. Vorovoro sits on the Cakaulevu Reef, the third longest reef in the world. Vorovoro is one of two islands inhabited by the Mali people. The other island, Mali Island, is located less than 1,000 feet to the east of Vorovoro and is home to three of the four villages of the Mali Tribe. There is another village located on the mainland of Vanua Levu.
What is Vorovoro like?
Vorovoro is a small remote island (1 mile by around 600 feet) located off the northern coast of Vanua Levu in Fiji. Vorovoro is a 40 minute boat ride from the town of Labasa on the mainland. The island is covered in beautiful tropical flora and fauna and is located on the third largest reef in the world, the Cakaulevu Reef. It has to be seen to be believed - come and visit!
Why should I go to Vorovoro?
I don't know much about Fiji. Help!
Fiji is a small island country in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies almost directly north of New Zealand and is not too far from the equator. Fiji is a volcanically formed archipelago of 333 island, of which only 110 are permanently inhabited. The biggest sources of income in Fiji are sugar cane exports and tourism. However, much of the money from tourism goes to foreign investors to spur international economies instead of the local Fijian economy. Less than one million people live in Fiji. Fiji is made up of about 57% indigenous Fijians and 38% Indo-Fijians (Fijian citizens of Indian descent).
I have to get some work done while in Fiij. Is this possible?
How do we get clean water on a tropical island surrounded by saltwater?
Is there cell phone reception on the island?
What is expected of me on the island?
You are expected to respect the culture, the land, and the people around you. We encourage you to fully immerse yourself in the Fijian lifestyle. And of course, have a fantastic time - this is YOUR Vorovoro experience. You can gain as much as you put in on the island.
What work do I have to do on the island?
On the island, you can do as much or as little as you want to do. Each day, there are duties that we ask our volunteers to do- collecting firewood or coconuts, fetching seawater, etc. Additionally, there is usually a larger project going on (e.g. building a new structure) that you have the opportunity to work on. In Fiji, work is very social. While on the island, work serves as a fantastic opportunity to get to know the Fijians better through collaboration, teamwork, and laughter. Helping and asking for help is an important part of tribal life.
What amenities are on the island? Electricity? Running water?
We have a solar panel on the island for charging cameras, phones, laptops, etc. There are solar lights in the kitchen and around the dining areas as well as solar string lights in each of the accommodations. However you’ll find you need a flashlight (we recommend a headlamp) to move around in the dark, unless you are lucky enough to be on the island during a full moon. (The lack of light means you can see the most amazing stars - it’s truly indescribable!)
Where do I go to the bathroom?
How do we wash our clothes?
If you are staying on the island for longer than a week, you are sure to need to do some laundry. Every Wednesday, we send our laundry to a village on the mainland where they have access to more water. The ladies there will wash our clothes for $5 USD per person. It will come back to you in a couple of days clean, fresh and folded.
What should I wear on the island?
Do I get to shower?
Where do I sleep while on the island?
What is the alcohol/drug policy on the island?
What is the tobacco policy on the island?
Tobacco is allowed on the island. The locals smoke "suki" which is locally grown dried tobacco leaves, crumbled and rolled in a specific dried leaf found on the island. Cigarettes can be found in town. However, we ask you to be respectful of others, especially children, and to only smoke in outdoor spaces and take care of your butts.
Can I contact people who have been to Vorovoro before to learn more about it?
How can I go to Vorovoro?
You can go to Vorovoro through the Open Island 2018. You can also contact BTG to arrange other ways to visit - we host study abroad groups, educational groups, corporate groups, private groups, development retreats, and more. Reach out to see how we can work together to get you to Vorovoro!
Plan Your Trip
Do I need a passport, a visa, or any other documentation to come to Fiji?
Yes. You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into Fiji. Additionally, you will need to show proof that you have purchased a return/outbound plane ticket out of Fiji - a hard or digital copy of the ticket or booking confirmation will work.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Although no vaccinations are usually required to travel to Fiji, some ARE recommended, so we recommend checking with your primary care provider to make sure they have no concerns. More information on Fiji and vaccines can be found here.
What will Bridge the Gap do to prepare me for my trip to Vorovoro?
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not required but always a good idea when travelling! A simple Google search can turn up a variety of options that will surely suit your needs.
Should I bring technology? (cell phone, laptop etc.)
For most guests, Vorovoro is an escape from the business and complexity of our lives back home. We recommend that you disengage from technology (save a camera) as much as possible. However if you really need to keep in touch there is (limited) service on the island. We can show you where the best signal can be found on the island.
What am I not allowed to bring?
There are just a few items that are not allowed on Vorovoro; alcohol, illicit drugs, and fireworks. All of these items are banned out of sensitivity to the local culture and out of respect for other guests. To reiterate, these are VERY strict bans. There are plenty of opportunties in Fiji for a cocktail, and we can show you where you can get a beer in Labasa town, but we don't allow them on Vorovoro. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.
How much extra spending money do I need?
We recommend guests have between $50-150 USD of extra spending money on hand. You might want to purchase:
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Meals or treats while you are in town -
Local handicrafts and/or coconut oil made on Vorovoro -
Laundry -
For $5 USD, you can send a bag (we provide the bag) of clothing into town to be washed.
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Town trip -
$10 USD. Twice a week we go to Labasa town for supplies or to pick up/drop off guests. Each time, we will have a few spaces in the boat for those who want to spend a day in Labasa town.
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Optional activities -
Once on Vorovoro, guests can pay for off-island activities (unless you pre-paid for them when you booked your stay). These weekly activities include: -
a snorkeling reef trip for $15 USD -
a primary school and village visit for $10 USD -
a night fishing trip for $10 USD -
a church visit for $15 USD (includes tithes) -
an opportunity to weave mats with the local ladies for a price of $15 USD (for supplies)
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How do I get Fijian money?
There are ATMs in Nadi airport and in the town of Labasa if you would like to withdraw money. Alternatively, you can exchange your home currency for Fijian dollars at any money exchange business in the Nadi airport or in Labasa. There will be time in Labasa before coming to Vorovoro to use an ATM or make an exchange. Make sure to call your banks to let them know of your international travel if you plan to use a debit/credit card or to withdraw money.
What flights do I need to purchase?
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To get to Vorovoro you will first need to fly to Nadi International airport. We find that cheapoair.com usually has the best fares, but things are always changing so it's best if you shop around. As a rule, the earllier you book your ticket, the better the fare will be.
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Once you arrive in Nadi, you will need to get to Labasa Airport. Most people opt to fly. It's a short 45 minute flight, so it's by far the quickest and easiest option. -
Depending on the international airline you book with, you may have an option to book all the way to Labasa when you book your international ticket. This is usually the cheapest way, and it allows you more luggage allowance on the Nadi to Labasa flight. It's worth checking into. -
Alternatively, book your domestic flight from Nadi to Labasa on www.fijiairways.com
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If you are looking for a cheaper and more adventurous option, consider traveling like a local by taking a ferry. Please allow 24 hours for this option - you won't be traveling the whole time but the entire process is time consuming. You will need to purchase your ferry ticket once you arrive to Fiji, and ferry schedules are not posted online so you will need to figure it out once you get to Fiji. If you are interested, contact us and we will try to help you.
Do you have hotel or hostel recommendations?
Any tips to for traveling to Vorovoro with children?
Vorovoro is very child friendly - just bring with you anything you would normally bring for a holiday with your child. Bring plenty of clothes that dry easily and can get dirty - Vorovoro is full of adventures for children.
Health and Safety
What do we do in case of an emergency on the island?
What if I get sick?
Is there 24/7 emergency contact?
How do I contact home in case of an emergency?
Bridge the Gap will always have at least one charged cell phone to be able to contact home or make an emergency call.
Is Fiji politically stable? Is Fiji safe for visitors?
Yes. One of Fiji’s main sources of income is tourism. Fiji is safe for locals and visitors alike. However, like with any foreign country, try to have a buddy and remain cautious and alert in public places, especially at night. Rural areas are safer than urban areas.
How do prescription medications work?
What if I have physical or medical conditions?
Contact us at 317-296-4883 or by email in order to discuss any specific issues and we’ll do our best to find a solution.
What dangers are there on the island?
Island Life
Where do I sleep while on the island?
How many people will be on the island with me?
Do I get to spend time with Fijians?
Do I get to meet the Chief?
What local traditions do I get to engage in?
Will I get any instructions on the local culture and how to navigate it once I arrive?
Who will be on the island with us besides the locals?
Aside from yourself and the Fijians, there will be other visitors and the Bridge the Gap team. The Bridge the Gap team is there to help bridge the gap between the visitors and the Fijians. If you have any questions or would like to talk about your experience, we are here to help!
What is there to do on a remote Fijian island?
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Adventure Activities -
There are plenty of adventure activities to do on the island! You can go scuba diving (or get scuba certified if you do not have a certification), snorkeling, fishing, try spear fishing, climb coconut trees, do the Four Peaks hike (a hike the length of the island), or hike to Sunset Peak (a short hike to a breathtaking sunset view) and much more!
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Cultural Activities -
On the island, there are tons of activities to help you become immersed in Fijian culture. You can learn the meke, a traditional Fijians dance that tells the story of the Mali tribe. You can also learn grog mat etiquette (how to be culturally respectful during kava night), learn how to weave mats and baskets, learn how to harvest coconuts and make coconut oil and much more!
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Knowledge Activities -
There are also tons of ways to broaden your knowledge while on the island. You can learn about the medicinal plants on the island and how they are used, Fijian language, history of the island, history of the reef, reef conservation efforts, the effect of climate change on village life and much more!
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What is this "kava" I have heard about in Fiji?
What if I do not want to do an activity?
I want to Scuba dive. Is that possible?
Will there be any time to relax while on Vorovoro?
What does a typical day look like on the island?
On a typical day on the island, we have breakfast at 8. After breakfast, we have a community meeting with everyone on the island and the chief. During this meeting we ask for volunteers for tasks (collecting coconuts, firewood, seawater, etc.) and discuss our plans for the day.
Can I leave the island whenever I want to to go into town or explore another part of Fiji?
Are there any planned trips away from the island?
Will I ever be able to get some alone time on the island?
Yes, whenever you would like to spend some time by yourself, do it! Take a walk, find a hammock, read a book... it’s your Vorovoro experience - make it what you want it to be!
What should I wear on the island?
The Basics
How do I shower?
How do we wash our clothes?
If you are staying on the island for longer than a week, you are sure to need to do some laundry. Every Wednesday, we send our laundry to a village on the mainland where they have access to more water. The ladies there will wash our clothes for $5 USD per person. It will come back to you in a couple of days clean, fresh and folded.
Where do I go to the bathroom?
Can I contact home?
What do I eat while on Vorovoro?
The cuisine, much like the culture, in Fiji and on Vorovoro is made up of an eclectic mix of western, Fijian, and Indian traditions. On Vorovoro we eat a lot of curry, chutney, dahl, and other Indian inspired cuisine along with the Fijian favorites of freshly caught fish, papaya curry and assorted root crops. And of course, there are exciting fusion foods where the cooks combine the highlights of the Indian, Fijian and western cuisines. Additionally, there are plenty of fresh fruits to compliment the treats, such as homemade cake, that are served. The food is delicious and without fail, guests say that the food is a highlight of their stay on Vorovoro!
What if I have dietary restrictions or food preferences?
Can I help cook?
How do we cook?
We cook using a gas stove top and wood-fired oven that was made on the island.
What should I wear on the island?
More Questions
Is my trip really going to help the locals?
What makes my trip "sustainable"?
Can I bring my family with me to Vorovoro?
What can I expect as a visitor to Vorovoro?
What amenities are on the island? Electricity? Running water?
We have a solar panel on the island for charging cameras, phones, laptops, etc. There are solar lights in the kitchen and around the dining areas as well as solar string lights in each of the accommodations. However you’ll find you need a flashlight (we recommend a headlamp) to move around in the dark, unless you are lucky enough to be on the island during a full moon. (The lack of light means you can see the most amazing stars - it’s truly indescribable!)
What is the tobacco policy on the island?
Tobacco is allowed on the island. The locals smoke "suki", which is locally-grown dried tobacco leaves, crumbled and rolled in a specific dried leaf found on the island. Cigarettes can be found in town. However, we ask you to be respectful of others, especially children, and to only smoke in outdoor spaces and take care of your butts.
What is the alcohol/drug policy on the island?
How do you handle payments?
How much extra spending money do I need?
We recommend guests have between $50-150 USD of extra spending money on hand. You might want to purchase:
-
Meals or treats while you are in town -
Local handicrafts and/or coconut oil made on Vorovoro -
Laundry -
For $5 USD, you can send a bag (we provide the bag) of clothing into town to be washed.
-
-
Town trip -
$10 USD. Twice a week we go to Labasa town for supplies or to pick up/drop off guests. Each time, we will have a few spaces in the boat for those who want to spend a day in Labasa town.
-
-
Optional activities -
Once on Vorovoro, guests can pay for off-island activities (unless you pre-paid for them when you booked your stay). These weekly activities include: -
a snorkeling reef trip for $15 USD -
a primary school and village visit for $10 USD -
a night fishing trip for $10 USD -
a church visit for $15 USD (includes tithes) -
an opportunity to weave mats with the local ladies for a price of $15 USD (for supplies)
-
-
What is your privacy policy?
When you arrive, you will be asked to sign a consent form which essentially giving BTG and Vorovoro permission to use photo/videos of you from during your stay in our efforts to share what we are doing on Vorovoro through social media, advertisments, promotional materials, etc. If you would prefer not to give consent, just indicate that to a BTG staff person and we will honor your request.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is 100% returned if cancelled 90 days or more from date of expected arrival, 75% returned if cancelled 60 days or more from date of expected arrival, and 50% if cancelled 30 days or more before from date of expected arrival. Bookings are non-refundable if cancelled less than 30 days from unexpected arrival. Bookings are transferrable.