Welcome NEW ZEALAND AND FIJI SUMMER (B) CREW From Kim

Hello lovelies!

I hope you are getting excited, not long now until we finally get to meet each other and go on an incredible journey through New Zealand and the Yasawa islands of Fiji.

I just wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. I'm Kim, and I'm really looking forward to meeting you all.

I am a smiley, spontaneous, bad-car-singing Australian who has never met a person I didn't like.

I have been traveling the world and leading small group adventures for the last eight years, and worked with Pacific Discovery for the last four. I just love how travel and experiential education have the power to ignite so much curiosity, passion, and adventure. I can't wait to see how this trip will impact you!

I'll bet you are excited, unsure what to expect and either have (a) your bags packed and ready to go in the corner of your room or (b) are doing everything to leave it until the very last minute!

If I can give you any advice after leading many trips, it would be this: take a deep breath and relax. As long as you bring a good attitude, everything will be just fine. And before you know it, you'll be driving through spectacular places in a van full of laughing, crazy new friends.

We are going to see and do so much, so be prepared for a roller-coaster of a trip. Our volunteer work will take you to some breathtaking places that few are lucky enough to get to. You will work hard and find yourself rewarded by a lasting environmental contribution. But it's not all work; we mountain bike through redwood forests, explore the quirky capital city, feel the adrenaline of caving and whitewater rafting, and immerse ourselves in different cultures. It's going to be incredible!

Here a few quick tips to make life easier on the road:

• Pack light! If you can't easily carry your bags, you might need to bring a little less. Every group I have ever had has wished they had stuck to the packing list. We spend so much time packing and unpacking our bags and trying to squeeze them into the trailer that having less will save you a lot of stress!
• Bring a great playlist: We spend a lot of time in the van and there is nothing like good music too lift a mood.
• Come with an open mind. You are going to be living in close quarters with people from different backgrounds, personalities, and quirks. You are also going to be presented with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for growth and adventure. An open mind and a willingness to try new things will ensure you get the most out of your trip.

I hope that the little tips help, but please feel free to contact Lou or myself with any further questions. Until then, stay awesome and I'll meet you smiling and waving a big sign at the airport ready to start the trip of a lifetime!

Big hugs, Kim