Reviews
Would you recommend Global Vision International?
8 reviews
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(2015-01-02 20:17:46.0)
I've heard of people going on GVI excursions and having a great time, but that was not my experience. I discovered soon after arriving that GVI lied when it said most of my fee went to helping the "local community." My money did no such thing. It went towards helping the owners keep up their lavish lifestyles. So when we were forced to live in squalor, eat terrible food, and miss out on some of the better attractions and they said it was a sacrifice to help the Earth, they lied. They also didn't keep us safe. We were constantly in danger from the locals, but GVI cared more about keeping that under wraps so as to not lose future clients than actually protect us. I found this organization to be unethical, immoral, and indifferent to the needs of their clients and the communities they claimed to help.
(2014-05-08 12:57:49.0)
In January of 2014 I left for GVI's Nepal Volunteer and Adventure Experience. Words cannot describe how wonderful this trip was. I feel that through this trip I was able to experience Nepal on a more personal level. I had the opportunity to trek for two weeks to Everest Base Camp and then spent another four weeks volunteering with children in Pokhara, There is nothing like trekking in the Himalayas, you can't put the beauty into words. Volunteering with the children in Pokhara was also a life changing experience and has since made me realize the importance of volunteering (whether that be in your community or abroad). It was once in a lifetime opportunity and I would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone that is considering it :) You won't regret it!
(2010-09-16 16:54:59.0)
For someone who has never traveled by herself or volunteered anywhere but locally, GVI was a great company to choose. I felt that all of the 'big stuff' had been planned out and explained to me ahead of time which eased my mind greatly. Once arriving in country someone was at the airport waiting for me and from there everything went smoothly from settling in, adjusting to South Africa, learning about my project (Sports Program in Gordons Bay), having orientation, etc. Everyone was super helpful and friendly and really wanted to make a difference in the kids lives.
The kids we were able to work with were absolutely AMAZING and being able to be a part of their lives, even though for only 2 weeks, has changed my life for the better. They have inspired me to be a better person and just thinking about my experience during stressful times helps me stay calm with a smile on my face. I strongly urge anyone able to look into a GVI program and make a difference!
(2010-01-12 12:51:37.0)
I have volunteered with a few organizations but what I really liked about GVI was there field staffs obvious long term commitment to the program. I enjoyed being trained by people who obviously new what they were talking about but more importantly I felt comfortable knowing that when I left my work would carry on. I would recommend them to anyone, they were a breath of fresh air after quite a few not so successful experiences!
(2010-01-05 08:30:44.0)
I went to South Africa with GVI in December of 2009, I was a little unsure before I went as I could not find many impartial reviews and there are just sooo many organizations to choose from, however these guys are just great they are so committed to the work they do on the ground and really inspired me and the other volunteers. I am sure we got lucky with our group but it was just such an awesome experience. Don't hesiate go and do it now!
(2009-12-28 13:21:35.0)
These guys are amazing, i volunteered for 8 weeks in South Africa and right from the beginning they looked after me so well. I choose them because I wanted to be looked after in the field, not because I was scared but because I wanted to really get immersed in the program. From week 2 i really felt comfortable in what I was meant to be doing and GVI's staff and longer term volunteers really helped me make sure I made an impact. The social life is really cool too, there were 9 volunteers there with me, 5 from the UK, 2 from the US and the rest from all over the place. The evening BBQ's are great fun.
and by the way if you have time you have just got to go on a safari. Cheers
(2009-12-17 13:15:58.0)
what really made this experience so special to me was the time GVI's field staff spent preparing me for my work. Without this and their continued support I would not have been able to accomplish everything I did or to feel as much a part of the project.
(2009-11-06 19:29:34.0)
Although the experience was enjoyable, I have to wonder how much of what I paid goes back into the field and the community. GVI are just like any other corporate organisation. The activies that the volunteers get involved in are conservation or community bases, but I have to wonder how much GVI actually cares about making a difference? My guess is not a lot.