Social enterprise, Global Vision International (GVI) has announced new combination projects which will allow volunteers to not only add more than one standard volunteer programme to their bow but also include more countries in their placement visit.

For 17 years GVI has helped volunteers fulfil their dreams to see the world and help local communities but, until now, those involved have had to limit themselves to one country. Some may want to work on similar programmes in several countries, others may wish to experience different types of projects in the same region; alternatively, they may want to do both. The options are now endless for those wanting to immerse themselves in numerous countries and cultures. With the world full of so many diverse, unique and enchanting places – whether it be Africa, South East Asia or Latin America - why not take them all in?

GVI can help travellers along the way by setting them up with volunteer options within various focuses to make the most of their time away. Whether looking for a really varied volunteering experience, a unique gap year volunteer experience, or just something a bit different, then these combination projects are a great place to start:

Central America Childcare Expedition

Travellers can tick Latin America off their wish list as this programme allows travel between Playa del Carmen in Mexico and Quepos in Costa Rica. Giving aid to valuable initiatives with partner 'Save the Children' in Mexico, volunteers will work with children to help with their homework, teach about social issues and play games with them at a children's centre. In Costa Rica, there's an opportunity to work in a school organising art workshops, games and sports sessions all while brushing up on their Spanish and enjoying free time to explore the beautiful scenery and ancient ruins that both countries have to offer. More information here.

*8-week programme priced at AUD$4,161 GVI has departures available on 8 August 2015, 3 October 2015 and 23 January 2016. Travel between Mexico and Costa Rica is not provided but GVI can assist with options and costs.

Wildlife Conservation and Childcare in South Africa

Explore the sights and sounds of Cape Town and Limpopo and give something back in this richly diverse country. Volunteers will leave South Africa knowing they've worked with disadvantaged children in their classes at orphanages in Gordon's Bay, as well as radio tracking and monitoring endangered species including lions, leopards and cheetahs at the Karongwe game reserve in Limpopo. In fact volunteers will call Karongwe home as they will stay at the reserve with the big cats and elephants on their doorstep. In addition, there is opportunity for side trips such as a Cape Town Cultural and Activity Weekend to sample the vibrant weekend life of one of the liveliest cities in the world. More information here.

*8-week programme priced at AUD$5,415 GVI has departures available on 22 August 2015, 17 October 2015 and 6 February 2016. Travel between Cape Town and Limpopo is not included, but GVI can assist with options and costs.

Marine Conservation Exploration in Fiji and Thailand

Volunteers live amongst dramatic tropical scenery as they travel between Fiji and Thailand in this awe-inspiring project. In Fiji, there is the chance to join a marine conservation expedition that focuses on collecting data by underwater research dives then in Thailand travellers will be based in the stunning coastal province of Phang Nga where they'll assist in the conservation of its coastal and marine ecosystems. A water lover's dream, most of this trip will be spent in crystal clear seas and so a PADI Open Water qualification, or equivalent, will be required. More information here.

*8-week programme priced at $5,786. GVI has departures available on 22 August 2015, 19 September 2015, 14 November 2015 and 9 January 2016. Travel between Fiji and Thailand is not provided, GVI can assist with options and costs.

For more information on GVI's huge choice of gap years, check out www.gviaustralia.com.au and join GVI's 200,000+fans on Facebook.

About GVI:
Global Vision International (GVI), a non-political, non-religious organisation, was formed in 1997 to provide support and services to international charities, NGOs and governmental agencies. Through its international network of over 150 personnel in 13 countries, GVI continues to support many of the most critical conservation and humanitarian projects around the globe. Through its alliance with aid-reliant organisations throughout the world, GVI provides opportunities for volunteers to fill a critical void in the fields of environmental research, conservation, education and community development. To date over 20,000 volunteers have joined projects resulting in the direct financial support of over AUD $36 million.

For media enquiries, please contact:
GTI Tourism on behalf of GVI
Naomi Joyce or Rachel Jones
+61 (0) 2 9028 3592; +61 (0) 2 9028 3593
naomi.joyce@gtitourism.com.au or rachel.jones@gtitourism.com.au.