Miami University (Ohio, USA), Mark Freidline, Outdoor Pursuit Center director:
'Our New Zealand program with Tamarillo was exactly what we were looking for. They understood the educational outcomes we wanted and developed a unique program to exceed those outcomes. The relationship Tamarillo has developed with the Maori community was incredible, and enabled an authentic experience for our students. The guides were also very aware of the risk management concerns we faced as a university program studying abroad. We are looking forward to our next trip with Tamarillo.'

University of Maryland (Maryland, USA), Mike Doyle, Adventure Program assistant director:
'Our experience in Fiji was amazing! Tamarillo provided unique access and exposure to the Fijian culture and way of life that we couldn't have had on our own or with any other travel company. We enjoyed world-class kayaking and snorkeling, delicious local food, and unbeatable views and scenery of the South Pacific. We appreciated Tamarillo's commitment and loyalty to the people of Kadavu Island as well as their excellent guiding service for our group. In the planning process they were flexible and extremely accommodating.'

West Virginia University (West Virginia, USA), Forrest Schwartz, Mountaineer Adventure Program coordinator:
'Ending our New Zealand program at the Otaki marae (a traditional Maori community centre) was a great way to bring our 3-week program to close. We had previously experienced various aspects of NZ’s adventure culture so our group had already bonded in a special way, but it wasn't until we were welcomed at Otaki and spent time with [South Pacific Study Programs guide] Rawiri and his family that our group truly felt like a community, like a family. It was the warmth and sincerity of the people and place that made us feel right at home - thousands of miles away! We sang together, danced together, ate together, laughed and played together. We were welcomed as members of the community and invited to return not as visitors, but as family. An educational program in NZ would be missing something if a visit to Otaki were not on the itinerary.'

Southern Methodist University (Texas, USA), David Chambers, Outdoor Adventures:
'Working with Tamarillo was easy. They were more than willing to accommodate our needs and desires for our Fiji trip. From the personal attention of the guides to the email updates during the trip from the Tamarillo office, we could not have asked for better service. The students agreed that the experience itself was amazing, but it was the people involved and the cultural experience that have had the greatest impact. As program administrators, we felt this trip was exactly what we wished it to be. SMU Outdoor Adventures will be using Tamarillo again.'

Educational Travel Service (Vermont, USA), Lee Hoehn and Tim Kahn:
'Working with Tamarillo was a pleasure. Communication in setting up the trip was always efficient and timely. Everything we proposed, they were able to arrange. They were well informed, very personable, flexible, attentive to everyone’s needs. We would highly recommend them for their professionalism and very personal approach to organizing a memorable travel experience.'

Miami University (Ohio, USA), Tricia Sherrard, program leader:
'I've had the pleasure of working twice with Tamarillo Active Travel as coordinator of Miami University’s Fiji social justice course. Each time the Tamarillo guides have facilitated an immersive experience while teaching us cultural skills and discussing meaningful topics related to social justice. Our students are able to delve into sustainability, volun-tourism, colonialism and the dilemma of preserving indigenous culture amidst globalization. Interacting with Fiji’s people in this way allows us to explore the uniqueness and validity of all cultures with a fundamental recognition of our common humanity. Traveling in Fiji also pushes students out of their technology-induced comfort zones. Subsequently, they establish deeper connections to one another and the learning process.

'Such an operation is made possible by Tamarillo's team of logistical magicians (logisticians!), extensive local knowledge, and risk management skills. Anthony works behind the scenes with a network of Fijian friends and colleagues to ensure smooth travels to varied places of interest on four different islands. He models preparedness and joy in working through unexpected situations. This approach contributes to a remarkably enriching experience for Miami University. We look forward to our continued partnership!'

Brigham Young University (Utah, USA), Brian Hill, Recreation Management and Youth Leadership department:
'We have worked with Tamarillo for three consecutive years bringing American students to Fiji as part of a South Pacific Study Abroad program. They have provided safe adventures, life-altering cultural experiences, and exceptional personal relationships that have lasted well beyond our 10 day trips. Tamarillo is well-conceived, carefully operated, and committed to sustainable tourism development. I could not be happier with the service and experiences they have provided. The big-hearted Fijian guides are a favorite of every student, and I personally love working with Anthony, Marina and Ratu. I give them my highest recommendation, and I will always include them on any program that includes travel to Fiji.'

Lees-McRae College (North Carolina, USA), Fiona Chrystall, Environmental Science professor:
'Tamarillo Active Travel was a very lucky find. I’m an environmental scientist who spends most of her time trying to teach students how humans have both an impact on the natural world, but are equally impacted by it. Imagine my delight when I discovered an expedition company that gave students a real 'close to nature' experience while treading as lightly as possible on earth’s natural resources. Not only did the students get to experience life through the lens of a native Fijian, much of the money they spent on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity went back into the local economy. They learnt a different way of living with the help of native guides with a wealth of knowledge. I have been recommending Tamarillo to colleagues, friends, and family unreservedly since my return. I have high expectations of expedition companies and Tamarillo exceeded every one'.

Antioch University (Washington, USA), Susan Wertz, Heritage Institute lecturer:
'This was an incredible experience for my group. Tamarillo provided an amazing variety of authentic interactions with native Fijians on the islands of Kadavu. We were welcomed and treated like royalty. Anthony and his guides arranged fantastic kayaking and snorkeling on the Great Astrolabe Reef - amazing. The best in the world. Tamarillo has chosen a truly remarkable environment for their expeditions.'

Appalachian State University (North Carolina, USA), Rich Campbell, Outdoor Programs director:
'Tamarillo Active Travel has created an intricate network of relationships incorporating the beautiful people, the diverse landscapes and the amazing waters of Kadavu, Fiji. This unique and well-established framework allows for individuals and groups to thrive in remote, expeditionary adventures in some of the most stunning settings in the South Pacific. We simply would not have been able to experience the true colors of Fiji without the impeccable leadership and vision of Tamarillo.'