Take two 26-years-olds, a paradise island, a “tribe” of internet members and a dream of building an eco village – will it result in Paradise Or Bust?

This unique observational documentary series follows the tears, tantrums and trials involved in getting such a business venture up and running and the relentless challenges it faces in its first year. With no experience and little money, the two young entrepreneurs – Ben Keene and Mark Bowness – set about making their vision a reality on a remote Fijian island called Vorovoro. Their objective is to build an eco-tourist village which will benefit nearby communities for generations to come.

A website designed to build a virtual “tribe” takes social networking to a new level as members have the power to influence what happens in reality on the island. Members can also visit, and take part in the development of, the eco village. To succeed, they must adapt to a very different way of life and work closely with an ancient Fijian tribe. This is the story of the personal journeys and remarkable friendships which emerge when people with a purpose from all over the world join forces with a Fijian tribe.

In this first programme, the idea is born and co-founder Ben Keene lands on the island. He has just six weeks to make preparations for the first visitors. Time is running out and the pressure is on as Ben is confronted by a series of obstacles: there is no drinking water, power, sanitation or shelter. Ben has never built anything in his life. Before any work can start he must gain approval from native chief Tui Mali and witness a ceremony to warn the land of the impending work. Financial difficulties quickly arise and call the future of this burgeoning new community into question.

Monday 21 January
9.00-10.00pm BBC TWO