Imagine an island archipelago that immediately transports you back in time. Life is simpler, nature is woven into every moment, and tradition and culture are unmatched. Think of Hawaii 50 years ago, add 190 pristine islands, and take away the urban cities and high-rise hotels. Then add the rich cultural combination of Polynesia and India — dancing, kava, and curry. What a rich, tasty combination! Welcome to Fiji!

Fiji is home to some of the happiest people in the world. A 2014 WIN/Gallup International poll found that 92% of Fijians expressed satisfaction with their lives, and it is easy to see why. The secret lies in their deep sense of community, relaxed lifestyle, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Fijian villages thrive on strong social bonds. The concept of solesolevaki, which emphasizes the importance of sharing and helping one another, keeps communities close-knit and supported. Elders are held in high regard, and personal relationships are given priority over rigid schedules. Life moves at its own pace, often called “Fiji time,” allowing people to enjoy the moment.

Fiji’s breathtaking natural beauty also plays a role in that happiness. Palm-fringed beaches, lush landscapes, and warm ocean breezes create a sense of peace and well-being. The island mindset embraces gratitude, positivity, and a deep connection to nature.

Kava is the national traditional drink of the islands. Made from the root of the yaqona plant, it is a significant part of social life and ceremonies. This unique beverage induces a pleasant numbing sensation when consumed, often leading to feelings of calm and relaxation, with some viewing it as a mild sedative. It is a key element of traditional kava ceremonies, where attendees gather in circles to share full cups (“high tides”) or half cups (“low tides”) to mark special occasions or welcome guests. Any time you enter a new village, celebrate an important event, or even attend a meaningful meeting, guests sit in a circle around the tanoa bowl while the leader mixes the pounded root with water and serves it in coconut shells to everyone present.

We had the remarkable experience of taking a hydro boat up a river to visit a remote village. Since Joseph was the elder of the group, he was given the honor of presenting the Chief with a healthy kava plant. In return, we were invited to their kava ceremony, followed by a tasty lunch in the main meeting hall. Fiji’s renowned cuisine owes much to its traditional cooking methods, such as the age-old technique of ‘lovo’. This method uses hot coals in a sand pit to create an underground oven. In Hawaii, this is called an ‘imu’. Meat and vegetables, spiced and wrapped in banana leaves, are then cooked over the coals. Small groups visit these villages only about once a month, so the villagers go all out in welcoming their guests. Lunch was followed by quite remarkable harmonized singing and everyone joining in dancing lines. Later, Joseph was presented with his favorite kukui nut necklace after another kava ceremony at our resort. It is heartwarming to be immersed in a culture where elders are still respected. The West could learn a thing or two from these friendly, welcoming islanders!

One of our favorite pastimes, as usual, was hanging out at the local market. This hub of activity in the small town was full of colorful vegetables, fruit, handicrafts, and people. We always found a local hangout serving some of the best Indian food outside the continent.

Viti Levu is the main island of Fiji. It covers over half the nation’s landmass and houses 70% of its population. As the heart of Fiji, it includes the capital city, Suva, and the main international airport in Nadi. We had planned to head out to some of the more remote Fijian islands, but soon realized that transport was expensive and, in many ways, most of the islands offered a similar experience. Sama sama. We had also planned to island-hop a bit more to places like Samoa or Tonga, but once flight routes were cut, so were decent schedules and discount fares. Imagine flying from Tahiti to Samoa via a six-hour layover in Australia — plus needing a layover visa! Plan your trip of a lifetime now. There seems to be a conscious effort to limit the amount of travel being offered. So many places, so little time! It is a great big fascinating world, just begging to be explored. Have fun!

Love, Light & Laughter, 

xo  Nancy & Joseph

TRAVEL NOTES:

Hello – “Bula”

Club Fiji Resort

Nadi Bay Beach Viti Levu, Nadi, 11111 Fiji

Good place to land after arriving.  It is a combination of funky beach cabanas, a 4 storey upscale hotel and a pool/beach/restaurant area.  The best parts are the cultural nights with buffet.  Kava ceremony, singing, dancing, fire show.  Friendly staff!

Crows Nest Resort

Sunset Strip, Korotogo, Coral Coast, Fiji

Great!”

Clean rooms, comfy bed, strong hot shower, good food and great pool. Incredible helpful and friendly staff. (Special shout out to Vin, Kasey, Chef and Lucy who surprised me at dinner with a cake and bottle of wine for my birthday) as well as just being so helpful, informative and accommodating for our 10 night stay. From the room balcony all you see is palm trees and ocean! Plus hear the waves in bed at night. Local bus runs to and from Sigatoka (Small market town with all you need for supplies – ATMs, supermarkets etc) every 15mins for $2FD from front of resort. 5min walk to a couple of pizza or seafood bars and the other 2 big resorts (and couple of smaller ones worth checking out) $60FD for local airport bus (about 2hrs) or $80FD taxi (barter). Free breakfast is toast, cereal and fruit. Free WiFi only in restaurant, 7am-10pm.