 While checking my travel photos, I came across May 2014, during my trip to Fiji. Incredible holidays, I lived in the Pacific Ocean for a long time, so it was easy for me to visit exotic archipelagos, only 4 hours by plane from Brisbane, Fiji is a popular destination for Australians. For sure, from Europe or the US, it becomes more adventurous. That’s why this week I wanted to share its treasures with you. This country located in the Pacific Ocean includes more than 300 islands of which only 100 are inhabited, representing a total population of 936,000 inhabitants. Of course, when you think of Fiji, you visualise the white sand beaches and turquoise waters, and don't worry, you’ll be amazed! Nothing better than a boat to fully enjoy, can you feel the sea air?? The coastline stretches over 1,129 km (701mi) for a country with an area of 18,333 km2 (7,078 sq. mi). Although covered with tropical forests, the islands are also mountainous with the highest peak reaching an altitude of 1,324m. But I also took the opportunity to visit the local market in Suva, the country's capital on the main island: Viti Levu. It’s always very interesting to discover local products, you learn a lot about cultures. And in Fiji, there's a very popular root, from a plant native to the Western Pacific called Kava, and related to the pepper tree. When crushed into powder, it makes a preparation for infusion, keep that in mind because I’ll talk about it later in this article 😉 What I also love is visiting villages, it's very interactive, they are all different, you learn so much about customs and traditions, and I've even been to a pottery village. You know how much I love this craft, reread Cretan Pottery. Fiji has preserved its traditional art and cultural heritage, handicrafts such as pottery, cloth, wood carving, jewellery continue to be passed down in the villages from generation to generation. Made from clay and sand, potteries often have a utilitarian use. Handcrafted, they dry in the sun before being heated over a fire containing coconut shells and bamboo. If there’s one memory that marked me more than the others, it was the connection with the locals. In the chapter Moral of my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini, I explained I liked participating in charitable projects. I had the opportunity to make a donation for one of the villages on the island of Viti Levu, for the construction of a small infirmary. No significant amount, but to them it was a blessing. Most of the inhabitants were working and were not present in the village at this time of the day, but the Chief asked the children - who were at school - to come to thank and honour me. I spent several hours, sitting in the village hall, drinking kava, the famous drink mentioned above, very sour and spicy, with an earthy taste and with anaesthetic and relaxing properties, quite a program ... As a guest, you can’t say no, as it’s a sign of respect and friendship. Experiencing strange things, that’s also a part of discovering new cultures. I also listened to them play music and sing, but most of all I danced with the children! One of the happiest moments of my life, I’m still very moved when I talk about it. Receiving so much kindness, love and joy from complete strangers is what makes the beauty of our humanity. You understood, if you have paid attention to the photos, whether on a boat or in a village, music and dancing are omnipresent in Fijian culture, I love this. And after so much emotion, it's time to relax and enjoy the shows offered at sunset ...
No doubt I have a special connection to the Pacific Ocean, and I can't wait to go on a plane to discover new beautiful places ... In the meantime, I'll just watch Vaiana again, the Disney movie I talked about in my article Merry Christmas 2020. And also, a great video at the end of the article, a change of scenery in your living room 😉 You can also read my previous articles about Fiji: And thank you to the InterContinental Fiji, who made my stay and all my excursions unforgettable! No article next Saturday, I’ll be very busy, I have to attend several seminars including one with his Holiness the Dalai Lama 😊 Next article: Saturday May 15th Have a wonderful month of May everyone! Love & Joy, L.
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