EXPLORE Fiji Aug-Oct 2018

AUG - OCT 2018

award-winning tourism magazine

CRUISING WITH THE FAMILY ISLAND of ADVENTURE HISTORIC CLOUDBREAK RECIPE EVENTS

FREE

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Contents Fiji - the only country on Earth where you are welcomed with a warm ‘BULA’ everywhere you go.

Bula means “life” and in a greeting it implies wishes for “good health”.

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MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

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MARKET AFFAIR

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CLIMB MOUNT KOROBABA

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ROYALS PLAN TO VISIT FIJI

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ISLAND OF ADVENTURE

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CLOUDBREAK’S HISTORIC SWELL

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EVENTS

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CRUISING WITH THE FAMILY

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

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RECIPE

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USEFUL INFORMATION

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COUNTRYSIDE THERAPY

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OVERSEAS MISSIONS & CONSULATES IN FIJI

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LELEUVIA ENHANCES APPEAL

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ISA LEI

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FIJI INTERNATIONAL GOLFING ESCAPE

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FIJI MAP

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TOURISM BRIEFS

SNAPPER & PRAWN CEVICHE

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Message from the Publisher Bula & Cola Vina!

W

elcome to the Fiji Islands!

Our beautiful weather, charming islands and warm authentic Fijian hospitality makes for a relaxing vacation in a top choice destination.

Fiji’s archipelago of 333 islands conjure a sense of exoticism from mountain peak to coral reef and sky to ocean bed; there is constantly something magical waiting to be explored.

Boasting stunning tropical landscape, many of the islands are surrounded by soft sandy beaches and caressed by crystal-clear waters. Our cover featuring Namotu Island’s dreamy, postcardworthy stretch of beach and azure Mamanuca waters is a first-class example. Of course, our Fijian islands is also carved out for eco-tourism where traditional way of life is alive.

Let the bright sunshine and blue skies beacon you to get outside and enjoy every bit of Fijian paradise.

In this edition, we journey to Robinson Crusoe Island, just off the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, where the tropical playground is abuzz with cultural entertainment and activities both day and night (page 8). We also hike into the wilderness at Mount Korobaba, outside the capital Suva, to whet our walking appetite and feel at one with nature (page 6).

Did you know family travel has become the leading segment of the leisure travel industry in the world? Here in Fiji, a unique and memorable way to holiday with the entire troop is to get onboard a cruise with Captain Cook Cruises. Do check out the ‘Cruising With The Family’ spread on page 12.

Making its mark on the world stage through one of the best golf courses you’ll find anywhere, Fiji is attracting a stream of world-class golfers to play in its signature event, the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways. With big-names agreeing to headline the prestigious men’s tournament at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, Natadola from August 2nd-5th this year is four-time Major champion Ernie Els (The Big Easy) and former World No. 1 and three-time Major winner, Fiji’s Vijay Singh.

Fiji International is tri-sanctioned by the European Tour, ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia, and Asian Tour. Securing Els for the 2018 tournament further demonstrates the advantage of the three tours’ involvement.

This year’s prize money is AUD $1.25 million.

For exciting hospitality options and plenty of perfect vantage points to watch a field of 132 golfers in action whilst socialising on the beach and at the clubhouse, turn to page 24.

We have strived for accuracy, but please note that travel information is subject to change at any time, especially prices. EXPLORE Fiji cannot be held responsible for the changes or the experiences of readers while travelling.

Like you would anywhere else in the world, we encourage you to be aware of your surroundings and keep a close watch on your valuables. Chew Publishing Co. Ltd cannot be held responsible for any claims, statements or offers made in any advertising. The contents of advertising and editorial may not necessarily reflect the policy of Chew Publishing Co. Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced, wholly or in part, without prior written permission from the Publisher.

Print Run 20,000

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AUG - OCT 2018

EXPLORE Fiji (tourism / travel magazine) is proud to be a media partner of the Fiji International since its inception in 2014.

Another Fijian icon that attracts a different set of sport professional is Cloudbreak - a world-class left reef pass that is regularly voted one of the 10 Best/Most challenging waves in the world. Located in the majestic Mamanuca chain of islands, Cloudbreak is a renowned Fiji surf spot where it’s fast, barrelling lefts over a shallow reef are chased by surf pros year-round.

Veteran photographer Peter ‘Joli’ Wilson shares his words and captivating images of May 27, 2018 - a day that will go down in surfing history when some of the world’s biggest waves rolled through a crowded lineup at Cloudbreak (page 34).

On page 17, we feature a Snapper & Prawn Ceviche recipe.

Ceviche, the refreshing dish of raw fish or seafood marinated in lemon juice, is wonderful for summer. While Kokoda enriched with coconut milk is Fiji’s popular ceviche, there are many other ways to whip up the appetizer. Chef Darren Braddock shares his recipe.

In the pages ahead, we also feature articles on Sabeto’s therapeutic mud pools and hot springs, tourism briefs, a threepage events calendar, useful country information, a Fiji map and more.

We hope our features inspire you to venture beyond your hotel and to try out the many Fijian experiences on offer. In doing so, you will also find that beyond the attractions, it is our people and their friendly and kind spirit that leaves the greatest impression.

Vinaka Vaka Levu, Connie

www.explorefijionline.com instagram.com/EXPLOREFijimagazine facebook.com/EXPLOREFijionline pinterest.com/EXPLOREFiji

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award-winning tourism magazine

FREE

CRUISING WITH THE FAMILY ISLAND of ADVENTURE HISTORIC CLOUDBREAK RECIPE EVENTS

Namotu Island Resort. ©joliphotos.

Volume 16, Issue 3 EXPLORE Fiji is an award-winning complimentary Fiji tourism magazine ~ available in print and online.

EXPLORE Fiji’s latest magazine issue and archives:

www.explorefijionline.com

Published four times a year by Chew Publishing Co. Ltd in Suva, Fiji Islands.

Publisher/Editor Connie Chew Contributors Peter ‘Joli’ Wilson Allan Stephen Weizhao Wu Tafazul Gani Design The Greenhouse Studio Printer Quality Print Ltd, Suva EXPLORE Fiji Office: Suva, Fiji.

All correspondence and payments should be mailed to: Chew Publishing Co. Ltd GPO Box 901, Suva, Fiji.

Editorial, Print & Digital Advertising / Marketing, Distribution & General Enquiries Tel: 332 0978 explorefiji@connect.com.fj

2004 Winner of Fiji Development Bank ‘National Small Business - Tourism Category’ Award.

EXPLORE Fiji

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Climb Mount Korobaba

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or a great outdoor experience complete with spectacular panoramic view, hike Mount Korobaba.

At 429 meters above sea level, Mount Korobaba is the tallest peak in the Suva vicinity.

Located just 10 minutes outside of the capital city and closer to the town of Lami, the trek to Mount Korobaba is easy to get to. If you are travelling by car or by local bus, get off at the Pacific Cement Limited factory in Lami and follow the marked trek. Entry is free.

Climbers who hike the popular trail say it takes one and a half hours each way to complete. Of course, this would also depend on the weather and the number of stops you make for selfies and to catch your breath. There are a few natural swimming pools just off the trail toward the finish that’s ideal for a refreshing dip.

At the peak, Mount Korobaba provides breathtaking views of the Suva peninsula and its harbour, barrier reefs, Beqa Island, Yanuca Island, Serua Island and Kadavu Island.

Rising in the skyline to the west of Suva is Joske’s Thumb, a precipitous volcanic plug and an enticing spectacle for serious climbers.

If you go, be sure to wear hiking footwear and take bottled water and a small snack.

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Marcus Yam photos.

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F I J I ’ S

C R U I S E

L I N E

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Island oF adventure E

verything from a friendly cannibal attack on arrival to catching mud crabs, kava ceremonies and spectacular fire dancing shows, Robinson Crusoe Island Resort delivers a unique cultural experience.

If you are already in Fiji and looking for an adventurous day tour, an entertaining show with dinner or an affordable stayover, pack your bags and head for Robinson Crusoe Island Resort. Situated on Likuri Island, the resort offers solo travelers, couples, families and groups memorable experiences in a laid back beachside setting.

The only way to get to and from the island is by boat. From Robinson Crusoe's jetty located close to Natadola Beach along Viti Levu’s Coral Coast, a cruise in calm clear waters down the Tuva River gets you to the island in 30 minutes.

Likuri Island and the surrounding area are steeped in historical significance, with ancient pottery dating back 3,500 years found nearby. Largely uninhabited prior to the 1980s, the island was reserved historically

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as a sacred place for ceremonies as well as recreation for the paramount chief of the area.

Today, the resort recreates that perfect tropical island rhythm, both day and overnight guests experience authentic Fijian customs, culture and cuisine. It is the friendly and charming staff and the engaging and fun activities that really make the island experience special.

The resort offers various tour options for day visitors as well as affordable accommodation in 14 bures (Fijian cottage) with full resort facilities for guests who would like to stay on the island.

Onshore activities are fun and enriching, with a focus on cultural education and the natural environment. Complimentary activities include snorkeling and kayaking in the bay, jungle treks, traditional fish drives, coconut jewelry making, coconut tree climbing demonstrations and beach volleyball. Serenaders by the nightly bonfire is a highlight.

Adding to its ideal location, guests can enjoy access to majestic reefs and some of Fiji’s famous landmarks like Cloudbreak for world-class surfing and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. Other charged watersports and offshore tour options include jet skiing, banana boat rides, sports fishing and PADI scuba diving. After a day of adventure, head to the resort’s Likuri Spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages and beauty treatments.

Robinson Crusoe’s authentic island philosophy extends to cuisine. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet-style by the beach. Ingredients are locally sourced and are mostly organic. The resort caters for vegetarians, and most food allergies can be accommodated if adequate notice is provided.

Many meals are prepared “lovo” style, whereby meat, fish and root crop vegetables are wrapped in banana and coconut leaves and buried under hot rocks for several hours.

The island is an easy day trip destination for visitors staying at any of Fiji's major hotels on Viti Levu. It is 45 minutes by road to Robinson Crusoe's jetty from Denarau or from the Warwick Fiji Resort & Spa along the Coral Coast. There are scheduled coach and boat transfers for all of the tours (except the Half Day Island Chill).

• Half Day Island Chill – Daily.

• Fiji Culture Day Tour - Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday.

• Village & Crab Catching Tour - Monday, Wednesday, Saturday.

• Sunset Cruise Dinner & Show - Monday, Wednesday, Saturday.

• Day & Night Combo Tour - Monday, Wednesday, Saturday.

Robinson Crusoe Island Resort Fiji Tel: (679) 7760999 and 6281999 Email: reserve@rcifiji.com www.robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.

Robinson Crusoe Island Resort photos.

Weizhao Wu photo.

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• Air, Sea & Land Activities • Art Gallery • Asian Cuisine • Bakery & Pattisserie • Bank • Bars • Beachwear • Beauty & Massage Therapy • Boat Charter • Boutiques

Bula & Welcome to

the Port at Denarau • Car Rental • Coffee Shop • Confectionery Shop • European Cuisine • Fashionwear • Fast Food & Takeaways • Fijian Cuisine • Fishing Charters • Footwear

• Handicrafts • Hard Rock Café • Ice Cream Parlour • Indian & Italian Cuisine • Jewellers • Kebabs • Money Exchange • Nail & Hair Salon • News Agency

Located on the water’s edge, the Port at Denarau offers the largest single collection of quality shopping and dining in Fiji.

Open daily, the Port boasts mouth watering cuisine and an unhurried shopping experience in a relaxed and unique environment.

It will take you five minutes by car from Nadi Town and fifteen minutes from Nadi Airport.

Come, unwind and enjoy our hospitality on a sun splashed deck or indulge in an enchanted evening to a backdrop of shimmering waters and live local entertainment.

Denarau’s renowned yachting harbour plays host to island hop cruises & charters, super yachts and the occasional ocean liner.

Visitors to the Port will enjoy a wildly casual environment and experience the Fijian warmth and cultural diversity.

The Port at Denarau is just a short walk or bus/taxi ride away from any Denarau Resort.

For business or pleasure, The Port is a “must visit” whilst in Nadi or Denarau.

Port Denarau Centre Management, Denarau Island, Fiji • P.O. Box 80, Port Denarau • Telephone +679 6750602 • www.portdenarau.com.fj • Post Office • Pizza • Real Estate • Speciality Cuisines • Seafood • Steakhouse • Supermarket • Travel Agency • Wine & Liquor • Yacht Chandlery

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Cruising With The Family D

iscover the pristine beaches, turquoise waters and remote villages of the ‘real’ Fiji on a family cruise.

Captain Cook Cruises’ three, four and seven night cruises offer a host of activities for kids and adults aboard its 130-passenger, fully accommodated MV Reef Endeavour cruise ship.

A truly heart-warming cultural experience, the whole family gets to visit remote Fijian villages and schools, interact and play with local children, experience a Fijian church service and a traditional village sevusevu ceremony, meke and lovo feast.

As well as being immersed in Fijian culture, families will have hours of fun kayaking, snorkelling over coral reefs, playing or relaxing on white sandy beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and learning about marine life on a glassbottom boat ride on the twice daily shore visits.

Adults can experience the spectacular underwater world with mind blowing scuba diving operated by Viti Water Sports, a PADI 5-Star Dive Centre onboard the Reef Endeavour. Two or three dives are offered most days and always in different locations.

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Onboard there is fun for the whole family.

Be pampered at the ship’s Senikai Day Spa featuring a KIDZPA menu, enjoy a workout in the gym, let the kids swim in the ship’s pool or Jacuzzi, while mum and dad sneak in a cocktail or two, play a board game, watch a movie in the library or simply relax on the open top deck and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

A Complimentary Captain’s Kid’s Club is available for children 5-9 years and operates between 9am and 12noon, 2pm to 5pm and 6pm to 9pm, including an early dinner, and child fares apply for children 5-17 years.

Dining is another vital ingredient of these amazing cruises. Whether it is an alfresco luncheon, a casual barbecue or table d’hote dinner, all food is prepared on board from fresh local and imported produce and a full kids menu is available with early dining if they prefer.

Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of family accommodation from family cabins to inter-connecting family staterooms.

There are four unique itineraries to choose from including three, four or seven night cruises to the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands

and three alternating Discovery cruises departing the first Tuesday of each month to places without postcards in Fiji’s remote north and easterly Lau group.

The three-night Mamanuca and Southern Yasawa Cruise visits the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island groups including the islands Monu, Monuriki (where Cast Away was filmed) and Waya’s soaring cliffs and the friendly warmth of its people.

The four-night Northern Yasawa Cruise visits the private island of Tivua and cruises the spectacular passage from Yaqeta Island to the Yasawas northern reaches including the fabled limestone caves and crystal-clear lagoon.

Captain Cook Cruises offers three sevennight cruises. The seven-night Yasawa Islands Cruise for the ultimate Yasawa Island experience, the seven-night Northern Islands Discovery 4 Cultures Cruise which circumnavigates Vanua Levu and the Colonial Discovery Cruise which allows passengers the opportunity to visit UNESCO listed Levuka, Fiji’s old capital and the ultimate experience of ‘standing’ on the International Dateline, the 180th Meridian.

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Prices include shipboard accommodation; all meals; guided village, school and island tours; snorkelling and glass-bottom boat excursions; daily island stopovers and water activities; hikes and kayak safaris; on board entertainment; kids club (5-10yrs), onboard WiFi; 24-hour self-service tea and coffee bar; post cruise transfers to Nadi and Denarau hotels and Nadi Airport and use of the ship's facilities including a swimming pool, spa, mini gym, sun deck, cocktail bar and library.

Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Open Daily: 8am – 5pm Denarau Marina, Denarau Fiji Tel: (679) 6701823 Email: fiji@captaincookcruisesfiji.com www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com Source: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji.

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Your own piece of

PARADISE

S E C L U D E D | R E M O T E | B O U T I Q U E | O C E A N F R O N T | RESORT

A T BE NFROEN TS A ATM N E C O E

R SPA T

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p: (679) 888 0125 m: (679) 999 0125

C

N TIO N MEN WHE EIVE D A S REC T I H O T G, T IJI GIF KIN F BOO PURE RIVAL A AR N O

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C IC TI N AN PIC M RO CH

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Only 16 elegantly appointed Fijian Bures and Vales, Paradise is perfect for single travelers, family groups & lovers of all ages.

Experience ‘Real Fiji’ and lose yourself in the magic that is...

IN G TE IN WA L EL AR RKCLE O SN TAL S RY

GETTING L OST IN

PARADISE

info@ParadiseInFiji.com www.ParadiseInFiji.com skype: paradise.taveuni

P. O. Box 69 Waiyevo,Taveuni.

The Fiji Islands

RECIPE

Snapper & Prawn Ceviche Ingredients ½ lb. deveined shrimp. ½ lb. boneless fish, preferably snapper.

1½ cups finely chopped onion.

1⅓ cups fresh lemon juice. ½ cup finely chopped celery. ¼ cup finely chopped fresh coriander. ¼ cup chopped fresh spring onion (for garnish).

1 small cucumber (for garnish).

1 apple, sliced (for garnish). ¼ cup baby spouts. ½ finely minced chilies (optional).

Salt & pepper to taste.

How to make it 1. Cut the fish and prawns into thin strip, bite-size pieces and place in a glass bowl or container of at least 2 inches high.

2. Add lemon juice, celery, coriander, onion and mix well. The juice should cover the fish and prawns.

3. Place in refrigerator overnight to allow the fish to cook in the lemon juice.

This ceviche recipe comes courtesy of Chef Darren Braddock (Chef Daz) who with years of international experience has been adding his touch to Fijian cuisine since 2011. Darren is the executive chef at The Rhum-Ba restaurant & bar on Denarau. He is the founder of the Chef's Table Fiji, a not-forprofit biannual event.

Fresh and healthy, enjoy this recipe today. Make it as a side salad or an appetizer.

Instead of snapper, you may also use sea bass, salmon cod, coral trout, tuna or mackerel.

ROTI CRISP Ingredients 2 cups plain flour. ½ cup hot water.

½ tsp. salt.

Soft butter.

How to make it In a medium bowl, stir flour, salt, soft butter and hot water until the mixture pulls away from the sides. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Knead until smooth and pliable, about 10 minutes.

Preheat a skillet to medium high heat. Divide dough into equal parts, form into rounds and cover with a damp cloth.

Flatten the balls with the palm of your hand, then use a rolling pin to roll out each piece into a six inch diameter round.

Cook the roti for one minute before turning over, then turn again after another minute. The roti should have some darker brown spots when finished.

Cut roti into triangles and deep fry until golden.

To Serve Place roti crisps along the centre of the plate and put two to three pieces of ceviche on each crisp. Garnish with either the cucumber or apple slices and topped with basil, spring onion and baby sprouts.

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Supplied photos.

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Countryside Therapy L

ocals believe the mud pools and hot springs at the foothills of the Sabeto Mountains have healing properties.

Tifajek Mud Pool & Hot Springs is a locally owned family business that offers natural therapeutic treatments through mud baths and dips in natural hot pools located along Wailoko Road in the Sabeto Valley – just 15 minutes from Nadi International Airport.

Set among the greenery and tranquility of Sabeto, Tifajek’s countryside wellness center offers mud pools, natural hot springs and massages by women who are trained and certified professional masseurs.

Upon arrival at Tifajek, guests are given a personalized tour of the basic facility before they change into swimwear for a dip into the thick muddy pool to relax. They then step out of the pool and cake themselves in mud. Once the mud is dry, it’s back into the muddy bath before heading over to a natural thermal pool to rinse off.

This is a must-do activity for anyone looking to immerse themselves into the Fijian way of life. To book, enquire with your hotel and resort tour desk or contact Tifajek Mud Pool & Hot Springs directly.

Tifajek Mud Pool & Hot Springs Open Daily: 8am to 5pm Mobile: (679) 9082313 and 9715599.

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Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.

Tifajek Mud Pool & Hot Springs photos.

CULTURAL TOUR

CHIEF BURE

MEKE SHOW PERFORMED BY LADIES

LIGHT A FIRE

Telephone:+679 6200116 Mobile: +679 8044800 Email: res@fijiculturevillage.com Website: http://www.fijiculturevillage.com/

POTTERY MAKING

LOVO FOOD

ORGANIC GARDEN

KIDS LAILAI PARK

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Fijiculturevillage/ Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Fiji_Culture_Village Adress: Lot 1 Nacaqara,Navo,Nadi

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Leleuvia Enhances APPEAL L

eleuvia Island Resort has boosted its accommodation range with the development of four deluxe bure with new en suites, a notch higher than its simple private bure.

The $100,000 project has added a slightly wider lodging option for guests on the private island - primarily convenient for the resort’s dominant family market.

Rising gently up from the Pacific Ocean and a mere 35 minutes fast boat ride away from the Central Eastern coastline of Viti Levu, Leleuvia Island Resort is rimmed by golden sand, neatly sandwiched between two of Fiji’s most historically prominent cultural mantels, that of Bau and Ovalau Islands.

Resort manager Colin Philp said the private bures have been enhanced with new shower and washroom facilities.

“We have added four new en suites and probably going to add another two more. We’ve tried with two and they were really popular and now four is always full, so we’ll keep going until we think we’ve got enough on the island,” explained Philp.

He added this would appeal to guests travelling with families and elderly.

The new en suite bure accommodates three guests as standard with a queen and a single bed

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but the resort allows guests to have the bure arranged in whatever bedding configuration they require, up to a maximum of six guests in each.

Aside from its dormitory accommodation, the resort previously offered about 20 traditional thatched private bure with shared bathroom and toilet facilities conveniently situated nearby.

“We still have a lot of people that like the bure as they are, nice and simple, so we’ll have a mix of both,” Philp added.

Leleuvia Island Resort Fiji Tel: (679) 8384365 www.leleuvia.com Text and photos: Leleuvia Island Resort.

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Dynamic Currency Conversion is available when you use:

International credit cards only Australia New Zealand USA Euro China UK Japan India Philippines Malaysian

Your currency.

Your choice.

Make the smart choice when travelling.

With Westpac’s Dynamic Currency Conversion, you can pay your bill in your home currency.

Talk to us today.

For more information please call 132 032 or visit our website www.westpac.com.fj ABN 33 007 457 141. The liability of its members is limited.

22 Westpac Banking Corporation

fijiinternational.com

#Fijiintl

@pgaofaustralia @fijiintl

Inspired by the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways?

Book your next golfing experience with our travel partners.

For more information visit fijiinternational.com

Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course

SANCTIONED BY

MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)

GOLFING ESCAPE @ FIJI INTERNATIONAL

Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course.

T

he perfect ‘golf-cation’ tees off at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways at the beautiful Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, Natadola from August 2nd to 5th 2018.

Four-time Major winner Ernie Els (The Big Easy) and Fiji’s own, three-time Major winner Vijay Singh will headline the tournament which will also feature players from the European Tour, Asian Tour and ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia.

Indeed, any sports fan on holiday in Fiji during the premier tournament would love to spend a unique day at a world-class golf tournament and Fiji International is proud to offer that opportunity.

Hospitality packages are available at www.fijiinternational.com and there is an option for every golf fan with VIP experiences starting from as low as FJD $85 per person. Plus, to make it easy for holiday-makers, a free shuttle bus will be running from Denarau Golf Club, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa and the Shangri-La Fijian Resort to the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course daily. General admission tickets are only FJD $20 (for non-Fiji citizens) and children 16 years and under attend with free entry.

Hospitality options available include:

Fiji Airways Beach Oasis Without a doubt the hottest place on course is the Fiji Airways Beach Oasis located on the par-3 8th hole and alongside the beautiful Coral Coast. Swap your sun lounges poolside for cabanas course-side and you don’t even have to stray too far from the beach.

The perfect vantage point to watch the golf, whilst socialising on the beach a ticket to the Fiji Airways Beach Oasis includes: • 6-hour drinks package (10.30am – 4.30pm) • Light lunch voucher • Fiji International gift • Access to the golf course, 18th green bures and Fiji Airways Beach Oasis Thursday August 2nd or Friday August 3rd

FJD $85 per day per person (approximately AUD $55 per day per person)

Saturday August 4th or Sunday August 5th

FJD $120 per day per person (approximately AUD $77 per day per person)

Any two days

FJD $180 per person (approximately AUD $115 per person)

Four days

FJD $360 per person (approximately AUD $231 per person)

To purchase tickets to the Fiji Airways Beach Oasis please call +61 3 8320 1911 or email info@fijiinternational.com.

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MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)

Official Pro-Am On Wednesday August 1st, those golf fans that are not content watching from the sidelines and would like an inside the ropes perspective of an international golf tournament are invited to enter the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways Pro-Am. This unique Fijian holiday experience provides the chance to play the Vijay Singh designed 18-hole Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course with one of the Tour Professionals competing in the tournament proper. All participants receive a gift from the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, cart hire as well as lunch and on course refreshments throughout their round. Hire clubs can also be arranged if required. A place in the Pro-Am costs FJD $1,050 per person which is approximately AUD $665 per person.

To purchase a spot in the Pro-Am please call +61 3 8320 1911 or email info@fijiinternational.com.

Paradise Club Some people want a touch of luxury and glamour during their holidays and the Fiji International presented

by Fiji Airways offers that too. The picturesque Paradise Club is located in the clubhouse at Natadola Bay and provides the perfect view of world class players completing their round at the 18th green from Thursday to Sunday.

Vijay Singh with Pro golfers.

A ticket to the Paradise Club includes: • Access to the golf course, Paradise Club (Clubhouse), 18th green bures and Natadola Beach Oasis • Gourmet food service • 6-hour drinks package (11.30am – 5.30pm) • Daily player appearances • Fiji International gift • VIP car park pass • Daily lucky door prizes

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MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)

Thursday August 2nd or Friday August 3rd

FJD $250 per day per person (approximately AUD $160 per day per person)

Saturday August 4th or Sunday August 5th

FJD $300 per day per person (approximately AUD $192 per day per person)

Any two days

FJD $500 per person (approximately AUD $320 per person)

Four days

FJD $850 per person (approximately AUD $540 per person)

To purchase Paradise Club tickets, please call +61 3 8320 1911 or email info@fijiinternational.com Super Monday Once play has concluded and a new Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways champion has been crowned, there is an opportunity to play on the course the Pros have just used on Super Monday. Enjoy a leisurely round on the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, with the final round pin positions, complete with cart hire, light lunch and refreshments. A great way to experience firsthand what a professional course entails! Play the Championship course for just FJD $300 per person (approximately AUD $190 per person).

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MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)

Hospitality packages are available for purchase now, call +61 3 8320 1911 or email info@fijiinternational.com for more information.

Source: Fiji International. www.fijiinternational.com

Proud to support the Fiji International 2018.

www.victoriawines.com.fj

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TOURISM Briefs

Nadi Nalagi Hotel lobby.

Nadi Nalagi Hotel and Resort opens he nine-storey Nadi Nalagi Hotel and Resort is Fiji’s newest tourism development.

Built at a cost of $23 million, the boutique business hotel is the tallest building in the Western Division.

Situated on the Queens Road and just 10 minutes from Nadi International Airport, Nadi Nalagi Hotel & Resort appeals to the business and leisure markets for international and local guests. The hotel offers 196 modern and spacious rooms and suites, restaurants, spa, gym, and a range of conference facilities for small-medium size groups and events.

Boasting Fiji’s first, Nadi Nalagi Hotel’s 24-metre infinity edge pool and rooftop bar is ideal for taking a dip to cool down while enjoying panoramic views of serene Nadi Bay and the Sleeping Giant Mountain Range.

T

Nadi Nalagi Hotel pool and rooft op bar.

Lalati reopens, welcomes all ages Under new ownership, Lalati Resort & Spa now welcomes guests of all ages. Previously an adultonly resort, the property has reopened after a refresh offering an extensive range of activities on land and on the water.

Located on mystical Beqa Island, home of the magical Fijian firewalkers and world-famous Beqa Shark Dive, Lalati Resort & Spa is a 30-minute boat ride from Pacific Harbour on Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.

Lalati Resort & Spa.

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The resort offers a choice of 16 individually designed villas, suites and cottages. Three are scattered about a lush hillside, and 13 are nestled amongst tropical gardens at ocean level.

Distinctively Fijian in nature, with a relaxed tropical style, the private accommodations bring the outdoors in, capturing the beauty of Malumu Bay and Beqa Island. Each room offers total privacy in a rustic style of elegance.

Mana Island – all meals inclusive On July 8th this year, Mana Island Resort & Spa Fiji switched to being an all meals inclusive resort.

Guests have a wide range of meal outlets from which to choose, however, two of its specialty restaurants – Nasu Teppanyaki and Latitude Wine Cellar - will require guests to pay a supplementary charge.

Situated on 300 acres of lush tropical paradise nestled amongst white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mamanuca chain of islands, 4-star Mana Island Resort & Spa - Fiji offers lodging in premium bures, luxury suites, and modern infused Fijian bures. The resort caters to all markets including families, couples, wedding parties, sporting groups and events.

Likuliku joins unique lodges collection Likuliku Lagoon Resort has been accepted into the prestigious National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection - the first and only one in Fiji and one of only two in the Pacific.

The multi-award winning resort located on Malolo Island in the Mamanuca chain of islands joins an incredible selection of only 61 lodges in the world - all of which are absolutely unique and significantly contributing to environmental conservation and preservation in their respective locations.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort is a haven of subtle luxury for adults only and reserved exclusively for guests in-residence at the resort.

Mana Island Resort & Spa - Fiji.

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort.

29

Market affair V

isit the Suva Market or any of the country’s other municipal and mini markets and indulge in all your senses as you buy and sample local produce and traditional fare.

Municipal markets and mini markets is the perfect place to find a wide selection of fresh vegetables, fruit as well as the root crop staples like taro (dalo) and cassava (tavioka), a variety of seafood, catches from vibrant rivers, spices, yaqona (kava), oils, honey, mats and masi (traditional barkcloth), tropical flowers and much more.

Whether you’re here on holiday or for business, find the time to lose yourself at the market as you browse, shop and strike up conversations with multi-ethnic vendors and farmers.

Across Fiji, many markets spring to life in the early hours of the morning, the atmosphere energetic and cheerful. The larger ones are situated in the cities of the capital Suva and Lautoka and in townships like Nadi, Sigatoka, Ba, Rakiraki, Labasa, and Savusavu.

30

Allan Stephen photo.

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.

Beachcomber Burger & Beer

Only

$149

Twice Daily 9:30am & 1:30pm

Book Now Ph: 6751161

FREE HOTEL TRANSFER*

Beach Club Tour Dep 10:15am, Return 4:30pm Bookings Essential Ph6751161 www.excitorfiji.com 31

Royals plan to visit Fiji P

rince Harry, and his wife, the former actress Meghan Markle, will tour Australia, Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga and New Zealand this year.

The announcement was made by Kensington Palace in London in June. Both Prince Harry and Princess Meghan also shared the news of their tour via Twitter and Instagram.

"The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will undertake an official visit to Australia, Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga, and New Zealand in the autumn," read the statement. "The tour will fall on the occasion of @InvictusSydney 2018."

The couple plan to showcase their work as a new royal "power couple" starting with a visit to Australia, where Prince Harry's inspirational Invictus Games for

injured servicemen and women will be held in Sydney from October 20th-27th.

The Invictus Games is an international adaptive multisport event in which wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and their associated veterans take part in sports. Prince Harry, a British military veteran who served in Afghanistan, created the Paralympic-style games as a way to inspire wounded soldiers toward recovery. The Sydney games will showcase the healing power of sport as 500 competitors from 18 nations contest 11 sports across eight days of fierce competition.

When this edition went to press, an itinerary of the tour had yet to be revealed.

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Web-sourced photo.

Discover the real Fiji with Avis A warm and friendly welcome awaits you...

LOCATIONS • Nadi International Airport (24 hours) • Port Denarau (Free delivery to all Denarau Resorts) • Nausori Airport (We meet pre-booked clients) • Labasa RESERVATIONS Phone: (679) 672 2233 (24 hours) Email: info@avis.com.fj Website: www.avis.com.fj

32

Fiji $7 and 50-cent Commemorative Banknote and Coin Celebrating

Fiji Rugby 7s Gold Medal Win at the Rio 2016 Olympics Collector’s Item Banknotes and Coins

$7 Single Banknote in a Folder

Price: FJ$30.00 VIP each

Uncirculated 50-cent coin in a Capsule

Price: FJ$3.00 VIP each

$7 X 32 Banknotes per Uncut Sheet

Price: $500.00 VIP each

Prices are effective 1 May, 2017 and may change without notice. All prices are inclusive of VAT and exclusive of postage and courier charges.

RESERVE BANK OF FIJI “Leading Fiji to Economic Success”

Address: Reserve Bank of Fiji, Pratt Street, Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji.

Telephone: +(679) 331 3611 Facsimile: +(679) 330 2094 Email: info@rbf.gov.fj Website: www.rbf.gov.fj Our Values: Professionalism ... Respect ... Integrity ... Dynamism ... Excellence

33

RAMON NAVARRO (CHILE)

CLOUDBREAK S HISTORIC SWELL Photos & words: Peter ‘Joli’ Wilson.

An all-time cast of world champs, big wave tour riders and free surfers took on the biggest waves ever surfed at iconic Cloudbreak in Fiji in May this year. Veteran surf photographer Peter ‘Joli’ Wilson documented the Cloudbreak swells dubbed “Black Mamba” and this offering of images provide a glimpse into one of the greatest day that’ll go down in history with the biggest waves every ridden at Cloudbreak. One of the most sought after left-hand barrels in the world, Cloudbreak is situated in the majestic Mamanuca chain of islands.

I

n this day and age of surf forecasting, advance warning of swells can be up to a week or 10 days and there are a dedicated group of big wave surfers that follow the big storm predictions. The Black Mamba Swell that hit Cloudbreak in May had set off alarm bells a week before and the best big wave surfers on earth were scrambling for tickets to Fiji and places to stay close to Cloudbreak. Surfers came from as far away as the United Kingdom, Brazil, mainland America, Hawaii and Australia and were rewarded with one of the biggest swells to hit Fiji in the last 20 years.

I was lucky enough to capture the massive Cloudbreak swell in 2012 which was incredible and

34

to witness this swell in May from a photographic point of view, certainly rates in my Top 5 sessions that I’ve witnessed in my 40 years. The waves on Sunday 27th were in the 40 foot range. The big wave tow-in surfers were the ones that scored the craziest waves and the biggest barrels. The surfers who were paddling into the waves were challenged by the stormy conditions. I spent 11 hours in a boat on the Sunday photographing nearly every ride that came through, and still cannot believe what I experienced and the level of commitment and skill that it took for the surfers to ride these amazing waves. Kudos must also go to the jet-ski water safety crew for their incredible skill in keeping everybody safe.

There were many stand out surfers from that day including Ramon Navarro (Chile), Laurie Towner (Australia) and Kai Lenny (Hawaii). Local surfer Che Slatter was very impressive in the big waves. Some of the waves they rode had to be 40 foot-plus faces! The conditions were anything but

ideal for photography with rain, strong offshore winds and overcast skies. Very ominous for this Black Mamba Swell, but it certainly didn’t deter those who are passionate to chase the waves and those like me who live to photograph exactly these kind of surf sessions.

CLOUDBREAK All images: Š joliphotos.

EVAN VALIERE (HAWAII)

35

KAI LENNY (HAWAII)

36

All images: © joliphotos.

KELLY SLATER (USA)

LAURIE TOWNER (AUSTRALIA)

MAKUA ROTHMAN (HAWAII) All images: © joliphotos.

37

EVENTS

W

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

hen planning what to do and see in Fiji for the months of August, September and October, here are a few events to consider.

AUGUST

2ND 5TH Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways to be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, Natadola on western Viti Levu. Four-time Major winner and 2019 Presidents Cup International Team captain Ernie Els (Big Easy) together with Fijian hero and three-time Major champion Vijay Singh will headline the prestigious tournament. *See Page 24 for more details.

4TH

10TH 18TH

ICN Muscle and Model Fiji Championships. Starts 10am. Japan-Pacific ICT Centre, University of the South Pacific, Suva. See who will take out the Mr. or Ms. Fiji Championship titles at the Natural Bodybuilding, Fitness, Bikini and Physique competition.

For spectator tickets: www.icnfiji.com

Vodafone Hibiscus Festival. Mother of all Festivals, Pride of the Capital City, Premier of the South Pacific. The theme for the 62nd festival is “Reuse Reduce – Refuse – Re purpose – Recycle”.

Call the Hibiscus Events Group Inc. on Ph: 3311168 for more information on an exact location for the festival.

National Craft Exhibition. Craft practitioners from across Fiji will participate in the annual event that coincides with the Hibiscus Festival.

For details call Fiji Arts Council: 3311754.

11TH

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Fiji Swimming Competition. Grand Prix 2, Nadi Sports Club, Nadi.

ON SHOW 12TH UNTIL THE

17TH

18TH 25TH 25TH 26TH 25TH 29TH

SEPTEMBER

Chinese Contemporary Architecture Exhibition at the China Cultural Centre Fiji located on Level 8, Ganilau House on Edward Street in Suva.

Annual firewalking ceremony by Hindu devotees at the Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam’s Raj Maha Mariamman Temple at Howell Road in Suva.

Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North at Subrail Park in Labasa on Vanua Levu.

Bill Williams Fishing Tournament on Denarau.

2018 International Cricket Council World Twenty20 East Asia Pacific Sub Regional Qualifier at Albert Park in Suva. Fiji will compete against Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Vanuatu. Competition winner qualifies to the 2019 ICC World Twenty20 East Asia Pacific Regional finals. Teams will play in a double round robin format.

7TH

Constitution Day. A public holiday to honour Fiji’s constitution.

7TH 12TH

35th Musket Cove Fiji Regatta. Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina, Mamanuca.

8TH

Fiji Swimming Competition - SC Grand Prix 3, Nadi Sports Club, Nadi.

8TH 15TH

Sugar Festival to be held at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji’s sugar capital and also its second largest city.

39

OCTOBER

13TH 17TH

Ocean Swim Fiji is a five-day luxury travel experience including premium social occasions, exclusive swim clinics, poolside relaxation, and 1km and 3km swim events in crystal clear waters. www.oceanswimfiji.com

14TH 15TH

Raka 7s rugby tournament. ANZ Stadium, Suva.

10TH

Public Holiday. Fiji Day is the National Day of Fiji marking its attainment of independence from Great Britain.

Fiji Flag.

Fiji Internatio

nal photo.

23RD 28TH

The Mana Fiji SwimFest is for swimmers wanting to combine a tropical island break with the beautiful swimming waters of the Mamanucas and for those wanting to have a go at a longer distance.

Highlights include a 10km open race and three shorter distance events – 5km, 2.5km and 1km. For details: oceanswimsafaris.com

Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.

40

䌀伀䴀䈀伀

⨀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 䐀爀椀渀欀 䘀氀愀瘀漀甀爀 ᤠ猀 猀甀戀樀攀挀琀 琀漀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀椀氀椀琀礀⸀

6700221

6720922

6750533 41

USEFUL INFORMATION EMERGENCY POLICE DIAL 917 AMBULANCE DIAL 911

WEATHER Fiji can be enjoyed all year round because of its mild tropical climate. The dry season is from May to October.

This is when the temperatures are cooler and there is less rainfall and humidity. The wet season is from November to April. Daytime temperatures average around 25oC (77oF), and humidity is generally high.

ATTIRE Local dress in Fiji varies. Decent casual, light clothing is recommended. Often you will hear people refer to “Bula” attire, which is Fiji’s equivalent to Hawaii’s “Aloha” dress code. Visitors are asked to be careful not to offend local sensibilities. Bikini and ultra-brief swim wear is acceptable at hotels/resorts but not when shopping in towns/cities and visiting villages.

ETIQUETTE There are a few places in the world where visitors are as warmly welcomed as they are in Fiji. But there is a protocol to follow. In a Fijian village, a house is a home and visitors aren’t expected to poke their heads inside. If invited inside a bure (local cottage), it is considered polite to stoop, to take off your shoes, keep your voice down and sit cross-legged on the floor. Shorts, swim wear, caps or hats aren’t normally worn inside a village. If offered a bowl of kava, drink it, unless you have been advised not to for medical reasons. Kava drinking is an important ceremony and a past time. If you intent to visit a Hindu temple or Muslim mosque, ask a local adherent first. It is offensive to walk into a mosque with shoes on.

MONEY EXCHANGE There are specialist bureau de changes around the country but foreign currency and travellers cheques can usually be exchanged at any bank.

42

Crime Stoppers Fiji Recompression Chamber Emergencies

dial 919 dial 999 3506 999 3500

TIPPING While tipping is not encouraged here, it is your choice to decide whether to make a gratuity.

CURRENCY The Fiji dollar is the basic unit of currency.

Notes available in $5, $7, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2.

CREDIT CARDS Major credit cards widely accepted at hotels, shops, restaurants, cruises, travel agencies, rental companies and tour operators. VISA, MasterCard, American Express, China UnionPay, Diners Club and JCB International.

BANKING Banks generally open 9:30am to 3:30pm Monday to Thursday and 9:30am to 4pm Friday. Closed weekends and public holidays. Banks include Westpac Banking Corporation, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ANZ), BSP, Bank of Baroda, BRED Bank and HFC Bank. All have offices in Suva and branches & agencies around the country.

VAT & OTHER TAXES

A Value Added Tax (VAT) of 9% is added on the cost of goods and services in Fiji.

There is also a Service Turnover Tax (STT) of 6% and an Environmental and Climate Adaption Levy (ECAL) tax of 10%.

POSTAL SERVICES Operated by Post Fiji Ltd., post offices are located throughout Fiji. Philatelic Bureau Sales Centres are located at 1 Edward Street in Suva and the Prouds Building in Nadi.

ATM LOCATIONS

ATM LOCATIONS

Enquiries - 132032

Enquiries – 132888

Westpac Banking Corporation Suva • Suva Branch - 1 Thomson St • Marks St Branch • Nabua Branch • Laucala Bay Branch • USP Campus • Kundan Singh Tamavua • Sportsworld Waimanu Rd • Tappoo City • Distill - Flagstaff • MH Rodwell Road • MH Superfresh Tamavua • MH Vivrass Plaza LBE • Dolphins Plaza • Damodar City Complex • American Outlet LBE • Ratu Sukuna House • Foster Plaza - Walu Bay • Wing Sang Samabula • Shop & Save - Lami • Shop & Save - Nabua • Shop & Save - Nasinu • New World - Valelevu • New World - Narere • Hansons - Makoi • Atlas - Valelevu • CMF - Harvest Centre

Nausori • Nausori Branch • Nakasi Branch - Tebara Complex • Hemron Plaza Sigatoka • Sigatoka Branch • Foodhall - Sigatoka • Warwick Fiji Resort & Spa • Shangri-La Fijian Resort Nadi • Nadi Branch • Namaka Branch • Port Denarau Branch • Pala’s - Nadi • FDB - Nadi • Tanoa Int. Hotel - Votualevu • MH Namaka • Yee’s Store - Port Denarau Lautoka • Lautoka Branch - Vitogo Pd • Personal Banking Centre Naviti St • Sugar City Mall - Naviti St BA/ TAVUA / RAKIRAKI • Westpac Branch Labasa • Labasa Branch • Jaduram Building Savusavu • Savusavu Branch Levuka • Levuka Branch

BSP

Suva • Pacific House • Central St • BSP Life Centre • Suva Central • Greig St. Plaza • Dolphins Plaza • MIOT Pacific Hospitals • Atlas Trading • Tappoo City • Parade Arcade • Grand Pacific Hotel • RB Patel Market Point • Sun Insurance Bldg, Flagstaff • Garden City, Raiwai • Grantham Plaza • Cost-U-Less • BSP, Samabula • RB Patel Centrepoint • MH Valelevu • TOTAL, Lami • Kundan, Tamavua • Village 6 Nausori • BSP Branch Pacific Harbour • BSP, Arts Village Navua • Post Fiji

Sigatoka • BSP, Sigatoka • 5 & 2 Bistro • Nadro Supermarket Nadi • Challenge Plaza, Namaka • Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa • BSP, Namaka • Consumer’s, Namaka • BSP, Nadi • Shop & Save, Nadi • Smugglers Cove Beach Resort • McDonalds • Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa, Denarau • Port Denarau Marina • Nadi Int. Airport • Bamboo Travellers, Wailoaloa Lautoka • BSP Branch, Lautoka City • Sugar City Mall • RB Patel, Westpoint • Vuda Point Marina Ba / Tavua / Rakiraki • BSP Branch Labasa / Savusavu • BSP Branch Taveuni • BSP Branch

TOURIST VAT REFUND SCHEME The Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority operate counters at the Nadi Int. Airport and the Suva wharf where tourists can claim refunds. To qualify, a visitor must spend FJ$500 (VAT inclusive) in any of the registered VAT refund outlets and must take the goods out of Fiji within two months from the date of purchase. Present goods for inspection along with the refund form, original tax invoice, passport and int. boarding pass to a customs officer at the Tourist VAT Refund Inspection Counter.

MOBILE (CELL) SERVICES Several mobile phone operators offer cellular phone services in Fiji. Mobile phone and sim card rentals services are also available. Recharge cards can be purchased from airports, post offices, shops, supermarkets and service stations.

PHONE SERVICES Local and international calls made from hotel and resorts generally cost more as rates and surcharges apply. Telecom Fiji Ltd (TFL) customer care centers are located in major regional centers on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Cardoperated phones are available in some locations and prepaid phone cards are sold at post offices and select shops and service stations.

STOCK MARKET South Pacific Stock Exchange 33 Ellery Street, Suva • Tel: 330 4130.

43

INTERNET SERVICES Internet access is available at most hotels and resorts across Fiji. Wi-Fi is also available at select locations. If you bring your laptop or ‘tablet’ you may consider dial-up access or wireless connection. Cybercafés are available in major centres such as Suva, Nadi and Savusavu.

AIRPORTS Two international gateways - Nadi International Airport in the Western Division and Nausori International Airport, outside Suva.

DEPARTURE TAX FJ$200.00 departure tax. Children under 12 are exempt.

The tax would already be included in your airline ticket.

Note: Visitors who stay in Fiji for less than 72 hours are exempt from paying departure tax.

MEDICAL There are many private practitioners in the country.

Check the local telephone directory for listings. Major hospital locations: Suva Colonial War Memorial Hospital Waimanu Road • Tel: 331 3444 MIOT Pacific Hospitals 120 Amy Street, Toorak Tel: 330 3404 North Labasa Hospital • Tel: 881 1444 West Lautoka Hospital • Tel: 666 0399

TRANSPORT Bus and taxi services throughout Fiji are considered quite reasonable. Rental cars are available on the two main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu and some outer islands by arrangement.

MUSEUM Fiji Museum at Thurston Gardens, Suva, opens Monday to Thursday: 9:30am to 4:30pm, Friday: 9:30am to 4pm and Saturday: 9:30am to 4:30pm. Closed Sunday.

Admission: International adult $10, children $5.

Tel: 331 5944.

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ELECTRICITY 220-240 volts, 50 Hz, 3 pin flat plug is the standard. You will need a voltage converter if the application is 110 volts.

Most leading resorts and hotels offer universal outlets for 240 volt or 110 volt hairdryers, shavers, etc.

LICENSE TO DRIVE You will need a valid home country driving licence for the same class of vehicle. Driving is on the left side of the road and seatbelts are compulsory. Maximum speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h (30 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph) on the highways, unless otherwise posted.

MOVIE THEATRES Damodar & Village 6 Cinemas in Suva & Village 4 Cinemas in Lautoka. Life Cinema in Nadi & Nakasi, Suva.

POLICE

Suva Stations Central Police Station Joske Street.

Tel: 331 1222

Nabua Police Station Ratu Mara Road.

Tel: 338 4000

Samabula Police Station Ratu Mara Road.

Tel: 338 1222

Other Stations Deuba Police Post Korolevu Police Post Labasa Police Station Lautoka Police Station Levuka Police Station Nadi Police Station Namaka Police Station Navua Police Station Savusavu Police Station Sigatoka Police Station Taveuni Police Station

Tel: 345 0156 Tel: 653 0122 Tel: 881 1222 Tel: 666 0222 Tel: 344 0222 Tel: 670 0222 Tel: 672 2222 Tel: 346 0222 Tel: 885 0222 Tel: 650 0222 Tel: 888 0222

PORTS Fiji Ports Corporation Limited headquarters is in Suva. It has port facilities in Suva, Lautoka, Malau, Levuka, Wairiki and Rotuma. Port Denarau Marina is Fiji’s tourism hub located on Denarau.

Speak Our Ethnic Languages English is commonly spoken in Fiji.

As you explore our beautiful and ethnically diverse country you will also hear conversations in Fijian and local Hindi and Cantonese, especially at the markets and smaller shops.

You, too, can speak our languages.

English Fijian good morning ni sa yadra (ni sah yan dra) hello bula (mbula) goodbye ni sa moce (ni sa mothey) yes io (ee-o) no seqa (senga) thank you vinaka (vee naka) village koro lady marama mister turaga (tu rang ah) little vaka lailai (vaka lie lie) plenty vaka levu (vaka ley vu) quickly vaka totolo (vaka toe toe lo) house vale/bure (valey/mburey) eat kana come lako mai (la ko my) go lako tani (la ko tanee) bring kauta mai (ka ou tah my) toilet vale lailai (vale lie lie) one dua (ndua) two rua drink gunu (goo noo)

Hindi Kaise hai namaste achaa, hum jaata haa nehi dhan baad ngao aurat aadmi (man) tora se dher se jaldi ghar kana kao ao jao lao chota ghar ek dwee peeo

Cantonese jo sun ney ho joy kin hai ng hai dor cheer hang chin tai tai sin sung siu siu hoo dor fei fei oouk shiek lei whui tai lei chee sow yat yhee yum

Overseas Missions & Honorary Consulates In Fiji Australian High Commission 37 Princes Rd, Suva Tel: 338 2211 British High Commission 47 Gladstone Rd, Suva Tel: 322 9100 Embassy of the People’s Republic of China 183 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Suva Tel: 330 0215 Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands 41 Borron Rd, Suva Tel: 338 7899 Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia 37 Loftus St, Suva Tel: 330 4566 Embassy of the United States of America 158 Princes Rd, Suva Tel: 331 4466 Delegation of the European Commission to Fiji 6th Fl, TappooCity, Suva Tel: 331 3633 French Embassy 7th Fl, BSP Life Centre, Suva Tel: 331 2233 High Commission of India 7th Fl, LICI Bldg, Suva Tel: 330 1125

Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia 6th Fl, Ra Marama Bldg, Suva Tel: 331 6697 Embassy of Japan 2nd Fl, BSP Life Centre, Suva Tel: 330 4633 Kiribati High Commission 36 McGregor Rd, Suva Tel: 330 2512 Embassy of the Republic of Korea 8th Fl Vanua House, Suva Tel: 330 0977 Malaysian High Commission 5th Fl, Pacific House, Suva Tel: 331 2166 Nauru High Commission 7th Fl, Ratu Sukuna House, Suva Tel: 331 3566 New Zealand High Commission 10th Fl, Reserve Bank Bldg, Suva Tel: 331 1422 Papua New Guinea High Commission 3rd Fl, Credit Corp Bldg, Suva Tel: 330 4244 Solomon Isand High Commission Level 3, Plaza 1, Downtown Blvd, Suva Tel: 310 0355

South African High Commission 16 Kimberley St, Suva Tel: 331 1087 Tuvalu High Commission 16 Gorrie St, Suva Tel: 330 1355 United Nations Development Programme 8th Fl, Kadavu House, Suva Tel: 331 2500

CONSULATES

Belgium Mr Richard Naidu Munro Leys & Co. Tel: 331 4188 Canada Mrs Janna Bai Vyas Tel: 672 1936 Chile Mr Rahat Ali Asgar Asgar Optometrists, Suva Tel: 330 0433 Denmark Mrs Jenny Seeto PwC, Suva Tel: 331 5199 Finland/Sweden Mr Neil Underhill Cell: 999 8803 Germany Mr David Aidney Williams & Gosling Ltd, Suva Tel: 331 2633

Greece Ratu Tu’akitau Cokanauto Tel: 331 5608 Israel Mr Viliame Cegumalua Tel: 341 0022 Italy Mrs Taeko Ruggiero Tel: 666 4011 Netherlands Mr. Roderic Evers Five Princes Hotel Tel: 338 1575 Pakistan Mr Mohammed Razak Akbar Tel: 338 5233 Philippines Dr Virgilio De Asa De Asa’s Medical Clinic, Suva Tel: 331 4450 Spain Mr Stuart Huggert Tel: 330 3855 Switzerland Mr Rolf Gfeller Tel: 999 5637

TRADE MISSION Taiwan 6th Fl, Pacific House, Suva Tel: 331 5922

45

46

in Fiji, but the national farewell song ‘Isa Lei’ is sung in Fijian.

Fijian Verse

English Version

Isa, Isa, vulagi lasa dina Nomu lako au na rarawa kina Cava beka ko a mai cakava, Nomu lako au na sega ni lasa.

Isa, Isa you are my only treasure; Must you leave me, so lonely and forsaken?

As the roses will miss the sun at dawning, Every moment my heart for you is yearning.

Isa lei, na noqu rarawa Ni ko sana vodo e na mataka Bau nanuma, na nodatou lasa, Mai Suva nanuma tiko ga.

Isa Lei, the purple shadow falling, Sad the morrow will dawn upon my sorrow; Oh, forget not, when you’re far away, Precious moments beside dear Suva.

Vanua rogo na nomuni vanua Kena ca ni levu tu na ua, Lomaqu voli me’u bau butuka Tovolea ke balavu na bula.

Isa, Isa, my heart was filled with pleasure, From the moment I heard your tender greeting; ‘Mid the sunshine, we spent the hours together, Now so swiftly those happy hours are fleeting.

Isa lei, na noqu rarawa Ni ko sana vodo e na mataka Bau nanuma, na nodatou lasa, Mai Suva nanuma tiko ga.

Isa Lei, the purple shadow falling, Sad the morrow will dawn upon my sorrow; Oh, forget not, when you’re far away, Precious moments beside dear Suva.

Domoni dina na nomu yanuyanu Kena kau wale na salusalu Mocelolo, bua, na kukuwatu Lagakali, maba na rosi damu.

O’er the ocean your island home is calling, Happy country where roses bloom in splendour; Oh, if I could but journey there beside you, Then forever my heart would sing in rapture.

Isa lei, na noqu rarawa Ni ko sana vodo e na mataka Bau nanuma, na nodatou lasa, Mai Suva nanuma tiko ga.

Isa Lei, the purple shadow falling, Sad the morrow will dawn upon my sorrow; Oh, forget not, when you’re far away, Precious moments beside dear Suva.

Weizhao David Wu photo

Isa Lei

English is the official language

47

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/ExploreFijiSunglasses www.explorefijionline.com /ExploreFijiSunglasses 48

Enquiries: explorefiji@connect.com.fj