NOV 2018 - JAN 2019
award-winning tourism magazine
FREE
ART & CRAFT EXHIBITS SUNSET DINNER SAIL FISHING KAVA RECIPE FASHION WATERFALLS EVENTS & MORE...
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Contents 5
MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER
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FISHING REEL IT IN
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FINE ART & CRAFT EXHIBITS GIVE ARTISTS WIDER AUDIENCES
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CHARITY FASHION GALA
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SUNSET DINNER SAIL
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KAVA
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SIMPLE AND FUN GETTING AROUND
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TOURISM UPDATES
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EXCURSION SWEET RIDE
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EVENTS MARK YOUR CALENDAR
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GIANT CLAMS
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USEFUL INFORMATION
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WATERFALLS
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OVERSEAS MISSIONS & CONSULATES IN FIJI
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RECIPE COCONUT CUSTARD TARTS
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ISA LEI
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FIJI INTERNATIONAL BHULLAR WINS IN THE LAND OF BULA!
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FIJI MAP
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EXPLORE Fiji
Message from the Publisher
NOV 2018 - JAN 2019
award-winning tourism magazine
Bula & Cola Vina!
FREE
S
ummer is here! Our 333 islands and weather provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a Fijian holiday, whether short or extended, exploring a myriad of places and events.
As the season progresses, expect the temperature to get warmer. With daylight savings starting at 2am on Sunday, November 4th 2018 you can enjoy an extra hour of sunlight and more time to try out new Fijian experiences. While digital phones, computers and other devices will automatically spring forward by one hour when daylight savings starts, those with analogue clocks will need to adjust them. Daylight savings ends at 3am on Sunday, January 13th 2019. In this issue, we feature a number of articles and information on activities – both on land and in the water – that will keep the entire family entertained. I hope our magazine connects you with our world and feeds your wanderlust to explore our Fijian paradise. When you’re here, you’ll be sure to live by our famous ‘Fiji Time’ allowing you to slow down, unwind, and relax. Our people are renowned for their warm-friendly hospitality and it is among the top reasons why travellers across the world choose Fiji to seek out happiness. To the visitors already here, Vinaka Vaka Levu (Thank you very much) for choosing Fiji and I hope you take home many wonderful memories to share with family and friends. We look forward to your return. Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday Season!
ART & CRAFT EXHIBITS SUNSET DINNER SAIL FISHING KAVA RECIPE FASHION WATERFALLS EVENTS & MORE...
Fine art painting. Fiji Arts Council photo. Volume 16, Issue 4 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 Scott Winer Colin Chung Zane Yoshida Allan Stephen Vantage Fiji ©JoliPhotos David Clifton 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.
Vinaka, Connie. 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.
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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.
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FINE ART & CRAFT EXHIBITS TO GIVE ARTISTS WIDER AUDIENCES
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ncouraging artistic expression and promoting the many, different art forms is a mission of the Fiji Arts Council. Two very critical programs under its annual events calendar is the National Fine Art Exhibition targeting visual artists and the Craft Exhibitions for heritage artists. These events set the Fiji Arts Council apart as they are considered prime gatherings where practitioners come together in large numbers to showcase their artistic skill and work. It is where artists can also sell their art and compete for best awards in various categories. The climax is the awarding of Fijian-made, Fijiancrafted licences to artisans. Fiji Arts Council’s director, Peni Cavuilagi, said the events allow for artists from across Fiji to work together, transcend cultural differences and offer great inspiration to aspiring new artists to try new techniques, tools and ideas in their work. Cavuilagi said it also encourages public support of Fiji’s artists. This year the council has chosen the theme “Family – all the descendants of a common ancestor” to raise awareness of the importance of the family unit.
“Every year, thousands of family members are separated by conflicts, disasters or migration. People suffer terribly when they lose contact with their loved ones and don’t know where they are or whether they are safe. Some have been neglected and abused by their own family members,” Cavuilagi explained. To boost exposure of local artists and their creative work, the council has moved this year’s National Fine Art Exhibition to Denarau, Nadi. National Fine Art Exhibition Nov. 5th: Official opening with a private evening function at the Denarau Yacht Club on Denarau. Nov. 6th-9th: Open to the public from 9am to 10pm. Artwork on display will be in various mediums including paintings, works on paper, masi (bark cloth) and photography. Art pieces will be available for purchase. Western Craft Exhibition – to be held at Shirley Park in Lautoka from December 6th-8th. Turn to page 38 for more events. *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Information and photos supplied by the Fiji Arts Council.
F I J I ’ S
C R U I S E
L I N E
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Sunset
Dinner Sail E
njoy the romance of a Fijian sunset and a tropical barbecue dinner with local flavours aboard the sailing catamaran Fiji One. Fiji’s most prestigious charter vessel and one of the largest sailing catamarans in the Southern Hemisphere, local chefs prepare a sumptuous cuisine as you enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and take in the views. You’ll find it easy to quickly settle into a relaxed mode watching the sunset with a cocktail drink in hand, whilst ukulele-strumming serenaders provide a backdrop of sweet Fijian songs. Operated by Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, a multiaward winner in the industry, the three-hour cruise on the luxurious watercraft takes you on a scenic sail past idyllic islands, all set aglow by the setting sun. Dinner is served as you glide into the sunset. From the buffet, enjoy a half lobster tail, or upgrade to a whole lobster chargrilled to
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perfection, accompanied with cuts of the freshest fish, peppered sirloin steak, chicken shish kebabs served with sautéed local seasonal vegetables, salads, jacket potatoes, kumala (sweet potato)
and Ota & Miti – the local spinach in coconut milk. Dessert can be a tropical fruit salad or baked banana in coconut cream. The meal comes with tea and coffee or treat yourself to the onboard bar service where cocktails the colour of sunsets and blue ocean, wine, champagne, beer and soft drinks can be purchased. After dinner, sit back and enjoy Fijian entertainment performed by the crew. As the horizon turns from sunset yellow to deep blue twilight, watch the blanket of stars light up the sky and reflect on the water, the perfect way to conclude your evening cruise.
The Sunset Dinner Cruise departs conveniently from Denarau Marina at 5.30pm and returns to port at 8.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday. There’s even complimentary transfers from Nadi and Denarau hotels. Book or enquire with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji or your resort / hotel tour desk. Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Denarau Marina, Denarau. Tel: (679) 670 1823 www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Captain Cook Cruises Fiji photos.
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Simple and fun
GETTING AROUND
E
xplore an island on two wheels at your own pace. Cycling is a fun, efficient and an easy way of getting around. With Bula Bikes, you can navigate the beautiful islands of Malolo Lailai and Mana in the majestic Mamanuca group and Denarau. With amazing scenery that makes it worth putting your legs to work and getting some holiday exercise, you can ride around each of these islands, sightsee and work off the heavy buffet. Biking gives you the freedom to pop into the many dining options, neighbouring resorts, shopping outlets, secluded beaches, the marina and other points of interest. Bula Bikes offer a range of bike sizes and accessories for hire that’s suitable for the whole family to enjoy, from as young as six months to grandparents. There’s a choice of two-wheelers from kids bikes and tagalong cycles, through to adult-sized beach or fat tire cruisers. The Beach Cruiser bikes are comfortable and simple to operate. All models are single gear, pedal brake, with comfortable seats. Bikes can be rented (and pre-booked) from Bula Bikes on either an hourly rate, 4 hourly or 24 hour block. Prices include a lock, nightlight and helmet.
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Plantation Island Resort and Mana Island Resort: Make bookings at the Bula Bikes’ bure or call 666 9333 ext. 2952. Denarau Island: Visit the bike bure or call 779 8888. Bookings also available through www.bulabikes.com
*Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Bula Bikes photos.
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SWEET
RIDE Feature by Catherine Best (Stuff.com). Edited by EXPLORE Fiji.
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cotrax is a first for Fiji and one of the country’s quirkiest tourism venture. Operating from Sigatoka, Howie and Mandy de Vries have revived the humble 17th-century velocipede (rail-mounted bicycle) to take holidaymakers on a unique adventure through Fiji's lesser explored countryside. The couple from Cromwell, New Zealand were looking for a tourism opportunity to escape the South Island winter and discovered 28 kilometers of decommissioned railway line - formerly used to transport sugar cane. An idea germinated and Howie – a selfconfessed part-geek, part-engineer who spent his childhood building train sets – consulted Google and found the 1879 patent for the original railway velocipede. "I thought it was an amazingly simple contraption, so I built one of those and took it for a ride and went, well, this really could work." Not only does it work, it's a rollicking great halfday excursion for anyone indulging in a Coral Coast stay. Our Ecotrax ride starts inside a century-old locomotive shed about 50km south of Nadi, where Britney, our delightfully sociable host, provides a safety briefing. We're sitting in a row of airline seats that were upcycled from the set of US TV series Wrecked,
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which was filmed on a nearby beach (nothing goes to waste at Ecotrax). We'll be riding in pairs (there are six double velocipedes with more on the way) and each bike is electric-assisted using the same batteries that power the Nissan Leaf (with a few tweaks by Howie, of course). We're given some hand signals in case there's livestock on the track, shown how to use the throttle (speed limit 20kmh) and told to enjoy the interaction with the local kids who flock around tourists as they rattle through villages on their marvelous contraptions. "Your job is to say Bula and return the smiles," instructs Britney, beaming with a pearly-white grin that would sell a freighter train full of Colgate. Helmets on heads, bums on saddles and we're off, clickety clacking as we ride the rails, quite literally, across open fields, through rock cuttings and alongside deserted beaches with vistas across the South Pacific as far as the eye can see. We scoot through cool forests that form an enchanting tunnel with their canopy, over ricketylooking bridges with snatches of water passing under our feet, and past villages with meandering cows, men on horseback and washing strung out trackside. At Malomalo village we stop to buy coconuts and are enveloped by a swarm of spirited kids –
toddlers running barefoot, babies on teenagers' hips, white flashing smiles, giggles, bulas and lots of high fives. Our next destination, Vunabua Beach, meaning frangipani, is a shimmering white expanse of sand caressed by the kind of water that was used to sell cigarettes in the 80s. We've forgotten our bathers (swimwear) but the lagoon is just too enticing, so we paddle out in our underwear. It's a limpid bathtub plugged by a small rocky island festooned with greenery. While we loaf about in the water, Britney prepares a fruit feast of banana, papaya and coconut under the shade of a mountain apple tree. We continue to laze, this time on air lounges, supping on coconut water straight from the source. When it's time to leave we hop back on the bikes and retrace our path, giving the bikes a few extra bursts of throttle on the return journey. The ride is about 24km return (12km each way) and you can pedal as much or as little as you like. Howie plans to extend the tours to the town of Sigatoka and beyond (his lease covers a total of 28km of track). Shortly after we visit, Bachelor in Paradise airs one of the show's last "dates" at Ecotrax and suddenly the de Vries' velocipedes are in hot demand.
"Since then it's just been huge," Howie later tells me. "The words out and the ball hasn't stopped rolling; it's put us on the map." Ecotrax has just rocketed to number one on TripAdvisor for outdoor activities in the region – an impressive feat for an attraction that only officially opened in January 2018. Ecotrax Fiji Phone: (679) 9770824 www.ecotrax.com.fj *Photos supplied by Ecotrax.
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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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©JoliPhotos
GIANTclams C
olourful giant clams nestled among a coral reef is a sight to behold, but there’s more to these beautiful mollusks than meets the eye. The charismatic giant clam, scientists say, can play a flagship role in reef conservation. The bottom-dwelling behemoths do incredible amounts of good work that benefit reefs; keeping them healthy. Fiji’s coral reefs are a precious resource as they create vital habitat for fishes and other marine species, support social and cultural activities, and provide the backbone for the tourism industry. The giant clam, Tridacna gigas, is appropriately named as it is the largest clam species and the largest bivalve (clam, oyster, or mussel) in the world. The bivalve mollusks live in flat coral sand or broken coral and can be found at depths of 20 meters. One of the most endangered clam species, the Tridacna gigas can grow to almost 1.5 metres (5 feet) and weigh more than 200 kilograms (440 pounds). Plus, it can live to more than a hundred years in the wild.
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Giant clams are also nurseries for fish, providing shelter for the young escaping predators, and the shell ridges provide privacy for adults laying eggs. Their shells also help build reefs. Dense populations of clams mean that some species produce 80 tonnes of carbonate shell material per hectare each year, which is available as housing for soft corals, sponges, sea squirts and large algae. Sadly, giant clam populations are in decline the world over, not only due to overfishing, but are under great pressure from threats like pollution, recreational misuse, climate change and ocean acidification. Once abundant in Fijian waters, the Tridacna gigas or ‘vasua’ as it is called locally, dropped to a level of extinction with overharvesting for its shell and aquaria trade as well as consumption. Vasua is a delicacy among locals, and while eating the fleshy clam is permitted, there is encouragement to conserve the shellfish and other endangered marine life. Vasua is protected under the Fiji Fisheries Act, prohibiting the export of its meat and shell.
Internationally, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) also protects these clams. Recognizing the unique nature of Fiji’s pristine ocean environment, the government collaborates with numerous agencies and resorts to curb deterioration, plus assist with the repopulation of threatened species and ecosystems. There is some ongoing conservation efforts, including research on breeding and the setting up of clam nurseries. In 2017, Tavarua Island Resort was chosen by Fiji’s Department of Fisheries to host a new conservation project to reintroduce giant clams. The heart-shaped island in the Mamanuca group is known for attracting world surf pros and watersport enthusiasts. Tavarua’s managing director Rick Isbell has been instrumental in the island’s efforts in reintroducing the giant clams in the protected reefs surrounding the ‘Small Island, Big Heart’ piece of paradise.
Team members from The Fisheries Department and Tavarua Island inspect enclosures in Lau.
The Vahua Project (vahua is clam in the Nadroga dialect) came about after the Category 5, Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston cut a path of destruction across Fiji, including one of the largest hatcheries for giant clams at Dalice Bay on Makogai Island in early 2016. Located in the Lomaiviti group in eastern Fiji, the Makogai hatchery suffered major damages. The Makogai facility was started after the country’s giant clams were extinct. The hatchery was successful in reintroducing the giant mollusks into the ecosystem after bringing some from Australia in the mid-1980s. On Tavarua staff and volunteers reared the special creatures, starting off smaller than a fingernail, in its on-island nursery. In August 2018, the precious clams were transferred to the ocean nursery near the thriving reef system, where they are housed in shallow enclosures to protect them from natural predators like octopus and triggerfish.
Hatchery facility on Makogai Island.
Adolescent clams are moved from hatchery to ocean enclosure – Tavarua Island.
Dept of Fisheries’s Babitu Rarawa, left, and Tavarua Island Resort’s managing director Rick Isbell, right, prepare clams for transport to Makogai Island.
This allows the young clams to adapt to their natural home and begin symbiosis with other ocean species, as well as providing additional space in the land-based nursery for new clam hatchlings. Inspired by the progress, a team from the resort and the Fisheries Department flew to the outer Lau Group on a chartered seaplane to retrieve specific clam species, including the very rare and endangered Tridacna Mbalavuana, known as Tevoroa or Tevoro clam. Working with the local community, the specimens were salvaged and transported with great care, even to the extent that the plane flew at sea level to minimize stress on the precious clams.
Once at the Makogai facility, the broodstock was placed in their temporary home awaiting a successful spawning event. With good fortune and some nurturing, these nursery tanks will soon be filled with babies. Restocking giant clams to Fiji’s reefs can be a time consuming process, but with persistence and passion; there’s hope to repopulate the reefs once again. *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Photos by Scott Winer on pages 17 & 18.
Multi-coloured Tridacna derasa clams in the Lau Group.
The Fiji Government Research Station on Makogai Island.
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Physical Address: Pratt Street, Suva, Fiji. Postal Address: Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji. Phone: (+679) 331 3611 Fax: (+679) 330 2094 Email: info@rbf.gov.fj Website: www.rbf.gov.fj Our Values: Professionalism ... Respect ... Integrity ... Dynamism ... Excellence
WATERFALLS Talanoa Treks photo.
F
iji is abound with everything from tumbling jungle waterfalls to white-sand beaches fringed with coconut palms. Discover beautiful waterfalls pouring into cool crisp pools you can swim in as you marvel at the natural beauty of the surrounding native plants and wildlife. Here is a list of some of the waterfalls on Fiji’s three largest islands: Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Taveuni (also known as the Garden Island).
VITI LEVU Koroyanitu National Heritage Park (Abaca) • Savu-i-One Falls • Vereni Falls Biausevu Waterfall, Coral Coast Nabalesere, Tamanivi Wainuta Falls, Namosi Highlands Luva Waterfalls, Namosi Highlands Uru's Waterfall, King's Road Waisila Falls, Colo-i-Suva
VANUA LEVU Nakawaga Waterfall, Savusavu Vuadomo Waterfall, Savusavu
TAVEUNI Tavoro Waterfalls, Bouma National Heritage Park Waitavala Natural Rock Waterslides, Waiyevo Wainibau Falls, Lavena Savulevu Yavonu Waterfall, Ravilevu Coast Waibula Falls, near the Bouma National Heritage Park.
Allan Stephen photo.
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*Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.
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RECIPE
COCONUT CUSTARD TARTS Sweet pastry crust 2½ cups flour 95g butter ½ cup sugar ½ cup cold water Coconut custard filling 4 cups coconut milk 2 tbsp. corn flour 2 tsp vanilla essence 1½ cups white sugar 12 egg yolks 1 cup grated coconut Topping 1 cup sugar ½ tsp salt ¾ cup corn flour 5 cups coconut cream or milk 2 tsp vanilla essence *Recipe & photo by Colin Chung, chef, caterer, international hospitality consultant and author of the Kana Vinaka cookbook on contemporary island cuisine.
Method To make the pastry, cut the butter into the flour, add the sugar, and rub in the butter until a coarse crumbly mixture has formed. Alternatively combine in a food processor. Slowly stir in the cold water using a butter knife until the mixture binds. Gently and lightly knead the dough on a floured surface until combined and refrigerate until needed. Roll to a thickness of 2mm, cut into rounds of 12mm in diameter and use to line greased muffin tins. Ensure that the pastry dough comes up to the top of each rim. Chill until ready to fill. For the filling, dissolve corn flour into a little coconut milk in a pot, add the vanilla essence and sugar and heat until the sugar has dissolved. Beat the egg yolks in a bowl, add half of the heated liquid, and beat. Pour the mixture back into the pot and cook until just thickened. Stir in the grated coconut then pour into the pastry-lined tart pans just short of the rim to allow space for the topping. Bake the tarts in the oven at 170°C for 20 minutes or until set and light brown at the edges. To make the topping, dissolve the corn flour in some of the coconut cream. Combine all of the ingredients in a pot and heat until thickened, stirring from time to time. Let the topping cool slightly before spooning onto the baked tarts. Refrigerate to cool and set before serving. Top with freshly grated coconut.
Serve for dessert or as a treat for afternoon tea. This recipe makes about 36 standard muffin-sized tarts.
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MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)
BHULLAR WINS IN THE LAND OF BULA! N
atadola Bay - one of the world’s most spectacular golf courses - hosted the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour for the Fiji International from August 2nd to 5th 2018. It was a show worthy of the stage when India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar edged out a white-hot Anthony Quayle to win the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways at the stunning Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course on western Viti Levu. The last men standing on the final day combined for an astounding 11 birdies and three eagles in the final round, Bhullar producing his best golf of the week – a 6-under 66 – to secure a ninth Asian Tour title and first on the European Tour. His 14-under total proved to be one shot too many for Queenslander Quayle, the 23-year-old’s astonishing 9-under 63 enough for a new course record but not the Sunday silverware. The par-5 17th has been Natadola Bay’s most vulnerable hole this week and it was the scene of the best entertainment late in the day, Quayle and Bhullar draining back-to-back eagles to set up thrilling final round finish.
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Quayle snatched the lead at 13-under par – capping off an unconscious stretch of nine gained strokes in 13-holes – with a brilliant three at the par-5. But Bhullar responded right away, the 30-yearold snatching back the lead he held overnight with a 40-yard chip-in from in front of the green just moments after the Australian hit the clubhouse. That saw the World Number 163 leapfrog Quayle and regain the lead, a par up the last ensuring a one-stroke victory and a fourth Asian Tour title in three seasons. “To be honest, I was mentally prepared for that,” Bhullar said of Quayle’s unbelievable final round. “I knew somebody or another had to go low today. Even Ernie Els, he’s a legend, he was playing really well. “I still had hopes, I still had kind of a feeling that I can still win the tournament, but I think that chip‑in on No. 17, that pretty much closed the deal.” The winning chip was one Bhullar had seen before, the champion telling the media after the
MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)
round he had a similar shot in Friday’s second round. “To be honest, I was in pretty much the same situation, same place on day two and the flag was pretty much on the same side of the green,” said Bhullar. “I had a little bit of an idea that this chip is going to run a lot, but it wasn’t an easy chip. “I could have easily missed the up-and-down and settled for second or third.” But a run-in with tournament host and local legend Vijay Singh the night before had Bhullar dreaming only of winning on Sunday. “We just bumped into each other,” said Bhullar. “He said, ‘Son, you’re ready to win this tournament, just be aggressive, give 100 per cent and the golfing gods are going to be on your side’.” Bhullar began the day one-shot clear of the field and despite typically blustery conditions, and fired his best score of the week when he needed it most. And while the wedge at 17 will be credited for helping Bhullar to victory, brilliant pars at 10 and 11 were the catalyst for his back nine surge. With Bhullar, Quayle, Kiwi Ben Campbell (66), Jarryd Felton (69) and a threatening Ernie Els (65) all within two shots of the lead, Bhullar saved par from the fringe to kick start his back
Anthony Quayle.
nine, before holing another bomb on 11 to avoid dropping a shot. Four-time major champ Els didn’t waste any time in adding his name to the mix on Sunday morning, the South African holing out with a greenside chip for eagle on the par-5 first, before backing that up with a birdie on three. Suddenly Els was at 8-under for the week and within one of the lead, but a wayward drive into the breeze at the 5th resulted in bogey and a crippling loss of momentum. The headline act lived up to his billing with a third-placed finish – his first top 10 anywhere in the world since June, 2016 – alongside Campbell,
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MEDIA PARTNER (MAGAZINE)
Vijay Singh.
who led the way all week and made great strides in locking up his Asian Tour card for next season. “I did almost as much as I could,” said Els. “I set out to try to shoot 65, which I did, and Anthony just played unbelievable. Jeez, what is it, 29 on the back nine? That’s unbelievable stuff. “Great golf and well deserved. Whoever wins, they deserve it because it’s great golf.” West Australian Felton rounded out the top 5, joining Bhullar as the only other player to break par in all four rounds. Vijay Singh saved his best til last, signing for a Sunday 68 to finish in the red numbers for the week. Singh improved every round on the course he designed, rounds of 76, 72, 71 and 68 leaving the local hero pleased he finally managed to “beat the course”. *Source: Fiji International.
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FISHING
REEL IT IN F
iji is spectacular for fishing and one way to hook some big game is to drop a line. Join the seasoned skipper and crew aboard the Reel Game for a day on the prolific waters of the Mamanuca group of islands, home to a large variety of species of fish. Holidaymakers and serious anglers, alike, can look to Thunder Boats Fiji as an ideal choice for boat, bait and tackle and some of the best chances of reeling in bottom fish species and blue water big fish. These are just some of the trophies that you can add to your bucket list: Marlin, MahiMahi, Skipjack tuna, Yellowfin tuna, Dogtooth tuna, Wahoo, Spanish mackerel, Sailfish and Giant Trevally. Reel Game is a 7.2m Kevlacat offshore sport fishing boat with a 2.7m beam, giving anglers a large deck area to work in. Powered by a pair of 250 HP Suzuki engines, you will be fishing promptly after leaving the berth at Port Denarau. Rigged with Black Magic belts, electronics, accessories, and even a toilet, Reel Game is stable, smooth riding and shaded to protect you from the tropical elements.
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Its full-time crew have a lifetime of experience of the sea and the islands and know the waters where the predatory fish frequent. They are equally flexible and will even let you set the gear your preferred way. On your day out, you can challenge yourself in game and sport fishing, deep sea fishing, bottom bashing, and GT popping. Thunder Boats Fiji offer half day (4-hour) and full day (8-hour) charters, suitable for four anglers per trip and provides complimentary bottled water, fruit and snacks, all fishing equipment and sunscreen. Thunder Boats Fiji Booth 1, Denarau Marina Denarau. Open daily: 7am to 8pm. Tel: 675 1161, option 1. Mobile: 890 2027. *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Thunder Boats Fiji photos.
Sport Fishing
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Tropic Voyager
Come join us aboard Tropic Voyager, and enjoy our local islands and crystal clear, inshore waters.
Snorkelling . Island Hopping Sandbars . Customised Tours
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Charity Fashion Gala T
he fashionable, charitable place to be on December 1st this year is the glitz and glamour Style Fiji event. The convergence of some of the latest trends from Fiji and regional designers will be in full swing at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa on Denarau. And it’s not just about fashion and fun, it’s about benefiting the community, an important component of Project Bula Mai, the charity organiser of the annual gala. The $165 ticket “Style Fiji in Bollywood” theme extravaganza will open with a cocktail hour followed by an evening with dinner, auction, entertainment, live band and a fashion show where international and local models will strut the catwalk in labels by renowned and emerging designers. This year the beneficiary charity is St. John Association of Fiji, a humanitarian organisation that provides products and services related to health and safety for the general public and healthcare providers across Fiji. Funds raised by the Style Fiji event will be used to buy a second ambulance for the St. John Association. A new ambulance donated by Project Bula Mai to St. John in November 2017 is adding great value in its emergency medical first responder services to Lautoka, Nadi, Sigatoka and Rakiraki communities with hospital (public and private) and home transfers. This includes transfers to and from the Nadi or Nausori international airports for overseas evacuations. Also, St. John will soon benefit from a planned double garage for its ambulances in Nadi. Project Bula Mai, based in Nadi, has collected
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more than $700,000 over the past seven years for well-deserving charities. Since its 2011 inception, Project Bula Mai has contributed over $500,000 worth of medical equipment to the Nadi Hospital. With the success of Style Fiji 2017, it presented $35,000 to Cure Kids Fiji, a charity that’s helping to improve child health in Fiji. It also donated three fogging machines valued at $10,000 to the Divisional Medical Office Western to assist with the Ministry of Health’s dengue campaign. For Style Fiji 2018 tickets, call Marlene on Tel: 9450219 or email: stylefiji2011@gmail.com
The ultimate style expression… T
his year the wine partner for the Style Fiji event – Victoria Wines, Fiji’s dedicated wine importer, will be launching a new sparkling wine brand that has been designed specifically to celebrate the fashion industry. Haute Couture is produced by the French Famille de Grandes Vins – Boisset, and everything about it radiates style and finesse, from the glamorous bottle to the delicate, crisp bubbles on the palate: The same level of artistry, passion and attention to detail that comes together in creating a one-of-a-kind piece also comes together in crafting a bottle of Haute Couture. Haute Couture sparkling wine is available at Victoria Wines shops located on Denarau, in Nadi and in Suva. *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Photos: Vantage Fiji.
Your holiday in Fiji
with..... Those special moments only deserve the best! Visit our web site to view the wide selection of Champagne and sparkling wine that is available. We also deliver to your venue.
HAUTE COUTURE Victoria Wines Denarau
Denarau Marina Ph: 675 0236
Victoria Wines Suva
www.victoriawines.com.fj
Damodar City. Ph: 331 0798
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MAGIMAGI (COCONUT FIBER)
W
eaving is a traditional knowledge passed down over generations that Fijians continue to practice today. With an abundance of coconuts, the incredible husk of the local flora is skillfully woven to create magimagi (sinnet) and turned into useful items and artistic expressions. The making of magimagi is labour intensive. The husks are often baked in a pit-oven, then soaked in water for several days, pounded and sun-dried. The fibres are rolled on the thigh (the equivalent of spinning) and braided before being plaited, usually by men. The magimagi can be very coarse like rope or extremely fine like string. In the old days, magimagi was commonly used as a binding material for houses and sea-going canoes instead of nails, which were not available. Magimagi was also used to form the webbing in fishing nets - being woven in varying strengths depending on what the net was made to catch. Magimagi ropes were also used to adorn architectural structures with decorative and intricate designs, and skilled magimagi weavers continue to apply their craft today. ©JoliPhotos
*Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.
Avis introducing New Auto Hilux in their Fleet
Images are for illustration purposes only
Features 2.8L • 4x4 Double Cab • Automatic Transmission • Alloy wheels • Auto disconnect Diff • Wireless door lock • Audio switch on steering • Daytime running lights • Power door lock with speed lock • Driver + Passenger Airbag Knee Airbag for drive • Front cool box • Fog lamp • Follow me home lights LOCATIONS Nadi International Airport (24 hours) • Port Denarau (Free delivery to all Denarau Resorts) Suva • 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
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BSP accepts all major credit cards
Our largest ATM & EFTPoS network, lets you enjoy what you came to Fiji for.
bsp.com.fj
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Uprising Beach Resort photo.
5 GREAT TIMES TO ENJOY KAVA By Zane Yoshida
Kava is becoming more popular in the west, but it has been popular for many centuries in the Pacific Islands – and Fijian kava is some of the finest around.
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W
hen do you enjoy kava the most? After a long day’s work in the comfort of your own home, alone with your thoughts? Or out in a kava bar surrounded by friends, family, or work colleagues, chatting about the events of the day and all the latest news? Kava has become very versatile. No longer is lengthy preparation necessary. It’s available in shot, capsule, or powder form, so it can be taken anywhere you go, enjoyed in many different places, and at many different times. Here are five times to enjoy kava, but we’re sure you can think of a few more…
Before studying Kava relaxes you without affecting mental clarity. You can take it before a bout of studying, or while revising for exams, to relax you and soothe the mind, so that it can take more in. It may also calm your nerves before an exam, if you suffer from pre-exam stress. After a workout Aching muscles after a long workout or a big game? Kava is known to aid muscle recovery, and is used by people after exercise and even by some elite sportsmen after a game. Try it and see if it helps relieve your tight muscles. Before flying Many people are affected by flight-anxiety. Try taking kava before a flight, shortly after arriving at the airport, so that it calms your nerves and prepares you for the journey ahead. You should enjoy your flight – not be stressed by it! Before yoga or massage With their ability to provide mental and physical relief from tension, taking kava supplements
before a massage or a yoga session is a great way to unwind and prepare you. Whether you have a weekly yoga class or an occasional massage at your local spa, kava shots or capsules tuck nicely into your bag. Before bed Kava will not make you immediately drowsy, but it is known to help with getting off to sleep and providing deeper sleep for people who take it an hour or two before bedtime. Unlike some sleeping pills, it does not make you feel drowsy the following day, so it’s a good natural alternative. Zane Yoshida is founder and chief executive officer of Fiji Kava Ltd. The company offers a proprietary range of kava products including beverages, capsules and instant powder under the internationally well-known brand “Taki Mai”. Fiji Kava hopes to raise $5.2 million at $0.20 a share in its IPO on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX). Fiji Kava will become the first kava company on any global exchange if it is successful in listing.
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TOURISM UPDATES
PULLMAN NADI BAY OPENS IN FEBRUARY 2019
O
ne of the most significant new resort arrivals of 2019 will open its doors on February 1st. Boasting an idyllic beachfront location at Wailoaloa in Nadi, the 5-star Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa marks the debut of the luxury Pullman brand in Fiji. Affiliated to AccorHotels’ luxury and upscale collection, the Pullman brand is targeted at travelers who enjoy combining work and pleasure. The newly built 236-room luxury resort under Pullman management is owned by Travel World Resort Limited, a subsidiary of the Gokal Group of Companies in Fiji. The Nadi Bay address is Fiji’s newest up and coming destination and the luxury resort is positioning itself as the place for the upscale traveller looking for a local experience to check in and chill out. Adjacent to the 18-hole Nadi Golf Course, guests will find themselves within a 10 minute drive from Port Denarau and the Nadi International Airport. Stylish accommodation at the Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa provides for a spacious, peaceful haven, allowing guests to relax in comfort. Elegant balcony rooms include 16 suites and 36 deluxe interconnecting rooms, containing everything for a restful stay. Property features offer three conference facilities including an up to 400 people theatre-style
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Sogoni Ballroom, a wedding chapel, four signature restaurants and three bars: Magiti Restaurant (all day dining), Dandan Restaurant (casual dining), Barefoot Bar & Grill, Kah Restaurant (specialty bar and restaurant) and Ro Bar situated in the lobby. The resort includes a day spa with six inspired treatment rooms designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, a gym offering indoor and outdoor spaces equipped with cardiovascular and training machines, two swimming pools, a yoga room, tennis courts and retail space to cater to all guests. There is also dedicated space for younger children and teens. High speed Wi-Fi can be enjoyed throughout the resort.
The Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa will be Accor’s 5th address in Fiji, complementing its existing hotel portfolio incorporating the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa on Denarau Island, Mercure Nadi, Novotel Nadi and Novotel Suva Lami Bay.
Iconic Resort GETS MAJOR REFURB
P
lantation Island Resort, one of Fiji’s pristine tourist destinations is investing $16 million into developments at its renowned resort. Development is being done in two projects to significantly improve public facilities and room offerings. Project A consists of a new arrivals bure, restaurant, bar and pool. Expected completion is April 2019. Project B consist of 40 new "hotel style" rooms built in double-storey blocks of four, with completion by May 2019. Raffe Hotels and Resorts own and operate Plantation Island Resort and Lomani Island Resort Fiji in the Mamanuca group of islands, the Fiji
Gateway Hotel in Nadi and Robinson Crusoe Island just off Viti Levu’s Coral Coast. Plantation Island Resort is situated on Malolo Lailai enjoys high occupancy year-round because of its popularity among romantics, families and groups. The iconic resort which was opened by owner Reg Raffe in 1969 is synonymous with tourism in Fiji. The resort will also be celebrating its Golden Jubilee in 2019 and the new developments will be an additional reason to celebrate. *Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji. Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa photos. Plantation Island Resort photo.
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EVENTS
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
W
hen planning your list of must-do and must-see while in Fiji for the months of November, December and January, here are some events to consider. Fiji goes to the polls on November 14th -- a special public holiday for the 2018 Fiji General Election of Members of Parliament.
NOVEMBER 1ST — 2ND
HOTEC – Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association’s annual industry trade show at the Denarau Island Convention Centre on Denarau.
6TH
Melbourne Cup - the Flemington race that is known to “stop a nation” is popular here in Fiji. Many resorts, hotels and clubs will have a betting facility on the day.
6TH — 9TH
National Fine Arts Exhibition at the Denarau Yacht Club, Ist floor. Open to the public from 9am to 10pm. Organised by the Fiji Arts Council.
7TH
Diwali or Dipavali is the Hindu ‘Festival of Lights’. A public holiday.
9TH — 10TH
2018 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships. The best in the world of 7s meet at Suva’s ANZ Stadium as 24 men and 12 women’s rugby teams compete. The highest placed teams in both the men’s and women’s grades, excluding the prequalified teams will qualify for the World Sevens Series leg in Hamilton and Sydney. Both highest placed teams will also qualify for the World Sevens Series qualifier in Hong Kong 2019. Fiji 7s and Fijiana 7s teams have both pre-qualified and are part of the World Sevens Series 2018/2019. Tickets available at the Fiji Sports Council office at Laucala Bay in Suva and online at www.ticketdirect.com.fj
10TH
Vonu Uprising Festival of Music, Dance & Lights to be held at the Uprising Beach Resort in Pacific Harbour. Marking its 10th anniversary, this year’s event will feature more than 100 performers, both international and local. The 12-hour music, dance and lights marathon kicks off at midday and will feature Fiji’s top musicians, dancers and entertainers.
16TH — 17TH
FMF Chow Games at ANZ Stadium, Suva. Annual athletics meet for primary schools organised by Fiji Primary Schools Athletic Association.
17TH
Kulture Beer & Music Fest at the Botanical Garden in Lautoka. Starts 12pm.
19TH
Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday. A public holiday.
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20TH — 22ND
The Sukuna Bowl challenge will be held at the ANZ Stadium in Suva. Action between Army and Police include rugby, volleyball, netball, soccer, cricket, boxing and rugby league. And for the first time a Women’s Sevens tournament. The Sukuna Bowl rugby competition will be played on the 22nd.
26TH
Join Colin Chung, renowned chef and author of the Kana Vinaka cookbook as he creates seasonally-inspired local dishes using traditional island ingredients at Flavours of Fiji Cooking School, Denarau Industrial Park on Denarau. From 11am to 2pm. To book, call tel: 6750840 or email: reservations@flavoursoffiji.com
NOV
Raka 7s tournament at the ANZ Stadium in Suva. The two-day tournament features men’s and women’s teams.
30TH — DEC 1ST
DECEMBER 6TH — 8TH
Western Craft Exhibition at Shirley Park in Lautoka. From 8am to 5pm. Contact: Fiji Arts Council. Tel: 3311754.
15TH
Dash for Diabetes 5km - Santa Dash. The Petero Civoniceva Foundation’s annual event will be held at Buckhurst Park in Suva. The Christmas-theme dash offers prizes for the different category winners and best fancy dress. Entry is $2 for adults and $1 for children under 16 years and is paid on the day. There will be entertainment, sports clinics, music, zumba warm ups and the chance to meet Petero Civoniceva and help raise awareness of diabetes in Fiji. Funds raised will be used to purchase insulin needles for Diabetes Fiji.
25TH
Christmas Day. A public holiday.
26TH
Boxing Day. A public holiday.
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JANUARY 2019 1ST
New Year’s Day. A public holiday.
16TH— 19TH
MANA Whey Fiji Coral Coast Sevens brings together the best of Fijian 7s rugby at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
David Clifton photo.
2019 Fiji Public Holidays New Year’s Day – Tuesday, 1 January Good Friday – Friday, 19 April Easter Saturday – Saturday, 20 April Easter Monday – Monday, 22 April Constitution Day – Monday, 9 September Fiji Day – Thursday, 10 October Diwali – Monday, 28 October Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday – Monday, 11 November Christmas Day – Wednesday, 25 December Boxing Day – Thursday, 26 December
*Compiled by EXPLORE Fiji.
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19.95
$
9
$ .95
PROUDS DOWNTOWN COMPLEX, MAIN ST, NADI
PHONE: 6700446 / 7777217 EMAIL: zig.zag.cafe@motibhai.com.fj FOLLOW US:
6700221
6720922
/ZigZagCafe.Fiji
6750533
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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