Message from the Publisher Bula & Cola Vina!
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elcome to Fiji – from where each new day begins, literally!
Yes, every “new day” or “Sigavou” (pronounced Sing-a-voh) in iTaukei (indigenous Fijian) starts from these beautiful Fiji Islands. A spot-on reference given Fiji’s position to the International Dateline, making it one of the first countries in the world to welcome each new day. Sigavou Studios is also the place where vibrant and creative art is born, including the colourful painting by local artist Maria W Rova that graces our magazine front cover. The portrait illustrates a ‘Yavirau’- a traditional, communal way of fishing still practiced by villagers in the outer islands of Fiji. Normally a festive occasion, a yavirau is often held in the lead up to a big village feast. Many associate the event as being a part of Christmas celebrations in remote communities where the generous spirit of sharing and caring is a way of life in closely knit village kinships. See the art spread on Page 16. As we move into November, daylight savings is back on the agenda. Across Fiji, everyone can enjoy an extra hour of evening sunlight by moving their clock forward one hour at 2am on Sunday, 10th November. Daylight Savings Time concludes at 3am on Sunday, 12th January 2020. November also heralds the start of Fiji’s summer, rainy season and for the next six months to April, expect the days and nights to be warmer with higher temperatures. Take advantage of the longer and warm days with the multitude of activities and
places to visit throughout the islands. Whether you are here on a short or extended stay, go further and explore beyond the comfort zone of your hotel, resort, homestay or Airbnb. There are exciting half and full day excursions and a myriad of opportunities for longer retreats. In this edition, as with each quarterly, we provide features and information on how you can get the most out of your time in Fijian paradise. Water, water everywhere you look! From the blue Pacific Ocean to tranquil crystal-clear lagoons and from the inner rivers to towering waterfalls deep in the rainforests, Fiji and its people are blessed by this life-providing source. In the pages ahead, we offer articles to help you plan a getaway around water-filled adventures. For those who love the great outdoors and Mother Nature at her best: • A day of tubing and chillaxing awaits you just 30 minutes outside of the capital Suva. Set out on a slow float down the Navua River in inner tubes. (Page 8.) • Stunning four-tiered waterfall and pools surrounded by gorgeous greenery in the highlands of Naitasiri, managed as an ecotourism project. (Page 20.) • Vatu-i-Ra Conservation Park boasts some of the most spectacular diving in Fiji, drawing divers from around the world. Remote Vatu-iRa island is home to a large number of breeding
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. Pte 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. Pte Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced, wholly or in part, without prior written permission from the Publisher.
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