Message from the Publisher

Bula & Cola Vina!

Welcome 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, 10 th November. Daylight Savings Time concludes at 3am on Sunday, 12 th 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.

seabirds and is circled by a truly wild and untouched series of coral reefs, and abundant marine life including turtles, pilot dolphins and migrating humpback whales. (Page 24.) • Tivua maybe tiny, but the exclusive Fijian tropical island in the Mamanuca group of islands offers all the attractions for a day cruise. (Page 6.)

Did you know Fiji’s first capital Levuka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? We offer an insight of the historical town “where time stands still”. Take a trip to this charming corner of Fiji where walking down the picturesque main street is like going through a time warp. (Page 32.)

In this issue, enjoy articles on Denarau dining, a new online food delivery service, and REEF – Fiji’s first batch-brewed, craft beer that’s pouring at tap rooms near you. Plus, read up on the newly opened development at popular Plantation Island Resort which has been inspiring travel for 50 years and our Tourism Updates. Browse the multi-page calendar for ideas on events to check out and use the country information and Fiji map.

If you love the laid-back rhythm of life in Fiji, you’d surely want to live by the famous ‘Fiji Time’ allowing you to slow down and relax. Try out as many local experiences as you can and immerse yourself in traditional iTaukei culture. In doing so, you will find that beyond the attractions, it is our people and their friendly, ‘Bula’ spirit and smiles that leaves the greatest impression.

Feel free to share your print edition copy of EXPLORE Fiji or scan the QR on the magazine cover and on Page 4 for the digital version.

To all our readers in Fiji and across the world, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

January 25 th 2020 marks Chinese New Year (Year of the Rat) and we wish everyone prosperity and health. Kung Hei Fat Choi (Cantonese) and Gong Xi Fa Cai (Mandarin). 恭喜發財

Vinaka vaka levu, Connie

www.explorefijionline.com

ART RIVER TUBING ISLAND DAY CRUISE WATERFALLS LEVUKA DINING & MORE

Free Drink Coupon Inside

Cover image Yau Ni Cakau - Yavirau Artwork © Maria W Rova, Sigavou Studios, Nadi, Fiji.

Volume 17, 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. Pte. Ltd in Suva, Fiji Islands.

Publisher/Editor Connie Chew

Contributors James Begeman Maria W Rova BirdLife International Wairoro Project Mapio.net

Design The Greenhouse Studio

Printer Quality Print Pte. Ltd, Suva

EXPLORE Fiji Office: Suva, Fiji. All correspondence and payments should be mailed to: Chew Publishing Co. Pte. 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.