FijiTime March/April 2020 Edition - Arts & Design Issue by FijiTime

ISSUE 2 2020 Art & Design Edition

F I J I TI M E Bulanaire (n) A person rich In Happiness!

ARCHITECTURAL MARVELS A closer look at iconic buildings in Fiji and New York

TRADITIONAL TATTOOS Samoan Tatau remains a rite of passage

FAREWELLING A LEGEND How Kobe Bryant broke basketball barriers

36 HOURS IN KOBE, JAPAN Discover the Japanese town Kobe Bryant was named after

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

FIJITIME

FijiTime is the complimentary, award winning inflight magazine of Fiji Airways and Fiji Link. It is published six times a year in January, March, May, July, September and November by Fiji Airways. PUBLICATION Publisher: Shane Hussein Advertising Sales and Content: Bal Naidu | Design and Creative: Bruce Rounds Contributors: Lice Movono, Jessan Doton, Sharon Narayan Content: The New York Times Licensing Group. CORRESPONDENCE TO THE AIRLINE Editorial: media@fijiairways.com | Advertising: onboardads@fijiairways.com For flight reservations or more information on Fiji Airways and Fiji Link, please visit fijiairways.com We are available 24 hours a day on the following numbers: Fiji: 330 4388 or 672 0888 | Australia: 1 800 230 150 | New Zealand: 0 800 800 178 | USA and Canada: 1 800 227 4446 Hong Kong: 3192 7568 | Singapore: 800 852 3666 | Malaysia: 1 800 8186

Â© All rights reserved. Copyrighted by Air Pacific Limited trading as Fiji Airways. Opinions expressed in FijiTime are solely those of the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by Fiji Airways and their related companies. Fiji Airways is not responsible or liable in any way for the contents of any of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. Unsolicited material will not be returned. All information was correct at time of publication.

This magazine is proudly produced using environmentally friendly and sustainably sourced materials.

H AV E A D R I N K PICK UP A DIGICEL SIM STARTER PACK FROM NADI AIRPORT OR MAKE A PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE FROM YEES XPRESSMART IN DENARAU TO RECEIVE YOUR DRINK VOUCHER* For enquiries and bookings please contact: +679 675 6677 or Email: restaurants@radissonfiji.com

ON US *Redeem your drink voucher at Radisson Blu Resort Fiji when you purchase a meal at any of our four restaurants from now until April 4 2020.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

CONTENTS ISSUE 2 | 2020

Art & Design

ON THE COVER Along with Art & Design, we celebrate happiness in this edition with our friends

FEATURES

from Tourism Fiji, and learn all about the Bulanaires (page 27).

DISCOVER

Fiji is again celebrating its Bulanaires in a bigger way.

EXPERIENCE

Visit Fiji in Los Angeles.

REGULARS 75 ENJOY

Your inflight movies, TV and music highlights

88 SNAPSHOTS Catch up on the latest updates from Fiji Airways

90 FLY WELL Inflight exercise to make your body feel restored

EXPLORE

and rejuvenated

Our top picks of where to stay, play and dine in Nadi.

@FijiAirways

67 VISIT

Winter Jazz Fest

@Fly_FijiAirways @FijiAirways Read our digital magazine www.issuu.com/fly_fijiairways

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

bUlatin INFO

EVENTS

SOFITEL

ENGINEERS TAKE ON ASIA’S BEST

Region’s budding engineers take on Asia’s best. More on page 14.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

bUla

Andre

Shaenaz

Managing Director and CEO Fiji Airways fjceo@fijiairways.com @fijiairways

Executive General Manager Fiji Link gm@fijilink.com @fijiairways

VILJOEN

VOSS

Bula to all our friends. We are honoured to have you aboard Fiji Airways. Thank you very much! This edition of FijiTime is the Arts & Design Issue. Today, our team of writers, contributors and creative artists will take you on journey to explore some iconic international monuments, from the Empire State Building in New York City to the many wonders of Singapore’s Changi airport. We also discover New York’s jazz scene, and find out where the music is going in 2020. In January, the world lost basketball legend Kobe Bryant. In this edition, we honour Bryant’s contribution to the sport and its appeal around the world. As part of our continued tribute, we also profile the Japanese town of Kobe, which was the inspiration behind the superstar athlete’s name. Traditional tattoo art has strong roots in the South Pacific. In this edition, you will discover the roots of the Samoan tatau, and its significance to identity of the people and the culture of the country. In closing, I would like to thank you for your business and for choosing to fly Fiji’s National Airline. Like always, we look forward to your feedback regarding our service. Please contact us via www.fijiairways.com with anything you have noted on this flight.

Bula vinaka to all our guests, from all of us here at Fiji Link, the domestic subsidiary of Fiji Airways. Thank you for choosing to travel to this special piece of paradise we call home. To our local travellers flying with us today, ni sa bula vinaka and welcome onboard. Whether you are jetting off to Savusavu, or hopping over to the Capital Suva to get to Pacific Harbour, you will get a bird’s eye view of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world on Fiji Link. March 20th is International Day of Happiness, and we are extremely proud to join Fiji’s National Tourism Office, Tourism Fiji, to highlight Bulanaires, people rich in happiness. Read all about why the ‘spirit of happiness’ of the Fijian people makes a visit to Fiji one to remember. We invite you to join the conservation and share your ‘Fiji happy’ moments on social media. In this issue, we also share a number of fascinating architectural marvels in Fiji – from traditional Fijian bure which is still in use today, to the Nadi’s Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, the largest Hindu temple in the South Pacific. It’s great to share more of our home with you in another edition of FijiTime. We look forward to seeing you again on Fiji Link soon. Vinaka Shaenaz

Vinaka Andre

About Us: Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways Group comprises of Fiji Airways, Fiji’s National Airline and its subsidiaries: Fiji Link, its domestic and regional carrier, Pacific Call Comm Ltd, and a 38.75% stake in the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa on Denarau Island, Nadi. From its hubs at Nadi and Suva International Airports, Fiji Airways and Fiji Link serve 108 destinations in over 15 countries (including code-share). Destinations include Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada, the UK, Hong Kong (SAR China), Singapore, India, Japan, China, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands. The Fiji Airways Group brings in 64 percent of all visitors who fly to Fiji, employs over 1000 employees, and earns revenues of over FJD$1 billion (USD $460m). Fiji Airways is a Skytrax 4-Star airline.

Visit fijiairways.com for more information.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

arrival BIOSECURITY Fiji laws require everyone arriving from overseas to declare all biosecurity risk goods including food, plant, plant products, used material and animal products to biosecurity officers at its borders. These goods could harbour exotic weeds, pests and diseases that could damage and destroy Fiji’s unique flora and fauna, environment, agriculture, livestock and tourism industries as well as the health of local communities. When arriving in Fiji you will be given a passenger arrival card. This is a legal document and required by law. It is important that you read and fill out this card carefully and truthfully. CLIMATE Fiji enjoys a mild tropical climate averaging 31°C (88°F) during the summer months of November to April and 29°C (84°F) during the winter months of May to October. COMMUNICATION Mobile outlets are located at Nadi Airport international arrivals. You can purchase a prepaid SIM card for local and international calls and intern CULTURAL There are many cultural activities you can engage in whilst on holiday. Check with your hotel reception or activity desk on what is available in your area and ask about cultural tips on dress code for visiting villages and more. If participating in a kava (yaqona) session, clap once before accepting the bowl, and then three times, after handing back the empty bowl. It is customary to accept the first bowl, but you may respectfully decline the second bowl, if offered CURRENCY Fiji Dollar (FJD). Banks include ANZ, Bank of Baroda, Bank of South Pacific, HFC, BRED and Westpac. CASH AND CREDIT CARDS Cash is generally used in the smaller stores around the country.

Larger shops, hotels and restaurants will accept most credit cards. DRESS Dress is casual and informal throughout the islands. The wraparound sulu (sarong) is Fiji’s most distinctive form of dress. Modest dress is advised in towns and villages in respect of the culture. DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE 2.25 litres of spirits or 4.5 litres of beer or 4.5 litres of wine. 200 cigarettes or 200 grams of tobacco. Please note, for passengers who are transiting through Nadi, your Duty Free will be confiscated as part of liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGS) restrictions in place by the Civil Aviation Authority. ELECTRICITY The electrical current in Fiji is 240 volts AC/50 cycles. Fiji has three pin power outlets identical to Australia and New Zealand. EMERGENCY NUMBERS Police: 917, Fire and ambulance: 911 When staying in any rural areas, ask a local person for the number and location for the nearest police station and medical centre. TRANSPORT Getting around the islands is easy with our subsidiary airline Fiji Link or jump aboard a sea transfer to the islands. On the main island of Viti Levu, taxis, private cars and coach transfers are available. PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in Fiji and a return or onward travel ticket is required. Entry visas are granted on arrival for visitors from eligible countries.

LANGUAGE English is the official language of Fiji. However, indigenous Fijians also speak iTaukei while Indo-Fijians speak Fiji Hindi.

ITAUKEI (INDIGENOUS FIJIAN)

FIJI BAAT (HINDI)

Bula – Hello Bula Vinaka – A warm Hello Ni sa moce (ni sa mothey) – Good bye Vinaka – Thank you Kerekere – Please Mai Kana – Let’s eat

Namaste – Polite greeting, polite farewell Goodbye – Bye (English commonly used) Kaise hai (kaise hey) – Informal, how are you? Dhanyavaad / Shukriya – Formal thank you Thank you – English commonly used Please – English commonly used Kaana kao – Eat

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

General Info

tHings

to do Dine Fiji is a multicultural nation and dining options in towns and within hotels and resorts reflect this. Dishes from India, Asia and local seafood can be found in most restaurants, along with international favourites to please every palate. Fiji’s best known for distinctive outdoor feast, the lovo, an in-ground oven of heated rocks used for cooking a variety of foods wrapped in banana leaves.

Golf There’s a wide range of quality golf courses in Fiji, from international championship golf courses to small “pitch and putts”. You can play a round at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club, Natadola Bay Golf Course (Coral Coast), Fiji Golf Club (Suva), the Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, Suncoast and Nadi Airport Clubs, Novotel Nadi and the Robert Trent Jones (Jnr) designed course at Pacific Harbour.

Shop

Some popular Fiji items to bring home for friends and family include Fijian inspired designer T-shirts and Bula shirts, replica war clubs, cannibal forks, Fijian combs and carved tanoa bowls, from which the national drink yaqona is mixed and served. Handicrafts like traditional woven baskets and mats, masi (tapa cloth), wood carving and pottery items are also popular. A bestseller for both men and women is the sulu (Fijian sarong). Most stores are closed on Sundays.

Adventure Explore Class ll to lll whitewater rapids aboard inflatable kayaks and whitewater rafts along two of the country’s premier liquid pathways, the Upper Navua Gorge and Wainikoroiluva. River rafting offers a great way to experience some of Fiji’s most spectacular terrain. For those wanting to reach new heights, there are ziplines at the Sleeping Giant mountain range in Nadi, Momi on the Coral Coast and Wainadoi near Suva

Surf Fiji is one of the world’s premier surf destinations, bringing the best surfers to its waves. The Mamanuca Islands, Beqa, Kadavu and Sigatoka are home to some great surf breaks with islands like Tavarua and Namotu catering specifically for surfers. Stand up paddle boarding is also becoming increasingly popular.

Dive Known as the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World’, Fiji is home to a vivid array of reef life and a wide spectrum of underwater creatures including sharks, manta rays and over 1000 species of fishes. Visitors can swim with manta rays in the Yasawas or feed tiger and bull sharks in Beqa Lagoon. Fiji ranks consistently in the top five dive spots in the world with Taveuni, Beqa, Kadavu and Suncoast being areas of note.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

March

April

1st

World Compliment Day

14th

Suncoast Ocean Swim 2020, Volivoli Beach Resort

20th

International Day of Happiness, Visit www.bulanaires.com

7th

World Health Day

10th , 12th, 13th

Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday

22nd

Jelly Bean Day

EVENTS CALENDAR 2020

May 4th – 6th

11th – 17th

Fijian Tourism Expo (FTE) US PGA, TPC Harding Park, San Francisco

15th

Chocolate Chip Day

15th – 16th

Fiji Institute of Accountants (FIA) Congress 2020, Shangri - La’s Fijian Resort & Spa

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

June 2nd – 4th

World Exchange Congress, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa (see page 63)

5th

World Environment Day

8th

World Oceans Day 2020

8th

Best Friends Day

27th

Sabeto Horse Races, Aviva Race Course - Nadi, Fiji

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

TEAM FIJI-USP AT ROBOCON 2019

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

region’s budding

engineers

take On Asia’s best Story: Lice Movono

It’s like the Olympics for aspiring engineers from across the Asia-Pacific region and team Fiji has travelled to various cities in Asia to compete at the event for the past 17 years. This year, the Asia-Pacific Robotic Competition otherwise known as ‘Robocon’ comes to the Pacific for the first time as Fiji plays host to the event in it’s capital, Suva. It will be held at the popular Vodafone Arena on August 23rd, 2020. Organised by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), Robocon has created a buzz at the Region’s premier University - The University of the South Pacific (USP). There is discernibly more excitement around Robocon compared to other events held at the University in recent years. At the USP’s Laucala Campus, there is probably no bigger advocate of the event than the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment, Associate Professor Anjeela Jokhan. She’s keen to create a bigger buzz at USP about the event so that its largely Pacific Islander population benefits from what engineering students and academics agree, is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Robocon attracts teams made up of tertiary students from 20 Asia-Pacific countries whose robots must complete a certain task in a set time period. The tasks reflect themes that feature a unique part of the host country. Fiji, as this year’s host, chose “Robo Rugby 7s”, taking the country’s love for the abbreviated version of the sport to a whole new level. Teams field two robots that play against five obstacles to score a try and then kick a conversion, as one would do in a typical Rugby 7s game. Unlike the Rugby 7s though, the game lasts only three minutes and teams have to build these robots themselves.

who have made it into the two teams. Such is the seriousness with which the University and its students are taking the event, that they have stayed in Robocon Camp since November 2019 to prepare. They are doing so under the watchful eyes of Dr. Sumesh Narayan (Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering) and Dr. Sheikh Azid (Lecturer in Electrical/Electronics Engineering), who have been to many Robocon competitions. “We had 80 students apply in total, including our first year students, to be part of the USP team, Dr Azid explained. “The majority of the vying participants are third and fourth years students. We have some students from the rural parts of Fiji, which is why we decided that it was best that they stayed as a team on campus. They have been bonding and preparing even through the Christmas break. Robocon is extremely competitive, and some countries field massive teams. China, for example, brought 50 participants to last year’s competition in Mongolia. In a region where engineering is still not a common career choice, the USP’s Robocon involvement has some crucial long-term benefits for this field of study. The significance of this opportunity is not lost on Associate Professor Jokhan. “We are getting students who are highly motivated and eager, sometimes over-eager, to get started. The Robocon that we are hosting is going to be far more challenging. It will push the boundaries of engineering innovation among our students. As the competition theme suggests, it’s not just simply about building robots, but about strategy. Our investment in all the resources required to prepare our students is designed to level the playing field, and to allow our Pacific students to compete with the best in the world,” she said.

“Robocon is probably the only platform where our students in engineering put the skills they’ve learnt here against their counterparts from 20 other Asian countries. So it is a huge opportunity for our students just to be part of it,” Associate Professor Jokhan said.

“Because such a high profile internal event is being hosted here in Suva, right next to our campus, our Pacific Island students get to be fully involved with the process. Even if they don’t take part, they will experience a world-class competition and get to cheer their Pacific family on as they go head to head against our Asian participants.”

As part of the privilege of being the host country, Fiji gets to field two teams in the competition. USP has invested in more resources and training for the 23 mechanical and electrical engineering students

Approximately 600 participants and fans from various countries, including Japan, China, India, Egypt, Indonesia, Vietnam, Korea and Russia, are expected to be in Fiji for Robocon 2020 in August.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

advertorial

LINKING TOURISM & AGRICULTURE OPPORTUNITIES As a statutory organisation, Investment Fiji operates independently as the facilitation arm of the Fijian Government, providing services and assistance to promote and stimulate investments and exports. Today the Acting General Manager of Investment Fiji, Mr Ritesh Gosai talks about linkages in agriculture & tourism sectors and viable investment opportunities. The Fijian Government has identified tourism as an important driver for the future of Fiji’s economy and aims to grow the nation’s tourism industry to FJD$2.2 billion with a projected 930,000 visitor arrivals in 2021. Currently, Fiji’s tourism sector relies heavily on imported produce such as vegetables, fruits, meat, seafood and dairy to meet the demand, and these imported food items are a substantial cost driver for the tourism sector. As per a recent report by International Finance Corporation (IFC) - ‘From the Farm to the Tourist’s Table’, an estimated FJ$74.4 million is spent annually by hotels on fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, dairy products and seafood of which 52 percent is imported. The domestic market, particularly the tourism industry offers the biggest opportunity for expansion in the agricultural sector. There is great potential for agricultural producers to supply the tourism sector, however, identified gaps need to first be resolved so that linkages are strengthened. The tourism and agriculture sectors need to work together to encourage more growing and production of local fresh produce. Fiji has the potential to cut its import bill by focusing its resources on growing or producing specific, high potential

fresh produce items locally, therefore representing a large opportunity for local farmers. According to the IFC report, 18 fresh produce items which account for sixty three percent of the total fresh food imports consumed by hotels in Fiji’s main tourism areas of Nadi, Lautoka, Denarau, Coral Coast and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands can be grown locally. Commercial agricultural opportunities exist for largescale farming of these 18 products; potato, colored capsicum (red/yellow/orange), green capsicum, broccoli, lettuce, cauliflower, zucchini, purple cabbage, and green cabbage; fruit: tomato, orange, rock melon and honeydew melon; meat and seafood: beef, bacon and prawn; dairy: cheese; and juice: package tropical juices. To encourage investment in agriculture, the Fijian Government offers tax exemption for new commercial agriculture and agroprocesing farming as well as tax holidays for processing agricultural commodities into biofuels based on capital investment. Having a rich resource base and tropical climate, Fiji has an advantage in producing a wide variety of tropical fruits and vegetables. Further, given Fiji’s fast expanding tourism sector, agricultural growth is necessary to supply high local hotel demand.

To learn more about how Investment Fiji can assist your business, please visit our website www.investmentfiji.org.fj or contact us on (679) 3315988 or email info@investmentfiji.org.fj

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

Image credit: Kokomo Private Island Fiji FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

wOrshipping Wonders at tHe soUth pacific’s

largest temple Story: Sharon Narayan They say before praying to a Hindu deity inside, one must circumambulate outside their temple - usually in odd numbers of three. Hence why you’d always see Hindus and Buddhists walking around their places of worship in a clockwise direction; some in quiet contemplation; some chanting sacred mantras under their breaths. While this may seem as a simple worship ritual, there is an intricate scientific rationale behind this practice correlating directly to the design and architecture of Hindu temples. Hindu temples represent a symbolic house for divinity. A place that brings human beings and Gods together; where the omnipresence of God is given a human-like form for reverence. The structure and symbolism of Hindu temples is rooted in the vedic scriptures. The traditional Indian architectural system known as the Vastu Shastras is depicted in a number of ancient Indian texts, the most prominent being the Vedas found as early as 500 BC, which have specific sections on temple construction. A Hindu temple design follows an ancient geometrical blueprint of deploying circles (mandalas) and squares; a symmetrical, self-repeating structure derived from central beliefs, myths, cardinality and mathematical principles. While aesthetically, temple designs may vary in north and south Indian regions, one core element of the design remains consistent - the Garbhagriha. The sanctum sanctorum, the innermost sanctuary of Hindu temples where sits the primary deity of that particular temple. According to the Vastu Shastras, the location of a temple and more specifically of the garbhagriha has to be on a spot where positive energy is available abundantly from the magnetic and electric wave conveyances of northsouth pole push. It’s believed that this location draws in the cosmic energy of the universe into the garbhagriha. So when devotees do their Pradakshina or circumambulate temples, they absorb this energy radiating out of the garbhagriha. It is believed this act of walking around a temple offers peace, allowing people to let go of worldly worries and ego. Hindus believe it is about becoming one with God, and entering the temple in sync with the cosmic universe. The Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi is one of the largest and most magnificent Hindu temples in the Southern Hemisphere. Here the air around the temple hangs laced with sweet smells of coconuts and bananas with whiffs of incense and camphor weaving through.

Soft silk rustles as devotees move from deity to deity to bow their heads in worship, and temple bells reverberate down your spine long after they’ve stopped ringing. If one finds some time to venture out in between sipping mojitos by the poolside and those relaxing spa massages on your Fiji getaway, you’d be rewarded with a hidden architectural gem that many visitors to Fiji don’t even get to lay their eyes on. Constructed in pure Dravidian architecture (South Indian temple style), walking around the temple complex one might temporarily forget that they are even in Fiji. The first thing you notice is the strikingly colourful Gopuram tower with Hindu carvings. A lower roof mandapa connects you to the Garbhagriha of the temple where sits the main deity, Lord Murugan. Take time to linger on the motifs and paintings inside of the main temple. If you follow the frescoes on the ceilings, take note of ceiling no. 11 depicting the story of Lord Murugan explaining the meaning of the word “OM”. Completed in 1994, the temple was designed by the late V. Ganapati Sthapati, a renowned temple architect whose services were lent by the Government of Tamil Nadu, India. A team of Silpis (stone carvers - a craft illustrated in the ancient vedic texts) also came over from India to help with the craftwork in the temple. The Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple is open from 6.00am - 7.00pm daily. It is located at the “town-end” of Nadi town and a taxi will take you about 25 minutes from Denarau Island. Dress modestly when visiting. Entry fees for visitors apply. Tour guides are available – simply ask for one at the temple office. A newly opened restaurant at the temple complex, Saravana Bhavana serves scrumptious pure vegetarian meals and is open for breakfast and lunch daily. The best time to visit is probably early mornings or evenings as it is much cooler. If you’re lucky, you may get to see the lighting of the deep (light) tower on some evenings. Late in the evening is probably my favourite time to visit. The oil diyas are glowing. The bells are clanging. The sky is turning in for the night. The priests fervently singing ancient hymns. The Nadi traffic still buzzing outside, kids running carefree. It is as if for a few moments we all really are connected to some greater divine cosmic energy and you can’t help but bow your head in Namaskaram to the Universe and Lord Murugun.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

experience a world Of flavoUrs The Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa on Denarau has unveiled a range of new restaurants, bars and a brand new nightclub following a major refurbishment. This multi-million dollar investment will give all guests and visitors a world-class culinary and entertainment experience, right at Fiji’s most popular tourism hotspot.

SOLIS

REPUBLIK

Revel in Mediterranean culinary delights at our signature seafood restaurant located on the glistening beachfront. Be delighted by the serene decor, decadent cuisine, selection of fine wines and magnifique views. Our specialty dish is local Kokoda, which is prepared and crafted at your table by our talented chef.

Experience Fiji’s newest late night venue, Republik Night Club. Open five nights a week from 5pm until late, this one of a kind venue is vibrant and stylish offering a range creative cocktails. We’re turning it up for 2020 by introducing a lineup of international DJs coming to entertain.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

WAITUI BAR & GRILL Offering a range of sophisticated cocktails and prestige wines and Champagnes, Waitui is perfect setting for a memorable night out. Our Executive Chef, Jean-Christophe Tomasi and his team have sourced the finest and freshest local ingredients to create a range of gastronomic dishes for you to enjoy

BAZAAR KITCHEN & BAR

SUKA BAR

Bazaar Kitchen & Bar is open daily for scrumptious buffet breakfasts and spectacular dinners. Featuring seven interactive live-cooking stations in the evening boasting global cuisines such as American Grill, Japanese, Indian and Fijian to name a few. At Bazaar, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everyone.

Experience the rum revival at Sofitelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new, Suka Bar. Indulge and explore our curated collection of in-house infused rums served with Fijian inspired tapas.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

advertorial

the next geNeratiOn of

satellite broadband in fiji Addressing the Special Challenges of Remote Connectivity As a B2B operator, Kacific sells its services wholesale to licenced telecommunications providers and ISPs who have suitable regulatory approval for deploying and selling Kacific bandwidth. Our solutions can be custom-designed to meet a wide range of scenarios, from emergency connectivity in the face of natural disasters, to offering enterprise backup which allow businesses to continue with normal activities whenever telecom networks are disrupted. With Kacific’s flexible, open approach, operators can meet the demands of their markets, providing a service that builds economies and empowers communities. THE BRAND NEW KACIFIC1 SATELLITE LAUNCHED IN 2019 WILL DELIVER HIGH-SPEED INTERNET TO THE PACIFIC.

Kacific Broadband Satellites Group was founded in 2013 to bring affordable satellite broadband internet to users in remote areas of the Pacific. Since 2016 Kacific has been distributing highspeed internet through partner businesses in selected Pacific Island countries. On the 16th of December 2019, Kacific’s brand-new satellite, named Kacific1, was launched successfully into space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Kacific1 has now started transmitting its Ka-band broadband signal covering more than 600 million people across 25 nations, including 28 islands in Fiji.

Helping Schools, Healthcare and Businesses Thrive

Affordable Internet For All

One of the biggest barriers to internet adoption in the Pacific is the high cost of connectivity. In keeping with our philosophy of universal access and affordability, Kacific1 will offer Governments, ISPs and Telcos a superior broadband product at competitive wholesale rates. There is also no need for sophisticated and complicated equipment setup. Users will be able to access internet from Kacific1 with small, low-cost and maintenance-free satellite dishes, which can be transported to remote locations by boat, car or even on foot. Installed terminals only require low levels of electric power to operate and can easily be solar-powered. By providing high quality broadband at a fraction of the current cost, Kacific1 will allow a much larger part of Fiji’s population to participate in the digital age.

In Fiji, around 89% of people attend secondary school, yet only 47% of people are using the internet. In the Pacific alone, improved internet access could bring in more than 5 billion dollars to the economy and create close to 300,000 new jobs by 20401. ICT-enabled opportunities could potentially generate a significant number of jobs and more income. In Fiji, global outsourcing services (such as IT outsourcing, business process outsourcing and knowledge process outsourcing) could create up to 6,000 direct jobs, and almost 2.5 times more direct jobs in the telecommunications industry alone2. Based on the Boeing 702MP platform and supported by advanced technologies, Kacific1 offers high speed, low cost, reliable broadband that can be applied across many industries, including education, healthcare, social services and business.

KACIFIC’S SATELLITE COVERAGE OFFERS MORE AFFORDABLE INTERNET ACROSS FIJI’S ISLANDS.

Kacific presently supplies connectivity to the Vanuatu Interisland Telemedicine and Learning (VITAL) Network, which has connected remote schools and clinics with life-changing results, while in the remote village of Maewo, Kacific’s broadband connection regularly assists remote nurses in seeking lifesaving advice and hospital transport for patients. Kacific also powers digital healthcare in Timor-Leste, where it has connected 75 clinics to improve the distribution of vital medicines, equipment and patient information nationwide.

For more information, email at info@kacific.com or visit us at www.kacific.com 24

1. Pacific Possible Report, World Bank. FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020 2. Broadband Connectivity in Pacific Island Countries Working Paper, UNESCAP.

dIscOver TRADITIONAL FIJIAN HOUSES

TRIBUTE TO KOBE BRYANT

GOLFING IN PARADISE

Fiji is again celebrating its Bulanaires in a bigger way. Share your happy moments in Fiji by tagging #Bulanaires and #FijiHappyMoment on social media. More on page 29.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

tHe valevakaviti Traditional Architecture Stands Test Of Time Story: Fiji Museum

Fijian traditional architectural knowledge and skills spans generations, and are still in practice to this day in many parts of the country. Visit Navala Village in the interior of Ba on western Viti Levu, and you’ll see these revered traditional dwellings intact. Traditional houses, called the valevakaviti, vary in sizes, elevation, usage and significance. These magnificent structures are built without any set plan or design. The builder, usually a village elder, has this special knowledge passed down from generation to generation. He would sit by the yaqona (kava) bowl with his protégé (on site) and supervise young and old, men and women from the village to put the structure together. This coming together of the community and working enthusiastically together is termed solesolevaki. The most revered and respect type of valevakaviti is the burekalou or temple - place of worship.

The Pre-Christian temple or ‘Bure Kalou’

These structures (common around Fiji during pre-contact period) were built on highly elevated platforms as it served dual purposes - as a religious house (consulting deities or Gods), as well as a place for wise counsel and communal decision-making. These buildings were usually ornamented with white cowrie shells, symbolising human sacrifices during the building of the temple. The interior of the temple was decorated with spears and clubs (used in many killings) dedicated to the temple as part of the essential paraphernalia. There were also shrines or objects in which the deities were believed to have ‘entered’ when they were consulted.

The burekalou or spirit house of the “Komai Natavasara” illustrated by Mrs. Mary Ann Lyth on 21st May, 1841. Source: Domodomo – Fij Museum Quarterly. December 1983. Page 148

The Komai Natavasara was a burekalou built for the great war God of the chiefs of Somosomo on Taveuni Island. The sketch exquisitely shows features like sacred cowrie shells decorated at the ridgepole of the ‘burekalou’. The use of ‘vesi’ (ironwood) as poles and wall planks, suggests its significance and sacredness of this type of hardwood. Most spirit houses had thatched reed walls, each reed sometimes bound in ‘magimagi’ or coir sinnet wrappings. Examples of these are seen in the famous Vatanitawake on the chiefly island of Bau; one of Fiji’s oldest ‘Burekalou’. This structure is being used to this very day, but as a council house.

The ‘Vatanitawake’ sits majestically on the chiefly island of Bau. Source: Fiji Museum

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This is the interior of the ‘Vatanitawake’; the decorated thatched reed walls and vesi ironwood poles are evident. Source: Fiji Museum

#fijihappymoment #bulanaires

bulanaires.com FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

Bulanaire (n)

A person rich In happiness!

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Story/Images: Tourism Fiji When you arrive in Fiji you will quickly realise that ‘Bula’ is more than just a greeting. It’s also a wish for happiness, good health and the energy of life. It is this warmth of the locals that visitors here remember the most. The ‘Bula Spirit’ is felt the second you arrive and often stays with you well after you return home. So, it isn’t too surprising that a recent Gallup International survey on ‘Happiness, Hope and Optimism’ identified Fiji as the happiest country in the world. With their big Bula welcome, infectious smiles and happy vibe, Fijians are undeniably rich in happiness. Interestingly the same Gallup survey also showed that happiness was in decline elsewhere. This gave Tourism Fiji (the agency responsible for marketing and promoting Fiji’s tourism industry) the idea to share some of Fiji’s abundant happiness with the rest of the world. So, on the International Day of Happiness on 20 March 2019, as a play on the popular billionaire lists launched around the same time, Tourism Fiji launched a rich list of a different kind. A list of people who were truly rich. Rich in happiness. Not billionaires but Bulanaires! Bulanaires celebrates all those people that share the Bula Spirit and spread happiness with others. Many of these are frontliners from across our tourism industry, such as concierges, restaurant attendants and activities staff. They are the true heroes of our tourism industry, who through their warm, welcoming hospitality make Fiji the place where happiness finds you! “Energy is felt by those around us and smiles can be infectious, so being a person who smiles and possesses a happy and positive disposition can be a real gift to someone else,” says Professor Lea Waters (PhD), a psychologist, scientist, author and TEDx speaker specialising in positive psychology who has assisted Tourism Fiji with the Bulanaires campaign.

In March 2020 Fiji is again celebrating its Bulanaires in a bigger way. So join in the Bulanaire celebration and share your happy moments in Fiji by tagging #Bulanaires and #FijiHappyMoment on social media. You can also find out more at Bulanaires.com After all anyone can be a Bulanaire, it’s just a mindset.

What is a Bulanaire? A Bulanaire is someone who is rich in happiness. Bulanaires share their happiness and Bula Spirit with others. “Bulanaires are people who embody the values for happiness, and share happiness with those around them whether that is giving back, appreciating life or simply connecting more with family and friends,” says Professor Lea Waters (Phd), a psychologist, scientist, author and TEDx speaker who specialises in positive psychology. Who can be a Bulanaire? Anyone can! Being a Bulanaire is after all just a mindset. How to get involved? Share your happy moments in Fiji by tagging #Bulanaires and #FijiHappyMoment on social media.

Amos Abhishek Daniel is Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s energetic, bubbly Marine Biologist who has an ocean-deep passion for marine life, conservation and sharing Fiji’s Bula Spirit. Hailing from the soccercrazed town of Ba in the Western part of Viti Levu, Amos loves spending time with loved ones and family, volunteering at his church and playing soccer and golf. When asked what is the happiness part of his day Amos replied “Teaching tourists/visitors about the ocean during our Reef Talks and imparting that knowledge and then watching them go out on dives and identify various coral of fish species that they have learnt about. This is very rewarding for me!”.

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How

KObe bryaNt Helped the nba conquer the world Story: Sopan Deb/C.2020 The New York Times Company Photo: Barton Silverman/The New York Times During his two-decade NBA career, Kobe Bryant evolved into far more than an exceptional basketball player. Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash near Los Angeles, became a crucial conduit for the league as it moved swiftly to expand its empire into an international enterprise.

Bryant did more than any other U.S. player to fill that void. Silver referred to Bryant as “the most traveled player of his era.” Bryant even teased the idea of playing professionally in Italy during the 2011 NBA lockout. His father, Joe Bryant, played professional basketball there after an eight-year NBA career.

Raised in Italy for seven years of his childhood, Bryant was fluent in Italian and was an ideal draw for a league that, ever since David Stern took over as commissioner in 1984, had seen basketball as a global game. Bryant’s stature as an international celebrity, honed by both the NBA and Nike, crystallized during the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. There, Bryant was swarmed by other athletes asking for autographs and photographs on the infield of the Olympic stadium with a man who was considered one of the world’s greatest basketball players.

“Italy is my home,” Bryant once told an Italian-language sports outlet, Gazzetta dello Sport. “It’s where my dream of playing in the NBA started. This is where I learned the fundamentals.”

Luca Vecchi, the mayor of Reggio Emilia — one of the Italian cities where the Bryants had lived — posted a message on Facebook in tribute to the star. “Kobe Bryant grew up here and for us all he was from Reggio Emilia,” he wrote. “He left us today. A basketball legend whom our whole city will remember forever with affection and gratitude.” When Bryant entered the NBA in 1996, his experience of growing up partly abroad was a rarity in the league. This was the era before the stars Yao Ming of China and Dirk Nowitzki of Germany had made their marks. But Bryant’s rise also coincided with the introduction of critical new technology, Adam Silver, Stern’s successor as league commissioner, said in an interview Monday. The NBA was just beginning to capitalize on the power of digital video and to beam its games into the homes of budding fans around the world. Today, foreign-born stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid are rapidly becoming the norm. “Kobe came of age almost at the exact moment that we became a digital league. I believe we launched NBA. com the year before Kobe came into the league,” Silver said. “And Kobe embraced all things digital. In China, he realized he could be virtually present around the world by providing content to websites. He saw an opportunity to make himself universal.” As the NBA was desperate for a new face to represent a diversifying league without Michael Jordan in his prime,

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Shooting, passing, and moving without the ball, he added, were all “things that when I came back to America the players my age didn’t know how to do because they were only thinking about jumping and dunking.” Stern, who died Jan. 1, made foreign expansion a core goal of the league and studied proposals to place teams in Europe. Bryant readily accepted his role as an ambassador for basketball, for both the league’s interests and his own. He played on two Olympic teams, winning gold medals in 2008 and 2012. In 2018, Bryant was named, along with Yao, as a global ambassador for last year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup. But nowhere abroad was Bryant’s impact as prevalent as in East Asia, particularly China, where Bryant, one of Nike’s top personalities, routinely had the highest sales of shoes and jerseys. Amplifying the reach of Bryant and the league in the country was the fact that Yao happened to join the Houston Rockets in 2002, right as Bryant was hitting the peak of his superstardom following his third NBA championship. “Kobe saw how big the NBA was becoming in China,” Silver said. “I think Kobe recognized that he was a product of his time.” By then, Bryant had already become a frequent visitor to the country for basketball camps and promotional stops. He stayed popular in China through commercials, like one for Sprite in 2011 with the Taiwanese pop star Jay Chou. After Stephen Curry, the star of the Golden State Warriors, unseated Bryant in Chinese jersey sales in 2017, Rick Welts, a Warriors team executive, told USA Today that Curry had done it using the “Kobe Bryant playbook.”

Nike accelerated its expansion in the Chinese market in the 2000s, and Bryant became its most visible face when he started a partnership with the company in 2003. China has been Nike’s biggest market outside of the United States for several years. Cui Tiankai, the Chinese ambassador to the United States, released a statement on Twitter on Monday that nodded to Bryant’s reach in China. “Saddened by the tragic loss of #KobeBryant,” he said. “An inspiration for many and a legend of his generation, he will always be remembered for his contribution to the world of sport and to #ChinaUS people-to-people exchanges. My deepest condolences to his family and other victims.” Bryant was also popular in the Philippines, where he made several visits. Basketball is followed with an almost religious fervor there, dating back to the late 1800s. On Monday, a reporter for ESPN posted a photo on Twitter showing a famed basketball court in Manila, known as “The Tenement,” being painted over with an image of Bryant and his daughter Gianna, who also died in the crash. In the city of Valenzuela, just hours before Bryant’s death, a Kobe Bryant-inspired basketball court was inaugurated called “House of Kobe,” and it has become a memorial site for Bryant filled with flowers and notes from fans. Silver said there was “something very universal” about Bryant. It may have been his willingness to embrace technology and his European background, but there was also Bryant’s relentless competitiveness. Silver recalled an interaction between the Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and Bryant in December at Staples Center. Doncic was about to inbound the ball, and Bryant, sitting courtside, was trash-talking him. After the game, Doncic told reporters that he had been surprised to hear that Bryant was doing so in his native language of Slovenian.

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play a rOund in

paradise

Present your Fiji Airways boarding pass to unlock a FJD100 discount for 18 holes of golf in a cart, club hire & use of the driving range FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

For bookings call the pro-shop direct on 6733500 or email golf@natadolabay.com FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

natadOla bay

golf course

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The Natadola Bay Golf Course is undoubtedly the most iconic golf course in the South Pacific. This masterpiece, designed by former World No. 1 Vijay Singh, opened its fairways in June 2009. Over the past decade, it quickly established itself as the go-to golf course for social and serious golfers alike. Natadola Bay Golf Course is located along the majestic Coral Coast on Fiji’s main island. From the moment visitors step past the entry and the Pro-shop, they find themselves at the summit, with sweeping views of the majority of the course right next to the Pacific Ocean. The meticulously tendered greens contrast beautifully against the rolling hills. The surrounding waters with sketches of coral reefs all contribute to a sense of peace, easing visitors into what quickly becomes a memorable golfing experience. In October 2016, the golf course underwent a re-design by Singh and renowned course architect Greg Letsche. The idea was to make the course more playable for social golfers and beginners. Ten holes were changed, some to include Singh’s original plans for the course from before its official opening. The re-design captured the golf legend’s desire to soften some of the holes to allow for the winds that are everpresent at Natadola. This means that social golfer will enjoy their round, while also catering for professionals to test their skills in pro-ams and International events. The redesigned course opened in August 2017 and the result of Singh & Letsche’s combined genius is stunningly evident. Some of the changes are subtle, widening of landing areas off the tee and softening of greens and surrounds allowing for more creative approach shots. A good day at Natadola is golfing in Paradise, A day with the weather is well, wonderfully challenging.

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The course can easily be divided into two unique experiences. 14 holes take players along the stunning Pacific Ocean and coral reefs. The other four holes are inland, leading into rolling hills and stunning Fijian landscapes. These four holes have a serious wow factor magnified by elevation change that almost makes ones ears pop. The elevation changes on the four inland holes are dramatic, displaying the genius of Vijay Singh and his design team. It is breathtaking beauty and adventure wrapped into one golfing experience. Players cannot see any of the adjoining holes, leading one to feel utterly alone in the picturesque landscape. The beautiful distraction, however, has caused many players’ score and lost ball tally to climb quickly. The entire Natadola Bay experience gets pulses racing. Visitors and players are treated to so much stimulus – from sounds of the ocean, the warm tropical environment heat, contrast of blue-green colours and the calls of the birds that live and forage there. Natadola has 18 signature holes, but the par 3 fourth, right on the ocean, is a standout. The beach itself forms the bunker down the left side of the hole. David Roche, Natadola Bay Golf Course General Manager, describes it best. “There is something refreshing about this simple par three,’ he quips. “It yells at you from the tee… Don’t Go Left, then tells you that right is also a hazard! And just for good measure, it whispers… ‘hey, long is no bargain either”. He adds, “If you hear all of that and hit a good straight mid iron short of the hole, you get to stand on the putting green watching the waves break on the reef and the local fisherman going about their business. All this while your fellow players grapple with the dangers left, right and long.” The peak season at Natadola Bay runs from May through to October and this is usually when the larger events and groups visit. There is luxury accommodation right next door at the 5-star award winning InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa. The golf course is accessible and open for all visitors from Fiji and abroad. A choice of accommodation and golf packages are available from a number of partners, and can include return resort transfers and lunch. The transfers are available from all resorts in Nadi, Denarau Island and the Coral Coast. At Natadola Bay, players follow the footsteps of golfing greats like Vijay Singh himself, Brandt Snedeker, Matt Kuchar, Mike Weir, Angel Cabrera and Boo Weekley. It is truly a golfing experience like no other.

Exclusive for FijiTime readers! Play A Round in Paradise. Present your Fiji Airways boarding pass to unlock a FJD100 discount for 18 holes of golf in a cart, club hire & use of the driving range. For bookings call the pro-shop direct on 6733500 or email golf@natadolabay.com. Conditions apply. Discount is off rack rate and not valid with any other offer.

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experIeNce BIG BULA WATER PARK

HAPPY HOUR

MEMENTOS

SAMOA

The canoe fleets of Bau and the King of Tonga off Levuka, Ovalau, with HMS Herald (detail), by James Glen Wilson, July 1855

Visit Fiji in Los Angeles Fiji Airways is proud to support the largest exhibition of iTaukei Fijian art ever assembled, Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific, which is currently on show at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). More on page 52.

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big Conquering bUla waterpark the Fijian Falls Story: Shane Hussein It’s a breezy, warm Saturday morning and I’m at the Big Bula Water Park on Denarau Island, home to some of Fiji’s most popular resorts. I had, on numerous occasions, driven past it on Denarau, and thought about taking the kids to it one day. All my kids needed was one drive past it, and that was it. I was told I’m taking them there the next weekend, and the decision was final. Kids are pretty determined when they want to be, aren’t they? If it has nothing to do with school, they do not procrastinate. So, here we were, at the Big Bula Water Park conveniently located next to the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club on Denarau Island. We were ushered in by a helpful young man, who issued us our waterproof wrist bands, handed us towels for use, and ushered us to the nearby lockers and changing rooms. Quick change into togs and we entered the park through a cheerful, not even slightly ominous, shark-head tent. A first look at the Big Bula Waterpark and I was immediately impressed by how deceptively big it was. More than a dozen inflatable water slides were lined up along the sides of a central walkway. The park design is brilliant in its simplicity, with the one walk-way ensuring that you couldn’t miss anything and designed in a way that one path will lead you all the way through, past giant inflatable slides offering single and dual (racing) slides. There’s a neat 10 metre high climbing wall/palm tree and you can scale up using a harness; a covered splash pool for the little ones to frolic in, complete with a volleyball and floaties. Many inflatable pools allow you to race with someone else. Arsh, my 10-year old resoundingly beat me in one of them. He would tell me for days afterwards that it was because he was more aerodynamic. I would simply shrug it off. I took Nubayd, my 6-year old into a dedicated ‘waterpark within a waterpark area exclusively for the younger ones. It was slides and obstacle

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courses all the way through for him, which he was absolutely thrilled about. We did a few of the inflatable slides along the walkway, right up to the park’s main attraction, the gargantuan and majestic ‘Fijian Falls’. Standing over 15 metres tall, Fijian Falls is 6 different slides offering 4 absolutely exhilarating experiences, ending in a large pool. At first glance, I wondered if Arsh and I could do it. It’s the non-inflatable part of the waterpark, a massive steel and fiberglass structure. The first slide, lower than the other three on Fijian Falls is the brightly coloured, hence aptly named ‘Sea Snakes’. Arsh was tentatively at first, gingerly stepping onto the slide. I was too, but of course, there was no way I was going to let him know that. After a little bit of persuading, we both pushed off. It was every bit as thrilling as it appeared. You slide down the first part, ease over a short ‘landing’, and then increase your speed in the second half of the slide into the pool. The first challenge of Fijian Falls conquered, we were boisterous, and thought I could conquer the other three slides, which are at the highest point of Fijian Falls. Arsh and I made our way to the top of the 15m high platform, tandem slide tube in hand aiming for the ride called ‘Tavarua Tubes’. It was there that I met Moji, who was the platform attendant. Smiling cheekily, he helped us get set on the tubes, told us to enjoy the ride, and gave us a gentle push (our hands were occupied with the tube handles). Tavarua Tubes is a winding halfpipe slide which careens you around a few loops before dispatching you into the pool. It definitely got our pulses racing. We thoroughly enjoyed it, and would go on to do it over and over again, including individually. In between slides, the kids also enjoyed splashing around in the pool, while I lazed around on an extremely comfortable floating cushion in an adjacent pool. Lots of lounge chairs, and covered mini-cabanas were dotted around the pool, offering other ways to soak up the Saturday

morning sun. The waterpark wasn’t overly crowded, so there was more than enough spots in every area for all the visitors. In between the numerous trip ups to the Tavarua Tubes I kept my eye on the biggest slide of them all – CloudBreak -. Standing at an imposing 15 metres high, it didn’t offer a sense of ease that the other slides did. I saw many of the guests approach it with some hesitation, however, their faces after they ‘took the plunge’ so to speak were of absolute elation. Buoyed by this, I decided to take on CloudBreak myself. Arsh was having enough fun on Tavarua Tubes, so he politely declined. Which brings me back to Moji. Just as I thought about retreating, he said: “Go on, you’ll like it, I promise”. I stood at the top of CloudBreak (named after a famous local surf break) staring down the length of the sharp slide. I then looked at the pool at the end, from the edge of which Arsh and Nuby were waving me on. Sigh. ‘Here we go”, I thought. “You better be right, Moji”. Off I went. The thrill of it was incredible, and all my trepidations disappeared as I sped down the slide onto a long landing which slowed me down just enough, allowing me to hit the plunge pool comfortably. I came up out of the water to the sounds of my kids cheering. I looked back up the top of CloudBreak basking in the fact that I had just conquered Fijian Falls. From the top of the highest platform, Moji gave me the quintessential Fijian thumbs up. “Vinaka”, I yelled back at him, although I’m sure my voice didn’t reach him at the top. Pricing info: Big Bula Waterpark has a number of pricing options for adults, kids, families and groups. Exclusive offer for Fiji Airways guests: show your Fiji Airways Boarding Pass and get a 15% discount to the Big Bula Waterpark in March and April 2020! Visit the friendly team on-site for more details.

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Mementos of Fiji Here’s our list of what to take back with you to remember your Fiji holiday by.

FIJI AIRWAYS MERCHANDISE

FIJIANA CACAO

Fan of Fiji’s National Airline? Check out official Fiji Airways merchandise available at Prouds Duty Free Stores. A perfect memento or reminder of your flight, each Fiji Airways item is adorned by the airline’s award-winning Fijian masi designs. Choose from aircraft models, caps, and exclusive travel neck pillows. These items will make a wonderful gift to fans of Fiji!

Chocolate for Change: Fijiana Cacao manufacture all natural 100% Fijian made chocolate, and support grassroots farmers through the purchase of cacao at premium price and local initiatives to help improve livelihoods. Chocolates are sold at selected resorts and stores. Besides the delicious chocolate, Fijiana Cacao also offers factory tours and chocolate tasting at their factory on Denarau island.

FIJI SPICE QUEEN

SIGAVOU STUDIOS

WWW.FIJIANACACAO.COM

Fall in love with Fiji Spice Queen’s Fiji-made Body & Hair Oils, Body Lotions, fair trade raw Sugar Scrubs & coconut based Soaps. Our ‘Bula Baby’ Massage & Bath Oil has been Highly Commended in the Australian Nature & Health Natural Baby Awards. Made using African Marula Oil, prized for its gentle therapeutic qualities and high concentrations of nourishing nutrients and essential fatty acids. Add to that healing Dilo Oil, Fijian Virgin Coconut Oil, Macadamia Oil and Moringa Oil and you have a powerhouse of gentle, healing oils that can be used on baby and you. Fragrance-free & Vegan.

FIJI-INSPIRED ART Mix innovation with tropical colours and a passion for creativity, and surprises occur! Headed up by awardwinning Fiji artist Maria Rova, Sigavou Studios is a unique source of original artwork, from postcard-size barkcloth paintings to expansive feature pieces in silk dyes and acrylics. Vibrant and contemporary in style, Maria’s art is a celebration of local culture, flora and fauna. Visit this family-run studio, located near Nadi Airport, to see Maria and her team of young artists at work, while browsing through the collections in their colourful showroom.

WWW.FIJISPICEQUEEN.COM

WWW.ART-SIGAVOU.COM

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Happy hOur

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at siNgapore’s

cHangi airport, it’s an adventure before your flight departs Story: Sanjay Surana/C.2019 New York Times News Service Photos: Lauryn Ishak/The New York Times

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At first glance, visitors to the new Jewel complex at Singapore’s Changi Airport might feel like they have entered some mythical dimension. An indoor waterfall — the tallest in the world — drops 130 feet from an oculus the size of a bus. A Canopy Park has nets for bouncing and walking strung as high as 80 feet above the ground. A forest of 1,400 trees provides greenery and shade. The multi-floored Jewel, an asymmetrical toroid-shaped building between the airport’s existing terminals and the air-traffic control tower, opened officially April 17. The result of four years of construction and $1.25 billion in investment, the commercial and entertainment structure aims to do what no other building has done: make an airport the destination. “Singapore is a tourist destination, but 30 percent of the people coming through Changi don’t visit,” said Ivan Tan, a senior vice president for Changi Airport Group. The country wants to draw those passengers on connecting flights, get them out to experience a taste of Singapore, so that they might come back for a longer stay. The centerpiece of the building is the Forest Valley with a terraced garden, and its heart is the Rain Vortex waterfall. The top floor, called Canopy Park, features bouncing and walking nets, a 165-foot sky bridge, two mazes (one with mirrors, the other hedges), a giant slide, and eight bars and restaurants. The exterior of the 10-story building, which was designed by architect Moshe Safdie and built by CapitaLand, an Asian developer, is made of glass and crisscrossed with an aluminum-and-steel framework, allowing the entire interior to be bathed in natural light. “Airports are places of anxiety, and I’d like people to be uplifted and serene and feel good about themselves,” Safdie said. The Jewel is “the first airport center that serves passengers, airport employees and the people of the city.”

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The Jewel offers plenty of options for keeping visitors busy, even if shops and other amenities in airports are nothing new. Amsterdam’s Schiphol has a branch of the city’s famous Rijksmuseum, Vancouver International Airport features a 30,000-gallon aquarium, and at Kennedy International Airport in New York, JetBlue once ran a concert series. Hong Kong International Airport’s SkyMart and SkyPlaza have more than 350 shops and restaurants spread across two terminals. But the Jewel is an airport mall on steroids: In total, there are 280 retail outlets and food and beverage stops. Familiar stores line the floors — Foot Locker, Nike, the first Shake Shack in Southeast Asia — as well as local Singaporean brands like Naiise and Supermama. Other amenities include a 130-room Yotelair hotel, a full-size supermarket, an 11-screen cinema and — don’t forget it’s an airport — early check-in counters. In 2018, nearly 66 million passengers flew through the airport, a number that continues to rise. “There is growing demand for air travel,” Tan said, “Changi had to see how to have capacity to meet that demand.” Tan and other officials hope that the amenities will lure travelers to leave the terminals during their layovers, even for a short time. (Singapore’s entry policy, which allows citizens of about four-fifths of the world’s countries to enter without a visa, should help.) For that reason the Jewel was designed to adjoin one terminal and link to two others by footbridges (passengers in Terminal 4 need a shuttle bus). As entry to the Jewel does not require airport security screening, Tan believes locals will also arrive in droves. Officials estimate between 40 million to 50 million people will visit during the first year, he said, 60% of whom are expected to be residents. “Gardens have always been a place of pleasure,” said Charu Kokate, the principal at Safdie Architects who oversaw the project. On a recent tour of the Jewel, Kokate pointed out marble floors from China, lava stone blocks from Indonesia and other design considerations. There were many layers to the project, she said. “The sky, the waterfall, the people hidden by the landscaping. Through the glass roof you can see a plane flying overhead, up there are reflections of people next to the slide,” she said. “It’s very active and yet tranquil.”

Getting there: Fiji Airways flies direct to Singapore twice a week.

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tHe art of the

samOaN tatau-tattoo Story/Images: Samoa Tourism Authority

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We call it ‘Tatau’ or Pe’a - ‘Tattoo’ in the English language is believed to have originated from the Samoan word ‘Tatau’. One of the unique experiences to witness when visiting Beautiful Samoa is observing first-hand the art of the Samoan Tatau being traditionally performed. The Tatau, demonstrates the strong ties of Samoans to their culture. As a rite of passage for men in over 2000 years, the art is carried out by repeatedly tapping a needle into the skin with burned black soot or the oily kernel of the husked candlenut, known as the lama. To this day, a man’s tattoo extensively covers from mid-back, down the sides and flanks, to the knees. Males with a Tatau are called Soga’imiti and are respected for their courage. Women also get traditionally tattooed with a simpler and delicate design than the pe’a. The traditional female tattoo is the Malu. In Samoan society, the Pe’a and the Malu are viewed with cultural pride and identity as well as a hallmark of manhood and womanhood. The artwork and designs go beyond being skin deep - there is history and deep meanings behind them. The tattoo and designs of the Samoa islands represents community, power, status, respect, honour, and is a mark of pride. The va’a or canoe for example, stretches across a man’s mid-back. The cutting tool or needle, consists of a short piece of bamboo or light wood with a piece of tortoiseshell bound at right angles at one end. A little bone comb is bound to the lower broad end of the tortoise shell. The larger the comb, the greater the area on the skin is covered with fewer strokes. The master uses a small mallet to repeatedly tap a short-handled instrument. The Master Tattooist or Tufuga and his prestigious role has been maintained through hereditary titles over the years, where it is known that Samoan Tufuga also performed tattooing for Fijian and Tongan paramount chiefly families.

O le mafuaaga lenei ua iloa ole taaga o le tatau i Samoa, ole malaga a teine to’alua na feausi mai Fiti ile vasa loloa, Na la aumai ai o le ato au ma sia la pese e tutumau, fai mai e tata o fafine ae le tata o tane. A o le ala ua tata ai tane Ina ua sese sia la pese, taunuu i gatai o Falealupo ua vaaia loa o se faisua ua tele, Totofu loa lava o fafine ma ua sui ai sia la pese, fai mai e tata o tane ae le tata o fafine. Talofa i si tama ua taatia, ole tufuga lea ua amatalia, talofa ua tagi aueue ua ote ote solo le au tapulutele, Sole Sole, ia e loto tele ole taaloga a tama tane, e ui lava ina tiga tele Ae mulimuli ana ua a fefete. O atu motu uma o le Pasefika ua sili Samoa le ta’taua, ole soga’imiti ua savalivali mai Ua fepulafi mai ana faaila, O aso faaifo, faamulialiao, faaatualoa, selu faalaufao, ole sigano faapea faaulutao Ua ova i le vasalaolao. This is the known origin of the tattooing of the tatau in Samoa, a journey by two maidens who swam from Fiti across the open sea. Many internationally renowned Samoan celebrities and athletes have obtained the tatau, and the markings of the various designs based on the intricate meaning to them. Famous Samoan Hollywood star, Dwayne the ‘Rock’ Johnson who proudly wears traditional Samoan patterns on his sleeve. It is rare for non-Samoans to receive the pe’a or the malu. However, the popularity of Samoan tattoos had been steadily rising in recent years, and most of the tattoo artists give non-Samoans a tattoo. The modern way of getting a Samoan tattoo is simple, and is a part of the Samoan culture that a lot of visitors not only wish to observe, but experience as well.

The traditional art of tattoo in Samoa was suppressed with the arrival of English missionaries and Christianity in the 1830s. However, it was perpetuated throughout the colonial era and was continually practiced in its intact form into the modern age. This was not the case, however, in the other Polynesian islands, and the master tattooists of the Su’a Sulu’ape family have been instrumental in the revival of traditional tattooing where a new generation of Pacific tattooists have learned the Samoan techniques and protocols. The origin of the Tatau is believed to have been introduced to the Samoa islands by two women from Fiti, who came ashore with the tools and knowledge of tattooing. The story is beautifully preserved in the traditional, chant-like song - Ole vi’i ole Tatau Samoa - says the song:

Getting there: Fiji Airways flies direct from Nadi to Apia, Samoa up to 5 times a week.

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lookiNg tOward a

new era of australian cuisine Story: Besha Rodell/C.2020 The New York Times Company

What is Australian food? It’s a question that sends me into fits of frustrated rage, as if there could be one simple explanation, one way to distill the taste and creativity and history of a country as large and diverse as Australia. But it is also the line of inquiry that has been the foundation of my assignment for the past two years, as critic and columnist for The New York Times in Australia: to explore and explain the food and restaurants for a global readership. It’s been an incredible two years. I’ve eaten wonderful Thai food in the middle of Australia’s largest national park, sought out fantastic tacos in the suburbs of Adelaide and considered the pleasures of the country’s emerging barbecue cookery. I’ve explored the glory of Australia’s old seaside pubs, its emerging Afghan and Ethiopian and Sri Lankan and Indonesian chefs, and followed my nose and stomach into the hinterlands of northern New South Wales, rural Victoria and the wine country of Western Australia. Rediscovering my home country, though the lens of its restaurants, continues to be a gift and an honor. In 2019, I was also assigned by Food & Wine and Travel & Leisure magazines to travel in search of the 30 best restaurants in the world. As we head into a new decade, I’ve been thinking about what makes a country particularly distinctive in the world, and where exactly Australia fits into that paradigm. The globalisation of the last decade has had an especially big impact on Australia. When I left

Melbourne for the United States in the early 1990s, it was as if I had moved to another planet — Australia was just gone from my life. The move back was the opposite: Thanks to social media, cellphones and a global network of chefs and writers, I’m almost as connected to America as I was when I lived in Los Angeles. And Australia is more visible than it has ever been. The worldwide reaction to the country’s current horrific fire season is a heartening reminder that our international connections are stronger than ever. Australia’s incredible slate of food festivals and events over the last decade has brought the world’s food media and chefs to our shores in greater numbers. The support from the tourism and public relations industries is such that those guests are treated splendidly, and often leave as true believers, ready to spread the gospel of Australia to the world. And the country’s current working chefs, bartenders and winemakers are undoubtedly the best-traveled generation of food industry professionals that Australia has ever seen. That globalization is also the development that is likely to pose the most challenges for Australian chefs and restaurateurs who — like it or not — are now competing in an international arena. So what does Australia need to bolster its growing reputation as a dining destination? Here are a few angles to consider:

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chardonnay it’s known for, pushed by the changes taking place in that industry here. We should be known for our cold-climate rieslings, our biodynamic pinot noirs and our vast array of natural wines. Same goes for spirits, particularly whiskey and gin, which are now some of the best in the world but relatively unknown to anyone other than extreme booze nerds.

Photo: Lauryn Ishak/The New York Times

Native Flavours On the home front, the biggest story of the last decade in Australian food is that, after more than 200 years of ignoring the native flavors of this continent, nonindigenous chefs and diners have finally woken up to the bounty that was always here. This is a development with international ramifications — native Australian ingredients offer a whole new flavor palette, giving us food that is totally distinct from anything anywhere else in the world. Interest in these ingredients is only growing, but I fear that the voices not being heard in this conversation are those of indigenous Australians. I’m not sure what it says about Australia that this progress has been most vigorously championed by non-Australians. Danish chef René Redzepi was one of the earliest, loudest voices advocating native Australian ingredients, bolstered by his 2016 Noma pop-up in Sydney — a 10-week residency that is often credited with igniting widespread excitement about native foods. In Australia, the two chefs most visibly working with native ingredients are Attica’s Ben Shewry, who is originally from New Zealand, and Restaurant Orana’s Jock Zonfrillo, a Scotsman.

Distinctly Australian Dining The thought that has arisen for me more than any other is that we should be leaning in to the things that make us unique, that we should be celebrating the restaurants that are decidedly Australian rather than imitating trends from other parts of the world. If I have one widespread criticism of the high end of Australian dining, it is that so many restaurants considered to be our best could be located almost anywhere in the world. In this new reality, where restaurants are being compared globally and diners travel across time zones for the right meal, it is especially important to offer something distinctive. Native ingredients aren’t the only path to distinction. At Saint Peter in Sydney, Josh Niland has won welldeserved international attention for his groundbreaking work with seafood. Australia’s multiculturalism has produced gems like Lankan Filling Station and Boon Cafe, restaurants that could exist only here. That characteristic — that a wine, restaurant or bar is uniquely Australian — is perhaps the most important quality to which the country’s chefs and producers might aspire. If done right, by 2030 no one will wonder: What is Australian food?

Shewry pays tribute to the aboriginal people from whom he gets his ingredients and knowledge, and Zonfrillo runs a nonprofit group dedicated to exploring and promoting native foods. But what I’d love to see more of in the coming decade is the inclusion and promotion of indigenous voices, and more indigenous chefs leading the way forward. Exporting the Culture Australian food culture has made its mark overseas in the last decade, most prominently with the rise of Australian cafes in New York City and beyond. But I’d like to see Australia export more than just high-end avocado toast and flat whites.

Photo: Rachel Kara Ashton/The New York Times

I believe Australia’s pub culture is unparalleled; it would be nice to see some of that seep into the United States and European markets. And we are so far ahead when it comes to vegan dining (now often referred to as “plant-based,” as Pete Wells pointed out recently in his end-of-decade essay) that Australia should be known as a pioneer in that rapidly expanding market. In the coming years I’d love to see Australian wine gain a broader fan base, beyond the heavy shiraz and woody

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Photo: Kristoffer Paulsen/The New York Times

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The canoe fleets of Bau and the King of Tonga off Levuka, Ovalau, with HMS Herald (detail), by James Glen Wilson, July 1855

VISIT FIJI IN

LOS ANGELES! ON VIEW THROUGH JULY 19, 2020

Fiji Airways is proud to support the largest exhibition of iTaukei Fijian art ever assembled, Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific, which is currently on show at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

Complimentary freight and tickets have allowed Fiji Museum to make important loans to this ground-breaking exhibition, the result of collaboration between LACMA, Fiji Museum and major museums in Britain and the USA. Fijian creative achievements are celebrated with over 270 rare artworks, including remarkable wood and ivory sculptures, beautiful body adornments and stunning painted barkcloths.

The exhibition is organised by the Sainsbury Centre and Sainsbury Research Unit at the University of East Anglia, UK, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. This exhibition is accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue, Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific, by Steven Hooper.

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These are complemented by historic paintings and photographs, as well as contemporary works including a highlight of the exhibition, a fullsized double-hulled sailing canoe (drua), 26ft long, commissioned by FIJI Water from craftsmen from the islands of Vulaga and Ogea in the Lau Islands of eastern Fiji.

If you want to enjoy the very best in Pacific art, make a date to see this unique exhibition.

Chiefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breastplate of pearl shell and whale ivory. Whale ivory was and remains a very valuable material in iTaukei Fijian culture and it was incorporated into chiefly regalia. Owned by Tanoa Visawaqa and his son Seru Cakobau, both Vunivalu of Bau. Given by the latter in 1875 to Sir Arthur Gordon, the first British colonial Governor of Fiji. 28.0cm; Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology, Cambridge, UK (photo: Josh Murfitt)

Ceremonial throwing club inlaid with 50 pieces of sperm whale ivory. Likely made as a diplomatic gift. Given to the Methodist missionary Reverend James Royce in c. 1860 by the famous chief Seru Cakobau, Vunivalu of Bau. 47.6cm; Fiji Museum (photo: Bruce Southwick)

Dish for the ritual preparation of kava/yaqona, in the form of a duck. Probably acquired by Methodist missionary Reverend James Calvert and given to Captain John Erskine of HMS Havannah, 1849. 47.4cm; Sainsbury Centre, University of East Anglia, UK (photo: Pete Huggins)

Section of a 42-ft-long decorated barkcloth, acquired in Fiji in 1865 by the traveller Julius Brenchley. Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery, UK (photo: Paul Dixon)

Upper part of the largest surviving figure sculpture of an ancestor, acquired in the 1870s by Anglican missionary Reverend William Floyd. Figure height 139.7cm; Fiji Museum (photo: Bruce Southwick)

View in the Resnick Pavilion at LACMA of Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific, showing the recently built 26-ft-long double-hulled sailing canoe, made from wood, pandanus leaf and coconut-fibre cordage, with no metal components (photo: ÂŠ Museum Associates/LACMA)

Necklace of ivory figure pendants, acquired in c. 1876 by Sir Arthur Gordon, first resident colonial Governor of Fiji. 52.0cm; Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology, Cambridge, UK (photo: Josh Murfitt)

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explOre TOWN GUIDE

36 HOURS IN KOBE, JAPAN FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY

Our top picks of where to stay, play and dine in Nadi. More on page 58.

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Hupfeld hOerder desigNs A celebration of Pacific culture, ancestry, and nature.

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Story: Bal Naidu Say the words Pacific fashion and the name Hupfeld Hoerder is almost guaranteed to come to mind. Say Huppy and people will know exactly who you’re talking about, whether or not you’re in with the fashion crowds. And that’s possibly how you know you’ve made it, when your nickname has become a household name, and your moniker has become synonymous with your profession. It all started over 20 years ago when an aspiring fashion designer decided to create simple shift dresses while he was completing his undergrad studies in University. He underestimated how popular they would be, and fast forward 20 years later, he would have one of the most respected fashion brands in the Pacific, showing his creations across many international runways. At the heart of Hupfeld Hoerder Designs is a celebration of Pacific culture, ancestry, and nature. To watch a runway show of his fashion line is to watch the colours of the islands and the stories of its people come to life; swaying silhouettes in flattering fabrics emblazoned with colourful hand printed designs- deep forest greens, azure palettes of the ocean, an explosion of orange, red and pink pigments inspired by the flora and fauna on land and under the sea. Huppy’s specialities are diverse and range from casual resort-wear to haute couture. Throughout his designs there is a strong sense of the Pacific, incorporating his culture, identity and heritage in a modern expression of style.

Photo: Ko Sasaki/The New York Times 56

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Transit Day Pass Includes: FREE return airport transfers, complimentry Fijian spa foot ritual, Free Wi-Fi, movie room with bean bags, luggage storage, showers/ toilets, in-house flight schedule screen

While his vibrant prints reflect the diversity of the Pacific, he also doesn’t shy away from using authentic and natural fibres that punctuate his pieces with a real sense of mana; of honouring heritage.

OTHER INHOUSE SERVICES: Private day rooms (Upon availability), massage, day spa, café, Fiji made shopping, child minding, gym and MORE!

You won’t find yourself twinning with anyone else out there (unless it’s on purpose) with a Hupfeld Hoerder outfit, with all creations custom made for their new owners. You will find a HH creation as far as Brussels, Germany, and closer to home in Australia, New Zealand, and across the Pacific. That’s significant of the impact he has had in the fashion sensibilities of Pacific people all over the world. His brand now also features a bridal line, perfect for brides looking for a wedding dress that tells a story. While white and pearly iridescent colours are a staple feature, there’s always the option of adding in magimagi and masi with significant designs. Tradition and modernity find perfect harmony in a HH bridal outfit. Apart from being a regular show runner at the fashion shows in Fiji, Hupfeld was handpicked to proudly represent Fiji at the Islands of the World Fashion Week in the Bahamas where a selection of his pieces were photographed and published in fashion magazines in New York. Hupfeld has been part of the rebirth of Pacific fashion, and has seen its evolution over the last 20 years. During this time, many designers have popped up and disappeared off the runway, but not many have had the enduring longevity of Hupfeld Hoerder who still continues to create and invent meaningful fashion for people 20 years on.

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towN Guide Our top picks of where to stay, play and dine in Nadi.

See

• Garden of the Sleeping Giants Fiji’s iconic Garden of the Sleeping Giant, nestled in its own mountain valley with acres of orchids and flowering plants, offers an interesting relaxing way to experience Fiji’s unique tropical flora. Founded by legendary actor the late Raymond Burr in 1977 to house his own flowers, the Garden is home to Fiji’s largest orchid collection. After viewing the orchids, you can stroll among an array of gardens, across lily ponds, and hike up through a cool tropical jungle. It’s a dream for those included towards solitutde. Visitors are welcome to explore on their own or with Garden guides. Refreshing ice-cold tropical fruit drinks are complimentary

Stay

• WESTIN

Embrace the ultimate in relaxation at The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa offering rejuvenation of your mind, body and soul. Lounge by the multilevel pool overlooking the bay, play a round of tennis or golf, indulge in a selection of onsite dining options and restore with a massage or treatment in the tranquil surrounds of Heavenly Spa by Westin.

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• Nadi’s Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple

The largest temple in the South Pacific is an architectural and religious wonder, and is a must visit for all visitors. Experience the intricate Dravidian structure full of strikingly colourful Hindu carvings and designs. Check out the article on page 18 for all the details.

• Smugglers Cove. Smugglers Cove Beach Resort is located right on famous Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi, just 15 minutes from the Nadi International Airport, Nadi Town and Port Denarau Marina. This 3.5-Star property has a great atmosphere and is the ideal location for a quick getaway in a fun, Beach Party style atmosphere, complete with entertainment, dining and a bar. Smugglers offers in-house guests with a range of tours and cruises, island hopping packages, sightseeing tours, dive, fishing, surfing, adventure activities and onward island transfers.

Play • Republik Night Club at Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa Be sure to check out Republik, the newest night club in Fiji. Fast becoming the talk of the town because of its excellent vibe, music and wide selection of beverages, Republik is the perfect end to the day for visitors and locals alike.

• South Sea Island: Just 30 minutes from Port Denarau, South Sea Island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and magnificent coral reefs providing fabulous swimming and snorkelling during all tides. This little island has something for everyone with paddle boarding, kayaking or a ride in the semi-submersible vessel to enjoy some of the local area’s colourful marine life. With lunch and drinks included in the package, it is a great day out for all.

• Sleeping Giant Zipline (Fiji) Limited Sleeping Giant Zip Line Fiji is a 35 acre Eco-friendly Adventure Park. It features 5 zip lines, 2 waterfalls and a jungle safari hidden deep in the lush green forest just 20 mins from Nadi. This tropical rain forest is a magical setting for a spectacular zipline adventure. Visitors fly over rivers, waterfalls and through the jungle at speeds o up to 40 km/hr. 5 zips span over 600m, at heights ranging from 80m to 160m.

Taste • Tu’s Place One of the best known spots in Nadi, Tu’s has created a name for itself as the goto place for local Fijian cuisine. The variety of authentic Fijian dishes on offer is designed to amaze, as is the size of their servings. Tu’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the popular Martintar strip.

• Saravana Bhavan This pure vegetarian restaurant in located onsite at the popular Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi (see page 18 for details). It’s open daily for breakfast and lunch, offering traditional South Indian thali dishes, as well dosas and desserts like the famous paisum.

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36 Hours in

KObe, japaN Story: Ingrid K. Williams/C.2019 New York Times News Service Photos: Andrew Faulk/The New York Times

In 1868, after more than two centuries of isolationism, the opening of the port of Kobe brought a wave of international influences to this sunny city on the main Japanese island of Honshu. These days visitors will find Western-style mansions built by foreign diplomats, music influenced by the United States, and dim sum in the city’s Chinatown district. But the main attractions remain rooted in the region. Kobe is the western neighbor of more well-trafficked tourist destinations — Kyoto is less than a half-hour away on the Shinkansen bullet train; Osaka is just 15 minutes. Although the city is best known for its beef, those who linger in this welcoming, walkable metropolis will also discover a singular music scene, memorable museums, eclectic shopping, little-known regional specialties and an easygoing atmosphere tinged with the foreign flavors that continue to flow through the city’s glittering harbor.

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1) 3 p.m. Tools of the Trade Don’t let the name of the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum fool you — even those who can’t tell a Phillips Head from a Torx will be riveted by the exhibits presented inside this beautiful museum, just steps from Shin-Kobe station. A superb iPod audio guide (free) narrates the history, traditions, artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese architecture and woodworking, so allow a couple of hours to explore everything from the ceremonial duties of a master carpenter and the joint beams of centuries-old temples to the harmonious beauty of intricate kumiko zaiku wood latticework. Admission, 500 Japanese yen, or about $4.50. 2) 5:30 p.m. Chasing Waterfalls Exit Shin-Kobe station and you’ll face an urban milieu, but right behind the station, nature takes over. Curl north around the station, which abuts forested foothills, and follow the steep, shady path into the woods where, after about a half-mile, you’ll reach Nunobiki Falls, a series of majestic cascading waterfalls well worth the sweaty ascent.

3) 7:30 p.m. Standing Dinner Brush up on your Japanese before sidling up to the counter at Rakuzake, a cheerful standing bar that opened last April in a downtown shopping arcade. This local hangout, with blonde-wood counters and colorful flower arrangements, serves small plates to be paired with drinks, namely nihonshu (sake). Order a glass and several dishes — thick slices of salmon and tuna sashimi, maybe some chilled tofu, plus a plate of pipinghot fried octopus. On the second round, don’t miss the standout karaage (fried chicken), served with fresh cabbage and a dollop of Kewpie mayo. Dinner for two, about 3,000 yen. 4) 9:30 p.m. Jazz Jam Thanks to foreign influences, Kobe has long had an ear for jazz — local lore claims that the first Japanese jazz band was formed here in 1923. The city hosts an annual jazz festival, and nightly live shows are staged in hushed clubs around town, including the atmospheric Sone. For a taste of the music scene without the hefty admission fee, descend a flight of stairs to Jam Jam. A coffee shop by day and a jazz cafe by night, this welcoming music den has a vast vinyl library of new wave and classic jazz from around the world, plus a great selection of Japanese whiskeys, and separate seating for conversation (near the bar) and for listening (facing the speakers).

5) 10 a.m. Farm Fresh The local community initiative Eat Local Kobe wants residents to do precisely that at its seasonal Saturday morning farmers market in Higashi Yuenchi Park. In warmer months, vendors sell organic local fruits and vegetables, herbs, honey, eggs, tofu, juices and more. Year-round, find similar products at the market’s brickand-mortar sibling, Farmstand, which opened last year. Shelves were recently stocked with edible treats — plump strawberries, Tanishita Farm’s tomatoes, Camembert from North Kobe’s Laitiere Yuge — while an adjacent cafe served healthy snacks, vegetable smoothies, seasonal specials and delicious soft-serve cones.

6) Noon. Art Stop If there’s time to visit only one art museum in Kobe, skip the Tadao Ando-designed Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art in favor of its quirkier cousin: the Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art. Opened in 2012, this museum showcases the wide-ranging works of Yokoo Tadanori, a graphic designer-turned-painter and Hyogo Prefecture native. In addition to psychedelic Warholian silk-screens from the 1960s, for which Tadanori is best known, the galleries also exhibit his more recent paintings, including a current series of works painted in public spaces (through May 6). Admission, 700 yen.

7) 2 p.m. Gyoza Guild Gyoza are typically served with a thin soy-and-vinegar sauce, sometimes spiked with chili oil, but in Kobe, the preferred dipping condiment for these sizzling panfried dumplings is an umami-rich miso sauce. Stop for a snack at Hyotan, a gyoza specialist since the 1950s with eight seats along a cramped counter (look for the red curtain-like noren). Once you’ve shoehorned yourself onto a stool, ordering is easy: The only thing on the menu is gyoza, seven per order (390 yen). In addition to pots of miso sauce, there are also bottles of garlic oil, vinegar, soy sauce and chili oil on the counter for a mixyour-own condiment adventure.

8) 3:30 p.m. Vintage Venture Underneath the train tracks between Motomachi and Kobe stations stretches a peculiar shopping arcade where you can unearth great vintage vinyl and the missing controller to your childhood Nintendo. Stroll through Motoko Town, as the aging arcade is called, to poke around bric-a-brac shops filled floor-toceiling with 20th-century computers, for example, or kitschy belt buckles, or, somewhat disturbingly, military uniforms from the United States and Germany. You’ll also pass excellent vintage shops and record stores, small art galleries, a working silversmith and a local designer’s screen-print T-shirt stall. Near Kobe Station, the arcade devolves into a ghost town, with only the occasional open stall peddling 20th-century, Showaera toys and boxes of old remote controls; better to start at Motomachi and walk southwest.

5) 10 a.m. Farm Fresh

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9) 6:30 p.m. Charcoal Cooking Kobe beef is what many come here for, and you can find it served a variety of ways throughout the city, at street food stalls and specialty restaurants like Ishidaya. But if you prefer lighter fare, head to Hanare, an intimate, eight-seat hideaway specializing in sumibiyaki, or cooking over charcoal. Start with sake and sashimi; in lieu of an English menu, the chef will pull out the day’s fish for you to choose. For adventurous diners, this is the place to try torisashi, chicken sashimi. Add to that a few skewers of yakitori — momo (thigh), hatsu (heart), kawa (skin) — and the house specialty: a beautifully arranged garden of charcoal-roasted vegetables. Dinner for two, about 9,000 yen. 10) 9 p.m. Local Sips After dinner, sample local craft beers at In Tha Door Brewing, one of the few brew pubs in the city. The industrial concrete-and-plywood space serves beers brewed on-site, like the hazy Shiroinon White Ale (seating charge, 300 yen). Or walk to Minato Hutte, a small guesthouse nearby with a street-level bar stocked with Japanese spirits. The order here is a gin and tonic mixed with Ki No Bi, a citrusy gin with hints of yuzu and cypress from the new small-scale Kyoto Distillery. Before calling it a night, swing by Taco Stand Anga, a screwball shack selling tacos, drinks and dagashi — penny-candy-like snacks — amid colorfully eclectic décor. 11) 10 a.m. Treetop Ride Glide high above the treetops aboard the Shin-Kobe Ropeway, a gondola that whisks passengers up a steep mountain slope to an observation deck with expansive views of the urban sprawl (1,500 yen round-trip). After admiring the panorama, which on clear days extends to the Seto Inland Sea, you can head deeper into the forest on a mountain hike or wander leisurely downhill through the Nunobiki Herb Gardens, where seasonal flora ranges from tulips and nasturtium in spring to summer sunflowers and lilies to the fiery leaves of autumn. 12) 12:30 p.m. Coffee Break On a quiet lane behind Ikuta Shrine, stop at Beyond Coffee Roasters, an excellent micro-roastery in a tiny house with a new stand-alone coffee shop across the street. Opened last year, the cute little shop, with a

herringbone-wood counter and paint-smeared walls, is standing room only, so if it’s busy, take an espresso with tonic water to go. Otherwise, wait patiently for a pourover, which might be prepared by Bunn, the mustachioed roaster whose signature handlebar inspired the shop’s logo. 13) 2 p.m. Memorial Museum On January 17, 1995, at 5:46 a.m., Kobe and the surrounding area were devastated by a massive earthquake that left more than 6,000 dead and nearly a quarter of a million homes destroyed. To understand the trauma overcome by this city, visit the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial, a moving museum dedicated to preserving the memories of this disaster, and educating the public on how to prepare for and act if faced with a future natural threat. Despite the potentially frightening subject matter, this engaging, educational museum is routinely packed with local schoolchildren. However, those with vertigo or acute natural-disaster anxiety may prefer to skip the introductory exhibit: a powerful earthquake re-enactment involving shaking video and booming surround sound. Admission, 600 yen. Steps from Motomachi station, the Candeo Hotels Kobe Tor Road opened last year with 159 minimalist guest rooms, a sauna and public bath, lovely mountain views from the lobby and a breakfast buffet offering Western and Japanese options (3-8-8 Sannomiya-cho, Chuo-ku; candeohotels.com/kobe-torroad; from about 10,000 yen). Overlooking the harbor, the Hotel Okura Kobe is the city’s landmark property, situated in a waterfront skyscraper with an elegant lobby, welcoming staff, several restaurants, and 475 spacious guest rooms, many with nighttime views across the twinkling port (2-1 Hatoba-cho, Chuo-ku; kobe.hotelokura.co.jp/en; from about 10,500 yen). The central Sannomiya district is a good choice for apartment rentals, which often include the use of a Pocket Wi-Fi, or portable hot spot. Rates for a onebedroom start around $110 on Airbnb.

Getting there:

Fiji Airways flies direct to Tokyo-Narita, twice a week with domestic connections on partner airline Japan Airlines.

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SAVE THE DATE!

WORLD EXCHANGE CONGRESS 2020

2ND - 4TH JUNE 2020 SOFITEL FIJI RESORT & SPA, DENARAU ISLAND

GLOBAL MARKETS: THINK FUTURE, THINK SUSTAINABILITY

What is World Exchange Congress (WEC)? WEC is an international event hosted by the South Pacific Stock Exchange (SPX). The event is anticipated to bring together around 400 attendees from more than 60 countries ranging from various developed as well as smaller Exchanges around the world, key industry influencers, regulators, data vendors and technology solution providers. This is a significant upcoming event in the 2020 corporate calendar and is being hosted in the Pacific region for the first time ever. WEC 2020 Hot Topics! New technology & innovation Building new customers & new revenue streams Business evolution & introduction of new products Regional collaboration Cyber security Big data & block-chain technology Capital markets integration Sustainable development initiatives Gender diversity Climate finance

Hurry & Register today as seats are limited! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out - Be part of this fantastic opportunity! International Delegates

Local (Fiji) Delegates

Visit the Terrapinn website TODAY to: Register; and View discounted flight & attractive accommodation packages available Online: www.terrapinn.com/conference/world-exchange-congress

Visit the SPX website TODAY to access: Registration Form; and Updated Agenda Online: www.spx.com.fj

CPE hours/points are claimable from professional bodies for Fiji delegates through attendance at World Exchange Congress

GAIN FURTHER INSIGHTS ON THE HOT TOPICS & CONNECT WITH YOUR INDUSTRY PEERS FOR INNOVATION AND PROGRESSION FIND OUT MORE BY CONTACTING SPX TODAY VISIT: spx.com.fj

EMAIL: wec2020@spx.com.fj PHONE: (+679) 330 4310

FACEBOOK: @spxfiji FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

Visit www.fijimarriott.com and discover an island paradise where modern design meets Fijian tradition.

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Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, modern and architecturally inspired by local Fijian designs from the land and sea, using alluring and unique design patterns that inspire travelers to seek a holiday experience beyond the ordinary. In Fijian history, Momi Bay was one of the many preferred location for turtle breeding and the resort takes pride in such significance with turtle motif in the public buildings and hand carved wooden light poles and bollards along the paths throughout the resort. They depict the various marine life that can be found in Fiji and are complemented by a marine protected lagoon in the midst of the resort, home to various fish and coral species and 22 lavish overwater bures floating effortlessly above the waterline. Committed to using local materials in design, Fish Bar restaurant features stunning panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by local lime stones from a quarry at Tao village, just a few kilometers away. Sheltered Jacuzzi’s are housed under a traditional Bure by the infinity sunset pool, inviting guests to sip on signature cocktails or refreshing ice cold beers. Quintessentially Fijian, Bures are beautifully thatched houses, welcoming with a comforting atmosphere. The resort’s brand new Voi Voi Bar, a casual and laid back, open air outlet exemplifies this comfort with the idyllic charms of island oasis. The design draws inspiration from the pacific islands through a contemporary approach with subtle references to a traditional Fijian village and offers outside seating to take advantage of the waning rays of sunlight, while watching the sun set and the moon rise. Accommodation rooms and public structures such as the main lobby, Goji Kitchen and Bar and Lagoon Lounge symbolize a ‘Drua’, also known as a sailing canoe which provided efficient mobility across the ocean between the many islands back in the day. Cladding of the Bures which look like wood are timber shingles and the interior ceilings are made of gib boards and feature timber ribs, joinery of local Fijian mahogany including beds and hand basin on stone top, curved mirror timber frame. Timber cuttings of various color shades left unutilized from the main buildings were simply amalgamated in creating a unique backdrop for the Grand Salon exterior meeting space. To complement the authentically modern Fijian design of Fiji Marriott Resort Momi bay are indulgent food menus crafted with layers of local infused flavors, color and texture. Goji Kitchen & Bar offers delectable international flavors and Fijian-Indian fusion cuisine, freshly caught seafood and BBQ style comfort food or enriched Fijian dishes such as ‘Lovo’, a famous earth oven cooking method is served at Voi Voi Bar.

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With cuisine increasingly becoming a more significant part of the guest experience, The Radisson Blu Resort Fiji places great focus on the quality of food and service of its dining options. All four restaurants at the resort currently feature in the Top 10 dining options on Denarau Island as ranked by TripAdvisor. The first of all resorts on Denarau Island to complete room renovations and offering stylish rooms and spacious suites, the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji is the epitome of island living where you may also experience unique dining options and nightly entertainment including Denarau’s only Fire on Water show.

NEPTUNES THE FOOD SHACK is the resort’s newest restaurant opening December 16th, 2019 and has just been announced TripAdvisor’s Number 1 restaurant in Viti Levu. Featuring an American Diner and Grill concept, the laid back restaurant offers stunning seascape views with a localised rustic and retro setting to compliment the American infused homely menu. The food shack has quickly become a favourite amongst resort guests and locals, presenting a walk-up bar serving cool cocktails, ice cold beers, smoothies, and a delicious menu consisting of tempting nachos, freshly made wraps, honey drizzled BBQ wings, BBQ pork ribs and a wide range of delicious pizzas and burgers. Neptune’s the Food Shack is open daily for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and is the perfect setting for family and friends to unwind.

BASILICO is the resort’s cosy Italian family style restaurant with cuisine reflecting a delicious array of traditional dishes, from antipasti to freshly made pasta and risotto. Overlooking the panoramic view of the Mamanuca Islands, Basilico offers a great dining experience and spectacular sunset views for any occasion.

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CHANTARA THAI RESTAURANT offers authentic Thai cuisine with an exciting menu overlooking the resort’s signature rock waterfall view on an al fresco deck. Discover authentic Thai flavours that transport your taste buds across the four regions of Thailand as culture and gastronomy blend together creating fabulous and delicious taste sensations. The menu features popular Thai favourites such as aromatic Thai curries, fresh salads, soup and wok options, as well as a Family Style set menu and a specialty live Thai BB

BLU BAR & GRILL is the perfect day-to-night dining option conveniently situated poolside and beachfront for the best of both worlds. This all-day dining restaurant and brasserie has an extensive casual dining menu with something everyone will enjoy. Nibble on delicious appetizers while you listen to the melodic voices of the live band or sit back and relax with a selection of grilled options meat from an extensive a la carte menu and feast at the Greens & Grains buffet.

LOMANI WAI is exclusively Denarau’s only unique “in the water” dining experience located in one of the resort’s lagoon pools. Enjoy a traditional yaqona ceremony on arrival, followed by a three course menu while cooling your feet in the water. Enjoy a fire show and listen to serenaders while dining. This is a must do experience while visiting Fiji.

SIGNATURE DINING features a range of unique romantic dining choices intended for couples seeking a more private setting under the stars. With locations that include the Vei Domoni Lawn, Beachfront when tides allow, Ocean Deck and Malolo Deck the dining experiences are always for two, include a private butler and feature a set menu designed by the resort’s Executive Chef, Andreas Reinhardt.

The resort works closely with various charities to support causes that are aligned with the Responsible Business efforts of the Radisson Hotel Group. As a show of support for families affected by the recent bush fires in Australia, $1 from every meal sold at the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji, Denarau Island in March, 2020 will be donated towards the rehabilitation of towns and aid for farmers affected through Drought Angels.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS: Email: restaurants@radissonfiji.com Call: 6756677 Or visit our Blu Bar & Grill Coordinator’s Desk at the Resort

visit OASIS AT SPA DENARAU

JAZZ FEST

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

Winter Jazz Fest

Like jazz itself, Winter Jazzfest is a big, inclusive idea that finds its glory and purpose in smaller moments. More on page 68.

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wHat winter

jazzfest says about where tHe

music is gOing in 2020 Story: Giovanni Russonello/C.2020 The New York Times Company

NEW YORK — Like jazz itself, Winter Jazzfest is a big, inclusive idea that finds its glory and purpose in smaller moments. Since its founding 16 years ago, the festival has grown to be more than New York’s most buzzed-about annual jazz happening, an opportunity to catch up on what’s new in improvised music and to help predict what’s next. By planting the music in rooms that feel both comfortable and alive — and increasingly, by presenting acts that verge into electronica, indie rock and hip-hop — the event has also become an invitation to reconsider what jazz means in the 21st century. With New York’s real estate market pushing most of the city’s ground-level creatives out of Manhattan, the festival responded this year by expanding into Brooklyn, introducing the borough’s first edition of the Winter Jazzfest Marathon, where ticket holders bounce from venue to venue in adjacent neighborhoods. (The festival’s typical, Lower Manhattan-based marathon took place over two nights the previous weekend.) With 20 events across 11 days and more than 150 sets in over a dozen venues, this year’s festival was more spread out than ever — geographically and stylistically. It had a lot to say about the way music gets made in New York today, how it might be listened to and where it’s headed next. 68

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Vocalists are innovating wildly You can’t put a container around the work that creative vocalists are doing under the loose banner of jazz today. Though a soft barrier has always existed between improvising instrumentalists and vocalists, Winter Jazzfest has served for years as a reminder that some of the boldest new work has to do with singing, storytelling and manipulations of the human voice. Theo Bleckmann, a German-born vocalist, has spent decades deepening his ideas around historical resonance, compositional complexity and theatrical persuasiveness. Performing at Subculture during the Manhattan Marathon, he capered from a kinetic and pulsing rendition of the Beatles’ “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” into a take on “Dido’s Lament,” an English aria, using loops and reverb to a Gregorian effect until he flowed seamlessly into a spacious version of Massive Attack’s “Teardrop.” Next door, at the Zurcher Gallery, Portuguese singer Sara Serpa sang her signature — wordless vocals, perfectly pitched — over a gossamer synth played by Dov Manski; it all blended almost too well with the pastel abstraction of a huge painting that hung behind her. (The gallery was a new addition to the festival this year, and a good one; its mix of coziness and visual life was a welcome change from the bustle of most other spots.) And J. Hoard, a virtuoso singer with idiosyncratic tastes that lean toward pop, soul and gospel — and whose vocal gifts have more in common with, say, Peabo Bryson’s than with any jazz singer’s — moved between songs by Celine Dion, Thelonious Monk and himself. Looking (and, it’s safe to say, feeling) resplendent in a velvet jumpsuit, backed by a seven-piece band, Hoard sang balladic jazz numbers on his knees, as if worshipping or hanging out alone in his room; on more rousing pieces, he pogoed as he sang, sometimes launching off the stage and parading through the crowd.

There’s no age limit on new directions Two of the most arresting sets of the festival came from musicians who, decades into their careers, appear to have found new trailheads. Susan Alcorn, a pedalsteel guitarist, began her career in blues and country settings before linking up with some of the New York experimental music world’s luminaries. In recent years, she has started to become one of them. But most of her work in this vein has come in the form of droning solo performances or side-musician work in other people’s bands. That changed at the Manhattan Marathon, where Alcorn, 66, led a quintet at the Dance, a new venue in the East Village, that showed a glorious, swimming synergy right off the bat. Between Alcorn’s pedal steel, Mark Feldman’s violin and Mary Halvorson’s guitar, it was often hard to tell which instrument was creating what sound — even as each part of the equation remained distinct. Something similar was at play in the new quartet of Nasheet Waits, 48, a drummer who only rarely steps into a leadership role. His Manhattan Marathon-opening set at an intensely crowded Zinc Bar began with a rubato rumble of group improvising, connecting the John Coltrane Quartet circa “Crescent” with a looser, more wriggling group approach à la Air. Joined by three musicians a generation his junior or more — fleet and fluid alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins, bassist Rashaan Carter and South African pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, whose own set later that night was a highlight for many festivalgoers — Waits built a group identity that resembled his own drum sound (aerated and unfastened, but deeply enmeshed in tradition) while drawing out the best in a crowd of younger compatriots. Few moments spoke more directly to what jazz is about, as a music and a practice.

Photos: Nina Westervelt/The New York Times

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a wellness Oasis at

spa deNaraU Story: Jessan Doton The 2019 buzz word was ‘self-care’ and it isn’t showing any signs of retreating in 2020. The importance of self-care has littered blogs, magazines, social media, and TED talks; and for good reason. Because fighting for number one spot on the most-used-word-of-the-year list was ‘hustle’, another gift of the modern age that has enabled everyday people to become entrepreneurs. And 21st century hustlers have become exhausted, working their day jobs, clocking out and clocking in to one or multiple side gigs, looking after family and making time for some social life. It’s no wonder we have had to be reminded that we need to take time out for ourselves for our own emotional and mental well-being. After all, we are more resilient and more able to handle life’s stresses when we are feeling our best both physically and emotionally. While holidays are a great way to escape the rat race (and who doesn’t love a whole week of that good self-care stuff), people are also increasingly taking smaller, more frequent steps to actively de-stress. Enter day spas, which have become an integral component of the worldwide wellness movement, offering bespoke treatments to tone and glow or relax and rejuvenate with science-proven tonics or organic potions. Denarau Spa has created a wonderful oasis in the heart of Fiji’s tourism and wellness industry, utilising the fundamentals of nurturing the body, mind and spirit (heat, pressure, oil, herbals, and ambiance) in perfect harmony with the warmth of Fijian hospitality. At Denarau Spa, guests can choose from a range of integrated treatments, such as the traditional Fijian Bobo massage using coldpressed nut oils infused with tropical flowers, warm seashell massage – the Pacific’s answer to the Swedish hot stone, coconut

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lime blossom skin renewal- a peel treatment rich in anti-oxidants to improve smoothness, clarity and radiance. Their treatments are extensive, and their skilled therapists are able to recommend the best suited experience for your needs. On the (spa) menu for the day was the Guava Tone and Glow – an ultra-pampering Vitamin C boosting body treatment super charged with the power of Guava. It starts with a delicious smelling Pure Fiji raw cane sugar and virgin coconut oil exfoliation, followed by a warm shower that envelopes the senses with tropical scents. Back in the treatment room awaits a relaxing oil massage that transports even the most trained insomniac straight to slumber. While the masque is doing its magic, another form of magic happens in the form of a scalp massage. A body butter application wraps up the experience in a smooth and silken bow. This treatment lasts for 90 minutes, but it never feels long enough when you’re feeling this relaxed. If you’re one who likes to share ‘me time’, there are couples massages, or even a girl’s day out experience which includes manis and pedis, foot massages and hair styling sessions – champagne can be organized on request to make a real event out of it. There’s even a Kid’s Spa for the little ones who have had a tough week at school or simply deserve some pampering of their own. So whether you’re looking for a great day spa experience on holiday, or simply want to make a better effort of taking some time out for yourself so you can come back to the reality of your life feeling refreshed, Spa Denarau offers an oasis of relaxation, tropical fruit and flower scents, and the welcoming warmth you can get only from Fiji.

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renewing an affair with

tHe empire

state buildiNg Story: James S. Russell/C.2019 The New York Times Company Photo: Mark Wickens/The New York Times

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NEW YORK — How do you take the measure of a New York City more physically transformed than at any time since the 1920s? The new glass “downtowns” that have exploded in the last decade and a half in Long Island City and over in Jersey City. Hudson Yards’ crystalline shafts to the far west. Residential towers marching in lock step along the Queens and Brooklyn edges of the East River. The skinny supertalls slicing into the view of Central Park. There has never been a better time to give Gotham a fresh look, and so I headed to the exalted altitude of New York’s first supertall: the Empire State Building, which has just spent $165 million and four years meticulously revamping the experience of getting to — and appreciating — the views from its two vertiginous observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors. Simultaneously, its designers have tried to banish the things visitors hate about the observation-deck trek: the lines, the crowds, the congestion. This is the third phase of a reimagining of what its designers call “The Observatory Experience,” and on Oct. 7, the changes will be revealed to the public. The owner of the building, Empire State Realty Trust, has created a new entrance, and a 10,000-square-foot exhibition that not only fascinates in its own right (you can be Fay Wray to a realistically animated King Kong) but also reduces the lines to a security checkpoint. The ride is a mere 55 seconds to the 86th floor observatory, which has been spruced up. And then there’s the crowning glory of the rehabilitation, the glass elevator trip to the 102nd floor. It’s a 1,224-foot-high aerie, exhilarating and intimate. I got a sneak peak over the past month as construction was wrapping up, and my first looks suggest the revamped observatory is likely to become a must-see, even for jaded natives. But I urge you to leave the selfie stick at home, and just look. Why tamper with a beloved symbol of New York’s exuberance and striving? The Realty Trust — which derives $132 million annually from the observatories’ 4 million visitors — brought in Thinc Design (which conceived the 9/11 Memorial & Museum exhibits) and a team of consultants because it wants you to love it even more. Their strategy has been to engage the expectations that people “have assigned to the building in their hearts and minds,” Anthony E. Malkin, the Realty Trust’s chairman and chief executive, said. The changes start right on West 34th Street, west of Fifth Avenue. A generous entrance through former storefronts has been dedicated to the observatory,

replacing the human traffic jam that afflicted the tower’s office lobby. Art deco building details have been reproduced and giant historical photos enliven the path to a security checkpoint. “Everything is created to help fuel the emotional connection people have with the building before they arrive,” Tom Hennes, the founder of Thinc, said on a walk-through. A 24-foot-tall model of the building offers itself as a photo backdrop as visitors ascend a glinting stainlesssteel staircase to a 10,000-square-foot exhibition on the building’s history and pop-culture significance. The landing in front of the model becomes an amiable scrum with strangers helping families pose and people trading phones and cameras. Such photo ops (which are abundant) slow people down, which minimizes congestion at the six elevators devoted to the observatory. The displays demonstrate how digitally driven showmanship can take a potentially dull idea — explaining how the building was built — and turn it into a delightful experience. In one large space, a combination of liveaction film and computer animation brings all four walls alive with the bustle of steel girders being twirled in space by unseen cranes and workers riveting columns with the city spreading out beyond. You feel as if you’re a construction worker on the framework of the building, in Lewis W. Hine’s famous photographs from 1931. Statues of workers are placed to invite visitors to pose for photos. I realized that memory-making was being shamelessly engineered, but I happily succumbed. There are other exhibits that intrigue, including one on elevators, a celebrity gallery that reminded me to feel good about the glamorous company I was keeping, and the inevitable inclusion of King Kong fending off buzzing airplanes (which he did in the Empire State’s first appearance in a movie, in 1933). As an array of 72 screens shows off the building’s cultural bona fides in movies, comics and video games — a three-minute-and-21-second barrage of 188 images and film clips — I began to wonder just how a building that opened in the depths of the Great Depression became such a potent symbol of New York City. I was inspired by the exhibitions to dig deeper. Alfred E. Smith, a former governor of New York, announced the Empire State Building in 1929, at the peak of a building frenzy not so different from that which preceded the 2008 crash or ... now. That year, developers were proposing 100-story towers right and left.

Getting there: Fiji Airways flies direct to Los Angeles daily and San Francisco three times a week with connections to New York’s JFK on partner airline American Airlines.

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Construction began in March 17, 1930, just months after the stock market crash. The $41 million building was erected at breathtaking speed, 4 1/2 floors per week, and opened less than 14 months later on May 1, 1931. In “My Lost City,” a collection of essays, F. Scott Fitzgerald observed, “From the ruins (of the stock-market crash), lonely and inexplicable as the sphinx, rises the Empire State Building.” I viewed the inside of the building’s mast as a new glass elevator was being installed and a “cocoon” — an engineering tour de force that hung from the mast to protect construction workers hanging high in the air — was coming down. The painstaking, weather-dependent process has pushed the reopening of the 102nd-floor observatory from late September to Oct. 7. The ride will, for the first time, offer glimpses of the intricate steel framing that supports the mast, the backside of the aluminum buttresses and translucent panels that transmit the mast’s nighttime glow. The glass elevator unveils the 360-degree panorama. Around the circular perimeter, full-height glass replaces high windows. The space, only 30 feet in diameter, is intimate, like a thrillingly vertiginous pilot house more than 1,200 feet above the city. The open-air terrace that most people visit, wrapping the 86th floor, has been little altered from the early years with its limestone balustrade and familiar stainless-steel grillwork. In gazing over the transformed city beyond, I saw strange echoes of the time when the Empire State was conceived. In a 1931 opening-day photo that I recalled from the second floor, the gridded streets stretch in an almost flat plane south to Manhattan’s tip, where the financial district rises Oz-like, crowned by spiky 1920s towers. It

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is startling how raw the 40- to 60-story Jazz Age towers looked, erupting out of a sea of loft buildings to the east and west of Grand Central Terminal. They included the Chanin building, with swirling plants embossed on its facade, and the Chrysler, with its giant stainless-steel gargoyles. Buildings so tall and thin were recognized even at the time as not particularly practical or economic. But in the bubbly optimism of the late 1920s, exuberant architecture and great height were seen as acts of marketing, essential to attract prestige tenants, “presumably for the world to look at and talk about and only subsequently for people to dwell in,” Elmer Davis wrote in The New Republic in 1932. It probably felt then not so terribly different from the view I was taking in — looking north at the supertall condo boom, and the skinny towers of Billionaire’s Row slicing up what remains of the view of Central Park. As I exited the Empire State through the Fifth Avenue lobby, with its ceiling a celebratory cosmos of gold-leaf stars and planets above sober walls of book-matched marble, I was reminded of a time when architects (and their clients) considered the impact buildings made in the skyline as a kind of sacred trust — a symbol of the city’s energy, grace and confidence, a contribution to its identity. Are we thinking hard enough about how today’s skyline will measure up 100 years from now?

The Empire State Building Observatory Open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Adults will pay $38 to access the exhibit and 86th-floor observatory, and there is an additional $20 fee for the 102nd-floor deck (opening Oct. 7). A variety of upgrades can push the price to $460. More information: esbnyc.com.

enjOy Enjoy movies, music and television for your inflight entertainment

Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles build a Ford race car.

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ford v. ferrari WILL REMIND YOU THAT CHRISTIAN BALE CAN BE FUN Story: Sam Adams/C.2019 The Slate Group LLC The title of Ford v. Ferrari sets up a battle between corporations, or at least the men who share their names. But the movie isn’t about dueling titans of industry, and though Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) and Enzo Ferrari (Remo Girone) both make appearances, they’re not especially integral to its story. The real battle in the movie isn’t between auto-industry giants, but within one of them— specifically, between the executives at Ford and the racing drivers Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and Ken Miles (Christian Bale). In the early 1960s, Ford—inspired, at least in the film, by marketing guru and future Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal)—decided it needed to revamp its image as a maker of sturdy but staid automobiles, and the quickest route to a sexier image was to break into the world of European auto racing. But that required breaking with the assembly-line mentality instilled by Ford’s grandfather and letting Shelby, a champion driver turned car designer, and Miles, a middle-aged veteran who’d faded from the spotlight, bend the rules. Bending the rules is not high on the list of Ford vs. Ferrari’s priorities. Director James Mangold (Walk the Line, Logan) and his writers (Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth, and Jason Keller) are sufficiently unafraid of cliché that they actually have a character watch Miles zipping around the track and comment, “He’s difficult, but he’s good.” The movie is a well-cooked steak with a baked potato on the side. It satisfies and fills you with warmth, even as (or is it because) it never surprises you. As Miles, Bale exudes an impish charm that’s too often missing from his screen performances. Miles is impetuous and short-tempered; he throws a wrench at Shelby during their first encounter, which Shelby later frames and stick on his wall. But he’s not dark or tortured in the worn-out mold of such antiheroes as Bale’s own Bruce Wayne. He’s a devoted family man, true to his wife (Caitriona Balfe) and son (14-year-old Noah Jupe of Honey Boy and A Quiet Place, who here is finally allowed to reveal his native English accent). He’s only headstrong because he’s right. That doesn’t stop him clashing with the suits at Ford, particularly the unctuous conformist Leo Beebe (Josh Lucas), who seems to resent Miles and the slightly more diplomatic Shelby on principle. But the conflict between them feels ginned up and shallow, a stock confrontation between rebellious achievers and the company men who want to hold them back.

It’s apt that the movie’s focus is on long-haul endurance races, particularly the 24 hours of Le Mans, which tests not just a racer’s (and a car’s) speed but the driver’s consistency. Mangold is rarely an exciting director, but he’s matured into an accomplished journeyman, like the Hollywood directors who were revered before the auteur theory shifted the criteria. He’s not a flashy individualist, and for all its breathless racetrack sequences, Ford vs. Ferrari is rarely the kind of movie that makes you stop and think, “Damn, look at that shot.” Even the moments that do stick out do so because of their ambient glow rather than any fancy camerawork: Mangold and his cinematographer, Phedon Papamichael, fetishize the gleam of a racetrack at dusk, as if we’re watching the end of an era and not the beginning of one. But the movie works on you cumulatively, wearing down the impulse to roll your eyes at its familiar parts and leaving you to appreciate how snugly they fit together, and the way the whole thing purrs. It would be stretch to even call it subtext, but it’s worth noting, even if the movie doesn’t, that both Ford and Ferrari had associations with European fascism: Henry Ford was an avowed anti-Semite whose portrait hung in Hitler’s office, and Ferrari worked for Mussolini. That casts the film’s tension between individualism and conformity in a different light. Henry Ford II, known as “the Deuce,” is introduced with a scene in which he lectures factory workers about coming up with new ideas, but he’s also presented as a rigid authoritarian who bristles at the slightest disobedience. That is, until Shelby takes him for a spin in the car that he and Miles have been modifying. As Shelby rips around the practice track, the skin on Letts’ face threatens to flatten into a pancake, and he’s gripped by a mixture of fear and awe. (It’s like the Star Gate sequence at the end of 2001, only with a race car instead of an escape pod.) When Shelby screeches to a halt, there’s a breathless pause as we wait to see if Ford will erupt in anger, furious at being taken so far out of his comfort zone. Instead, he erupts in tears. He’s like Anton Ego at the end of Ratatouille, overcome with the sensation that more is possible than he ever imagined, the sudden realization that he’s been standing in the way of something he can only begin to comprehend. Ford v. Ferrari is not just about how good it feels to break the rules. It’s about how much we lose when we can’t imagine what lies beyond them.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

MOVIES

FORD V FERRARI 152 MIN | PG13 | Action, Drama Director: James Mangold Stars: Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal Language: ENG

American car designer Carroll Shelby and British driver Ken Miles endeavor to build a race car for Ford that can beat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966.

JOKER 118 MIN | R | Drama Director: Todd Phillips Stars: Joaquin Phoenix, Frances Conroy, Robert De Niro Language: ENG

Failed comedian Arthur Fleck encounters violent thugs while wandering the streets of Gotham City dressed as a clown. Disregarded by society, Fleck begins a slow descent into madness as he transforms into the Joker.

FROZEN II

103 MIN | PG | Family Kids Director: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee Stars: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad Language: ENG

Together with Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, Elsa faces a dangerous but remarkable journey into the unknown in search of truths about the past.

KESARI

150 MIN | PG13| Hindi, Drama, Romance Director: Sujoy Ghosh Stars: Akshay Kumar, Parineeti Chopra, Suvinder Vicky Language: HIN

The year is 1897 and Havaldar Ishar Singh of the 36th Sikh Regiment is sent to Fort Saragarhi, a British outpost along the Indo-Afghan border, to take charge of 20 unruly soldiers from his regiment.

SAMURAI SHIFTERS

120 MIN | PG13 | Japanese, Action Director: Isshin Inudô Stars: Gaku Hamada, Gen Hoshino, Yutaka Matsushige Language: JPN

Naonori Matsudaira is an unfortunate lord who is forced to move - at great expense across Japan from west to east seven times. The strain of these repeated relocations takes its toll and after he dies.

A WITNESS OUT OF THE BLUE

104 MIN | PG13 | Chinese, Drama Director: Fung Chih-chiang Stars:Louis Koo, Jessica Hester Hsuan, Kai-Chung Cheung Language: MAN

After a criminal is found dead in an apartment, a detective’s only way to solve the crime is to query the only witness - which just happens to be a parrot.W

Enjoy a greater selection of movies, TV and music onboard. Please check your inflight entertainment system for a full list of options. *Selection may vary depending on aircraft type and flight route/duration 78

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

TELEVISION

ALL AMERICAN

QUEEN OF THE SOUTH

45 MIN | PG13 | Drama Stars: Daniel Ezra, Samantha Logan, Michael Evans Behling

45 MIN | R | Drama Stars: Alice Braga, Hemky Madera, Peter Gadiot

Language: ENG

At an explosive homecoming dance, friendships in both Crenshaw and Beverly will be put to the test when decisions made by Spencer trigger an avalanche that drastically changes the course of several lives.

A corrupt Judge wants in on Teresa’s deal when he learns about her business.

FRIENDS

AGAINST THE ODDS

MOM

KAPIL SHARMA SHOW

23 MIN | PG13 | Comedy Language: ENG Stars: Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow Ross travels to San Diego to visit Marcel, his monkey. Joey is stalked by a fan of his daytime drama.

23 MIN | PG | Documentary Language: ENG Stars: Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda Lewis Hamilton has the once seemingly unattainable records of the great Michael Schumacher in his sights… but the Brit has had to endure a tough upbringing and a rocky relationship with his father to climb the mountain.

23 MIN | PG13 | Comedy Language: ENG Stars: Anna Faris, Allison Janney, Mimi Kennedy

60 MIN | PG | Language: HIN Stars: Kapil Sharma Please welcome the cast of Kesari. Put your hands together for Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra. The fun doesn’t end here, our audience is the Central Reserve Police Force, they show that there’s is more to being a soldier.

Christy’s plan to win her sponsor’s approval backfires; and the ladies rush in to help after Jill’s house is broken into.

YOUNG SHELDON

23 MIN | PG13 | Comedy Language: ENG Stars: Iain Armitage, Zoe Perry, Lance Barber The Coopers help a broken-hearted Pastor Jeff through a rough patch in his marriage. Meanwhile, Sheldon pressures church members for donations when Mary takes him to work for a day.

DC SUPER HERO GIRLS

MADE ON EARTH

BFFS WITH VOGUE

23 MIN | PG | Documentary Language: ENG Stars: Babita Sharma, Finn Aberdein Finn visits Mumbai to see Firoza Suresh, the city’s first ‘bicycle mayor’ – learning how she’s encouraging to get people fit and to reduce pollution. High-end bikes are increasingly available to everyday consumers.

60 MIN | PG | Language: HIN Stars: Kiara Advani, Neha Dhupia, Shahid Kapoor What bonded the two chirpy BFFs, Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani? Well, the duo has a yummy backstory to their relationship, food! And with Shahid’s love life set, Kiara sheds some light into who she has got the hots for.

PROGRAMME RATINGS G PG

PG-13 R

General audience: suitable for audiences of all ages Parental guidance suggested: some material may not be suitable for children Parents strongly cautioned: some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 Restricted: viewers under 17 years of age should be accompanied by a parent or an adult

23 MIN | G | Kids Language: ENG Stars: Tara Strong, Grey Griffin, Nicole Sullivan Leslie Willis, the meanest girl in school, becomes a social media sensation by posting mean-spirited videos. / When the local mall is attacked by Giganta, tiny Bumblebee might be the only one small enough to save the day.

CONTENT RATINGS V S L D A SN H

Violence Sex or nudity Coarse language Drug references Adult/mature themes Supernatural themes Horror themes

LANGUAGES ENG English MAN Mandarin HIN Hindi CAN Cantonese JPN Japanese

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

MUSIC

ROMANCE

COURAGE (DELUXE)

Camila Cabello | Genre: Hip Hop RNB

Celine Dion | Genre : Classic

‘Second studio album by Cuban-American singer featuring songs ‘Liar’, ‘Shameless’, ‘My Oh My’ & Cabello’s No. 1 duet with Canadian singer Shawn Mendes.

‘Representing an exciting new creative direction for Celine, Courage is a mix of beautiful ballads and edgy up-tempo tracks. The album contains 16 tracks, with an additional four tracks on the deluxe version.

AUDIO ON DEMAND We have over 550 full length of albums from 12 different categories to choose from. Here are some of our favourites. For a full list see your onscreen menu. POP Chart-topping hits from today’s biggest music artists . ROCK From classic rock anthems to new rock hits, this is a selection of music videos that will definitely get you playing your Air Guitar.

ALTERNATIVE Check out some of the freshest new talent and music festival favourites with this indie music video mix. EASY LISTENING Enjoy some Fiji time and relax with this selection of smooth and cruisy tunes.

CHANNELS POP/ROCK The Vibe Jase Hawkins brings you the latest and greatest pop music and culture from around the globe. CHILDREN’S Kid’s Corner (120 mins) Hey kids, come on a midair adventure with lots of great, exciting music. It’s guaranteed to be fun!

CLASSICAL Concerto Let the power and art of classical music sweep you away on your journey. During this 2 hour show we present the latest and the best of the classical genre. HINDI Hindi Harmonium The most exciting and

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

entertaining hits will take you to Bollywood and beyond! LOUNGE The Lounge Sit back and relax with this carefully chosen selection of music designed to make you feel blissfully chilled out and laid back during your flight.

FIJIAN HITS Vude FM Join us on Vude FM for 2 hours full of iTaukei favorites, from Makare to Kabani.

CROSSWORD CHALLENGE

ACROSS 1 Careless 9 Indicator of interest on Match. com 13 Some naturally heated pools 15 Home of about 10% of the world’s oil reserves 16 Winter carnival spectacles

46 Site of many pitches 50 ___ jokes 52 Show some moves on the dance floor

56 Checkered things

18 Lipstick shade

57 Got in a lather

19 Party person, briefly

DOWN

20 Do some showing off with one’s bike

20 23

34 37 39

4 It’s not hard to swallow

30 Preventing cyberclutter 34 Like bygone days 35 Relative of slate 36 “That stings!” 37 Opening for a Mughal masterwork 38 Husbands one’s resources

9 Leisure activity for which you need glasses 10 “Winner winner chicken dinner!” 11 Things can only get better from here 12 Mini/midi midpoint 14 Baste, e.g.

42 Huffs

17 Majority of 15-Across

45 “Arbitrage” star, 2012

43 47

42 44

45 49

50 53

8 Stick-on

39 Noel abroad 43 Canadian hockey great Eric

7 So-called “African unicorns”

3 Post-breakup declaration

29 Attached, as a hook

1 Reached feetfirst

6 Chlorine, for one

5 Sharp rebuff

24 Self-described “bluesologist” ___ Scott-Heron

28 ___ monster

15 17

2 Part of a fancy place setting

26 Green people

9 14

22 Pair at the altar

25 Gets in deep?

16 19

55 Deerstalker feature

51 Dalmatian, for one

54 Shaded area

21 Joins up 23 Pieces of chalk?

27 Flimflammer

40 Things that get overlooked?

28 Old World grazer

41 Senile sort

30 R&B/soul singer with the 1981 hit album “Breakin’ Away” 31 Settled a debt, informally 32 Contraption that might have honey and borax 33 Tinkered (with)

44 Lord’s workers 46 Single-serve coffee holder 47 ___ Thomas, the Soul Queen of New Orleans 48 Cookout discards

35 “Emergency calls” may save you from them

49 Tick off

37 Shade

53 Shade

PUZZLE BY RYAN MCCARTY

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

Fiji Airways Route Map and Fleet

Helsinki

London

Frankfurt

TOKYO Haneda

Narita

Osaka New Delhi

HONG KONG

Mumbai Chennai

Bangkok

SINGAPORE

Darwin

Cairns Townsville Rockhampton

BRISBANE

Perth

ROUTE KEY Fiji Airways Routes

Adelaide

SYDNEY Canberra

MELBOURNE

Hobart

Codeshare Routes Fiji Link

Fiji Airways flights are available on Boeing and Airbus aircraft, ranging from the 122 seating capacity on the Boeing 737-700 series to the 334 seating capacity on the Airbus A350-900 XWB series. Our subsidiary Fiji Link is the official domestic carrier of Fiji with a fleet combination of ATR 72-600, ATR 42-600 and De Havilland Twin Otter aircraft. 82

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

AIRBUS A350-900 (2) SEATS BUSINESS 33 BULA SPACE 39 ECONOMY 262

AIRBUS 330-300 (1) SEATS BUSINESS 24 ECONOMY 289

AIRBUS 330-200 (5) SEATS BUSINESS 18-24 ECONOMY 236-249

Anchorage Everett Seattle Portland Reno

SAN FRANCISCO

Chicago Indianapolis

Salt Lake City Kansas City

Sacramento St. Louise

Denver

Nashville

Boston

New York Albuquerque Philadelphia Charlotte Las Vegas Baltimore Phoenix Raleigh-Durham Atlanta Palm Springs Washington DC Dallas Oklahoma ANGELES Tucson Houston Orlando Austin Tampa Bay San Diego New Orleans Miami

San Jose Fresno Monterey Santa Barbara

LOS

HONOLULU

KIRITIMATI

TARAWA HONIARA

Kahului Kona

FUNAFUTI

PORT VILA NADI

APIA SUVA

VAVA’U NUKU’ALOFA

FIJI DESTINATIONS ROTUMA

LABASA SAVUSAVU

AUCKLAND WELLINGTON CHRISTCHURCH

TAVEUNI KORO

NADI

SUVA

VANUABALAVU CICIA LAKEBA

KADAVU

BOEING 737 MAX 8 (2) SEATS BUSINESS 8 ECONOMY 162

BOEING 737-800 (2) SEATS BUSINESS 8 ECONOMY 156-162

BOEING 737-700 (1) SEATS BUSINESS 8 ECONOMY 114

ATR 72-600 (2) SEATS BUSINESS 8 ECONOMY 60

ATR 42-600 (1) SEATS BUSINESS N/A ECONOMY 48

DHC6-400 (4) SEATS BUSINESS N/A ECONOMY 19

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

THE FIJI AIRWAYS EXPERIENCE

Check-in times International flights: we welcome check-in three hours prior to flight departure time, with check-in closing one hour prior to departure. Some airports may offer early check-in prior to three hours. Domestic Fiji flights: check-in counters for domestic flights open at least 90 minutes prior to your flight departure time, and closes 30 minutes prior to departure. Security and Baggage -Pack your own bags. -Do not carry items for another person. -Carry valuables and approved medication in your carry-on baggage. -Items such as knives and any sharp object must be placed in your checked-in baggage. -Carry-on and checked-in baggage allowances and dimensions vary between international and domestic flights, and Business and Economy Class. Please double check your ticket for your baggage allowances. -For passengers travelling to/from Fiji Airways international flights and connecting to/from Fiji Link domestic flights, the following rule will apply: a) If FJ international & FJ domestic sectors are ticketed on the same ticket (FJ/260 paper), FJ's international baggage allowance will apply. b) If FJ international and FJ domestic are ticketed separately, baggage allowance shown on each ticket will apply. -If part of journey includes code share flights: a) the marketing carrier (the airline you bought your ticket from) baggage rule will apply throughout the entire journey. b) For all other destinations, the U.S Departments of Transport and MSC (Most significant carrier) baggage rules applies throughout the entire journey. Baggage allowances will be honoured according to ticket. -Prepaid Excess Baggage rates per 23kg piece (maximum 2 extra pieces) are available at lower than airport excess baggage rates. These are available up to four hours prior to flight departure and available for purchase from any Fiji Airways Sales Office, or through

our 24/7 Reservations Centre. *Not available for codeshare flights. -Security and immigration at some airports may require considerable time to clear so once checked-in we kindly request you proceed directly to security and immigration then through to your boarding gate. Failure to check-in prior to flight closure may result in refused boarding and forfeiting of your ticket. -Security screening is subject to the laws of the country of operation. Restrictions on powders, liquids, aerosols and gels (PLAGS) On all international flights to and from Fiji -Each container of powder in carry-on must be less than 350ml/g, and each container of LAGs in carry-on bags must less than 100mls and placed in a clear sealable plastic bag. -You may still carry prescription medicines or baby food/products necessary for the flight. -PLAGs bought in Airport Departure areas can be carried onboard the aircraft between your port of departure and your first arrival port. -No PLAGs are permitted through transit points at any airport. Carriage of Lithium Batteries -Passengers are permitted in their carry-on baggage any portable electronic devices (PED) containing lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries for personal use. -The batteries which are in these portable electronic devices must not exceed 2g for lithium metal batteries and 100wh for lithium ion batteries. -Passengers are only permitted maximum of 2 spare batteries as part of their personal baggage but it may only be carried in or as cabin baggage. -Customers wishing to carry portable medical devices, like portable oxygen concentrators (POC), must contact Reservations to determine if the portable medical device is an approved device or not. For more information, please visit www.fijiairways.com

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

THE FIJI AIRWAYS EXPERIENCE

Economy Class Our Economy Class offers elegant, yet relaxed cabin dĂŠcor so guests can sit back and enjoy the hospitality of one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most welcoming cultures. Guests can enjoy complimentary in-flight entertainment onboard Fiji Airways international services. From the classics to comedies, customers can enjoy a selection of movies and TV programs alongside a range of audio channels from Top 40 hits to Hindi hits, including a dedicated channel for children. *Inflight entertainment options and devices differ depending on aircraft in use.

Business Class Our Business Class offers discerning travellers a unique and exclusive class of travel. On the ground, customers can enjoy dedicated check-in, increased baggage allowance, express airport lanes and access to lounge facilities at selected airports. In the air, Business Class customers enjoy three course fine dining, a range of wines, spirits and liqueurs. With individual screens, Business Class customers can select from a full range of in-flight entertainment. *Inflight entertainment devices differ depending on aircraft in use. WIFI: Our brand new A350-900 XWB aircraft have wifi connectivity with different plans available for purchase. FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

THE FIJI AIRWAYS EXPERIENCE

Fiji Airways Premier Lounge in Nadi

Our baristas and bartenders will serve up coffee, cocktails and

Our flagship Fiji Airways Premier Lounge at Nadi International

mocktails, from old favourites to custom requests. Tell them what you

Airport offers our guests a world-class lounge experience complete

like and wait to be surprised with your own customised cocktail.

with unique features, and topped only by our Fijian hospitality. Entertainment A live greenery wall forms the backdrop of the main seating area,

TV screens are spread out around the various lounge seating zones

while the ceiling above features constellation lighting representing the

with various news, sports and entertainment channels available,

Fijian summer and winter skies.

including a giant screen in the main dining area. For those who would like to watch a game without restraint, our Media

Whether you’re flying solo, as a couple, parents with children in tow, a

Room is open for guests to use with full sound, and cheering on.

business person, or travelling in a group, our spacious and dedicated

Please note the Media Room is also available for exclusive bookings

spaces caters for all travellers.

for groups up to 8. We apologise if the room is booked out. Please see our lounge staff should you wish to reserve this room.

Facilities include comfortable seating, Business Centre, Wi-Fi, shower rooms, media room, buffet station offering international cuisine and

Wi-Fi, Technology and Charging stations

signature dishes, bar and café, children’s room with complimentary

-The Business Centre with iMacs, internet access, and a printer is

nanny, and pay-for-use spa.

open for complimentary use of guests.

Entry and Access

USB-enabled charging stations.

The Fiji Airways Premier Lounge is available to Fiji Airways’ Business Class guests, Tabua Club and Tabua Club Plus members, premier guests of our partner airlines and pay-for-use customers. Pay-foruse guests can purchase a pass online under Manage Your Booking, or directly at the Lounge reception counter. Location: Airside, Ground Floor, Nadi International Airport Departures

-The Premier Lounge has a generous number of power-points and -The Lounge offers complimentary Wi-Fi. Lailai Land (Children’s Area) Children can spend their time in ‘Lailai Land’, our dedicated children’s room with a fully qualified Fijian nanny to keep them entertained and occupied while parents grab a bite or a spa treatment before the flight.

Terminal Opening Hours: 5.00am – 11pm daily

Spa

*Hours may vary according to flight schedules

Rejuvenate with a refreshing massage or revitalise with spa treatment

Entry: Casual entry F$99pp

at the pay-for-use Spa@TheGate directly accessible from the Lounge.

Seating General seating zone for smaller and larger groups, Quiet Zone, secluded nooks, Family Area, Dining Area

Choose from an exclusive spa menu designed with the traveller in mind. Shower and restrooms

Food & Beverage

-Restrooms and shower facilities with full amenities

Explore culinary delights from chef-inspired menus, salads, healthy

-Wheelchair accessible restrooms

options and delicious desserts at the buffet stations. Our lounge attend-

-Baby change room

ants also offer special menu items during our tray-rounds. The dining experience is completed by the exclusive “Fiji Bean Cart” – serving

Flight Information Screens

traditional Fijian-Indian sweets and savouries.

-Flight information screen to keep you updated on your flight

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

star flyer march bulanaire josua nalotu ratukuna (AKA Capt. Jack)) Learn all about the Bulanaires on page 28

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born in Navuevu village, in Cuvu Nadroga. I’m affectionately known as Captain Jack because I drive the jetboats at Sigatoka River Safari. I love my country! I’m passionate about Fiji and I’m delighted to be a Bulanaire. I look forward to meeting our guests everyday and creating memorable experiences for their tours that they will never forget. I also love rugby, horse-riding and catching mud crabs when I have a bit of free time.

What is it like to be in your role at Sigatoka River Safari?

I meet people from all over the world which I love. It is always so good to share the Bula Spirit with our guests and I always try to leave them smiling. I get to talk about the history of the land I love, as well as keeping myself fit with the skills required to manoeuvre the jetboats, particularly the ‘Sigatoka Spins’ – they get everyone’s adrenalin pumping. We also visit different villages everyday and I am always proud to share funny stories about village life and guests get to experience it first-hand too.

Favourite international destination? Why?

Other than Fiji, I love New Zealand not just for the sights and the tasty lamb in the South Island, but this is where I learnt to drive jetboats.

Where is home for You? What is it like?

Home is where I am happy. This is in the village of Navuevu in Cuvu, Nadroga. I love village living - having your loved ones and siblings all within walking distance is awesome and we all love life in our village. It is a farming community and I have my own organic farm too with my family around me – we all help each other out. My best moments are during meal times with my family as we share our stories of the day whilst we enjoy a hearty tuck and later around the

kava bowl with friends and relatives exchanging humorous stories and belly laughs.

Other than your hometown, which part of Fiji would you recommend to visitors and why?

Kadavu is a beautiful place, located South of Fiji. I believe it is an untouched paradise in Fiji. I’ve been to Nalotu village in the District of Yawe in Kadavu. The seafood and scenery are incredible, whilst kava is amazingly fresh and tasty as they grow it on the island. I’d definitely recommend a visit to Kadavu.

Your favourite things to do in Hong Kong?

If you want to see the world in one place, it is the Wan Chai district. But Hong Kong is also a great place to watch Rugby 7s, the atmosphere is amazing. Night shopping on Temple Street is also fun, cheap and cheerful.

Your favo urite things to do in Sydney?

The Harbour is amazing. I enjoy the Sydney Harbour boat cruise, also visiting Circular Quay during VIVID and watching the light show. Since there are no trains in Fiji, it is fun to jump on the train.

Top 3 travel essentials? Things you absolutely cannot travel without?

The essentials: phone, charger and running shoes that are comfortable to get around in. Comfortable light clothing and a Fiji jersey is always a must because I am a die-hard fan!

Any travel hacks?

Don’t pack unnecessary clothing especially if you intend to shop. Travel light as it’s easy to get around. A knapsack is a must for essentials and spare change of clothing.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

updates

VISITORS FROM THE NORDICS CAN NOW EXPLORE FIJI AND THE SOUTH PACIFIC MUCH MORE CONVENIENTLY. This after Fiji Airways and Finnair agreed on a new codeshare partnership between Helsinki (HEL) and Nadi (NAN) in Fiji via three gateways served by Finnair. Finnair’s AY code will be added to Fiji Airways’ flights between Hong Kong (HKG), Singapore (SIN), Narita (NRT) and Nadi, offering an exotic new destination for Finnair customers in the South Pacific. Finnair’s flight numbers will later be added also to Fiji’s flights between San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX) and Nadi subject to applicable government approvals. With this addition, it will now be possible for Finnair customers to complete an around-the-world routing with Finnair flight numbers.

TABUA CLUB PROGRAMME OFFERS MORE TO ITS MEMBERS

introducing our new

tabua club

discover our new travel app

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

Did you know? Tabua Club now offers an additional tier called Tabua Club Plus, which offers more benefits for members. This also includes a more convenient and improved mechanism for earning upgrade and status credits on both Fiji Airways and Fiji Link. To join this elite tier, Tabua Club members will maintain 20 or more status credits per membership year. For Tabua Club Plus members, additional benefits will include: • One guest complimentary across the Fiji Airways Lounge network • Access to additional lounges across the Fiji Airways oneworld connect global network • Priority check-in and priority boarding when flying with partners American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and Qantas • A reduced renewal annual membership fee together with an extra baggage allowance of up to 38kg in Economy and 55kg in Business Class For more information, please visit www.fijiairways.com

DOWNLOAD AND EXPERIENCE OUR FIJI AIRWAYS TRAVEL APP Guests can now manage their flight journey on the go with ease through their mobile devices. As part of the Airline’s ongoing initiative to enhance our customer experience (including for codeshare and interline guests), we are delighted to host new enhancements and features on our travel app. The enhancements and added features includes: • Ability to scan passport details which gets auto-filled • Option to scan payment credit card details which gets auto-filled • Third Party Ancillaries which includes car hire and hotel booking integration • Users can now share their trip details with whoever they want via an entry point on the My Trips screen. Once selected, the user can enter one or many email addresses for the people with whom they would like to share their trip itinerary details • Through Check-In Support which enables journeys that include partner airlines (i.e. interline and codeshare flight legs) The Fiji Airways App is available for free download from Google Play and App store.

sNapsHots

Crusaders unveil 2020 Away Kit

Our favourite Super Rugby team, the Crusaders unveiled their Fiji Airways-branded away kits for the 2020 season. The defending champions will wear this kit in away matches in Australia, Japan and South Africa this year. One of the most unique elements of this Adidas-produced jersey is that it is made with Parley Ocean Plastic, which is recycled plastic waste intercepted from beaches and coastal communities before it reaches the oceans. Mr. Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways Managing Director & CEO said: “This is a wonderful sustainability and conservation initiative that mirrors our own efforts to protect and preserve our environment. We do this through the reducing the amount of fuel we burn, removing plastic and saving water used to wash onboard items where possible, as well as planting a tree for every take off. Working with the Crusaders, we will bring further attention to our combined sustainability efforts.” Fiji Airways is the official airline of the Christchurch-based Crusaders – the most successful club in Super Rugby competition history.

Like the new kit? Visit https://shop.crusaders.co.nz/ to buy this or browse for more official Crusaders gear and merchandise.

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

fly well YOGA FOR AIRPLANES Airplanes and yoga don’t often mix. There’s nothing like a few hours in a restricted space to make your body feel tight and blocked. If you’re on a long haul flight, stretching out and relaxing is even more challenging. Try this in-flight yoga routine to help your body feel restored and rejuvenated during the flight. This way you’ll land with a relaxed body and mind.

MEDITATION Assume any comfortable seated position and straighten your spine. If you’re in a regular seat, scoot slightly forward to avoid rounding your back. Pivot into the hips and engage the pelvic floor. Close your eyes, bring your attention to your breath. Count your breath backward from ten. Repeat a few times. Then let your attention rest on the heart centre. Open your eyes.

SEATED SPINAL TWIST Keeping both sitting bones planted, pivot slightly forward into the hips. Inhale as you maximize the space between the vertebrae, exhale as you gently twist towards the right. Don’t over do it, just allow your spine to elongate. Use the hands to guide and support the movement. Gaze to the right. Stay for five breaths and repeat on the other wise.

SEATED LEG LIFTS Pivot slightly forward into your hips. Draw your right knee up into your chest and wrap your arms around your shin. Exhale as you extend your left leg as much as possible. Stay for five breaths. Reach under your thigh and wrap your arms around. Inhale as you suck in the lower abdomen. Exhale as you straighten the leg as much as accessible. Stay for five breaths, then repeat on the other aide. Next try both legs. Lean back on your sacrum and hug both knees into your chest. Tuck the head under and exhale as you round the back. Stay for five breaths. Either wrap the arms around your thighs or hold the feet. Inhale as your straighten the legs as much as accessible. Be aware of overhead space. Stay for five breaths.

TREE POSE From any standing position, Tree Pose is a great way to relieve pressure on your feet and work your balance. Try it while waiting in line or get up at any time and work your legs! Start off with you feet together. Inhale as you externally rotate your right hip joint and draw the right foot as close to your pelvis as possible. If the foot does not rise up above the knee, then keep it below the knee to avoid applying pressure on the knee. Activate your left leg and feel your balance from the pelvic floor. Either place your hands in prayer or place one hand on the wall to assist your balance. Gaze at the 90

FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

nose. Stay for five breaths and then repeat on the other side.

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FIJITIME | ISSUE 2 2020

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