As we looked off the boat towards a sea of endless islands, the awesome anticipation of my first Fijian adventure filled my entire body. Planning mainly to relax on white sandy beaches and experience the friendly Fijian culture, I was unaware of the many unique events that lay ahead. Savoring the familiar feeling of casual exploration and few expectations, we embarked upon our joyride around sunny, tropical Fiji.
Organizing our weeklong adventure in Fiji using the trusty Lonely Planet guide and compiling suggestions from friends, we decided to explore the outer island groups instead of the two main islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Fiji actually consists of more than 330 islands, only 100 of which are inhabited, so I figured there'd be ample opportunity to play on the beach in the tropical sunshine! I've heard wonderful things about the two main islands; they offer plenty of fantastic scenery with rivers and waterfalls cascading through large tropical mountains. The Coral Coast on Viti Levu, is known for its good surfing waves. Also, Taveuni Island, located just off the large northern island of Vanua Levu, has a world-class reputation for scuba diving. All of Fiji seems spectacular, but I felt like getting away from the vehicles and towns of the mainland, and onto the secluded white beaches of the remote islands.
Our first destination, Beachcomber Island in the Mamanuca Island Group, has a reputation for welcoming a fun and wild crowd (vs. the family holiday destinations.) After island hopping aboard the double-decker boat "Yasawa Flyer," we were greeted with flowers, tropical cocktails, and clear blue water. Wandering across sand and through a maze of paths amongst tropical vegetation, we discovered our tight, cozy and economical 100 person bunkhouse. After checking in (which took a long time since everyone and everything work incredibly slowly on the islands) it was comforting to find we were on the second level loft near a ceiling fan. Since the bunkhouse had a thatched roof and was open on all sides, warm tropical breezes graced us day and night.
Activities abounded on Beachcomber Island, including daily fish feeding and snorkeling on the gorgeous reefs that extend from the island. We took plenty of time to enjoy the different colored coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles that occasionally swam by in the warm, clear blue water. We went jet skiing above the underwater myriad and soared high above while parasailing and gaining spectacular views of the postcard-perfect island and reef. The activities are affordable and definitely worth it. Scuba diving and shark feeding are other tempting options. Everyone seemed to be enjoying lying on the beach and listening to the music of the island band flowing out from the bar - it was fantastic! After a day in the sun, evenings were filled with bar games such as crab races and trivia, tasty cocktails and wild dancing in the sand filled bar. It was so much fun that I HAD to spend an extra day on Beachcomber Island before heading north to Waya Island, in the Yasawa Group- what tough decisions!
Octopus Resort, my next destination, was set back in a clear bay and appeared to be the epitome of a relaxing, peaceful, tropical paradise. Snorkeling was fantastic, scuba diving and fishing were options for the adventurous guests, and there were some island hikes for the energetic explorers. After the amazing sunsets each night, all of the 30 or so guests sat down for a meal together and a quick nightcap before bed. No loud music, buffets, dancing or partying - just relaxing and unwinding. It was nice to experience the extreme differences between resorts and islands.
My first day at Octopus Resort was the perfect blend of coincidence and fate that created a very unique encounter. After meeting the resort owner and some of his friends, I was invited to the small neighboring Fijian village to join a kava ceremony with 6 men and women from the village. Kava is the traditional social drink made from roots of pepper trees. It's gritty and not very tasty, but leaves everyone calm and relaxed. During each kava ceremony a coconut shell is dipped into a large wooden bowl filled with kava and given to a member of the group. Each time someone finishes their kava, the group claps and the shell is refilled for the next person. After our kava ceremony, we joined a visiting boat of travelers on the lawn. About 20 villagers performed traditional songs and dances, as well as put on a craft display. Using broken English and gestures, I bought a few fans and shell jewelry from an older couple and was invited to the village the next morning to pick them up. It was a unique privilege to return when everyone was involved in their normal daily activities like cooking, fishing, making crafts, cleaning and caring for the livestock including pigs, chickens and dogs. On my way back to Octopus Resort, I discovered a waterfall whose stream connected to the sea. My walk was energizing and exhilarating, the warm wind blew across the hillsides of grasses and palms, and the magical views of the vast ocean, dotted with nearby islands and fisherman's boats, made me feel humbled and honored to be experiencing such a pristine place. There are so many unique things to do and places to explore in Fiji, from beaches, to mountains, to reefs to villages. Each place unfolds wonderful memories that make me never want to leave! Who would blame me - surf, sand, sun and fun, all in one - so many islands, so little time!
Exploring Fiji
Fiji is probably best known for its spectacular white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and native hospitality, but it is also the perfect place to experience an array of different adventure sports. No wonder Fiji was host to the 2002 Eco-Challenge, the premier adventure race competition.
Surfing
Fiji has some of the finest surfing on the planet. Tavarua is a small 30 acre island that is home to some of the best waves you'll find anywhere including such surf breaks as Restaurants and Cloudbreak. The surfing is world-class, but Tavarua is for experienced surfers, fairly expensive, and plans need to be made in advance. For more information contact: Tavarua Island Tours (805-865-4551) or Global Surf Travel (877-787-3872 or www.globalsurftravel.com). The main island of Viti Levu also produces some fine surf and may be more affordable and more accessible. Contact Fiji Reservations and Travel (888-447-3454 or www.fiji-islands.com)
Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking
Enjoy Class II to Class IV rafting through Viti Levu's lush rainforests and walls of black volcanic rock. O.A.R.S. is an outfitter that played an important role in facilitating the river component of the 2002 Eco-Challenge in Fiji. They have some spectacular rafting, kayaking, and multi-sport trips. Contact O.A.R.S. (800-346-OARS or www.oars.com) for more information.
Diving
Fiji has long been known for its world class diving and snorkeling. Just about every resort is going to have a program but we recommend Taveuni Estates Dive (866-217-DIVE or www.taveunidive.com) or check out other options through PADI at padi.com.
Trekking & Mountain Biking
Put on the hiking boots and get ready for some spectacular scenery and diversity of flora and fauna. Explore Koroyanitu National Heritage Park. Located near Abaca on Viti Levu. Camping is generally not permitted, but there is some affordable park lodging. For more information go to www.fijifvb.gov.fj. If you are interested in some adrenaline pumping mountain bike trips from the mountains to the beaches, check out Wacking Stick Adventure Tours. (www.wackingstickadventures.com) |
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