What to Expect when traveling to Fiji & Taveuni

Patrick & Erika www.raiwasa.com Introduction

Exotic. Colorful. Vibrant. Friendly. Gracious.

Fiji has been described as every- one’s favorite South Pacific country and Taveuni is one of its most ap- pealing islands.

Spectacular is a word that’s often used to describe the landscape from the palm-fringed shores and coral reefs to the lush, forested mountains.

Once upon a time Fiji was identi- fied as the “Cannibal Isles.” Today visitors will discover a warm, hos- pitable welcome that makes it the friendliest place on Earth. Explore Fiji and Taveuni for the experience of a lifetime.

Bula!

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 2 Taveuni Fiji Known as the Garden Island, Taveuni, Fiji’s third largest island, is acclaimed for its lush, South of the Hawaiian Islands and multi-colored vegetation with about sixty percent of the land being tropical rainforest. North of New Zealand and Australia Its warm crystal-clear waters, soft and hard coral reefs and exotic marine life have lies the nation of Fiji, a scattering earned it a well-deserved reputation as a spectacular diving destination. of over 300 islands mostly formed On land, Taveuni offers equally stunning experiences with guided hikes through through volcanic eruptions millions remote villages to awe-inspiring, cascading waterfalls and natural water slides. Enjoy of years ago. participating in traditional Fijian cultural ceremonies. Whether you simply want to kick-back and relax or explore an incredibly diverse island, Taveuni has something The country enjoys a perfect South for everyone. Sea tropical climate with average winter temperatures ranging be- tween 20º-26ºC (68º-80ºF) and a summer average between 23º-30ºC (73º-86ºF). Pollution free, Fiji boasts some of the cleanest air and purest water in the world.

Fiji gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1970 but remains a member of the British Commonwealth. English is the com- monly-spoken language while the native tongue is Fijian and the Indi- an population speaks Hindi.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 3 Fiji’s History and Culture

The coming together of the Melanesians and the Polynesians created a highly developed society in Fiji long before Eu- ropeans accidentally discovered the is- lands.

Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman, was the first to encounter Fiji in 1643 followed by English navigators such as Captain James Cook who sailed through in 1774. Major credit for the discovery and recording of the islands, though, went to Captain William Bligh who traversed the area after the infamous mutiny on the Bounty in 1789. As missionaries gained influence the practice of cannibalism disappeared.

After Fiji was ceded to Great Britain in 1874, epidemics nearly wiped out the population only to be saved by measures introduced by the colonial government.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 4 The 20th century brought about im- portant economic changes in Fiji which has developed a major sugar industry and established productive copra milling, tourism and secondary industries. Fiji has been an independent country since 1970.

Cannibalism

So, what’s the story on cannibal- ism? Many years ago the islands of Fiji were referred to as the “Canni- bal Isles.” And with good reason. Cannibalism was an extremely popu- lar practice.

The natives ate shipwrecked crew who washed up on their shores as they were said to have been aban- Government doned by the gods and cursed. They also ate the flesh of enemies they Fiji is a peaceful democracy and it is unlikely visitors will encounter any political unrest. conquered. The ultimate revenge! But it hasn’t always been that way. One chief is reputed to have eaten 872 people. It was a part of every- Fiji became independent in 1970 following nearly a century as a British colony. Since day life but cannibalism died (!) out then democratic rule has been interrupted by several military coups and a number of in the late 1800s as the result of the unelected administrations. As a result Fiji was suspended from the British Common- growing influence of Christianity. wealth in September 2009 but reinstated in 2014 after democratic elections won by Frank Bainimarama’s Fiji First party.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 5 Economy

Tourism and sugar production are key to the financial wellbeing of Fiji. But its economy is somewhat more diverse than that. There is the mining of gold and silver; a strong services sector; and some light manufacturing, primarily garments. And don’t forget coconut and Fiji water production.

You’ll get a warm welcome in Fiji because Sugar is more profitable, though, with a Religion tourism represents one-sixth of the coun- quarter of the population relying on this try’s economy and three-quarters of its staple for its livelihood. About a quar- Christianity began to gain a foothold in Fiji export earnings. More than half a million ter of a million metric tons of the stuff is starting with the visits of missionaries in visitors grace the shores of Fiji every sent each year to the UK, Japan and else- the 1830s. About 53 percent of the popula- year—twice as many as go to the French where providing direct or indirect jobs tion identifies as Christian; about 34 per- Polynesian islands. for 45,000 folk. cent are Methodist and 7 percent Catholic while evangelical Christian churches are Language very much in the ascendancy.

Sunday remains a day of religious obser- English spoken here! It’s the second official language of the country and spoken vation when many businesses close. Take by just about everyone you’re likely to meet. All signs and forms are in English. the time to attend a Sunday service and Native Fijians speak Fijian and Indo-Fijians speak Fiji-Indi. There are about 300 you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by the regional varieties of Fijian. Make the effort to learn and use a few common words rich, enthusiastic voices of the choir and and you’ll fid it’s much appreciated by the locals.(See list at the end of this book.) congregation.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 6 Village Etiquette

Bula. That’s the word you’ll probably hear most often as you travel around Fiji. It’s the national greeting that covers just about everything from hello to goodbye, welcome and good morning…well you get the message. It’s customary to smile when you meet a stranger and exchange this kind of greeting.

Fijian villages are private property—so treat them and their people with respect. Don’t go running around a village until someone greets you and escorts you to a village leader to whom you present a small offering (a “sevusevu”). Even then Men sit cross-legged; women with legs you will be assigned a guide. stretched out or knees up. And be sure Dress code is that modesty pre- not to point your legs at either the chief or vails. Men should wear shirts and If you want to picnic, surf or fish by a the bowl of kava. Kava is regarded as the women should make sure their village you should also get permission. national drink and is partaken with great shoulders and thighs are covered. ceremony. (It also has a middle sedative— Take off any shoes or sandals you are some say euphoric—effect). Don’t point. Don’t raise your wearing before entering a bure—the voice. Don’t enthuse about some- wood and straw huts. And stoop as you In the villages only the chiefs are allowed one’s possession—they might feel walk around inside. Shake hands with to wear hats. And don’t carry items such obligated to give it to you. your hosts. Clap your hands three times as backpacks and cameras slung over if you want to join others already sitting your shoulders—it’s proper to hold them Alcohol is a no-no. on mats. in your hands.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 7 Traditional Food and Drink

The traditional Fijian diet consists of root crops and fruit as well as fish from the ocean and sometimes pork.

Vegetables include taro, cassava, breadfruit, yams, and sweet pota- toes. The latter originated in South America and how it got to Fiji re- mains a mystery.

The ancient Pacific Islanders came up with an extremely clever way of cooking in an underground earth oven—a “lovo.”

Traditional food is usually steamed or boiled. Indo-Fijian dishes are usually spicy.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 8 Climate

Temperatures

Thanks to the influence of the surround- ing waters Taveuni experiences only modest changes in temperature through- out the year. The maximum temperature ranges from an average of 26º-30º C (80º-86º F) and an average minimum tem- perature range is 20º-23º C (68º-73º F). The coolest months are July and August and the warmest months are January and February. The weather is tropical all year round, with only two seasons, wet and dry. Dry runs from May to November. Wa- ter temperature remains at around 26º C (80º F) all year round.

Winds

Trade winds blow from the east to the south-east and are generally light or moderate. Strong winds are not at all common and when they occur (mostly be- tween June and November) do so through channels and around the headlands.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 9 For Nature Lovers Tides Fauna and Flora Tidal range throughout the sea- sons is very small—just 1.1m (3.6ft). It’s easy to see how Taveuni lives up to its Spring tides are higher high tides nickname of The Garden Island. It’s an ar- and lower low tides and occur every chetypically beautiful tropical island, thick fourteen days at the full moon and with vegetation and resplendent with trop- new moon. Neap tides, which occur ical flowers. Much of the island is pristine during the first and third quarters rainforest, around 80 percent of which is of the moon, have less variation. protected by forest reserve and the Bou- They’re lower high tides and higher ma National Heritage Park. low tides. The mean range of neap tides is 0.9m (2.9ft) and spring tides reach 1.3m (4.2ft).

Rainfall

Those Trade Winds also account for an average of 2600mm (102”) of rainfall per annum around Matei (our location on Taveuni) through to 4500mm (177”) in the highlands. Most of it comes in the rainy season. The wettest month is usually March and the driest month is July. When the rain hits it usually comes in heavy and brief local showers and thunderstorms.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 10 Birdlife

Taveuni also boasts an eye-catching array of birdlife with about 80 species of terrestrial and freshwater birds. Fortunately, unlike other Fijian islands, Taveuni escaped the introduction of the mongoose, so birds that have vanished else- where still thrive here. You’ll see red-breasted red parrots, honeyeaters, silk- tails, fern-tails, goshawks, and orange-breasted doves. You can also expect to catch sight of the jungle fowl, banded rail and purple swamp hen. And don’t forget the Fiji flying fox and mastiff bat. Marine Habitat

Taveuni’s Waitabu Marine Reserve is a vibrant reef dedicated for the benefit of snorkel tourism and environmental education. It’s close to the Indo-Pacific center of coral reefs which holds the world’s greatest concentration of marine biodiversity.

At Waitabu you can see nearly 300 species of hard coral and nearly 1,200 species of reef fish including the hard to miss three- to-six foot Humphead, with its bright elec- tric blue, green and yellow coloring.

After many years of overfishing and damag- ing fishing methods, a successful breed- ing ground has now been developed for the giant clam.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 11 Arts and Entertainment

Fijian Dancing (Meke)

The Fijians know how to have a good time. It’s exemplified in Meke—a combo song and dance and theatrical performance that is the highlight of feasts and special events. The war club dance celebrates courageous historical events. The Fijian men—with charcoal faces and wielding spears—wear frangipani leis and skirts of shredded leaves. Yagona Ceremony (Kava)

You’ll probably be exposed to this ceremonial happening—especially when you visit Fijian villages. Kava derives from the dried root of the pepper plant and while it is non-alcoholic, it has a tranquilizing effect. It numbs the tongue and the lips. The full ritual is performed only for the high chiefs—but you can get a shorthand version in many resorts.

Fire-Walking

This is another cultural ritual not to be missed! Watch as they dance through a pit of blazing embers and emerge unscathed at the other end. In the old days firewalkers had to abstain from sex (and not eat coconut!) for as long as a month before the fire-walking ceremony. We don’t think that rule applies today as fire-walkers perform all year round.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 12 Arts and Crafts and Sports

Pottery Making

It’s thought that the Lapita people intro- duced the art of pottery-making to Fiji more than 3,000 years ago. Today, some potters still follow the ancient techniques battering pots into shape using wood- en paddles. The potter’s wheel was not known in the Pacific. The pots, by the way, are extremely fragile.

Tapa Cloth Woven Goods You’ll see Tapa cloth everywhere as it’s Fiji’s most characteristic traditional prod- You’ll also find that woven good are readily available. The most common is Pandanus uct. Its base is the inner bark of the mul- fiber but sago palm, coconut leaf, banana stems and water weeds are all turned into berry, peeled from the tree and soaked a wide range of products. in water. Don’t miss seeing the women on Vatulele Island off Taveuni produce all Spectator Sports manner of red and black colored items— tablecloths, wall hangings, place mats, Fijians are sport-mad. In particular, they love the game of rugby union—both the etc. Chances are you’ll take something version with 15 players and the one with seven players a side. The “Flying Fijians,” the made of Tapa cloth home with you. national sevens team, is one of the best in the world and have won two world titles. Soccer and cricket are also popular.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 13 Health and Safety Health Care

Travel Insurance There are many health centers, hospitals and nursing stations It is a good idea to take travel insurance that covers your airfare and accommodation throughout Fiji. Government–run as most resorts have a non-refundable policy if cancelled within sixty days of travel. facilities are free to residents and Make sure it includes emergency medical evacuation. Activities such as scuba diving, have special rates for visitors. But parasailing and surfing are often excluded so please check. they’re very busy. Your best bet is to opt instead for a private doctor or clinic which is not going to be any more expensive for you. If you need an ambulance call 911.

Treating Wounds

If you get cut or scratched treat it seriously. Cuts can turn septic quite quickly in the tropics and take longer to heal. Immedi- ately clean wounds with soap and fresh water. Then rub in vinegar or alcohol. And for good measure apply antiseptic and antibacterial ointments.

An antiseptic is good to have for bites and burns as well. Aloe vera is always an excel- lent standby by for sunburn and scratches. Of course, if you liberally apply a high- factor sunscreen you should be able to avoid sunburn in the first place.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 14 Dengue Fever Some specific local situations:

Dengue fever is a mosquito-born disease • If you visit the capital city of Suva you might encounter some overly-friendly that does exist and can last between five men who get your name, carve it on a mask in no time and demand four and fifteen days. Symptoms are head- times the price you could pay for it at a local shop. (The bizarre masks and aches, sore throat, fever, chills, nausea swords they offer, by the way, have nothing to do with Fiji.) and pain in the joints as well as a rash. The only treatment is to rest in bed and drink plenty of water until it passes. (But, • Avoid anyone asking you to give them a F$50 for two F$20’s and one F$10. don’t worry. You won’t get it.) They’ll switch notes on you. You might also get a warm welcome in local bars where the drinkers expect you to cough up for their drinks and snacks. Safety First That’s OK as long as you don’t get too embroiled and you know when it’s time to leave. You should take the same kind of precau- tions that you take when traveling any- where on Earth. But take heart in the fact • Also, if you’re scuba diving or swimming in certain areas you might find that Fiji is not known as a dangerous des- local people demand to be paid for the privilege. Know that all of the tination—not at all. beaches and reefs are owned by the state and they don’t have the right to do this, so—just extricate yourself without a fuss. Do the obvious: dress conservatively, stick to busy and well-lit streets at night; stay alert and conscious of your surroundings; Note: don’t get drunk; wear a money belt. While the above can happen on some of the islands it won’t happen in Taveuni.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 15 Time and Money Communica- The Meaning Of Time tions Fiji time is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) plus twelve hours. What’s that mean for an American visitor? When it is midday in Fiji it is 4:00 pm the day before in Los Angeles; Phone i.e. Fiji is twenty hours ahead of Los Angeles. Check with your cell phone carrier But know that when you’re in Fiji time is not the same as in the states—Fijians operate what deals you can get when travel- on “coconut time”—the pace of life is slower, service is casual, and appointments don’t ing overseas. You can also buy tele- happen “on time.” Relax and enjoy! You’re on the islands of Fiji—not Manhattan. phone cards in Fiji from post offices The Meaning Of Money and many of the shops. Phone calls from hotel rooms can get expensive. The Fijian currency is the Fiji dollar. You can get the current exchange rate by visit- Internet ing www.xe.com. One side of the notes has a photo of Her Majesty the Queen of Fiji has long held a reputation for England, as Fiji is still part of the British being the most advanced country in Commonwealth. It’s a stable currency. the South Pacific for Internet access. The exchange rate in April 2016 was ap- Internet cafes offer inexpensive proximately US$1 = F$2.06. Most banks rates on a per-hour basis. Even have ATMs but be aware of the charges. remote islands now provide access. And carry sufficient Fijian cash—especially if you go to the outer islands. The ability Many mid-range and above quality to use your credit card is not guaranteed. hotels have WiFi connections.

Electricity

You’ll probably need a converter (and adapter). Get them before you leave home. Fiji uses 240 AC voltage with three pin power points.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 16 Taveuni Island Activities Travel Tips Scuba Diving

Taking The Kids With You Many visitors are drawn to Taveuni Island simply because it is home to some of the best diving spots on the planet and is known as “the soft coral capital of the world.” Fiji is family-friendly! They love kids. And you’ll find many hotels and re- Each of Taveuni’s numerous dive sites delivers a unique experience exploring sorts offer good discounts for chil- multicolored reefs and stunning varieties of marine life. Choose from Rainbow Reef, dren. The country is one big play- The Great White Wall, Annie’s Bommie, The Ledge, Yellow Grotto, The Purple Wall, The ground for kids. Zoo, The Fish Factory—and more—for an unforgettable encounter of a lifetime. Get up close to manta rays, barracudas, white tip sharks, large groupers, sea turtles, moray Solo Women eels, long nose hawk fish, leopard sharks—and more.

If you want to be left alone dress conservatively and stay focused with an air of determination. There are few problems for solo women travelers in Fiji, especially in Tav- euni—certainly a lot less than many other countries. But, no matter where you go in the world, it always makes sense to be careful. The only snag is that a western woman might find plenty of proposals of marriage!

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 17 Choose a challenging dive or a more relaxing dive. The premier dive operator in Taveuni caters to all levels of experience and only uses the latest dive equipment and the services of friendly and highly- trained PADI instructors.

Hiking

Take a trip to the Bouma National Heritage Park. This important nature reserve in the northeast of the island offers a beautiful rainforest where you can walk to the three incredible waterfalls of Bouma Falls.

Thrill to the sights and sounds of rare tropical birds as you make your way through the exotic plant life. It’s just a ten minute walk that doesn’t require much effort to reach the first waterfall. Reaching the second waterfall is a little demanding, but is rewarded with fabulous views and the opportunity to swim and picnic along the way. The upper waterfall necessitates a further thirty to forty minutes hike, but leaves no-one disappointed.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 18 Waitabu Marine Park

Awarded the “International British Airways Eco-Tourism Award”—for good reason. The Waitabu Villagers provide an extremely warm welcome beginning with morning tea and a fascinating cultural experience of Fijian village life.

Your visit includes a trip up the river on a traditional bamboo “Bilibili” raft, snorkeling in the marine reserve, kava ceremony, local island dance and song. The villagers are rightly proud of the heritage they have worked so hard to preserve and share and you are asked to participate by dressing modestly and covering your legs. While in the village it is also a sign of respect to remove your hat and sunglasses. The Lavena Coastal Walk (and Kayak)

You can’t leave Taveuni without making your way to Lavena, the furthest point you can venture on the eastern side of the island. You can walk in and out and kayak (or take a boat) there and walk back for a truly memorable day out.

Your walk begins on a white sandy beach with rock pools. You ford rivers, cross a suspension bridge, marvel at the rushing waterfalls and pass Naba village, still inhabited by descendents of “blackbirded” Solomon Islanders. The walk is about ninety minutes each way.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 19 Wairiki Mission Church

Just a kilometer away is the pic- turesque Catholic mission—a large stone church with stained glass and acclaimed sculptures making it the most architecturally interesting building on the island. You won’t see any pews, though. The congregation sits on the floor Fijian-style. Visit on a Sunday to hear singing that will live in your mind forever.

The International Date Line

There are few land masses in the world that are crossed by the International Date Line—the 180 degree Meridian Line—and Taveuni is one of them.

So it’s safe to say that each new day starts here. Mark the occasion by a visit to this famous landmark at an elevated view- point at Waiyevo.

Photo opportunity!

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 20 Waitavala Natural Waterslide Black Pearl Farm Tour

Another of the island’s striking natural Recognized all over the world for their specific natural colors, Fijian pearls are beauties and a lot of fun especially after the most sought after pearls in the world. You want black pearls? You’ll find them heavy rains. Set in the midst of beautiful on Taveuni. But, also, there are pearls in amazing colors of gold, blue, green, pink, tropical foliage. Try to visit on the week- champagne, blue, chocolate and cranberry that are unique to the CIVA Pearl Farm ends or during school holidays when the in the Wailoa Lagoon. local kids can show you how it’s done.

Vidawa Forest Walk Visit the pearl farm and you’ll see the nursery where the mature oysters are harvested and a guide will explain the whole process.

If you’re feeling fit and up for a full-day excursion put the Vidawa Forest Walk on your ‘must-do’ list.

Taking an experienced and knowledgeable guide you’ll start with a scenic drive to Vidawa village before embarking on a rigorous hike that’s suitable for regular walkers and not the faint of heart. Along the trail you’ll see the sites of historic fortified villages, enjoy spectacular views of the coast and outer islands, and get an education about the abundant flora and fauna. Your reward at the end is a refreshing swim in the waters of the Bouma Falls.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 21 Getting There

Getting To Fiji

Look at Fiji’s location on a world map and you could be forgiven for thinking that it’s a remote hard-to- get-to destination. But it’s not. Fiji’s national airline, Fiji Airways, has regular flights from major interna- tional cities in the Unites States, Australia, New Zealand and else- where. Other airlines such as Air New Zealand, Korean Air, Virgin Australia, Air Niugini, Air Vanuatu and Jetstar all have flights into Nadi International Airport, the main gateway into the country. You can board a flight in the evening in L.A. Getting to Taveuni and wake up in the morning to start a new day in Fiji. Upon arrival you’ll From the international airport of Nadi to the island of Taveuni is just a one hour twenty- find that you will probably be auto- five minute flight that’s an experience in itself with its bird’s eye view of scenic outer matically given a four-month visa. islands and the sparkling waters of the South Pacific. Fiji Link and Air Fiji operate daily No special application is required— flights in both directions to and from Taveuni. you just need a passport that is valid for at least six months before For a truly memorable transfer treat yourself and make the final leg of your journey by your planned departure date from private plane or helicopter. Check out: the country. • Pacific Island Air http://www.pacificislandair.com • Island Hoppers http://www.helicopters.com.fj

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 22 Basic Fijian Phrases Au saa liu mada – See you later Au tabaki iko mada -- Can I take your Most people you’ll meet in Fiji speak good English. But you’ll find that the locals really photo? appreciate it if you’ve made an effort to learn a few words of Fijian. Note that there are Bula – A Fijiian greeting, popularly no sounds equivalent to the English b, c and d sounds. The sound “mb” is written b, used “nd” is d, “ng” is g, “ngg” is q and “th” is c. Bure – A Fijian thatched house Dary lako! – Let’s go Dua – One E sega ni macalaIo – Yes Kana – Eat Kauta mai – Bring Kocei na yacamu? – What’s your name? Koro – Village Lailai – Small Levu – Big, much Maleka – Delicious Moce – Goodbye Na cava oqo? – What is this? Ni sa moce – Goodnight Ni sa yadra – Good morning Oilei – Help Qiria na vuniwai – Call the doctor Rua – Two Sa vinaka – It’s OK Tale – Once more Tolu – Three Vale lailai – Toilet Vinaka – Thank you Wai – Water Yadra – Good morning Yalo vinaka – Please

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 23 What we really wanted was a place About the authors forgotten by time, where people were not materialistic, and had barely been touched by modern “civilization.” And where their highest value is happiness.

We found the place and built the expe- rience! It’s called Raiwasa Grand Villa and it’s a 5-star luxury retreat undisputedly not only one of the most luxurious villas in the whole of Fiji, but also one of the world’s most exclusive hideaways. A dream home in a dream location for a dream vacation or honeymoon.

If you are looking for an experience of a My name is Patrick. I’m French-Swiss and American. My wife, Erika, is Swedish. Our lifetime make your way to the website children, Oskar and Estelle, were born and raised in the United States and Europe, and www.raiwasa.com or email us at Patrick@ are tri-lingual. We’re an international family and we’ve traveled extensively. raiwasa.com or [email protected]. Men- tion this eBook for a special gift. As successful entrepreneurs who founded, managed and then sold several medical companies, we worked hard, really hard—even sacrificing time with our children to gain Whether as our hosts or with someone material comforts. Our wake-up call was losing very close friends to cancer (this book else we hope you come to Taveuni Island is dedicated to them and to others whose life slipped away too early). It made us stop, and experience Paradise (that’s not a take a long, hard look at our lives, and decide we weren’t going to wait for our retirement cliché). years to start living life. Instead, we took a year off and, as a family, traveled the world. I home-schooled every morning while Erika planned our trip and outings. Bula and Carpe Diem. Patrick and Erika As you can imagine we covered a lot of ground in a year. We spent a lot of time in hotels, resorts, and rental homes (not to mention boats, planes and automobiles). Dedicated to : Christian Rodriguez and Lena In fact, we spent a lot of time in 5-star hotels and resorts. But they just didn’t seem Onakil who started us off on this wonderful genuine to us. Most places felt manufactured, manipulated and corporate. journey of life, love and freedom.

What to Expect when traveling to Fiji and Taveuni 24 www.raiwasa.com