A few weeks ago - on a Wednesday - James came to me and asked what I was upto over the weekend. I thought he was going to ask me over for dinner or something like that. Instead he asked me if I could go to Fiji for the weekend to attend the Fiji Business Excellence Awards.
I was a little surprised, but after speaking to Clare I agreed to go. I had never been to Fiji before. A rushed weekend trip wasn't the best way to experience a country, but I got a taste of it nevertheless.
I left Sydney on a 7am flight on Saturday and landed in Nadi early in the afternoon Fiji time. I was met by George at the airport and climbed into his taxi for the 4 hour drive to Nadi. I had the option of catching an internal flight on a small plane, but I wasn't brave enough. The drive was pleasant and I got to see some of the countryside.
We stopped a few times on the way. George bought local produce on the way including mangoes and prawns. We also stopped for lunch. I took the safe option and had fried chicken and chips. It was delicious, the Colonel would be green with envy.
After the long drive I had 1 hour to refresh myself before the conference. I had a great room on the ground floor, but little time to enjoy it. The french windows opened onto a small terrace and the water was lapping onto the wall. I was exhausted, but quickly got changed and went across the road to the function hall.
I was seated at one of the head tables with some prominent local and foreign guests. The guest of honour was Commodore Bainimarama - Fiji's military ruler - who was seated about 2 metres away from me. I was surprised to see that security was quite relaxed. There were no metal detectors, no soldiers toting guns and only one bodyguard discretely seated behind the Commodore. In most other countries in the world, security would be a heavy and menacing. Not in Fiji, there is no need. Violence isn't really part of the culture. A surprising statement considering the number of coups in the recent past. However, when you think about it, there was minimal bloodshed during the political strife.
The night was fantastic. I was exhausted, but I managed to enjoy myself nevertheless. The food was delicious and my only regret was that I didn't get to try Kava. I didn't linger too late and left soon after the dancing began. After a short three hour sleep, it was time to get picked up by George for the 4 hour drive back to Nadi.
I got back to Sydney just after lunch on the Sunday. I had spent a total of 20 hours in Fiji, a big part of it in a car. Despite my lightning visit, I can see why it appeals to a lot of tourists. The streets feel safe, the people are friendly, the weather is hot and the water looked glorious.
Photo originally uploaded by smin.
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