Bula from Fiji

I’ve always imagined that the islands in the South Pacific were so exotic - beautiful beaches, clear blue water, fruits in abundance, gentle breezes. Well I wasn’t wrong. We came here to celebrate our 50th anniversary with our family. Although we did celebrate in August, farming got in the way of doing anything too adventurous. So with 6 adults and a 2 and 4 year old we set off for Fiji for 6 days. 

The house we’ve rented is beyond my expectations. Four bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, large well equipped kitchen, pool, spacious decks etc etc. and the view is incredible. 

Our weather mostly has been a mix of sun and cloud, some occasional rain, and humid but with the breezes, tolerable.  We did watch a big storm roll by one afternoon.  

Umbrellas for shade. 

The staff that work here are so friendly (like we’ve found all Fijians to be) and George, who looks after the grounds and the pool, took the time to get down some coconuts and cut them open for Hartley. 

Fiji is an interesting country - tourism and agriculture are the main sources of income. Made up of about 300 islands. Life here seems pretty relaxed. Not overcrowded, lots to do. Would recommend.

Just down the hill is a public beach with a jetty that goes out about 100 feet. Good area for snorkelling too -  might have to try it.

Sugar cane is still an industry here.  There is an old railroad that used to carry the sugar cane from the field to the processing  plant and it has been converted to a tourist attraction called Ecotrax.  They have built these electric bikes the run along the tracks. We were fortunate to get a spot since we were on a waiting list even though I tried booking in October. There are 2 bikes side by side, which are pedal assist, and we cruised through beautiful forests, over rivers, through villages, to an amazing beach. About half way there it started to rain and we were 'able to experience' a Fiji downpour. They had ponchos for us but we were mostly soaking wet by the time we got to the beach. We stopped for a bit, had fruit, then headed back into another rainstorm.  Super fun though.

The only complaint we have is that we were just a couple of weeks too late for mango season. So we’ve had to settle for delicious pineapple, papaya, and those little, sweet bananas. 

We feel very fortunate that we’re able to spend this time with our family (and that they want to spend time with us!) and in case you’re wondering, in the highlight reel of my life, this trip will be included.