Family Adventure on Fiji's Coral Coast

Finding the Heart of Fiji on the Coral Coast

Today was all about diving deeper into the Fijian spirit, embracing the warmth of its people, and savoring the tastes that make this island nation so unique. It’s days like these that remind me why I love returning to my homeland, and why I’m so eager to share these experiences with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vale Ni Kana. The name itself, meaning life in the village, promised an authentic start, and it certainly delivered. As someone who grew up on these islands, I always appreciate a good, traditional Fijian breakfast. It’s a taste of nostalgia that sets the tone for the day. Mere and Sailosi particularly enjoyed the fresh tropical fruits. I savored the cassava, reminiscing about my childhood in Navua, where cassava was a staple at every meal.


Discover diverse flavors at Vale Ni Kana Buffet Restaurant in Korotogo, Fiji - where culinary excellence meets tropical charm.

After breakfast, we set out to meet up with Iconic Tours Fiji. I was keen to explore the Coral Coast through the eyes of a local expert. I've always believed that the best way to truly understand a place is to connect with its people and hear their stories. Iconic Tours came highly recommended, and I was eager to see what they had to offer. We had booked a local Fiji Tour, hoping to immerse ourselves in the culture and hidden gems of the Coral Coast. I remember when I first came to Vancouver, how much I missed the familiar faces and the easy-going nature of Fijians; tours like these help me share that warmth with my family.


Explore Fiji's breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures with Iconic Tours Fiji – your ultimate travel companion.

“The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.”

The tour was everything I had hoped for and more. Our guide, a jovial Fijian with an infectious laugh, shared stories of the land and its people, painting a vivid picture of Fijian life. We visited a local village, where we participated in a traditional kava ceremony. For those unfamiliar, kava is a drink made from the root of the yaqona plant, and it plays a central role in Fijian culture. It's more than just a drink; it's a symbol of respect, unity, and connection. As we sat in a circle, sharing the kava and engaging in conversation, I felt a profound sense of belonging, a reconnection with my roots.

Sailosi was particularly fascinated by the preparation of the kava, peppering our guide with questions about the plant and its significance. It warmed my heart to see him so engaged with his heritage. Mere, ever the nurturer, appreciated the sense of community and the shared experience.

For lunch, we stopped at Olive Tree Yadua, a restaurant that prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. I was eager to try their Fijian cuisine, and I wasn't disappointed. The flavors were vibrant and authentic, a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Fiji. We savored dishes like Kokoda (Fijian ceviche) and Lovo (food cooked in an underground oven), each bite a reminder of the traditional meals I enjoyed growing up.


Discover the taste of Fiji at Olive Tree Yadua – where local flavors meet global cuisine in an idyllic Coral Coast setting.

Mere, always health-conscious, appreciated the restaurant's commitment to fresh ingredients and sustainable practices. Sailosi, on the other hand, was simply happy to indulge in the delicious food. I must admit, seeing him enjoy the Lovo as much as I do made me incredibly proud.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Craig's Place Diner FIJI for dinner. This retro-style diner, located in Maui Bay, offered a delightful contrast to the traditional Fijian cuisine we had enjoyed earlier in the day. Craig's Place is known for its burgers and wraps, but it’s their fish and chips that everyone raves about. And rightly so! The portions were generous, the fish was perfectly crispy, and the chips were seasoned just right. It was the perfect comfort food to end a day filled with cultural immersion.


Discover authentic Fijian cuisine at Craig's Place Diner along Coral Coast – where every meal is a taste of paradise.

The diner had a lively, welcoming atmosphere, and we found ourselves chatting with fellow travelers and locals alike. It was a great way to connect with people from different backgrounds and share our experiences of Fiji. I even ran into an old friend from Navua, a chance encounter that filled me with joy and reminded me of the close-knit community I grew up in.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out The Hive, a local bar known for its vibrant atmosphere. While I'm not much of a partier these days, I thought it would be a fun experience for Sailosi to see a different side of Fijian culture. The Hive was buzzing with energy, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the music and the lively ambiance. I stuck to a Fiji Bitter, while Mere enjoyed a tropical cocktail. Sailosi, of course, opted for a soft drink, but he was just as thrilled to soak in the atmosphere.


Discover The Hive, Nadi's vibrant bar where refreshing drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.

As we sat there, listening to the music and watching the people, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's moments like these that make all the hard work and sacrifices worthwhile. Being able to reconnect with my roots and share that connection with my loved ones is a gift beyond measure.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. I've heard so much about its beauty, and I'm eager to explore its tranquil landscapes with Mere and Sailosi. We will start our day with breakfast at Stallion Fastfood, have lunch at Sailor's Beach Fiji Restaurant and Bar, and end the day with dinner at The Tipsy Italian (FIJI). We are also planning to visit My Fiji Store for some souvenir shopping. I'm particularly excited to see Sailosi's reaction to the orchids. He's always had a fascination with plants, and I know he'll be captivated by the Garden's vibrant colors and exotic species.

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing our heritage and sharing it with future generations. Fiji is more than just a beautiful destination; it's a place with a rich culture, a warm heart, and a spirit that stays with you long after you've left its shores. And as I continue this journey with my family, I'm determined to uncover even more of its hidden treasures and share them with all of you.

I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to show Sailosi the beauty of Fiji, to instill in him a sense of pride in his heritage. It's a legacy I hope he will carry with him always, no matter where life takes him. I want him to remember the taste of Lovo, the sound of the kava ceremony, and the warmth of the Fijian people. These are the memories that will shape him, that will connect him to his roots, and that will make him a true son of Fiji.

And as for Mere, I am grateful for her unwavering support and her willingness to embrace my culture. She has always been my rock, my confidante, and my partner in this journey. Together, we are building a life that honors our past while embracing the future.

So, until tomorrow, Moce mada (goodbye for now) from the Coral Coast. May your day be filled with warmth, laughter, and a deep connection to your own roots.