A Family Journey to Levuka: Rediscovering Our Fijian Heritage

Island Adventures: Waterfalls and Passages

Today was a day of embracing the natural beauty surrounding Levuka. After settling in with family, it was time to explore beyond the town's historical streets. I was excited to see what hidden gems Ovalau Island had to offer, and today's itinerary promised just that – a refreshing waterfall and a serene passage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ivans Hot Bread Kitchen & Cafe. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, a comforting scent that reminded me of the bakeries back home in Navua. I ordered a couple of pastries and some strong Fijian coffee. Sailosi was particularly thrilled with his coconut bun, a sweet treat that fueled him up for the day’s adventures. Mere opted for a savory pie, and we all enjoyed the cozy atmosphere before heading out.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to Waitovu Waterfall. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the coastline. It felt good to be away from the town for a bit, immersing ourselves in the island's natural beauty. The closer we got, the more excited Sailosi became, his eyes wide with anticipation. As we drove, I thought about my childhood in Navua, where days were often spent exploring the outdoors. I wanted Sailosi to have similar memories, a deep connection to the land and its wonders.

The walk to Waitovu Waterfall was relatively easy, even for little legs. The path was well-trodden, and the sounds of the jungle were incredibly soothing. Birds chirped melodies I’d never heard before, and the air was thick with the scent of tropical flowers. When we finally reached the waterfall, it was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The water cascaded down the rocks into a clear, inviting pool. Without hesitation, Sailosi stripped down to his swimming trunks and plunged into the cool water. Mere and I followed suit, relishing the refreshing spray on our skin.


Experience the natural beauty and serenity of Waitovu Waterfall in Vuma, Fiji—a hidden gem surrounded by lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.

To truly experience a place, you must allow yourself to be immersed in its natural beauty, letting the rhythm of nature guide your soul.

We spent a good couple of hours at Waitovu Waterfall, swimming, taking photos, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the place. Sailosi discovered a natural water slide, squealing with delight as he slid down the smooth rocks into the pool. Mere and I sat on a large boulder, watching him play and feeling grateful for this moment of family bonding. It was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a chance to reconnect with each other and with nature.

After our refreshing dip, we dried off and headed back to Levuka, our next destination being Nalulu Passage. This time, we opted for a boat ride from the Levuka Wharf, a decision that proved to be a great one. The boat ride offered stunning views of the coastline, allowing us to see Levuka from a different perspective. The colorful storefronts and historical buildings looked even more charming from the water, framed by the lush green hills behind them.

As we approached Nalulu Passage, I was struck by the serenity of the place. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding mangroves created a sense of peaceful seclusion. We spent the afternoon exploring the passage, marveling at the vibrant marine life and the intricate ecosystems of the mangroves. Sailosi was particularly fascinated by the colorful fish darting in and out of the coral reefs. I tried my best to explain to him about the importance of preserving these delicate environments, hoping to instill in him a sense of responsibility towards nature.


Discover the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Nalulu Passage, a nature preserve in Tokuo, Fiji, perfect for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.

Before heading back, we took a moment to simply sit and soak in the beauty of Nalulu Passage. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water. It was a magical moment, one that I knew we would all remember for a long time. The tranquility of the place washed over me, a sense of peace and contentment that I hadn’t felt in a while. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, savoring the moment and feeling grateful for this opportunity to reconnect with my heritage.

For lunch, we stopped by Naova'ke Uptown Cafe. The cafe had a charming, cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I ordered a Fijian curry, a flavorful dish that reminded me of my grandmother's cooking. Mere opted for some fresh seafood, while Sailosi devoured a plate of fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Fijian flavors at Naova'ke Uptown Cafe in Levuka – where every meal tells a story.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Levuka's nightlife with a visit to the Levuka Club. While not typically our scene back in Vancouver, we wanted to embrace the local culture fully. The club was lively, filled with music and laughter. I enjoyed a local beer while Mere and Sailosi enjoyed some juice. It was a fun experience, a chance to let loose and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Levuka.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Levuka at Levuka Club, where music, dance, and culture unite in an unforgettable experience.

Finally, for dinner, we went to the Old Capital Inn Levuka. The inn had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the food was simple but delicious. I ordered a traditional Fijian dish, while Mere and Sailosi opted for some familiar comfort food. It was the perfect way to end a long day of exploring. As we ate, we reminisced about our adventures, laughing and sharing stories. It was a perfect family moment, one that I knew we would all cherish.


Experience authentic Fijian hospitality at Old Capital Inn Levuka – your gateway to exploring Fiji's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had missed this connection to my roots. Being back in Fiji, surrounded by family and immersed in the culture, felt like coming home. I was grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with Mere and Sailosi, to show them where I came from and to instill in them a sense of pride in our heritage.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Yeasin Island and the International Tree of Peace. I'm particularly excited about Yeasin Island; I've heard it's a beautiful spot for snorkeling. We'll also grab breakfast at the Royal Hotel, which I hear is the oldest operating hotel in the South Pacific. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery, another chance to create lasting memories with my family.

It’s these moments, away from the familiar, that truly enrich our lives. It’s about discovering new perspectives, embracing different cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And most importantly, it’s about sharing these experiences with the people we love.

Back at my relatives place, after tucking Sailosi into bed, I sat outside, listening to the sounds of the island. The gentle breeze rustled through the palm trees, and the distant sound of music drifted through the air. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. This is what it means to be home, I thought. This is where I belong.