Wave with Both Hands: Experiencing the Energetic Spirit of Fiji

I was lucky enough to visit the South Pacific nation of Fiji this past spring. The experience was magical, as the nation is a paradise in the heart of the ocean. Even more than the sparkling blue waters, the most striking elements of my trip were the energetic waves from the locals, especially the children, who wave with both hands. I mean, they really extend both arms, raise all five fingers and wave with all their hearts, accompanied by a huge smile welcoming you to Fiji. Of course, a very loud “Bula!” comes soon after. Whether I was driving along the main island, visiting a village in the heart of Fiji, or just coming out of a local store, there was always that beautiful wave with both outstretched hands. I just loved it. It animated my whole journey through the islands. 

My trip began on the main island of Viti Levu, where the drive from the airport to Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort showcased the turquoise waters and lush greenery at every turn. The resort itself has a stunning beachfront location and makes for a perfect introduction to Fiji’s beauty. Soon enough, we left Viti Levu behind for a three-day Blue Lagoon cruise through the Yasawa Islands, where we were surrounded by some of the most pristine waters I’ve ever seen. The highlight of the cruise was snorkelling with reef sharks, swimming alongside them as the captain fed them from below the reef. 

During the cruise, we also had the unique opportunity to visit the small village of Soso, where we attended a beautiful Palm Sunday service. I knew it was a major highlight of the year for the little village. Seeing the children in their Sunday best, dancing and singing their way into the church with proud parents watching, was a special experience.

The cruise also took us to the filming location of the movie Cast Away starring Tom Hanks. Snorkelling here was surreal, with stunning coral formations in vibrant blues and turquoise, all teeming with colourful fish. It made me wonder how many shades of blue could exist in the natural world. 

Along the way, I was lucky to gain some cultural insights at Fijian villages. One thing I learned is that, as a sign of respect, only the chief can wear something on their head. Visitors should remember not to have anything perched above their eyebrows, including sunglasses. If you’re attending the famous and almost mandatory kava ceremony—kava is a drink made from a bitter local root— be sure to remove your hat when entering a village. Also, get ready for the numb tongue that follows the “tsunami” portion of their local drink, which is said to cure anything that ails you. Understanding these customs is essential for anyone planning to visit local villages, ensuring respect and a deeper connection with the local culture. 

If you ever find your way to Fiji, my advice is simple: immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the natural beauty, and embrace the Fijian way of life. Whether it’s a friendly wave or the thrill of swimming with reef sharks, every moment in Fiji is filled with energy and excitement. So, get ready to extend your arms, wave with both hands, and dive into the adventure that is Fiji.

Tailor-made trips to Fiji

By Cory Payton