Fiji trip

 My Trip to Fiji: A Paradise That Feels Like Home for Indians

When I booked my ticket to Fiji, I expected beaches and sunsets — but what I found was a paradise that somehow felt like home. The turquoise water, warm people, and tropical rhythm all blended perfectly with familiar Indian touches — temples, Hindi, and chapatis by the sea.

The First Impression — Like India, But Surrounded by the Sea

The moment I landed at Nadi International Airport, everyone greeted me with a big “Bula!” — the Fijian word for hello. It wasn’t just a word; it was pure joy.

What surprised me most was hearing people speak Hindi! Many locals speak Fiji Hindi, and they often asked, “Bhaiya, aap India se ho?” It felt like a mix of UP and the Pacific Ocean.

My first stop was Denarau Island, a short drive from Nadi. The sea shimmered like glass, and the air smelled of salt and flowers. I watched the sunset while sipping coconut water — and for the first time in a long time, I didn’t check my phone.

Island Hopping — Heaven in Pieces

The next morning, I joined an island-hopping cruise to the Mamanuca Islands.

Imagine tiny islands surrounded by water so blue it looks unreal. We stopped at Malamala Island, where I swam, snorkeled, and floated for hours.

The highlight was sharing Kava, a traditional Fijian drink, during a welcoming ceremony. Everyone sat in a circle on the sand, clapped, and passed the wooden bowl. It tasted earthy but felt sacred — a symbol of respect and friendship.

Garden of the Sleeping Giant & Mud Pool Adventure

On my third day, I headed inland to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. The garden is lush, filled with orchids, bamboo groves, and peace. It’s a perfect escape for anyone who loves nature photography.

Afterward, I went to the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, where locals laughed as I covered myself in warm grey mud. Once it dried, I dipped into the hot spring — the water washed away the mud and all my tiredness.

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The People — Fiji’s True Treasure

More than the beaches, it was the people who made my trip unforgettable.

During one village visit, I met an Indo-Fijian family who invited me for dinner. We sat cross-legged on mats, eating curry, dal, and rice, while they told me stories about how their ancestors came from India over 100 years ago.

That evening, the sky turned orange and pink. Someone played a guitar, and everyone sang together — some songs in Hindi, others in Fijian. I didn’t understand all the words, but I understood the feeling.

Food — A Taste of Home, Island Style

Food in Fiji is pure comfort for any Indian traveler.

There’s curry, roti, chutney, and even samosas at local shops. The twist? Coconut milk!

I loved the fish curry in lolo (coconut) and the Fiji-style chicken curry — spicy, aromatic, and full of love.

Vegetarians don’t need to worry — almost every restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan meals. In Nadi, I even found a thali restaurant that reminded me of home.

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The Final Days — Peace, Reflection, and Blue Horizons

My last two days were all about slowing down.

I spent my mornings walking by the beach, afternoons swimming, and evenings watching sunsets that seemed painted by hand.

On my final evening, I stood at the Yasawa shore — barefoot, wind in my hair, and gratitude in my heart.

Fiji taught me something simple: happiness doesn’t always need speed — sometimes it lives in stillness.

Tips from My Trip

Always greet people with “Bula!” — it brings instant smiles.

Try the Kava ceremony — it’s a respectful and memorable cultural experience.

Carry sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Buy a local SIM (Vodafone or Digicel) for internet access.

Dress modestly when visiting villages or temples.

Vegetarians — inform your resort in advance; they’re happy to accommodate.

Don’t rush — Fiji runs on “island time.” Relax and go with the flow.

My Honest Reflection

Fiji wasn’t just a trip — it was an emotional reset. It reminded me how kind people can be and how life feels when you slow down.

For Indians, Fiji feels surprisingly familiar — the faces, the food, the warmth. Yet it also offers the mystery and beauty of the Pacific — coral reefs, tropical mountains, and skies that stretch forever.

When I think of Fiji now, I don’t just remember the beaches.

I remember laughter, shared meals, songs, and that one magical word — Bula — which somehow captures the spirit of the whole country.

Fiji isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a feeling that follows you home. 🌴