Getting over the winter blues in Fiji

Warm smiles and friendly greetings have replaced the gun-toting soldiers in Fiji, writes STAN PINNEGAR.

As we in New Zealand start thinking about electric blankets and huddling a bit closer to the heater, just three hours away lies a tropical paradise waiting to welcome us under warm and friendly skies.

Though, having said that, the friendly skies can turn decidedly deadly for the tourist unthinking enough to walk under a coconut tree.

Falling coconuts are the bad news about Fiji - the good news is that upon entering those lush and beautiful islands, you have arrived in just about the friendliest place on earth.

The Fijians are an easy-going, relaxed people with a liking for everybody, except for some New Zealand and Australian Government ministers, who they feel have conspired wrongly against them. There is a strong acknowledgment among the people of those islands that coup leader George Speight scared the tourists away and destroyed their economy, yet they feel let down by the post-coup signals sent out by both Governments.

They would love some New Zealand and Australian cabinet ministers to visit and perhaps sit with a pina colada under a coconut tree.

There are no signs of gun-toting soldiers running around scaring tourists in Fiji - there are only warm smiles and friendly greetings of "Bula!"

Except, that is, for around 7 o'clock in the evening, when a kind of hush falls over the towns, and the streets and shops empty as the locals rush home to watch their favourite television programme - Shortland Street.

Visitors who make Nadi their first stop-off will find the gloriously accommodating Sheraton Denarau Villas only 20 minutes away on Denarau Island, across a causeway from Viti Levu, the largest of Fiji's 32 islands. The villas are nestled between the Sheraton Fiji Resort and Sheraton Royal Denarau, all overlooking the beachfront on Nadi Bay, so the tourist is spoiled for choice.

This huge, five-star complex has 11 restaurants offering the finest cuisine, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, water sports and golden beaches and lagoons surrounding crystal-clear waters.

Relax with a drink or meal in the beachfront beer garden at the Sheraton and watch the coconut trees swaying mesmerisingly in the warm breeze, or children and adults swimming in the large pool (take a dive yourself). A glass of Fiji Bitter beer (made by Carlton and highly recommended) was $F4.50, though some might hesitate to take the 50c change.

Shoppers can barter a bargain at the Nadi markets and note with envy the low food prices, especially the essentials and fruit and vegetables. A large bag of luscious mangoes can be bought for a couple of
dollars. Smokers pay $1.80 for a packet of 10 cigarettes.

Tired of shopping? Then get away on a cruise to the islands for adventure, snorkelling or sightseeing. The Sheraton has its own private retreat in Akuilau, seven minutes away, a lush, green island where visitors can go exploring or simply relax under a bure.

But even more indulgent is to take a motor yacht with the likes of Blue Lagoon Cruises and visit islands steeped in mystery and myth. These cruises include a village stopover, Fijian feast and beach party.

Meridian Yacht Charters offers day and sunset island cruises with world circumnavigators "Captain Charlie and Jeanette."

Among other cruising companies, all offering unforgettable snorkelling, sightseeing and adventure, are: Fiji Yacht Charters, Oceanic Schooner Company, Sailwing Yachting Company, Tradewinds Marine
and Transtar Charters.

You don't have to drag unwilling children around with you, either. Many places cater especially for the young and will take them out for a day of activities, all under the watchful eyes of child-loving and responsible islanders.

Whether you are the kind to lounge around, go fishing or seek adventure, the islands of Fiji are guaranteed to warm away your winter blues.

CASENOTES:


GETTING THERE: Air New Zealand and Air Pacific fly to Nadi or Suva. Fares vary. At the moment Air New Zealand charges $699 return to Nadi.

WHERE TO STAY: Sheraton, Nadi. Ocean view rooms from $F495 a double. Ph (00679) 750 777, fax (00679) 750 818, email Sheraton Denarau

Centra Resort, Pacific Harbour. Taxi fare from Nadi Airport is $90, hotel transfer, $35 each. Rooms, $148.50 (VIP), suite $275. Children under 16 with parents, free. Ph (00679) 450 022, fax (00679) 450 262, email Centra Pacific Harbour


CONTACT: Fiji Visitors Bureau, PO Box 1179, Auckland. Ph (09) 373 2133 or 373 2134.

Links:


BulaFiji

Sheraton Hotels

Centra Hotels