I can remember my first day as life as an Australian expat living in Suva in vivid (head-shaking) detail.  Filth, tears, a huge argument, spit, dancing videos, umbrellas and Albert Park.

We had lived in Sigatoka on the Coral Coast in 2010 for one year, and had moved back to Australia for 6 (ish) months, when my Husband got a phone call that he was being offered a job as CEO of a National Sporting Body, based in the capital city of Suva.  At the time I was running my own small children's and gift boutique on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.  From that phone call to my first day in Suva, life went by in a blur.  Like watching a movie on fast forward.  It was around eight weeks.

We had been in Fiji about three weeks prior for a holiday at Denerau's Hilton and Coral Coast's Shangrila Fijian.  This was when my Hubby had attended a meeting which led to this offer.  So, we had been to Suva a few times, for shopping mostly.  But it is fair to say that we had only seen it from a tourist's point of view.

Hubby was due to fly out on his own to start the job, and find accommodation for us.  Unfortunately, asevere tropical stormhad other ideas.  Massive floods in Nadi meant his flight was delayed a ridiculous number of times.  Each time we drove to the Airport, and the kids said their goodbyes, he was home again that night. Eventually he got on a plane which got diverted to Melbourne, and then when he finally arrived in Nadi, a few days later, he was stranded there for a week, not being able to make his way across to Suva.

Meanwhile, I had been busy trying to sell my shop and get out of my lease, packing up the house, and putting everything into storage, and playing mum to two kids who didn't know if we were coming or going!  Fun times !

So it is a good assumption that our first day in Suva was probably a reflection of the stress of life as a 'soon-to-be new expat' in the weeks preceding our arrival.

The kids and I, along with six suitcases of 'stuff' we didn't need, caught the overnight flight from Brisbane to Nadi, then connection into Suva.  None of us slept.  The anticipation of seeing my Hubby again, after what seemed like 6 months (in reality only one month!) was too much to handle and as we walked through the rusty gate at Nausori Airport, I burst into the first of many tears shed that first week.

We made our way to the temporary accommodation, having had difficulty in securing permanent lodgings for us, Hubby had booked a three week stay at a popular apartment complex right opposite Suva's famous Albert Park.  As we walked in, the second lot of tears rolled down my face.  All I could think was that of course he booked a stay here, it is right opposite the best sporting ground in Suva. Great for him, but not for me!  I was a sad sack.

As we entered, more tears.  The kitchen was revolting, all I could see was black grease in an oven that I would never be able to cook in.  The kids and I went straight to bed, despite it being 9am in the morning.  We slept for a few hours, then decided to go for a walk to try and cheer ourselves up.  We headed to town (less than 10 minutes away) and it was filthy, dirty, gross.  I felt like we were stepping over dead rats, garbage and urine.

We made our way past a section of town which is full of nightclubs.  A guy approached us, and then with all his power and might, spat at my feet.  The nerve of that creep, I thought.  This was enough for me.  I walked through the streets of Suva crying with a 4 and 9 year old following me.  I had no idea how to contact my Husband, or where his office was. Then it started to rain, and we had no umbrella. I made my mind up then and there that we didn't belong in Suva.  I can imagine what we must have looked like!  We jumped in a taxi back to the 'filthy kitchen' place, and waited what seemed like hours for Hubby to appear.

Later that day, a huge argument ensued between myself and Hubby.  I was dramatic and loud, and wondering how I could have bought my kids to 'such a place'.  Of course, he was being totally reasonable and sensible (I don't admit that often!) and I  was operating on anxiety and lack of sleep.

By 6pm, we were moving back to Australia.  I even called Virgin Australia to see what flights the kids and I could get on. When I relive this now by writing this post, I am literally laughing out loud.  What a drama queen I was!

It was like a scene out of a really bad movie.

Hubby and I yelling about a filthy kitchen; me saying I am moving back to Australia; a Fijian lady knocking on the door with a bunch of flowers for me because she had seen me crying as I got out of the taxi earlier on; Hubby slipping over on the spilled shower water in the hallway; and in the midst of all this, the kids put some music on and started dancing on the coffee table taking videos of each other.  When I watch those home movies now, I laugh.  The kids saved my sanity that night.

In hindsight, I should have gone to bed for the day and night, and woken up with a rational mind and outlook.  When I did wake up for what was our second day in Suva, hungry from not eating at all the day before (well honestly, was I going to cook inthatkitchen?), I tentatively walked out into the kitchen, and would you believe it??

I mean, I wouldn't believe it either if I didn't see it for myself - but the kitchen had been renovated overnight as I slept.  It was clean, fully functioning and the oven was perfectly fine.  The sun was shining through the clean windows and we could see Suva Harbour in all it's glory. What a beauty the Harbour is!

It's fair to say I had suffered culture shock, mixed with a plethora of emotions including anxiety, exhaustion, and being faced with a new life.

Looking back on the day prior, my first foray into Suva life, everything had seemed a million times worse than the reality.  The rain - well the Suva weather is unpredictable, and it was likely sunny less than half an hour later,  I eventually got myself a good rain jacket!  The spitting man - he was just drunk heading home after a fun night out and probably didn't even intent to spit near my foot!  The nightclub district - too funny, there are quite a few nightclubs in Suva but they are spread around.  The filth - it was a dreary day in Suva and when the sun isn't out, Suva isn't displayed in her best.  I always maintain now that Suva really sparkles in the sunshine.  The kitchen - well that was renovated overnight so I was clearly not exaggerating about that one!

Looking back now, I should have focused on two things that first day.

1) The kindness of the Fijian stranger bringing me flowers - a classic example of life in Fiji with the local people.  They are kind and caring, and generous with their time and love.

2) The kids dancing on the coffee table - whilst they knew that I would never allow them to stand on a piece of furniture and dance, they were making the best of a pretty crappy day.  And this is the attitude you need to adopt in Fiji.  You will have so many moments where you've been what long time Suva expats like to call "FIJI'ed".  It is when things that seem so simple won't happen - you just need to go with the flow, call it 'Fiji time' and roll with the punches.  It is a simple way of life without worries.  We should all adopt it.

Our first two months in Suva were a mixed bag of great happiness and plunging sadness.  I hadn't expected such severe ups and downs.  Given we had lived in Fiji prior, I was not expecting this.  I think it says a lot about choosing your location carefully, and proves how varied locations can be, in one relatively small country.

We had trouble finding a permanent place to live, and as such settled for the wrong types of rentals.  We weren't smart about location, transport, even noise.  We moved no less than five times in the first eight weeks, which not only cost us a small fortune, but did no favors for our state of feeling 'settled'.  We eventually settled into an apartment on Knolly Street, which we loved.  It was close to school and kindy, on the Vatuwaqa bus line (my favourite and, no - I can't believe I have a favourite bus line in Fiji!!) and a three minute walk into town.  Once we found that apartment and it felt like a home, life in Suva became great.  The kids were enrolled in School and Kindy and I began to make friends.  We got into a rhythm and life was good!

I am so glad we didn't succumb to the stress in the first few weeks.  I won't lie, we were homesick and lonely.  There were many times that I just wanted to head back to the safety net of 'home', my family and friends.  But, if we didn't stick it out, I wouldn't have the love of Suva that I have now.  Suva is the one city in the world I really love.  Other expats I've spoken to, haven't felt the same but that's the beauty of difference.

Culture shock

noun

the feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, or set of attitudes"

Yes, I am fairly confident that is precisely what clouded our judgement that first day of life as an Expat in Suva, Fiji.

Some things I love about life in Suva

Movies at Damodar City -premium class (like Gold Class) only $20fjd per ticketVatuwaqua Bus Line - the most spacious of the buses, open air, music, decorationsVodafone Arena - heading there to watch Netball Championships, we saw NZ's Silver Ferns play against Cook Islands, Fiji and SamoaCrowds cheering at huge Sporting Events - Fijian supporters are the best!! So fun and loud, dancing and not taking themselves too seriously - the Fijian spirit!Hibiscus Festival - Fiji's equivalent of the Ekka (Brisbane) or Royal Easter Show (Sydney) but on a much smaller (much!) scale.  Makes us laugh every year because you would never think 25 BBQ stalls would be lined up next to each other without a difference in what they are serving, but hey, it's Fiji!Cathedral - what a building!  Many days I would start off there saying a quick prayer and lighting a candleThe market run by the Council - Suva Market - a huge selection of fresh fruit and veggies that are cheap and yum!

Asking someone what their budget entails is often a taboo subject, up there with religion and politics.  We are fairly private people (who would have thought! running a blog and all!), but in the interests of sharing about our life in a foreign country, here is a snapshot of the basics of our monthly budget.

I do want to provide a disclaimer though before I reveal all!  Obviously everyone's budgeting style is different, and what we consider important (daily coffee out for example) may not rate at all in your budgeting.  Food/groceries will be different compared to what you want to consume, and how 'local' you eat.  All figures are in Fijian dollars (FJD$).

Facts

living in Suvaself-employedmodest lifestylefood - mostly basic and 'local' with occasional 'international' treatskids home-schooledfamily of 4no car, using public transport but mostly taxisdoes not include 'fun' money for movies, or day trips out of Suva, or holidays etc

Monthly Budget

Another good place to have a look is theCost of Living toolat Numbeo.com

Car

If you have your own car, you will need to consider Fuel, Servicing and Insurance.  When we did have a car, we allowed $100 per week for fuel (included a weekend trip out of Suva) and $100 per month for insurance.  On the occasions a vehicle was included with work employment, obviously we didn't need to worry about these costs.  If you want to rely on public transport and taxis  you can hire a car for weekend trips for around $150 for 24 hours.

Housing

We've lived in a variety of homes in Fiji, so it really does depend on what standard of living you expect, but here is some examples based on the homes we've rented:

Suva - fully furnished, security guard, pool, 2br unit with hot pressurized water - we paid $2,800 per monthSuva - fully furnished stand alone house in Suva, bars on the windows, hot pressurized water (2 bedrooms) - $1800 per monthSuva - fully furnished, security alarm, pool, 3br unit with hot pressurized water - $3,500 per monthSigatoka - very basic unfurnished 2 bedroom unit $400 per monthSigatoka - modern unfurnished 2 bedroom unit with washing machine and fridge $750 per monthSigatoka - 3 bedroom house, partly furnished, no hot water, excellent views and close to beach  $1,700 per month (however locals did tell us we were being ripped off which I tend to agree with)

Furniture

We furnished our entire unit in Suva with brand new furniture in 2015 with $10,000fjd maximum.  I would say we went middle of the road in style and cost, and we shopped around a lot.  We also got good discounts for buying the majority from one of the major furniture stores there.  Expect to pay for delivery and if you are out of the city area, it will cost more.

Save Money

You can save money by buying fruit and vegetables that are in season and shopping at the local markets.  Consider eating as the 'locals' eat and you will save a lot of cash.  We bring a lot of the 'treats' which are expensive in Suva back from Australia, or get friends who are visiting to bring them to us.  Catch buses only (70c-$1 per trip), and watch local tv only and when the big game is on, go to a local hotel to watch it!

If you've made the big decision to move to Fiji as an expat, you may be wondering what you should pack.  Moving to a tropical island is not your average move, so this is not your average packing list.

Packing is such a personal thing, and what one person may consider important, may not even appear on another's radar.  So this is our personal opinion, and what we have found helpful to bring to Fiji.

Clothing - Essential Day-to-Day

Light weight and modest clothing is best.  It gets very hot and humid so you don't want to be wearing denim or fleece.  Fijians are very modest, so be mindful of this. Bring plenty of underwear and bras - these are hard to find and when you do, they're expensive. Bring your exercise clothing/active wear, and black leggings - you won't find them in Fiji (quality or price wise), and socks.

Clothing - Work

You won't need the fancy threads, and three piece suits you are used to in Sydney City.  Long (ish) skirts and light tops will work fine.  Make sure the length of your skirt is appropriate (below knees is best) and that it is loose enough to enable you to sit on the floor.  You will not need pantyhose - so leave them at home!  For the gents, trousers are fine and you can pair them with a Fijian Bula Shirt (very easy and cheap to buy when you get to Fiji).

Clothing - Accessories

If you are living in Suva, you will need waterproof 'everything'.  It rains a lot, and then some more! So it is wise to invest in a waterproof bag, a handbag made of oilcloth has served me well over the years.  Leave your expensive leathers at home - they will just mould-up and ruin.  If you could get yourself a waterproof watch and wallet, that would be a bonus too. Be sure to bring a good-quality rain jacket, but make sure it is light-weight.  Whilst it rains a lot (and then some more!) it is still really humid.  Bring all of this with you - you won't find it easily once in Fiji.

Clothing - Shoes

Bring waterproof sandals to walk around in.  You will likely be walking a lot in Suva - I'm not sure why, but we tend to walk a lot there.  And because it rains a lot, it gets slippery, so sturdy shoes are important, and your leathers will be ruined.

Manchester

Bring a doona (it does get cool at night sometimes!) and a doona cover.  You can purchase hotel-quality sheets, pillows, tea-towels and bath/pool towels from hotel supplier Motiram (in Nadi and Suva), but the concept of doonas and doona covers hasn't quite hit Fiji yet. There is no 'Spotlight' or 'Kmart' so if your kids must sleep with 'Frozen' or 'Dora' sheets, be sure to bring them with you.  Curtains can be found in a few shops, and can be made-to-measure in a few stores too, but it will come down to your taste in fabric. If you  are used to IKEA, you will need to get accustomed to life without it.

Kitchen

Mostly everything can be found in Suva, including electrical items.  However, often they are very expensive.  Bring your Nespresso machine (and plenty of pods), your Nutri-bullet blender, your X-Box or gaming machine, and sewing machine. There are cheap(er) versions for toasters, kettles, electric frypans etc.

For the kids, bring their lunch boxes, and drink bottles, as well as frozen bricks for their lunch boxes.  Bring zip lock bags if you like to use them, as well as your good quality Tupperware type containers.  There are plenty of plastic-wear shops, but I found the lids don't stay on like Sistema or Lock'n'lock.

Toiletries

You will find almost everything in Suva, however, if you like a particular brand of make-up or shampoo/conditioner, bring a stockpile with you.  Supermarkets are limited to brands like Dove and Palmolive, and there is no such thing as a beauty products counter like we find at Kmart or Target. Bring hair bands/elastics because the ones we find in Fiji have lost their elasticity before we even open them.

Food

If you have a favourite brand of chocolate/coffee/packet soup/biscuits that you really don't think you can live without- it's best to bring a stock-pile with you.  If you are a Nutella fan, bring it.  You can bring most things in your suitcase, as long as it is unopened.  But check withFiji Revenue & Customs Authority to be sure.

Some things we always bought to Fiji (before going sugar/carb free) are:

John West flavoured tins of salmon (tuna is plentiful there, not so much salmon) Customs will often ask us about this, but when we say it is Salmon and not Tuna, they are okay with itrice crackers;cereals like muesli (weet-bix are easy to buy and cheap)nespresso pods (a lot!);good quality dark chocolate;lollies;cup of soups;long-life cream;decent instant coffee;Vegemite (definitely!!!)packet seasoningspastaprotein powders and health foods (available more readily now, but not all brands and still very expensive)

Have you moved to Fiji and have anything else to add to this list?  Please let me know so I can keep it current and updated.

The excitement of an overseas holiday, especially one where the destination is brand new, can easily lead us to overindulge and pack suitcases too heavy to even lug around the Airport, not to mention filled with totally useless items that won't see the light of day once you've landed.  I have to admit I am an over-packer.  But I am getting better (a little!).  Here is our handy packing list for holiday-makers travelling to Fiji.  This is very different to the Packing Guide for expats moving to Fiji - look for my post describing this.

Before I start, I do want to be clear that if you hopped on a plane now without anything but yourself and passport, you would be okay. Fiji has almost everything you need (whether it is your preferred brand or style is another question!)  The mainland (and in particular where all flights will land - Nadi) has everything you may need, including beach wear, light cotton shirts and thongs, sunscreen and make up!  But the prices for some of the well-known brands that you are used to, will scare your credit card into hiding.

TO ORGANISE WELL BEFORE TRAVEL

Passport (with at least 6 months validity)Travel documentation (at least an electronic copy saved on your phone or ipad)Visa requirements (return ticket, or a ticket for onward travel, within the time-frame - Australians get a four month tourist visa upon arrival)Travel Insurance (this is so important!!)Banking (inform your bank you will travelling overseas so that your credit card isn't restricted - yes, this happened to me!)Prescriptions (make sure any regular medication you will need to take is in it's original packaging and has a copy of the prescription with it)Consider preparing an Emergency contact document - detailing where you are staying and the resort phone number, a copy of your passports and travel documentation. Leave it with someone at home (true story - I put my passport in a box accidentally, and shipped it back to Australia two days before we were flying  out of Fiji, we didn't realise until on the way to the Airport - it was my emergency contact document with a photocopy of my passport (plus a hefty customs fee, and a 4 hour drive of uncertainty!) which enabled me to actually get on the plane without my passport

WHAT TO PACK

Sarong or modest clothing (sarongs are readily available in Fiji at the markets, and shops on the mainland - use it to cover up when on village tours or when culturally necessary)Light jumper/cardigan - surprisingly it can get cool in Fiji, especially in the Winter months and in the evenings.  Most resort rooms will operate with air-conditioning - in many resorts you will have no choice but to use the air-con as there are no windows, just sliding doors which you will need to lock at night for security.  Plus you will likely need it on the plane trip overBathers/Swimmers/Togs - please don't wear in the VillagesSunglasses - again don't wear in VillageHat - it's hot!Casual clothing - you won't need anything too fancy, unless you wish to dress up for dinners etc - light, cool clothing is fineReef shoes - the coral can be unforgiving and hurt a lot!Phone/Camera/Laptop chargers - the good news is that Australian cords will work in Fiji without any adaptors.Torch - handy when walking back from late night drinks/dinner - walking across grass a torch will help you avoid the toadsMinimal make up - on holidays in Fiji you won't need your full kit! I take my straightener and never end up using it (unsure why I keep doing it really??!) The heat melts make up off your face, and if you are prone to frizzy hair - good luck!Book/reading material - books and magazines are expensive in resort shops, and magazines are generally a few months behind anyway!Mozzie repellantSunscreen with a high SPF - the Fijian sun is harshAfter sun lotionAnti-bacterial hand sanitizer - take it to the buffet or to the Village tour, you'll need itToiletries (whilst shampoo/conditioner will be in your resort room - if you don't like it or you run out - it is expensive to buy)Small packet of laundry powder (if you  will be doing your own washing)Prescription medications (read above)

NON-ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

Small snack foods especially for the kids (crackers, chips, lollies) - can be a God send and will save you a lot of hassle and money to buy comparable itemsLight rain jacket/small umbrella (unless you are travelling to Suva and then this becomes an essential item - it rains a lot in Suva!)

GIFTS

Whilst not essential on your packing list, it is a kind idea to pack some small gifts to give to your new friends who will appreciate anything you offer.  Some ideas:

ChocolateSocksRugby balls/sporting equipment  - you will be a Hero!!  Fijians love their Rugby.Rugby jersey from your home team - this will also be a hit!StationeryBras (village ladies will love them - but be discrete)Dolls and small toysBooksSkip the electronics - its unlikely replacement parts/chargers will be readily available and even if they are their cost will be prohibitive

At the end of your holiday, leave your half-used toiletries behind for the ladies who cleaned your room each day.  You could also consider taking over a small bag of your good quality hand-me-downs - your new  friends will love these too!

Enjoy packing!  I always love the excitement of planning a trip, but not so much the pile of laundry when we get home!

Moce XO

Australians have a lot of unique qualities that would define us as "Aussies" to non-Aussies.  One of these is our ability to shorten any word and any sentence.

"I'm deadset devo, the coppers grabbed me doin' a u-ie on the way back from the servo, I was headin' to Bluey's barbie after buying a slab from the bottl-o"or in proper English"I am so upset because the police booked me as I was doing an illegal turn.  I was leaving the petrol station, on the way to my friends barbeque, after buying some beer from the alcohol store"

Despite being a full English-speaking country, it is common for Australians to make up our own language, whether it is via words or the 'flip of the bird' gestures.  It's no different abroad, and we've discovered a couple of funny, little nuances that Fijians have adopted.

Fijians are notorious for their relaxed way of life, operating on 'Fiji time' and taking things as they come.  If you plan on asking any questions to your new friends, you will need to have an understanding of  "YES" and "NO" - Fiji-style.

It's all in the eyes

I can vividly recall the first time I realised this was a 'thing' in Fiji.  We were living in a village-type situation in 2010.  Every afternoon all the Village kids would come to our house to watch television and eat afternoon tea.  I asked one of the little girls, Meme, if she would like to stay for dinner.

Her beautiful big brown eyes stared up at me.

So I asked again, this time a little louder (in case she couldn't hear me).

She stared at me some more.

So I asked again, this time a little louder again and a little slower (in case she couldn't hear me and I spoke too fast).

She stared at me again.

So I asked my Fijian friend to ask her in Fijian.

She looked up at me again, staring some more.

And then I saw it.

Her eyebrows raised slightly up and down very quickly.

It was then I learnt that Fijians will often say YES with their eyebrows.  A quick raise and lowering means YES.  At the time, my 2 year old daughter adopted the habit and it became a great source of laughter when holidaying back in Australia with my family.  When Fijian kids do it, sometimes it means they are feeling nervous of you - too nervous to talk out loud.  When Fijian adults do it to you, it is a sign of friendship - like they don't need to put on 'airs and graces'.

Vinaka

In previous blogs, I've written a quick run-down of handy phrases and words to know if you are travelling to Fiji for the first time, or moving to Fiji as an expat.  One of these is the Fijian word for "thank you" which is "Vinaka Vakalevu".

When you say "Vinaka" to someone, they will take it as you saying "thank you".  There are no dramas there.  However, rules change slightly when you offer a Fijian something, for example a cup of tea.  Their answer will likely be "Vinaka".  Most Aussies would translate that to mean, "thank you - yes please".

However, it doesn't always mean this.  Confused?  I still am.  On some occasions, it actually means "no thank you", especially if it coupled with a slight head move to one side.  To get around this without pushing a cup of tea on someone who doesn't want one - I often then ask, "is that vinaka yes? or vinaka no?".   The standard response to this is a big Fijian laugh, to which I still remain confused, and ask "is that Vinaka yes? or Vinaka no?".

Saying Yes and Asking Questions

I've said before that Fijians are extremely polite and respectful.  Sometimes, they will say YES to you in an attempt to avoid  'hurting your feelings', even when it is a situation that our feelings wouldn't be hurt.  Or they may smile, in an attempt to show that they understand what you mean, when in fact they don't.  I would suggest checking twice, especially if it is a matter of importance, like a food allergy or street directions.  This brings me to your style of asking questions.

In all the years we've worked and lived in Fiji, this is one thing I have learnt to understand and adopt.  If you don't specifically ask, you won't get a specific answer (or an answer at all!).  I believe this relates to the sincerity and quiet respect that Fijians have, that I've mentioned before.  Especially in emails, unless the recipient has a direct answer for you - you won't hear back. And unless you specifically ask a question in the email - it won't be answered.  My advice here is to be very specific with your questions (in conversation and in correspondence), ie. "what will happen if I don't pay my electricity bill on the due date?" instead of "will my power be cut?" to which your response will not be a YES or NO, and then you can be sure the person understood your question and will give you an actual answer.

"Where You Going?"

When you meet a Fijian acquaintance in the street, or on the bus, they will often ask you "Where you going?".  It's more of a fast greeting,  not actually asking for a long-winded response.  Or without you asking where they are going, they will motion towards the distance with their head or hand.  This means that they are heading somewhere, and kind of busy, and don't really want to stop and talk for hours.  It is kind of the Australian equivalent of nodding 'hello' to someone in a shopping centre, as you keep walking fast avoiding a conversation.  Fijians are far too polite to do that, so motion with their head that they are on their way (a bit like the 'eyes' - no words needed!).

I love the little differences that are found between cultures.  Coming up with this list today, I began thinking about the friends I made whilst living as an expat in Fiji.  When living in a different country for the first time, you don't know if your thoughts about the new way of life you are experiencing are just mad reflections of a home sick brain.  More often than not, when you meet other expats and start chatting, you come to realise that you've all been thinking the same thing.  And it's in those moments when friendships are made - I have found expat friendships are fast and fun because you are bonding over  'new' common experiences, and both have no 'home' friends to share about it with.

I love being an expat - if you get the opportunity grab it.  If you want the opportunity, make it!  And if you find yourself in Fiji, let's meet for a coffee.  When I am in Australia, I stay on the Gold Coast, and always happy for a coffee date.  Message me!

Moce friends xo

It's so exciting landing in a country for the first time. I still remember landing in Fiji as a newbie back in 2009. Here are a few things to expect when you land for the first time in Nadi.

First up, even though every part of your mouth wants you to say 'nar-dee', resist the urge.  It is pronounced 'nan-dee' (the 'd' sound is said like 'nd').

The Heat

It is hot!  Even in Winter it is warm.  Take a cardi or light jacket for the plane ride, because that gets cool, but the temperature as soon as you step out of the plane door is warm and tropical.

Bula

Everyone will say it to you!  As you step off the plane there will be a group of Airline employees waiting to get on the plane - they will say Bula! Then you will be greeted by serenading men, with guitars singing Bula wishes to you.  The Customs Officers will greet you - BULA.   So be prepared with your brightest smile and reply "BULAAA!".  It is a Fijian greeting wishing you well.

Bula Shirts

Why should your ears get all the pleasure of BULA?  Your eyes will be 'bula-fied' too because the majority of people will wear bright-coloured floral or patterned shirts - these are happily referred to as Bula Shirts.  You can buy them everywhere and I encourage you to embrace it.  When my Hubby first embraced it, we laughed for days, now it is normal for us to see him wearing one, and it looks great!  Whilst talking of menswear, it's traditional for men to wear a Sulu - which your kids may laugh at, given it looks like a skirt. You can buy one of these too for the man in your life, the Fijians will respect any man who dresses as they do. For the ladies out there, the equivalent of the Bula Shirt is the Sulu Jaba - it is a skirt and top made out of the Bula fabric.

Smell

Fiji has a distinct smell.  It makes me feel instantly at home when I step off the plane.  It is a mixture of wood burning in fire for outdoor cooking, and heat, vegetation, tropics - I can't describe it but when you get off the plane and smell it, please write to me and describe it better than I have!

Image from Coral Triangle

Taxi Drivers

If you haven't organised transport before you arrive, there are plenty of taxi drivers waiting to help.  If you are staying at Denerau - it will take you about 10-15 minutes in a taxi; Sigatoka - around 1 hour;  Suva - around 4 hours.  The taxi's will put their meters on.  You can ask to be taken to a supermarket if you want to grab a few essentials.  My tip here is to ask for "New World" at the Courts Mega Centre (you will find more home comforts here).  Grab a 12 pack of 1.5L bottled water - it will cost you a fortune at the Resort.  Speaking of taxi's - if you are walking around town, you are going to hear Beep Beep Beep Beep - taxi drivers in Fiji love their horns.  There aren't taxi companies like you come to know in Australia (like Black&White or YellowCabs) so branding  of the taxis isn't all the same. Some are black, some yellow, some white or red - and some even have a unique name like "Black Knight" or "Night Rider" - look out for the names, you will get a laugh!  A lot have loud coloured fabric reburbished in them - sometimes it is a shock to your eyes!  They are very proud of their taxis, so don't make fun of the decorations, which can include pom-poms lining the  roof - true story!

Arrival at your Resort

BULAAAAA.  You will hear it again.  A lot.

Questions. You will get a lot - from where you live, to what you do.  Be polite.

Kids.  Your kids will be loved more than you ever thought possible from someone who has never met them before.  Even when faced with a tantrum of mammoth proportions - your kids will be revered.  In fact, here is a piece of advice, when the kids are being 'difficult' ask a local to help you!!

Out and About

When you are out and about, especially in the more touristy towns like Nadi and Sigatoka, people will be friendly and talkative to you.  Mostly all will smile.  It can be confronting, or strange, coming from a big city like Sydney or Melbourne, where people's heads are stuck in their phones.  This is nothing weird or odd in Fiji - it is normal.  It is Fiji, man!  Smile back, laugh, make a joke.  If you feel like you are being pressured into going into a shop, just politely decline, smile and keep walking. Drink bottled water always, especially when visiting a village.  Take a sarong with you everywhere, that way you can cover up if culturally necessary.

I would love to hear your first impressions of Fiji.  Leave them in a comment below, or head over to facebook and start up a Fiji conversation!

Moce XO

Of course you don't decide to 'up sticks' and move to a foreign country to expect life to be exactly the same as it was in your home country.  But, no matter how much you love adventure, and new sights and experiences, it is inevitable that at some point you will miss home, or miss certain things from home.

My family was no different, and I've just asked each family member what they miss the most when living in Fiji as an expat.

Miss 14yrs

Books!  and more specifically, being able to buy new releases or going to the library to borrow them.  Fiji does have a library in Suva, but our libraries on the Gold Coast (and I'm guessing across many major towns in Australia) have spoilt us - with free internet, millions of books including latest releases, classes etc.  We often spend a whole day at the local library in Southport, Queensland.  So when in Fiji, it is a sad day when Harry Potter is being released!  We've often used online store Book Depository to have books shipped to Fiji, it has always worked well for us and we've had no issue with delivery or theft.  While I'm on the topic of books - I know they're heavy in luggage, but if you have spare room, please consider bringing some with you to donate to any local school.  They really need it and will be so grateful.

Miss 9yrs

She says and I quote "I really miss Shopkins, and Smiggle, and Kmart stationery".  Both my kids get a small amount of pocket money each month in exchange for helping around the house.  Each month they make lists of what they are going to buy when the money rolls in.  More often than not, Miss 9yrs spends her entire amount on little toys like Shopkins, and various stationery items. So her answer didn't come as any surprise to me.  There is a small amount of 'cute' stationery in Fiji, but nothing like Smiggle.  It is mostly cheaply made Chinese junk if I am to be brutally honest. Regarding toys, there are brand names like Barbie etc, but they are very expensive, and when you are used to spending pennies on toys from places like Kmart - it becomes 'ridiculous' to spend the amount they are asking at Prouds in Fiji.  We bring Christmas and Birthday prezzies with us in advance and hide them.  Then we cross our fingers and hope the kids still like them by the time prezzie giving comes along.

Hubby

Can you believe the thing he misses most is Foxtel!  More specifically, the constant stream available of sport 24-7.  He is a rugby fanatic, but if that isn't on, any sport will do.  Fiji does have a pay television subscription service, called Sky Pacific TV, but it does not match the standard or variety of pay TV in Australia.  But he says at least he can always head outside and find a live game of rugby pretty much anywhere in Fiji to watch if he is desperate.  The kids also chimed in at this point, and agreed that they missed certain television shows, like Neighbours  (no judging!!) and Disney channel on Foxtel.  Myself, I actually love television in Fiji - there aren't many local channels so no fighting over what to watch.  I love watching the nightly news in Fiji - I find it very interesting.  Fijians love Shortland Street (a NZ soapie) so when we are living in Fiji, we get involved in it too (come on, it's a good substitute for the Neighbours and Home and Away withdrawals!!)

Me!!

A few years ago, it would be coffee!  But that is kind of sorted now.  Now mine is the ease (and inexpense) with which we are able to buy relative essential items, like underwear or plain black exercise tights.  (It's a sad indication of consumerism!) I guess big department stores like K-Mart, Big W and Target have spoilt us.  I seriously miss the ease of racing into K-Mart or Target to buy a 'new orange tshirt for Harmony Day ' (that I should have been told about 3 weeks ago!) or a cheap blender because ours exploded all over the kitchen. There isn't a department store in Fiji that compares in any way to these.  Sure, they have a few different electrical stores, and a couple of department stores (but they mostly cater to tourists, or very wealthy people!).  On our trips back to Australia we make good use of these stores and fill our suitcases with cheap gadgets and underwear.  Decent underwear is notoriously hard to find in Fiji.  A small variety of Bonds is sold in one of the department stores  in Suva, but it is so expensive, I can pretty much guarantee no Aussie would pay for it there. I also believe it is stock which didn't sell well in Australia, so I guess it's 'luck of the draw' if they have your size or preference. Added to this is that clothing doesn't seem to last well in Fiji - it must be the heat, and the washing methods??  So friends, if you take anything away from this blog post it should be to bring decent underwear (and some for your local Fijian friends too!).

There are a few more things I would suggest to pack when making the move to living in Fiji.  I will do a specific Packing List blog post soon.  Is there anything you don't think you will live without?  Share them with me via the comment box below!

Take care, Moce XO

A popular 'liked' pic on myinsta feedis this:

Even though a 'picture tells a thousand words' I wanted to share more stories behind this image that I took where we were living in Sigatoka, Fiji in 2015.

The story actually begins with this team.

They are the Davetalevu Rugby team made up of boys from Rukurukulevu Village in Cuvu, Sigatoka.  If you have been to the Shangrila Fijian Resort, it is the village to your right as you drive in.  For a short time, whilst we were living nearby my Husband was the President of this team.  He is arugby fanaticso this was a great pairing.

It meant that each weekend we would go to the local game, often played in Lawaqa Park fairly close to Sigatoka Town.

If you know anything about Fiji, it is probably that Fijians love their rugby.  Whilst Sundays are devoted to Church, Saturday is devoted to Rugby.  When the village team are playing, most of the village will attend.  We were lucky enough to have a ute, so most Saturdays we picked up the cheer squad (a.k.a Women and Kids) and drove them to the games.

Yes they do travel in the back.  I am unsure if it is actually illegal or not?  But it is very common and perhaps it would be too common of an offence to for the authorities to police.  The team and the men would mostly jump on board a Carrier, which is like a ute with a long tray - mostly covered in a tarp/tent with 2 benches down each side.

This particular day it was raining and a bit cooler than normal, and the team was playing on the second fields which were muddy and wet.  So there weren't very many spectators.

One of the greatest things about living in Fiji was the people we met.  Genuine, caring people - 'our people'.  This is my daughter with Siteri and her son, Navi.  Navi couldn't play this day due to an injury. Their family is like family to us.  Siteri's family was out in force to cheer.

Speaking about 'our people' - here are some Aussies we met whilst they were on holidays in Fiji.  I love this family to pieces.  This is one of the families I was talking about.  Isn't it funny how you can go your whole life in the same country and not feel 'connected' to many people, then you meet fellow Aussies in a different country, and bam!

After watching the rugby we went for a walk to town for lunch.

We couldn't get a lift because my Husband headed back to the village (with a ute full of passengers, plus more!) for a kava ceremony following the game, which was a very regular occurrence.

Incidentally, remember Siteri in the picture above?  This is Saimoni, he is the Husband of Siteri.  This photo was taken back in 2011.  Did I mention how much we love this family?  You may have seen him at Tappoo in Sigatoka.

And this little sweetie is Fiji's cutest warrior - it is Saimoni's grandson.

So many little stories behind the one photograph.

Rugby Saturdays are awesome, but then again every day is pretty special when you are living in Fiji.

I can't remember if our team won that day?  I wonder if my Aussie friends do?

Much love, and MOCE XO

For the past year my family has slowly adopted a low-sugar, low-carb way of eating.  One of the biggest concerns we had was how we would be able to 'cope' on holidays in Fiji.  If you are planning a holiday in Fiji, or moving to Fiji to live and want to know about surviving on a low-carb diet, whilst we are no experts on this topic, this is how we did it whilst on holidays there.

SUGAR IN FIJI

Sugar is  absolutely overused in Fiji.  Recent information published by the Fiji Government's Ministry of Health puts diabetes at the top of the non-communicable disease list.  It really is no great surprise when billboards are advertising that Milo be made with 6 teaspoons of the chocolately goodness to make use of  its optimum health benefits?  Am I the only one shaking my head right now - Nestle is clearly making a fortune in Fiji.  In their defence, they have 'sponsored' a public exercise station along the sea wall in Suva??? Does that make sense?

Whilst managing a resort in Fiji, my Husband tells me that he bought a 5kg bag of sugar for the staff tea room each week.  Almost unbelieveable, except when you know how the normal cup of tea in Fiji is made - with at least 4-5 teaspoons of sugar!  I had to learn how to say 'no sugar in my tea please' in Hindi and Fijian, to avoid having it unknowingly put in my normally 'friendly' cups of tea.  So given the incredibly high usage of sugar in Fiji, and the quite high stodgy carb diet (rice, potato, kasava etc) it was concerning, to say the least, when we decided to avoid sugar and carbs in Fiji, how we were going to do it?

HOW TO AVOID CARBS ON HOLIDAYS

Holidaying is all about relaxing and adventure, drinks and food, right?  It is a depressing thought of 'dieting' when on holidays.  Our main approach was not to worry too much about the quality going in, just trying to avoid sugar and carbs for the most part.

My biggest tip is to not bother explaining to anyone you are 'low-carb'.  Instead, say you have allergies. Chefs are well versed in allergies, but they will not fully understand low-carb.  Gee, even my best friends still offer me a fruit salad or "brown rice because it is better than white".  Whilst they are clearly better choices than a mars bar for 'healthy eating' they aren't exactly compliant when following low carb.

BREAKFASTS

You can survive the breakfast buffet!  Repeat that after me.  We headed straight to the omelette chef.  Then we made it very clear that we couldn't have milk - you could tell them you are allergic to it - we also asked to see the bottle of cream they use, to make sure it is actually cream. (Twice it wasn't!).  Then we told them (every single day) that we also couldn't take sugar.  I know this sounds basic, but you must be very clear; very, very clear.  Fijians are well-known for their beautiful beaming smiles.  Sometimes that smile is used because they don't understand exactly what you are saying.   Explain clearly what you want in the omelete, and if you have to, stand there and watch them make it.  We did!  We would then grab a side, or two of bacon, and some mushrooms.  We would also grab a few boiled eggs each (to 'discretely' take back to the room and keep in the fridge).  By filling up on a big low-carb brekky , we were able to skip lunch almost every day (bonus of saving cash too!).  When we ate a-la-carte, we told them no toast or hash-browns, and added extra bacon.

Side tip: I know you don't want to know this given you are likely low-carb yourself but bread in Fiji is the best!!!! Especially fresh warm long-loaves from the bakery.  So if you don't see it, you won't be tempted.  Don't head to The Hot Bread Kitchen, which is famous in Fiji, because the goodies there will be too much to tempt you.  Think cream buns, and apple pies.  No, stop thinking of them!

LUNCH

If you are hungry (we hardly were!) you could eat your boiled egg (the one you very discretely took at brekky).  If you are at a restaurant, or by the pool - it has to be steak, or fish, or ask for roast chicken or grilled chicken pieces.  Chicken is a popular dish in Fijian homes, so most chefs will know.  Hamburger patties will almost certainly have carbs in them.  Ask for no dressing on your salad, but ask for a side dish of mayo. And tell the wait staff that you want nothing to do with fries.  Another sad fact for us low-carbers in Fiji - the fries in Fiji are amazing!

DINNER TIME:

The buffet at dinner time was a little bit trickier.  Everything seems to be cooked in sauce, which we know will be full of sugar.  I found it easier to eat a-la-carte, but I do realise that a lot of holiday-makers book a meal plan in advance which often includes the buffet.  In this case, head straight to the roast meat section, along with the veggies soaking-in-hot water section.  Eat an assortment of roast meat (chook, beef, pork) and green veggies only.  I know, sometimes our low-carb life is sad.

DESSERTS & DRINKS:

Skip mostly all of the cocktails and mocktails, including the dessert buffet.  If your friend from the Breakfast Omelette station did show you real cream, then you know it is available in your resort. Ask for cream and berries whizzed up every couple of nights - I know it is probably higher in fat (a glass of cream) than you probably want, but you're on holidays right?

SUPERMARKET DASH

In case of any potential issues that may arise before you have been able to settle in, ask your taxi driver to stop off at a popular supermarket on the way to the Resort from the Airport.  Be specific as to which one you want to go to, because there are a lot of little supermarkets on the way, but most will not carry 'westernised' food.  Ask for:

Nadi: New World

Denerau: at the marina

Suva: New World at Damodar CIty

Your shopping list should include:

Cheese (Fiji have their own brand called REWA - it's fine and reasonably priced, or they import a lot of NZ cheeses like Mainland, these are more expensive but yummy)Cold meat (but check very carefully that it looks okay, remember how hot Fiji is and that food can go off very quickly in that type of heat)Eggs (you can boil some in your room if desperate for snacks)Avocado (I always like avo for a snack, fills me up quickly)Long-life cream (if you haven't bought any over in your luggage) - you can use this in your black coffees in your roomWater, water, water - buy bottles and bottles of it - it will be expensive in your Resort convenience shop and you will need a lot of water to help fill up your low-carb tummyDiet soft-drink - the only one you will find is likely to be diet coke and if you are a diet-coke consumer, then you are better to buy it from the supermarket (much cheaper!)

You probably should bring with you from Australia:

Long  life Devondale cream - comes in little popper packs, a very handy sizeSugar-free snacks - our family likes the plain Atkins chocolate bars (on holidays you need a little chocolate treat every few days, don't you?)Salt - yes, salt is available in Fiji, but the good quality salt is rare and expensive. So if you are used to Pink Himalayan - bring your own!

EXTRA TIPS

If you are out and about and desperate, remember there is a McDonalds in Nadi and a couple in Suva.  Just eat the meat pattie and the cheese  from a Double Cheeseburger (I know this isn't ideal - but it will get you through)'Wishbone' is a fast-food outlet which is known for it's pizza (the butter chicken pizza is the bomb!) - there is one in both Nadi and Suva - head there and order a half roast chicken (skip the pizza friends!)If you have self-catering accommodation, make it your mission to head to the butcher first up.  In Nadi, I always go to South Pacific Butchery (it's on the old road that will lead you to Denearu) and if in Suva, you should go to Whaleys in Flagstaff (the ham off the bone here is great!).  Also, head to the market, where you will be able to get lots of fresh greens, and big beautiful avocados (if it is in season)

I hope these tips have helped ease your mind a little on travelling to Fiji eating a low carb diet.  We achieved it, and didn't think we could. So with a little planning and thought, you can most definitely be low carb in Fiji.

Have you stayed low-carb whilst in Fiji - do you have any tips for me?  Please share in a comment below.

Yours in meat, egg, and greens heaven,

Take care XO

We've lived between Fiji and Australia for the last eight years. Living and working in Suva and Sigatoka, and holidaying across many resorts in Fiji.  Even though I have had a few 'situations', I can honestly say that I have never felt safer in a foreign country before.

I have just asked my Husband the same question, and he is in agreeance.  We both feel safe there, and have confidence our children are safe there.  It is worth noting that I have lived there on my own (felt safe), on my own with our children (felt safe) and also with my Husband (felt safe).

SAFETY WHILST HOLIDAYING IN FIJI

Holidaying in Fiji is very safe. Given tourism is their main industry, it is important to remember that it in Fiji's interests to ensure it is safe. Resorts are filled with behind-the-scenes security systems that tourists would not even realise are occurring.  The security guards that you see roaming around, or shouting "BULAAAA!" as you enter, seemingly too-relaxed and too-happy to be working, will be taking stock of exactly what is going on.

We misplaced a scooter once at a big resort on the Coral Coast - the Security Guard tracked it down instantly because he had written down in his daily notes that it was left on our patio overnight (along with "one pair of purple thongs, a wet towel, and a tube of berroccas"), then he recalled seeing a similar scooter at the restaurant.  I can also back this up from our experience of working and living at a resort - everything is taken note of, including any unsavoury characters who you may be socialising with.  Fiji is very small, and almost everyone knows everyone, including their background.  Unsavoury characters will not last long hanging around in a resort.  It is also widely un-known that there are 'tourist police' whose very job is to help tourists in trouble, they also liaise with resorts on a regular basis.

That is not to say that unpleasant things won't happen, belongings may go 'missing' never-to-be found again, but I maintain this would happen anywhere you travel.  It will serve you well to remain conscious of who you choose to be-friend, and how you act when out and about.

With this being said, here are some tips to remain safe whilst holidaying in Fiji.

3 TIPS TO BE SAFE ON HOLIDAYS IN FIJI

Safety Tip 1:  DO NOT ADVERTISE YOUR WEALTH

Even if you do not think you are 'wealthy', as a tourist on holiday in Fiji, you are most definitely going to 'appear' wealthy.The very nature of your being in Fiji seems 'worldly' to locals who may be used to living a very (very!) different life to you.  (I understand that in your home country you may be living pay-to-pay, and barely affording your mortgage, and saving up for a year to be on a holiday - but all of that is not taken into account when being viewed as a foreigner in Fiji).  Be mindful of this perception.

Do not be flashy with  your Jewellery(why do you need to wear all six of your diamond rings when sitting by the pool? or heading into the town centre or on a day trip to the village?) Lock it in your safe, but even better still, leave expensive jewellery at home.

Do not be flashy with your personal belongingsie. iPad, iPhone, Chanel glasses - by all means use them and wear them but have some discretion. Be conscious about where you leave them, put them under your towel hidden when swimming; put your phone in your pocket at the restaurant. You get the drift!

Safety Tip 2: YOUR HANDBAG

When out and about, outside of the safety confines of the resort, it is a good idea to be mindful of your handbag.  Wear it across your body with main bag at your front. Don't carry the 'kitchen sink' with you - this will help you feel if your bag is being tampered with whilst carrying it. You will also know that the weight doesn't feel right, if something goes missing. Try to carry a bag that has separated compartments -  I have known of two women who were at the Suva Market, carrying a simple tote - their bags were sliced open from underneath, purses dropping out easily into the hands of a cunning thief.  Don't underestimate how clever these pick-pockets are. I've experienced being pick-pocketed myself (in Suva) and it was super fast, and not noticed until it was too late.

Safety Tip 3: BE SMART

It is so easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of adventures in any new country. Don't discount all the safety measures you would normally employ at home.  Lock your room when out and about, make use of the safe, and especially if you are staying a smaller resort - tell the reception staff where you are off to each day.  You will likely be invited by some locals to their village - on most occasions, this is genuine and out of a desire to share their way of life with you.  However, if you feel like there are ulterior motives, it's simple - politely decline. Trust your gut.  Don't go out at night by yourself, don't go clubbing in town at night by yourself.  Once you get to know the locals, you will instinctively know if you should be trusting them.

5 TIPS TO BE SAFE WHILST LIVING IN FIJI

Safety Tip 1:  DO NOT ADVERTISE YOUR WEALTH

All information (written in the same point above for holiday-makers) relates to expats in Fiji as well.  I will however extend it a bit to include being aware of your behavior on a general basis.  Don't leave the kids bikes, scooters, your surfboard or Nikes out in the yard, or at your front door.  It is basically using a giant yellow highlighter on your house inviting someone to take their pick.  Remind the kids not to be flashy with their belongings either.  They don't need to walk around the market playing games on their iPhones. Again a giant yellow highlighter.  I am writing from experience - my daughter was playing her DS whilst on a bus trip from Suva to Sigatoka - in the split second she left it on her seat whilst standing up (at her seat) to stretch her legs - it was gone. And no one 'saw' a thing!

Safety Tip 2:  YOUR HANDBAG OR MANBAG

All information (written in the same point above for holiday-makers) relates to expats in Fiji as well.  However, if you are living and working in Suva, be extra vigilant. This is where my own phone was stolen. Don't leave your bag on your car seat with the window open whilst driving.  A recent con has been distracting the driver whilst stopped at a set of lights, then a 2nd person grabs whatever is sitting on the seat.  This is just a reminder to be conscious of simple safety precautions like putting you bag under the seat, or your purse in the glove box, remember 'out of sight' makes it more difficult to target.

Safety Tip 3: SHAKE UP YOUR ROUTINE

It is so easy to get bogged in your daily routine.  Iknow this because as a family, we are very routine-based, especially around our daily coffee hit.

"Drop the kids off, head to the local coffee shop, sit for half an hour and read the Fiji Times, sip your latte, leave, head to the market to get the dinner, grab a taxi home"...

This makes it very easy to know when our home was empty, and precisely when a would-be thief should drop by.   Please don't underestimate how recognisable you are, as an expat living in Fiji.  You stand out! Very obviously! (even without a giant yellow highlighter). So it's my advice to switch up the coffee shop you go to, change your shopping day every once in a while.  If you do your groceries each Monday, as an example, some unsavoury character may notice this.  What this means to him is that your purse is full of cash.

Safety Tip 4:  GET TO KNOW PEOPLE!

Hopefully this will be  at the top of your list regardless. If you are moving to Fiji, there is a whole country of fabulous Fijians you are going to meet, learn about and become friends with.  Don't be a 'closed off' expat.  Make friends with the locals, and let them make friends with you. Not only is it a great introduction to the life of a different culture, but as I've said before, Fijians are notoriously caring by nature.  If they see you're doing something which may not be so safe, your local friends will tell you.  They will look out for you.   Invite your neighbours for a BBQ, once they get to know you and your routines, they will definitely look out for you, and look out for any unsavoury characters hanging around.  In saying this, you must keep your wits about you, and trust your gut instinct.  Don't invite randoms into your home, and if you feel like something isn't right, it probably isn't.  Obviously, there will be some dodgy people around (as anywhere in the world), be mindful of who you invite into your life.

Safety Tip 5:  CHOOSE HOUSING WISELY

Regardless of your accommodation budget, you can make good safety choices.  Most housing in Suva is geared towards being safe - with bars on all windows, deadbolts or multiple locks on all the doors, big fences at the front with padlocks to lock the gates etc.  At first, this can seem daunting, but after a while you will begin to question the houses that don't look like this. Top tip here would be if your budget can afford it, choose a house/apartment that comes standard with a security guard. Second top tip is if you are in a house, get a dog or two! They are a great deterrent.  Even better if you get dogs that know how to 'guard'.  We adopted two dogs from SPCA, and whilst they were great at barking and incredibly cute - if anyone came into our yard - they would want to play!

Our very cute, very loveable (non)-Guard dogs

Is Fiji safe as a country to travel to as a holiday-maker?  Is it safe to live in Fiji as a Fiji expat?  My answer to both those would be a resounding yes.  You need to keep your wits about you, you need to adopt safety principles as you go about your day, you need to lock your house - but you have to do all these whichever country you are in.

The only difference is that you will most certainly stand out as an Australian in Fiji, you won't blend in like you do in Australia.  But this will work in two ways - you may become a target because you are new, or you will be looked out for by the locals that know and care about you. Being an open traveler and an open expat will help you, more than harm you - but isn't that the type of traveler you want to be anyway?

What about you - do you have any travelling tips with regards to safety?  I would love to hear them.  Share them in a comment below.

Thanks for reading, MOCE from me x

Chances are if you've come across this post, you are either considering becoming an expat living in Fiji, or you are travelling to Fiji for the first time as a tourist, and probably looking for some Fiji Travel Tips.  Our family have done both - been tourists and lived as expats, in both the 'local' world and the 'expat' world.  Here are the top 5 things I wish I knew before going to Fiji, way back in 2009.

1.  LANGUAGE OF FIJIMost Fijians (certainly the ones you will come across in a Resort or a main city/town) speak fluent English.  Indigenous Fijians will also speak their local dialect of Fijian, and some even speak a third language, Hindi.  Pretty cool, hey?

Side Note:The Fiji  population (estimate 2017 is 900,000) is made up Itaukei (indigenous Fijians) and Indo-Fijians (Fiji citizens who are fully, or partially of Indian descent). I get pretty uncomfortable labelling like that, because I don't feel I have a right, not being a Fiji citizen and all.  But I wanted to explain where the Hindi language comes from.

Anyway there is no real need to be concerned about a language barrier.

It is handy to know some of the more common words and phrases, and the Fijians will be delighted to know you picked up (or at least tried to use!) some of their language.

Have a go of some of the most common words you will hear on a daily basis whilst in Fiji:

BULA (pronounced Mm-Booo-lah)a happy, warm, prosperous greeting which most people say a million times a day.  PS. the Mm sound is not really made out loud, it is more of a way to keep your lips together before the boo sound!  You will hear Bula many times a day, remember to smile back and offer a loud Bula in return!

BULA VINAKA (pronounced Mm-Booo-lah  Vee-nar-ka)

a slightly more formal version of Bula

NI SA BULA VINAKA (pronounced Ni-sa-mm-booo-lah-vee-nar-ka)

a very formal way of saying Bula - you will most likely first hear it on the plane if you fly with

VINAKA (pronounced Vee-nar-ka)

means Thank you

VINAKA VAKALEVU (pronounced Vee-nar-ka-Va-ka-le-vu)

is a very sincere and more formal way of saying thank you

MOCE (pronounced Mo-they)

is a "Goodbye" greeting, as in "Moce Joe", it is also used when saying someone is asleep, like "baby is moce" - baby is sleeping!

MATAKA (pronounced Ma-tar-ka)

means "Tomorrow" - so you could say it like a question: "Mataka? " meaning 'will I see you tomorrow?' . Or you could get really flash and tell that tour operator whose trip you booked for the next day "Vinaka, Moce Joe, Mataka" meaning "Thanks heaps, goodbye Joe, see you tomorrow!"

KERE KERE (pronounced Kerry Kerry)

means "Please"

SEGA NA LEQA (pronounced Senga-na-lenga)

means "No Problems"

MEKE (pronounced Meh-keh)

this is a "traditional Fijian dance," and the reason I placed it on this list, is because if you are travelling to Fiji, you MUST see one of these live.  The spirit will travel through your heart and leave you in awe. I promise!

2.  FIJI TIME

It's emblazoned on almost all souvenirs, and chances are you've seen the phrase on a t-shirt somewhere back home.

"Fiji Time" is about life unfolding in it's own time. It is most certainly the Fijian way of life, and it is my most favourite part of Fiji.  It is a calm, non-rushed way of going about daily life.  Letting the stress go by not getting worked up about anything (except maybe Rugby!).

For tourists travelling to Fiji for the first time, or new expats living in Fiji, it can be frustrating (like when you ordered your burger by the pool an hour ago, or your hopes of an icy cold Fiji Gold is dashed when you see it sitting on the bar for 20 minutes before being delivered to you, it could be when the bus timetable doesn't seem to be running to a timetable at all!).  It could even be at the bank:

As an expat living in Fiji, it will be one of your greatest challenges - to overcome the concept of 'Fiji Time'.  You will likely try to reject it, or change it.  Let me be clear - you have no hope - you may as well board the plane back home.

If you are living and working in Suva, or any of the bigger towns (Nadi, Lautoka, or even Sigatoka) chances are it will be something you need to get on board with very quickly.  You may be able to use it when showing up late to the office - or you could blame the transport, or the weather! You see where I'm going with this?  Get on board with Fiji Time - it will be your best friend.

A word of warning though - if you are holidaying in Fiji, here is a Fiji Travel Tip: you won't be able to use Fiji Time as your excuse for showing up late for a tour, it doesn't work that way!

Look, as Westerners, we are all so used to living minute-by-minute according to the watch on our arm, or the I-phone in our hand, but I implore you, whether you are in Fiji on holiday, or living and working in Fiji, try to go with it.

Soon enough you will be wishing it was introduced into your home country.  (Yes, I promise, you will!)

3.  KAVA AND 'KAVA TIME'

Kava is a drink made from the crushed roots of a plant of the pepper family.  I would playfully suggest it is Fiji's national drink, and has properties which are sedative, anesthetic, and euphoriant.  It is available across many of the South Pacific islands, and in Fiji it is also called Yaqona (pronounced Yang-gona).   It costs around $80FJD for 1kg (post-Cyclone Winston the price has increased, used to be around $35FJD). Fijians drink kava regularly, and if you are holidaying in Fiji, it is very likely you will find yourself invited to a traditional Kava Ceremony.

It is a great experience, involving yourself in an aspect of the rich culture of the Fijians.  It is important you are respectful of the village customs - taking off your hat, sunglasses, and dressing modestly, including wrapping a sulu (sarong) around yourself.  Only drink your "bilo" (cup) when instructed to, because the order of the serving depends of the status of those present, from the highest-ranking chief down.

Fiji Travel Tip:The Fijians will gracefully guide you through the process, but if you are new to kava, and a little bit nervous, politely ask the Chief for 'low tide' which is a smaller serve, and if you are keen as mud (yes, it kind of looks like muddy water) - ask for a 'tsunami' meaning a full bilo.  Clap three times before drinking it down in one swift go, and say 'bula'.  Also, be sure to bring a few bottles of Fiji Water with you, and quietly and respectfully request if the Kava be made using that, just so you can avoid unpleasant tummy issues from possible water bugs.  (If you are on a specialised Tour or Day Trip, it is likely the water has already been thought of.)  While I'm at it, if you are invited to a village personally, it is a very nice idea to present a "Sevu Sevu" (gift), as a thank you, and half a kilo of kava is customary.  You can ask your taxi driver to take you to the local market to buy some.

Drinking kava is a great social movement adopted by mostly all Fijians - it is hard to be angry with someone after drinking kava!

Kava Time - (pic courtesy of gowaytravel)

If you are moving to Fiji, whether you are living and working in Suva, or indeed anywhere on the island nation, you will hear a high pitched banging noise almost every afternoon around 5pm (coincidentally knock off time!) - this means it's "Kava Time!".  When I first became an expat living in Fiji, it baffled me what the noise was.

The repetitive sound is actually the locals pounding the kava root in a metal bowl (tabili) with a metal rod.

When you see the process the first time - a strong Fijian boy slamming a metal bar into a bowl on the side of the road, with a crowd of other strong Fijian boys surrounding him - it can be a bit scary (not knowing what is going on - much like the machete carrying farmers who are heading to their crops). But, there is absolutely no need to get nervous, and the sound becomes a good indicator of the time (remember no watches - Fiji Time and all!)

Boy pounding kava in Fiji (image courtesy of istock)

4.  BANKING QUEUES

Fiji has Westpac, and ANZ - banks that Australians will be used to.  They also have Bred Bank, BSP, and Bank of Baroda.  All have one thing in common.

The Queues.  Long Queues.  Extremely Long Queues.

For whatever reason you find yourself needing to go to the bank, I mean inside the bank, not just to an ATM, you need to be prepared for the length of time it will take.

I have no explanation.  I have nothing else to add, except to say, take a book, or make sure your phone is charged so you can play games, surf the net or facebook your mates.

Side Note:Speaking of phone charging - you will see people carrying their phone (nothing odd there) with  their charger hanging out of their pocket (a little bit strange!).  Often they will charge their phone in the food court of a shopping centre, or at their mates house.  It's common in Fiji, but as a tourist, it is a new sight to behold.

I digress, but writing this list, I am fondly remembering things which seemed different to me, all the things that make Fiji so great.

Back to the banking, when withdrawing from an ATM from your Australian account, you will be charged a fee from the Fijian ATM, plus a fee from your Australian bank. Be aware of that.

If you are a new expat living in Fiji, you will obviously need to set up a bank account.  My advice here is to firstly ask for a checklist (all the banks provide these) and be sure you can adhere strictly to what is required.  In Fiji, things are 'black and white' only, especially in banking.  Even if you have a logical explanation, or logical substitution for something on that checklist, it will make no difference. In fact, this goes for everything to do with Government Departments.  And if all else fails, remember back to Number 2 of this list - Fiji Time!  Enough said.

5.  THE COCONUT WIRELESS

When Australians refer to 'the grapevine', connotations of gossip and rumor are associated with it.  Whilst it can be unpleasant in the workplace, there is a certain element of this 'grapevine' which will help you a great deal with life in Fiji.

Especially if you are moving to Fiji, a great tool for you to embrace is the "Coconut Wireless".  Say you are looking for a rental apartment; a plumber; or where to buy the cheapest pineapples in Suva - something I always do myself, and recommend to others, is to firstly to ask your Taxi Driver.  (Then ask the next one to see if the answers match up.)

Or the Barista at thelocal coffee shop(check my blog post on coffee in Fiji).  Or the Cleaner at the shopping centre.  Or the man sitting on the bus next to you.  Or the Gardener at your church.  Do you get my drift?

Fijians are notoriously helpful, and they know a lot of people.  Everyone is related in some long-distant-cousin-brother-aunty way.   It is therefore, very likely someone will be able to give you a phone number of someone, who knows someone, who can fix your loo.

Sidenote:If you meet someone who says'Big Johhny'  is their cousin - don't automatically assume it is a 'cousin' in the Australian sense of the word  ie. your Mother's sister's child.  It means it is a really close friend, or family member, or a distant relative, or someone they've met twice - or all of the above.

Some expat friends I've made whilst living and working in Suva, didn't approve of this 'Coconut Wireless Questioning' method, preferring to keep more to themselves.  But I say go for it!  I made a lot of great, genuine friends by opening up, and being honest with the locals.  I've found countless rental properties right across the island nation with this method.  As I said before, Fijians are notoriously helpful and genuine in their concern for others.  And a bonus to this method, Fijians are great remembering faces (and even better with phone numbers - I do not know why, but it's true!) and they will likely remember you from the question you asked one year prior, and come up to you somewhere random to give you a big BULA and a big hug.  Who could resist that?

So there you go, 5 of the things I wish I knew before going to Fiji.  Have you been to Fiji and can relate to some of these? I'd love to hear from you.  Have you got some tips of your own? Share them with me in the comment section below.

If you're heading to Fiji soon, all the best!

And, moce friends!

Our love affair with Fiji began in December 2009 when we first touched down in the island nation.  A mother at my daughter's school had been on a holiday to the Shangrila Fijian Resort, and over coffee, her stories touched my heart.  I had never spoken about Fiji before, nor had desire to travel there.

So when we decided to book a trip for Christmas that year, it was a shock and quite upsetting to the extended family that we would be skipping out on our traditional family celebrations.

We had been on a few family holidays before; a couple of cruises (one which missed Fiji due to bad weather), and trips to the Sunshine Coast.  Incidentally, it was those family holidays to Caloundra which saw us move there in 2007 from Brisbane.

The concept of an international flight with a one and a six year old was a little daunting, having not done it before, but the idea of skipping the Christmas silly season (presents, trifles, and stress!) made me, in particular, excited.  We told the kids that Santa would find them in Fiji (which I'm happy to report that he did!)

**Mum Note: regarding Santa and Christmas - We wrote to Santa before we left home asking if he could drop the prezzies to me early so I could take them in the luggage, luckily for us he was kind enough to oblige - he is not able to find most Fijian kids so make sure you can explain that one to eager six year olds who may ask! Same goes with the Easter Bunny  and when we experienced Easter for the first time in Sigatoka - no eggs - now they are pretty common, especially in Suva.

I will always remember the first time we stepped off the plane in Nadi International Airport - the smell of Fiji.  Burning wood for outside kitchen fires mixed with coconut oil, and the heat - it is intoxicating!  I absolutely love the smell of Fiji.  It has not changed yet.  And ever since that first time stepping on Fijian land, whenever I arrive in the country and smell it again, my heart fills with love.

Shangrila Fijian Resort did not disappoint, we stayed in Lagoon Room 28, I know this because its the same room we've requested each time since.  Once we were very blessed and got upgraded to a Beach Bure - I won't lie, it was amazing!

The people were gorgeous, and it was from that very first trip we have met life-long friends.  A taxi driver we met on a day trip has become one of our closest family friends, and it is at his house with his family, where I stayed for 6 weeks on my own in 2014 to start my business there.

We stayed 14 days, with each day better than the one before.  We reached a state of relaxation we hadn't felt since being footloose and fancy-free (pre-kids!).

We met a fabulous nanny called Kiti, who has been a part of lives ever since.  I have experienced many life-changing moments with her, especially with regards to the process of our family trying to adopt her Brother's daughter.

However, it was on a day trip to Natadola Beach (Fiji's best beach) that my Hubby and I had a discussion which changed the course of our life.  It started with a  throw away comment.

"Wouldn't it be great to live here, go the beach everyday, feel this relaxed all the time".

We both laughed as we walked through the shallows of Natadola.  It was then the spark was lit.

We spent Christmas Eve the most relaxed I have ever been in my adult life.  By the pool, with cocktails... Six year old swimming with a new friend, one year old fast asleep in the air-conditioned room with our new bestie, Kiti.  Buffet dinner with no dishes, no family fights... Kids to sleep early, a few drinks for us on the patio.  Santa came.  Kids woke up to a few happy surprises. Again, no cooking brekky or lunch or dinner!  Again, no dishes or family fights.  And no shopping!  Come on, you know how bad shopping centres get in the lead up to the big day - Crazy!!!

We went for a traditional Fijian lovo for Christmas Lunch at the home of a waiter we met.  His home in Laselase village in Sigatoka was the first village home we'd been to.  They laid out an amazing spread and then watched us eat it all. We felt embarrassed, and didn't know at the time it was all part of that fabulous Fijian hospitality we have come to know well and love. The concept of welcoming strangers into their home, cooking for them (without probably even being able to afford it) and then praying for them.  Wow, it could most certainly teach us Aussies a lot!

When the time came for us to head back home to Australia, there were big tears and a strange feeling of malaise over us.  We told Kiti we'd be back and that we'd see her soon.  She smiled that great Bula Smile through her tears, and hugged us tight.

Months later when we did see Kiti again, she admitted to me that there was no way she thought we were serious.  "Guests at the hotel always say that, but we never see them again!"

In fact, we were so deadly serious that within three months, we were boarding another flight bound for Fiji, but this time to live.  Little did we know at the time, it would be the first of the many relocating adventures we were yet to experience!  On this first adventure, we lived in Sigatoka on the Coral Coast.

When I think back now, with eight years of hindsight and time to reflect, and as the specific details of that first holiday get blurry - gee what a great holiday it must have been to have the power to change the course of our life.

Perhaps it is Shangrila who we owe a big vinaka vakalevu to... or perhaps it is the mother at my daughter's school whose stories of the place enticed me to go and see it for myself.  Regardless, I know one thing for certain... it is where our love affair began!

My family has moved to Fiji (from Australia) on three separate occasions, living in over thirteen different homes across two Divisions.  These are our top 6 things you need to consider before making the move to the tropical islands of Fiji.

1. VISAS & IMMIGRATION

As with most countries across the globe, obtaining the correct visa prior to entry is very important. Aussie holiday-makers can enter Fiji on a tourist visa which gives you 4 months of holiday time.  However, if you are planning on working, attending school etc, you will require a Working Permit and the kids will require Resident Permits to legally attend school.  I can't stress enough how important it is to stick strictly to the rules, as set out by the Immigration Department.  You will need to be either working in the country, retiring there, or running a business of your own.  Each has a separate visa/permit.   Dates are important too!  You must abide by the dates outlined when you get your passport stamped - we have personally known a few expats who failed to stick by the dates, and were refused entry back to the country. There is no "Fiji-time" when it comes to your visa deadlines. Also be prepared to wait (and wait some more!) when applying for your visa... because whilst there is no "Fiji-time" with leaving the country on time, there is most certainly"Fiji-time" at the Immigration office.

Passing time at the Immigration Office - hours and hours of time spent there!

2.  SCHOOLING & EDUCATION

If you have kids, education is probably on the top of your list of potential concerns.  If you aren't planning on home-schooling, or following an online Distance Education program from your home country, there are definitely some options for you.  Combined, my children went to six different schools in Fiji.  If you can get your Company to cover the cost of schooling as part of your remuneration package - your best option is either of the two International schools (Nadi and Suva).  However, there are definitely other options as well.  My eldest daughter went to two different ‘local schools’ – one a Catholic school and the other a District school.  Both went to a smaller type ‘international’ school in Suva, which followed a NZ based curriculum.  They also undertook a  stint of being home schooled by a Fijian teacher who would come to our home each day.   Happily, both my kids are have not had any problems re-entering the Australian curriculum.  There are definitely little nuances and things you would not expect, but that's the adventure of life in a new country.

My girls enjoying an afternoon snack of Bu (Coconut) on the walk home from school in Suva

3.  HEALTH INSURANCE

I can’t stress this point enough -  it is so important to obtain quality health and medical insurance.  If you are moving with a larger-type company, this may be part of the remuneration package (that would be preferable). On one occasion it was provided for our family, but the other times, we had to obtain it ourselves.  This is so important because the medical facilities are not what we are generally used to in Australia.  If you have a bad accident, you will likely need to be medevac'd out, and this can cost upwards of $25,000 easily.  One friend of ours simply got the flu - which turned ugly - and after being treated unsuccessfully in one private hospital asked to be moved to the government-run hospital.  It was there that the treating doctors discovered something more sinister. She was medevac'd back to Australia for urgent treatment.  She is fine now, but from a simple flu to being medevac'd? It's not a situation where you will want to be worrying about whether you can afford to do it or not. So I will say it again - it is seriously important to get good insurance.

4.  LOCATION

If you are moving due to employment with a Fiji-based company, you won’t have much choice in which location you live.  Most expats are sent to Suva, the capital city.  However, if you have the choice of where to live, you need to consider the realities of where you choose.  Let me remind you that living and working in Fiji does not automatically translate to sipping cocktails on the beach each day.  This would have been the biggest misconception that my friends had whilst we were living there.  Suva is a good 45 minute drive to a beach that you would want to sip cocktails at.  Whilst living in a smaller town like Sigatoka can seem relaxing and peaceful, it can come with it's challenges different to the capital city.  It is not the same as holidaying in Sigatoka's Shangrila or Outrigger - let me be clear! (been there, thought that!!) I have lived in both Suva and Sigatoka – and in Sigatoka alone, we lived in 3 different  ‘suburbs’ for want a better word, with each being very different. Do your research!

5.  COST OF LIVING

Whilst none of us want to consider cold hard cash whilst thinking of the beautiful island of Fiji, unfortunately it is a big reality you can't afford to neglect.  Unless you are earning international level wages, or earning international dollars (AUD, or USD as an example), you may be shocked at certain pricing in Fiji. The cheapest rent we paid was $350FJD per month (I know, very cheap for Aussies) and the most expensive we chose to pay was $3,500 FJD per month.  There is a big variance, and depending on the quality of living you expect is what you will get.  Friends of ours paid $7,800FJD per month in the capital of Suva, and it was outstanding – views, pool, garden, maids quarters, security guard, fully furnished with quality imported furniture – but it also wasn’t without it’s fair share of issues.  Some issues I have encountered across all levels are water pressure (if you live on a hill with great views, don’t naturally expect to have a full pressurized shower  - that was one mistake I made myself!).

6.  RUGBY

In hindsight, this really should have been Number 1 on this list.  Fiji is the Rugby Nation of the world.  Fijians live, breathe and die for their sport.  My only advice if you aren't a rugby fan, and you are moving to Fiji, would be to get a set of headphones and some good DVDs because when there is a game on - it's on for young and old.  The last HSBC 7s tournament that we were in Suva for, the capital city went dead quite - not a car on the road, not even taxis!  And I won't even mention the Rio Olympics - businesses shut down to watch that final.  Luckily for us, we are a rugby-loving family and have run tournaments ourselves over there, so it only added to our love of Fiji.  It's likely that if you arrive without a love for Rugby, you will quickly be turned.

It does go without saying that our time living in Fiji, as a Fiji expat, across all the different locations and housing has left us with great memories and great bonding moments as a family. Living in Fiji is amazing, you just got to get your expectations at the right level, and take everything as it comes.  Roll with the punches, and fall in love with Fiji Time!

This is another post from our time in Fiji in 2014.  This post was written in April whilst living in Sigatoka, Fiji.  It is a glimpse of our day-to-day life.  Again, I haven't changed anything, just copied it from my blogspot blog and pasted it here.

Lots of my friends wonder about our life here in Fiji, and what we do each day.'Not much' is usually my answer.  But 'not much' fills up our day nicely and we always seem busy, and fairly tired by nightfall.  It must be because everything takes so much longer here, and a trip to town is a series of adventures in itself.  We don't wear watches, or even know the time unless we deliberately look for it.Our days start off with simple brekky like porridge (cooked in an electric frypan haha) or jam on toast, followed by morning chores like washing, and sweeping.. then we do school together.  After school, we mostly head into town for the day's food or some phone or internet recharges.  On sunny days we might go for a walk to the beach, or indulge in a visit to a local Resort for a swim in the pool.Some days we will treat ourselves to a 'real' coffee at the only cafe in town.This morning we took pictures on our trip to town.  It's Sunday so there was hardly anyone around, especially quiet actually since it's Easter Sunday.  Here's what the morning looked like through our eyes....

Walking down the Hill from our house to the bus-stop, which can  more accurately be described as "a spot on the road where the bus will stop!"

Posing in front of the hibiscus, obviously not something we pose in front of each time we walk down the hill!

Its a long walk down that hill for 6 year old legs!

See across the road - well that's the bottom of the hill we just walked down.

Waiting ,waiting, waiting... hoping a bus or taxi will come along soon!  Sometimes we can wait up to 45 minutes, they aren't really on a schedule.  It's affectionately known as "Fiji time!".

Today it is about half an hour we wait, and along comes a bus... YAY!  And double yay because we all get a seat.

The wheels on the bus go round and round.... round and round.... (are you singing now?)

8 minutes down the road we are in town "Sigatoka"... getting off the 'bus' which today was more like a van, a fairly dirty one at that. $2FJD for the 3 of us (around $1.30 in Australia)

Tappoo is the largest tourist type department store in Fiji with shops all over and in every Resort.. the Sigatoka store is their flagship store and is home to the nicest cafe in town.  Off for a coffee!  We were pretty excited getting off the bus to see that it was open today.

This is the lovely lady who makes our lattes...

My latte with a sprinkle of chocolate happiness on top... yum!

Cheers!

Walking through town heading to the supermarket... normally this street is packed with people and taxi's.. today very quiet and peaceful.

Morris Headstrom, one of the supermarket chains here... Or to the locals, simply "MHs".  Open half day today because of Easter.

Next stop the bakery for a wholemeal "long loaf" only $1FJD, so around 65cents in Australia.  We bought 3 as we cooked dinner for our friends tonight and served it with garlic bread.  PS. it was yum!

The baker thought I was quite weird asking for a photo

Foodhall is around the corner from MH, it is another supermarket.. often you need to go to multiple shops to get your list filled.

Last stop is the markets for some fresh vegies and fruit.  I was suprised to see the market stalls today given it was Easter, but grateful nonetheless.  Bought some of those bananas and had them in a banana shake for lunch - very nice!

Coco checking out the fruit with Jewel up ahead of her leading the way.

Waiting for a taxi driver to pick us up... we had left all our bags with him from MH so we could walk over to the other shops and the market.  When we got back he had gone, so we just waited and sure enough he showed up again.  A $5 ride home in a taxi was an easier option with all our groceries.

Then home sweet home.....

Goodnight xx

This is a post from May 2014 which I wrote when we were living in Sigatoka.  I have decided to copy/paste it here because it gives a great glimpse into real 'everyday' life in Fiji for us.... (again I have not amended it in any way).

It's overcast today so we spend at least an hour deciding if we should head to The Hideaway Resort today or not.

I know.  We have tough decisions here in Fiji.

We haven't had any resort time for a couple of weeks.

I know.  How sad, right?

Umming and aaarghing.... we decide YES let's go.  So we pack our towels and togs and off we go down the hill.  We meet our neighbour, the Pastor's wife, on the walk down.  Nice to share the walk with somebody else today.  Chit chat, chit chat.

This is her taking her little girl to town to visit the Health Care Nurse.  This was the baby's first time on the bus, so we took a pic for them to remember the occasion.  Bubba was born on Valentine's Day so her middle name is Valentine, so pretty...

First stop was MH (supermarket) to buy some essential supplies...bottled water and apples.  Bottled water $1.69FJ for 1.5L ($1 aussie) and apples on special today (lucky us!) 4 for $1.75FJ ($1.10aussie).  Apples are always imported in so are often expensive and not the best quality.  This is the checkout chick. Say BULA!

I absolutely must have coffee before 2nd bus trip, so head to Tappoos Cafe... some local cops on the beat, with shiny new vests on.

Today's Fiji Sun newspaper was beaming with good news for Fijians wishing to work in Australia.  I had three local Fijians ask me about this story (as though I knew Tony Abbott personally) and then ask me to find them a job in Australia.  One is a barman, one is a salesman and one is taxi driver - do you know of any jobs for them?

Coffee done, newspaper read... next stop market for some fruit.  Pineapples today, 3 for $5 so around $3 aussie.  We didn't buy them (they just looked so good I had to photograph them). We bought a bunch of bananas for $1 - lighter to carry in our bag, and easier to eat on the run.  Bargain for around 60c aussie, and yummo!

Also had to get some Indian Sweeties for the ride...

Finally on the bus that will take us to The Hideaway.  It's so hot in the bus today, we are all cranky.  Even the normally happy-go-lucky and very patient locals are losing their patience.  The windows don't open and we wait for almost an hour for the bus to fill up and then leave.  As it pulls away we give a cheer, not only because we are leaving but because the air-con kicks in.

Out the bus window leaving Sigatoka town.......the pink shop does hair braiding and calls out to us to come over Every. Single. Time we are in town, and no thank you we don't want our hair braided.

Some Council Workers stopping for a chat

Korotogo, a suburb which is populated heavily by foreigners.  Please Drive Slowly.

Introducing the Bus Guy... his job is to check our tickets about 6 million times during the trip.  You know, in case we have snuck on the bus between now and the last time he checked.  He walks up and down checking tickets.  I don't know his name but given the amount of times we handed each other tickets, I should have asked. I also had to be very sneaky to get this pic, just in case you were wondering why he isn't smiling at the camera.

Fresh Hot Corn, only $1... too bad we couldn't get off the bus to grab some.

Some cuties waiting for the bus... we are almost at our destination now.

Finally get there after an hour's wait on the bus, the drive only takes us about 20 minutes and costs a small $2.85FJ so around $1.90 aussie for the 2 of us (Coco doesn't count as she sits on  my lap - yes compounding the heat by a billion degrees).  Kids jump straight in the pool... the clouds aren't going away.  And I think it must be lunchtime because there is no one around the pool except for us.

A nice couple of hours in the pool, and the clouds roll in so we hitch a ride in a taxi going past.  When we get in, there is a Fijian man in the front and a lovely Fijian lady in the back with us.  Bargain price of $4 all the way home, because we hitched.  Love it.

Home sweet home.  Could be in New York, but we aren't.. we are in FIJI!

Walk up the hill and we are home ready for dinner... Moce  X

This blog post was written in May 2014 when my family lived in the Coral Coast town of Sigatoka.  I have copy/paste it here to give a good glimpse into our family life in Fiji.  I have written an update at the very end of this post.

It's Roast Dinner on Sundays.  We created a little tradition with our Neighbours "Up Top".  And we love it.  How could you not love this?

Roast chicken, carrots, potatoes, and pumpkin, beans, peas and gravy.  Plus, because we are in Fiji, we add Fiji's favourite root vegetable, Kassava. There's no denying it... it's a carby meal.We aim to eat around 6pm each Sunday, all together around the big brown table.  Some weeks it takes us a little longer to get organised.  Some weeks we have guests and other weeks we don't.Take for example the Sunday just gone... there was myself, and my 2 girls, there was Jacqui and Danny (who live "Up Top"), there was Danny's Niece, Bulou, who was here visiting because it is school holidays at the moment.   And of course, Togi, who is also staying Up Top.

Last week we had two lovely French travellers join us, who are spending 6 months travelling the world.  They have been to the most amazing places - their stories were entertaining.  Jealous is an understatement.  We also had my mate, Kiti and her 'new' boyfriend.  Wasn't that exciting for us!!!  So many questions flew around the table that night.It may be interesting (or not!) to know that our meals that have fed up to 10 adults and 4 kids are always cooked in two electric fry-pans.  One belonging to me and the other belonging "Up Top".  We don't have an oven here...

And that our gravy is super delicious but costs $10 for the teeny-tiny box from the supermarket.  We did bring a stash of gravy with us from Australia, but used it all up.  So this is what we use now.

Speaking of having no oven, we also have no television, so every chance she gets, Coco runs "Up Top" to watch theirs.  This is Coco and Bulou watching cartoons before Family Dinner on Sunday.  They were so engrossed, they didn't even see me take the pic (even with a big flashy flash!)

And after I snapped the TV Gals, I couldn't resist a quick pic of Togi, and little baby Chloe.  Togi is the 'manny' (man nanny) Up Top.  Coco will sit watching TV with him for hours, not saying a word.  But here's saying something - out of 4 other available seats, she always chooses the one right next to him.

Sometimes if we run out of something, like ice-cream for dessert, we walk down our hill, take a sharp left to the little corner shop.

A little closer...

Yes, he is just wearing a towel???"Smoking kills!" and so does reaching through the many layers of security to ask for some ice-cream or phone credit, and then reach your hand all the way in to pay.

We walk back up the street, and past the flat we used to live in, way back in 2010...

The one on the end, furtherest away.  It was small but cute, 2 bedrooms and a loungeroom, small kitchen and bathroom for $350FJD a month.  Yes folks, thats about $50 a week in Australia.And in case you are interested, the house next door is For REANT right now...

We pass the local school, where you will be "prosecuted for trespassing if you do it after 4pm".

And back to Home Sweet Home ... well that is the Up Top house you can see in the background, ours is down the driveway (walkway) to the left.  And I don't know what is up with Coco and her arms in all the photos.

After dinner, of course, we have to wash the dishes, so while in Fiji, we do as the Fijians do.  We don't use that whimpy Palmolive dishliquid, we use Axion Paste.  It solid and gets soft(ish) when you put a wet sponge in it.  It fights grease and grime.  It's hardcore.

How blessed we are that our Neighbours are not only caring and funny, but that we get to have dinner with our 'family' every Sunday night.  You are all welcome... next Sunday from 5.30pm.  Hope to see you there...

P.S that's Jacqui and Danny, Jewel and Coco, and Bulou...Love from Fiji x

Update 2017

We miss these guys a lot - they still live there, and I assume Sunday Night Dinners are still a "thing".

We lived very simply then - it was a deliberate choice to do so - a detox from the excess of Australian life.  Whilst we didn't have an oven, there are houses there with ovens - you can definately cook a Roast much easier than how I did.  We also didn't have a car, much furniture or a television, so our days were spent hanging out with eachother, and very simply.  We watched DVDs on our laptop and ate like "locals" - the weekly Roast was a big treat for us (especially the gravy!!).  We would be in our beds come nightfall, as we didn't have much else to do.  Our beds were foam mattresses on the floor. Looking back now, I am so proud of us! I attempted to "homeschool" the kids - that's a story for another time.

We stayed in that house for around 3 months, after which we came back to Australia for a few months and then moved back to Fiji.  That time we started out in Cuvu, Sigatoka (other side of the bridge to this place), then moved into the Capital City, Suva.  After 6 months in Suva, we went back to Sigatoka, and finally back to Suva after a year.  When I write it like that, I realise just how many adventures we have had in Fiji. No wonder it is in our hearts!

“If you are seriously worrying about coffee, you got problems!!”was the response to one of the traveller’s questions I read on a facebook post on a popular Fiji Holidaying page.

This poor fella from Melbourne was asking whether he could buy his daily coffee when on holidays in Fiji, and more importantly, whether it was any good.

I totally get it.  That’s a question I would have asked too!

If you are a coffee drinker (like me!)  you will totally get the anxiety about whether you will be able to get your daily cup when on holidays or when moving to a new country as an Expat.

I do only have one cup per day, so I figure, it has to be a good one.  It’s my little bit of morning happiness, starts my day off right, puts a spring in my step, makes the birds sing louder and more in tune – well you get the picture.  Plus I love the vibe of sitting in a cafe, and taking in the atmosphere, people watching, chatting to friends or my Hubby.  I take all that into consideration when I undertake my daily habit.

Ididn't start drinking coffee until I was 30, and I will happily admit it that it was peer pressure that made me do it.  I was sick of going out for 'coffee' and drinking Diet Coke, so I eased my way in with a Cuppaccino with two super-sweet sugars.  A few months later I dropped the sugars - let me tell you I thought I was hard-core!  After another few months, I started on the Latte, but I added my sprinkling of happiness in the form of chocky powder (and no, it's not a cuppaccino -the froth is different!! Sheeeesh - and yes, I have had to say that too many times for a happy coffee drinker to remain happy!).

More recently, I have cut a lot of things from my diet, including milk, so now I have a long black with a dash of pure pouring cream.  Whereas my Hubby, he has been a flat-white-in-a-mug guy for as long as I can remember.  What’s your coffee style?

Anyway, back to the point of the post… So I do think the person answering was a little harsh, and I am going to help a brother out and answer his question in a little more detail.

There is coffee in Fiji.  Yes, there is. (yay!)

And as the years pass there is more access to better quality coffee.  In 2009, we would pay for a daily cappuccino (in the resort we stayed at - we didn't realise we could drive to a café in Fiji!), and receive an instant coffee with frothed up milk – yes, I know what you are thinking – totally gross!

In 2011, I was so worried about not getting my daily cup, I did a coffee detox for a few weeks before leaving Australia- well, my excuse is that I didn’t want to get withdrawals whilst on holiday. (And I’m sticking to that!)

In 2012, we were living in Suva and coffee became my mission.  I tried all cafes, and found my favourites.  My friend in the upstairs apartment and I would make coffee dates with eachother to “update” which was code for “finding the best coffee in Fiji and getting our hit”.  On one trip back to Brisbane, I bought one of those Italian coffee steamer contraptions – you know the ones that you put on the stove and the coffee steams through it – my friend and I then made it our mission to find decent coffee to put in it. It was our daily struggle.  And the strugglewas real!

In 2014, living as expats in Fiji, we bought our Nespresso machine over with a generous (very generous!) supply of pods.  The milk let that idea down a bit.

And that is precisely where I think someone new to drinking coffee in Fiji will get stuck.  The milk.

The most common type of milk available is UHT (long life) – it does affect the taste of a coffee – I won’t lie.  But you will handle it.  There is fresh milk available but it isn’t that common, and plus it is so hot most of the time, that I found transporting it back and forth was the problem with keeping it fresh.  When I travel, I bring long-life pouring cream with me (Devondale brand).

Our coffee expectations are just based on what we are used to, so to say the coffee is no good in Fiji would be wrong.  It's perfectly fine for what Fiji is used to, it is also due to factors which happen in a pacific island nation.  If you are on an island holiday, and a cyclone hits, for example, its likely that you may have to go without caramel syrup in your latte if they have run out of it. You need to be a little adaptable!! I hope you get where I am going with this!

The Good News

These days there are numerous cafes popping up with really good, well-trained baristas.  There is quality coffee beans available, and there is even a Fijian company whoharvests coffee from Fiji– and you can buy those beans to take back home with you instead of a more traditional souvenir (try the chocolate covered beans YUMMO!) – they also do a lot of work with local villages providing an income for them.

Anyway, as will always be the case on this blog, my disclaimer is that opinions are based on personal experience, so these recommendations are my opinion only.

But YES my friend, there is definitely coffee available in Fiji, but as it rolls in Australia too, it can be hit and miss to find that brew that will satisfy what you expect.

Here are my best picks for the more populated areas of the Fiji Islands:

WHEN IN… SUVA – THE CAPITAL CITY OF FIJI

Bulaccino – Garden CityYummy, consistently good coffee, wide variety of delicious food to choose from.  My absolute fave and a recommendation from me.

FROM SUVA CITY: Grab a taxi from town ($7) and ask to go to Garden City in Raiwaqa, or you could catch the local bus there.  From town it will cost you only $1 – hop on the Raiwaqa bus to Grantham Road.

MY TIP: Get there early enough to try their amazing Portugese Tarts with your brew – YUMMO!  (but they sell out fast because they are made daily).

I would go so far as to say this is myfavourite spot in Fiji for quality coffeeand treats.  There is air-con seating inside and fresh air seating outside.  There are only a couple of shops in the vicinty so you would most likely make the trip to this suburban area specifically for lunch, or a coffee date.(If you are in the West – Nadi or Denerau, there is another Bulaccino for you to try there).  Yep, even just thinking about this place, I feel all warm and fuzzy.  When you are in another country, it’s often the smallest things that will give you comfort.  This is the place that does it for me.  Their club sandwich is delish too!

Gloria Jeans – Damodar CityI’m not normally a Gloria Jeans fan (sorry to those that are -remember personal opinion and all- and sorry to Mrs Gloria Jean)  BUT… there are a few of these franchises across Fiji, and I will go there.  The Damodar City one is my favourite out of them all.  It has aircon if you’re struggling with the heat, or the choice to sit upstairs in an area blocked off from a huge food-court (think: lunch afterwards).  The coffee is kind of inconsistently decent, but the cold drinks are good, and if you are desperate for a caffeine hit and the coffees aren’t doing it for you – try one of their coffee chiller drinks – Swiss Orange Mocha is really yum and has a good shot of coffee. The complex it is located in, Damodar City, is a great place to go, it has a movie cinema which is super cheap by Australian standards, lots of shops to browse and a New World supermarket in which you will be able to purchase lots of “from home” items.  It also has a huge foodcourt and a Kids Game Centre (like Timezone kind of).  Getting to Damodar – taxi from town $7-8 or local bus $1.  It is on Grantham Road, Raiwai, very close to the University of South Pacific campus.

Gloria Jeans – MHCC BuildingIf you have found yourself in Suva from one of the many cruise ships that arrive – it is likely you will find Gloria Jeans in MHCC (a huge shopping centre by Fiji standards) – when I first moved to Suva this is where I would go daily (I hadn't yet found Bulaccino!).  The coffee comes in huge mugs, I’m not partial to that, but many people are.  It gets really busy here and the staff are lovely, plus you will have a lot of shops to look at and a grocery shop right next to it.

The Roc -Suva CityRepublic of Cuppaccino is my  favourite in the actual city.  If I am in town, it’s my go-to.  It is popular with the business community and lots of expats, who will fill it with their suits and finery.  Coffee is good.  It is in the “Dolphins” complex, which is a food court in the business district.  So if you want to try there, any taxi driver will know where to go if you ask them to take you to “Dolphins”.  If you arrived via cruise ship, it is probably a 15 minute easy walk down the main street, plus added bonus you can check out all the little shops along the way.

WHEN IN… SIGATOKA – THE CORAL COAST

Outrigger Resort & SpaThe cafe is near Reception as your enter the Hotel. It has great views and decent coffee.  The servings of cake are huge, so grab one to share.  It is open air, no air-conditioning, but the breeze is awesome as it is so high up and overlooking the sea. Whilst I was living in Sigatoka, I would drive 15 mins each way daily to grab my brew from here. Easy parking if you have a car, but also very easy to get to by local bus from town for $1.  If I couldn’t make it that far, I would head into the main town centre and go to Cuppa Bula in Tappoos.  I do recommend Outrigger – lovely atmosphere (feels like you are in Fiji), staff are friendly and the coffee is decent.

View from Outrigger Cafe

Tappoos Cuppa BulaThe cafe is inside the large tourist department-type store.  It is air-conditioned, and the staff are friendly and lovely.  They will always play and laugh with any kids, which will be a bonus to all the parents out there.  The coffees are consistently good, because the Barista’s were consistent.  There is cafe food available, the pizzas are my favourite!  The cakes are not the greatest, but the milkshakes are yummy.  If you are in Sigatoka town, this place would be my pick for a coffee.

JacksIt’s a cafe hut on the sidewalk just as you enter the main street of town.  It’s open-air, not air-conditioned. To be honest the coffee, for me, was hit and miss.  I went through a stage of getting coffee here each morning, and the staff are lovely, but it wasn’t consistent enough for me.  I do know people though that swear by it, so again, it’s personal.  The seats aren’t that comfy either – metal benches – not my favourite. I like a comfy chair. Good shopping inside though – heaps of well-priced souvenirs.

Shangrila Fijian ResortThey opened a dedicated cafe in 2015 and I’ve been there a few times.  To be honest, the coffee wasn’t great.  The cold drinks were amazing though, and when we found ourselves there, I would end up getting a cold coffee drink, like a Mocha on ice or something similar. It had the caffeine hit I needed, and tasted yummy.  The baked goodies were delicious, especially the vanilla slice – probably the best I’ve ever tasted.

However, I want to back this up by saying, it wasvery newso the staff were learning. I have heard since that it is good and they may have changed to a different brand of coffee – I just can’t say from my experience.  I do hope to go back and try it again, and if it has changed I will update this post.  If you aren’t an in-house guest, parking and accessing the cafe is a little time consuming.  You park in a car park, then walk about 7 minutes up to the main reception and then walk through the resort to find the cafe – it’s not a fast, grab and go, type place – but if you’re on holidays who cares right?

WHEN IN… NADI (or Denerau)

BulaccinoAgain, my favourite!! (read Suva section) for all the same reasons as above.  There is one in Denerau (super handy for those staying in any one of the Denerau resorts, especially the Sheraton) and one in the main town.  Again, it has consistently good coffee, nice atmosphere, aircon or not – your choice!, yummy lunch, fresh baked goodies.  I do love me some Bulaccino.

RaddisonI would often grab a quick takeaway from here because it was pretty fast, fairly easy to park and it was consistent.

I’ve tried a few other shops in Nadi but honestly, not that many, because I preferred Bulaccino as I found it very consistent.   I am keen to try TASTE – I have heard good things – has anyone else tried it and can share with us their thoughts?

Are you an expat living in Fiji, and can add some info about your fav cafe for newcomers?  Or have you stayed on holidays in Fiji, and found a real gem of a cafe?

Leave a comment below so I can try these hidden gems, and so readers have some options to choose from when they are on holidays!

I know how serious C O F F E E is, so let’s be kind and respect each others opinions – lol!

Off to have a coffee now!  What is your style of coffee?

E N J O Y x