Nayawa Village

While Fiji is known for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, crystal turquoise waters, and tropical marine life, what truly defines this small island nation is the spirit of its villages. While their culture is steeped in stark tradition, Nayawa Village residents seem to revel in exposing visitors to the areas where they live, work, and play. Fijians have Melanesian roots, but many of their traditions are derived from Polynesian culture.

One of the most prominent and common of these traditions is the ritual drinking of kava. The bitter root of the kava plant, which is part of the pepper family, is the key ingredient to the Polynesian brew that’s consumed in Hawaii, Samoa, Vanuatu, and on several other Pacific Islands. It plays a crucial role in Fijian culture, and guests visiting Nayawa village will be invited to drink it as part of a welcome ceremony. Another variety of plant that’s a cornerstone of Fijian life is the coconut tree. The mineral-rich soil of the island nation yields coconuts that are regarded as the best in the world, but they aren’t only a food source. The shells, husks, tree trunks, and fronds are utilized as weaving and building materials, nutritional supplements, and even musical instruments.

While guests are welcome, there is a hierarchy and rules that shape life in Nayawa Village. The chief oversees day-to-day operations, appointed based not only on his or her family tree but also on merit. The son or daughter of a chief won’t necessarily inherit the position if someone in the family is better suited. The village elders are also top-ranking members in the community and have a heavy hand in important decision making. Visitors are advised to cover their knees and shoulders and remove hats upon entering the village as a sign of respect.

The residents of Nayawa Village extremely proud of their education system, and they have reason to be. Schools in Fiji are among the best in the region, with free schooling for children from six to 16 years old. Students are encouraged to think creatively and teachers are known for successfully catering to different types of learners, despite working with limited resources. Education is overseen by the government or churches, which in are mostly Methodist. Stepping into Nayawa Village is stepping into a different world that thrives all the same.

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Kula Eco Park

Kula Eco Park is where visitors and locals alike flock to catch a glimpse of the vibrant and varied wildlife that calls Fiji home. The park is dedicated to the preservation of species, exemplified by their endangered animals breeding program. Among some of the species the program has put forth efforts to save are the bright green and white-crested iguanas, the regal peregrine falcon, and the vocal ground frog. The proceeds from guests’ entrance fees are what facilitates the park’s conservation efforts. While visiting, guests have the opportunity to speak candidly with wildlife experts, see the incubation centers, and more.

While in recent years, the park has installed a number of more modern and adventurous attractions such as a zip-down roller coaster rail and a water slide, the driving force of their livelihood is still their wildlife exhibits. While exploring the grounds, visitors can behold the habitats different insects, iguanas, snakes, turtles, and a full color palate of bird species. They’ve won numerous awards for their expansive forest walkways which offer exposure to Fiji’s true biodiversity. But their environmental efforts and vivid displays aren’t the only way Kula Eco Park gives back to the community: they also provide free nature classes for local students in Fiji.

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