Leaving the shores of Vanuatu behind, we made our way across the vast Pacific Ocean, heading for the island nation of Fiji. In the morning, we got a first introduction to this Melanesian country by our naturalist, Mike Greenfelder, who lived there for a couple of years.
When we entered Beqa Lagoon, south of Viti Levu, we found ideal conditions for an afternoon filled with water activities. The divers and snorkelers enjoyed the warm, emerald waters of the lagoon and the stunning diversity of life beneath the water’s surface. Others felt the urge for a bit more exercise and joined some local guides on an exploration of the interior of Beqa Island. The very adventurous among us decided to have their first taste of Fijian culture and gulped down a bowl of Kava, the national drink made from the root of Piper methysticum. As the sun began to approach the horizon, we all gathered at the beach for a wonderful dance performance (Meke).
Afterwards, we were lucky enough to witness Beqa Island’s very unique tradition of fire walking. It was absolutely fascinating to watch people walk over hot stones that should have burned their feet without even batting an eyelash.
Listening to “Isa lei” we left beautiful Beqa Island and the people that had so warmly welcomed us and sailed into a gorgeous sunset.
This could have been the ideal end to a wonderful day but of course back on board the National Geographic Orion a delicious BBQ dinner was awaiting us and to top it all off our amazing crew entertained us as we left Beqa Island behind and started heading towards Taveuni.
