Taveuni - The Garden Island of Fiji

Before going to the island of Taveuni, we had to repack. Maximum of 15 kg of luggage per person is allowed. That wasn't easy. So we left a backpack at the hostel in Nadi and went to the airport. We already suspected that the plane would be quite small. Because the 'hall' for domestic flights was tiny and there was only one gate. Not only our luggage was weighed, but we also had to step on the scale. This way the seats could be distributed according to weight, everything has to be very balanced. When the gate opened, we walked across the tarmac to the really small plane. Only 19 seats and a great view into the cockpit from row two. The flight was actually more like sightseeing. Great view of the islands, reefs, and the clear sea. The 1.5 hours passed quickly and we landed at an even smaller airport.

Taveuni is the third largest island in Fiji, covered with rainforest and divided by the 180th meridian. So you can stand here on the International Date Line. So to speak, between today and yesterday. We too stood between the days. Unfortunately, so much rainforest also means a lot of rain. Two of our five days were very rainy, but that didn't stop us from getting completely soaked on the Lavena Coastal Walk. An absolutely beautiful walk along the coast, fruit plantations, and waterfalls. Due to the heavy rain, the streams turned into wide rivers that had to be crossed. It was easier by car than on foot. Since we were already completely soaked, we also bathed at the waterfall that awaited us at the end of the walk. Our guide was incredibly friendly, explained various plants and their effects, picked fresh bananas and papayas for us, and cracked open a coconut for us.

We also got wet at the Natural Water Slide, but not because of the rain. The stream has been making its way down to the valley for years and has polished the stones in such a way that a kind of slide has been created. It was so much fun to slide down here, in the middle of the rainforest.

A little stroll in Naqara, the main town of the island, was also a must. There wasn't much to see. Small shops, the only ATM on the island, and a market with delicacies. Simon got a new haircut for only 4 euros, but it was tip-top and very funny. The people are all so lovable and helpful, like a big family.

We also visited the famous Bouma Falls and two other waterfalls on a trip. Here we could swim in the pools and jump off the rocks.

Our highlight was diving at Rainbow Reef. It is one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world and is home to the Great White Wall. Unfortunately, we couldn't visit it due to the strong current. Nevertheless, our two dives on the reef were absolutely fantastic. Incredibly colorful with all the countless fish and diverse corals. Among other things, the Magic Coral, which is actually red-brown but turns completely white as soon as you touch it. We also saw a few pufferfish, Nemo and Dory, sleeping reef sharks, and lionfish. When we returned to the boat, we were surrounded by a group of manta rays. About ten animals swam around the boat, and almost everyone jumped in again to snorkel with them.

While sunbathing on the beach, we saw some people handling pieces of coral and ropes. We quickly got into conversation and they explained 'Reef Gardening' to us. The still living broken corals are collected and attached to ropes. Then they are placed on a large line in the sea where they can grow again before being brought back to the reefs after 2-3 years. Completely excited about the voluntary 'reef gardeners', we helped to tie the corals and snorkelled over the 'garden' the next day.

Unfortunately, our lodge was not located on the beach and was very simply equipped, but the food was excellent. For Simon's birthday, I asked for a small surprise cake. The warm-hearted staff exceeded all expectations, brought a delicious chocolate cake and sang to our breakfast table. This surprise was more than successful. At a small beach party with typical Fiji music, we tried kava again, but this time we were not convinced by the taste.

The flight back to Nadi was again great to enjoy the great view of the many islands and reefs.

So far, Fiji has been a 'once in a lifetime' destination for us. But now we didn't get to see the Great White Wall, we fell in love with the beauty of the islands and were impressed by all the lovable people and the delicious food. Actually, we don't want to leave and someday come back to paradise.

Now our journey takes us to our final destination - Hong Kong. In this multicultural metropolis, there is probably no more Fiji time?!