February 5, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Lautoka, Fiji

Where in the World Are We?

In Lautoka, Fiji in the South Pacific Islands

LAUTOKA, FIJI
KNOWN AS THE SUGAR CITY BECAUSE OF ITS SUGAR CANE BELT AREAS
It doesn’t get much sweeter than arriving on the sun-soaked shores of the Sugar City. Fiji’s second-biggest settlement
opens up a world of blissful beaches and turquoise seascapes while its dense jungle lures the adventurous deep into
its embrace. Experience rich Fijian life and see dramatic displays like warrior dances and remarkable local practices like
firewalks which kick up burning embers into the night sky.

Legend says the city took its name after two chiefs faced each other in a duel. A spear pierced one of the chiefs leading to
the shout of ‘lau-toka!’ or ‘spear hit!’ Sugar is Lautoka’s main trade but its botanical gardens are a sweet insight into the
tropical plant life that thrives here – from pearl white lilies to tall fragrant orchids.

Explore temples charming cafes and mills – or barter for some of the juiciest mangoes you’ll ever taste at the city’s lively
market. You’ll only be able to resist the beaches for so long and it doesn’t get much more stunning than the Blue Lagoon
– a heavenly blend of woven-together turquoise shades. Remote wild and unspoiled these are some of the best tropical
beaches in the world.

There’s more rejuvenating relaxation at the mineral-rich mud pools and spas fuelled by the volcanic activity below.
Savala Island is a teardrop of sand offshore and another beautiful place to wander with the soft powder between your
toes – along sandy spits that peter out into the water. Or swim and snorkel among its envied reefs thronging with fish life.

SUGAR MILL
One of the top attractions in the region is the local Sugar Mill. Known as the “Sugar City,” Lautoka has a rich history in sugarcane farming and production, making the Sugar Mill a significant site to visit.
Visitors can learn about the traditional processes of sugarcane crushing and refining that have been practiced for centuries. Catch a glimpse into the historical and cultural importance of this industry and learn the steps from harvesting the sugarcane crops to processing and packaging the final product.

SIGHTS

• Vuda Point Marina
• Lautoka Market
• Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
• Nadi Handicraft Market
• Navala Village
• Garden of the Sleeping Giant
• Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool
• Sawa-I-Lau Caves

Today’s Excursion – Veiseisei Village & Garden of the Sleeping Giant
We discovered the exquisite beauty of Lautoka and the ancient origins of Fiji during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.
Veiseisei Village, Vuda Lookout, Mountain, Ocean and Bay Views, Refreshments, Lautoka City Centre

We visited Veiseisei, a traditional village located in the Vuda District, where the native Fijians settled when they first arrived in 1500 B.C.

Next, we re-boarded our coach and headed to the Vuda Lookout. Upon arrival, we enjoy seasonal fruit and chilled fruit juices to quench our thirst while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain, ocean, and Bay of Nadi.

Garden of the Sleeping Giants, Vuda District
We drove for approximately a 30-minute drive to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, home to around 2,000 species of
orchids. This was the former estate of Raymond Burr of Perry Mason and Ironsides TV fame. Upon arrival, we had a guided walking tour and marveled at the exquisite beauty of our surroundings.

Dinner was in The Restaurant