February 7, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea – En Route to Bay of Islands, New Zealand/
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Lautoka, Fiji to Bay of Islands, New Zealand in the Sooth Pacific
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecturer with Destination Lecturer Linda Walker – Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty and Gisborne in Poverty Bay
- Enrichment Lecturer with World Affairs Lecturer Dr. Mark Elowitz – Inspecting Irasible Iran and the Middle East Mess
- Enrichment Lecturer with Linda Walker: Welcome to Napier and to Wellington, New Zealand’s Capital
- Captain Michele Macarone Palmerieri’s Welcome Cocktail Reception
- Showtime! Tom Ward: Guitar Virtuoso
Dinner tonight was in The Restaurant
TONIGHT’S SHOW – TOM WARD: GUITAR VIRTUOSO
Thomas Ward has performed in over 50 countries as a soloist and with symphony orchestras. His original style is unlike anything you have seen before.
Having performed in over 50 countries as a soloist and with symphony orchestras, Thomas Ward’s solo guitar show will include virtuoso music from Spain, arrangements from Frans Liszt, and the popular movie favorite ‘Cavatina’ from ‘The Deer Hunter’.
Thomas’s original style is unlike anything you have seen before.
Thomas Ward – a globetrotting, mesmerizing, musician extraordinaire!
Whilst traveling the world, Thomas shares his music, detailed experiences, and stories with everyone. Humble, passionate, and charismatic! Thomas’s music is as great as any guitar show has ever been, creating new ways to make his classical guitar resonate with amazing quality, Thomas performs with excitement and panache on the stage.
Experience an unforgettable mesmerising show that Thomas creates by piercing your body and soul with his exhilarating unique style of music. We enjoyed a special night to remember.
February 6, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Lautoka, Fiji
Where in the World Are We?
In Lautoka, Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean
LAUTOKA, FIJI
EXPLORE LAGOONS TEEMING WITH MARINE LIFE, MYSTERIOUS CAVES AND CANYONS
Visiting Lautoka, tourists can enjoy many attractions and choose from a variety of sightseeing tours. One of the popular
sites to visit is the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, home to around 2,000 species of orchids. During a guided walking tour
you can marvel at the exquisite beauty of your surroundings.
For everyone who would like to explore the local culture and heritage, a visit to Veiseisei, a traditional village located in
the Vuda District, is recommended. The native Fijians settled here when they first arrived in 1500 B.C. Another local place
to explore is the village of Sabeto where giants of men once roamed. The chiefs of Sabeto used to own almost half of
Viti Levu (the largest island in Fiji and home of the nation’s capital), indicating that they were mighty warriors. This village
has retained many of its old customs and culture. Get first-hand experience with the daily routine of the native Fijians
and learn about traditional ways of life.
Near Sabeto you will find the well-known mud pool and hot springs of Fiji. If you have never been covered in mud from
head to toe, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. The Sabeto mud pool and hot springs are one of Fiji’s hidden
jewels and offer a rare opportunity to indulge in a therapeutic, natural, thermal mud spa. The therapeutic mud pool
of Sabeto is the ideal remedy for self-cleansing, or naturally beautifying yourself. Locals believe that the sulfur in the
hot springs has healing properties. A popular spot for both visitors and locals, the mud pool also offers a great social
experience. After absorbing the soothing and healing properties of the mud, wash it off in the natural hot springs and
enjoy the rejuvenating feeling after this cleansing procedure.
TAPPOOCITY LAUTOKA
Very conveniently located in the center of Lautoka City, is this upscale shopping mall. The complex includes a premium supermarket, department stores, specialty stores, and services such as pharmacies, a mobile phone shop, a cosmetic store, a book store, and a hair and beauty salon, as well as entertainment and an international food court.
The mix of retail, gastronomy, and recreational offerings appeals to the thousands of cruise passengers who visit Lautoka throughout the year.
SIGHTS
- Mount Koroyanitu
- Iskcon, Krishna Kaliya Temple
- Saweni Beach
- Lautoka Botanical Gardens
- Lautoka Golf Course
Today’s Excursion – Nawaka Village & Fire-Walking
We embraced the famous Fijian hospitality and traditional way of life during this interactive, half-day sightseeing excursion.
Nawaka Village, Village Warriors, Vanua Chant, Traditional Welcome Leis
We departed the pier for the scenic drive to Nawaka Village and had a unique opportunity to experience the famous island hospitality and traditional way of life. Upon arrival, the village warriors met us at the entrance to the village, the local women sang a vanua chant reserved strictly for special guests, and the children garland you with traditional flower leis.
Village Hall, Kava Ceremony, Meet the Chief, Fire-Walking, ‘Ta Ra La La’ Dance
Next, we proceeded to the Village Hall and participated in a kava ceremony, then took a guided tour, enjoyed the honor of
meeting the Chief, and delved into the mysterious world of fire-walking, a captivating ritual to observe. There is no valid
explanation why the legendary fire-walkers of Bega have the unique skill to walk on the white-hot stones without injury.
Dinner tonight at The Restaurant
Check out today’s Chronicle
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.
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW – FROM FIJI WITH LOVE
This show is a love story that follows our main character Manasa from his indigenous Fijian village rich in ancient customs and tradition.
Having learned the protocol of his Fijian heritage, he is now determined to explore the scenic sights beyond the humble village of his birth. Manasa sets out for the hustle and bustle of Suva city. It is among the signs and lights he sees Manisha and it is love at first sight. This is where our story of forbidden love unfolds.
Manisha takes him to see and meet the different cultural groups of Fiji and their love deepens. However, Manisha’s parents have other ideas for her – Will love prevail? This tale of love, forgiveness, and acceptance threads through a fun
explosion of dance, music, and song. Celebrating life and love without barriers this is a colorful cultural cascade and sensory feast that weaves through the history and cultures of the Fiji Islands – this is “From Fiji With Love.”
Dinner was in The Restaurant
February 4, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Savusavu, Fiji
Where in the World Are We?
In Savusavu, Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean
SAVUSAVU, FIJI
TRY HOT SPRINGS FOR A REJUVENATING SOAK OR TOUR A PRIVATE PEARL FARM
An island paradise of rich colours and verdant scenery SavuSavu is a staggeringly beautiful and gloriously
undeveloped South Pacific island. Fiji’s more tourist-orientated Viti Levu island is close by but the joy of SavuSavu
comes in venturing off the beaten track and delving into the heart of a tropical idyll where hidden villages welcome
you with open arms.
Revelling in its nickname as Fiji’s hidden paradise the country’s second-largest island is a place of adventure – and
geothermically fuelled relaxation. Mud baths burble and hot springs simmer across the island adding to the sense
that the land itself is alive and breathing.
Trek the rainforests with parrots chattering overhead and see the colours splashed across the green landscapes
and gardens by orchids and water lilies. Gardens overlook the gorgeous SavuSavu Bay and you can walk between
hundreds of palm varieties and trees that droop laden with exotic fruits. The sprawling rainforest opens up briefly to
reveal SavuSavu the island’s compact main town.
Thriving coral reeds add yet more colour and life to the surrounding seabeds with spectacular snorkelling opportunities
and the chance to spot bottlenose and spinner dolphins skipping and skimming acrobatically across the tips of the
waves. The fertile environment also encourages black lip pearl oysters to thrive here leading to the development of
one of the island’s treasured exports beautiful black pearls. Visit the bay’s farm to find out more.
FLORA TROPICA BOTANICAL GARDENS
Located about 5km out of SavuSavu, these gorgeous gardens are home to 300 types of palms and countless tropical flowers and fruit trees. Many of the palms are classified as rare and endangered species. Encounter countless birds and butterflies as you stroll around this idyllic paradise. Wander along the elevated timber walkways and stone paths to discover the many varieties and enjoy stunning views over SavuSavu Bay.
SIGHTS
- KokoMana Cocoa & Chocolate
- SavuSavu Tourism Association Park
- Vuadomo Waterfall
- Thermal mud pools
- Nakama Hot Springs
- Yumbilla Waterfall
- Hunter Pearls Fiji Showroom
Spanish Family Dinner at La Terrazza
February 3, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea – En Route to Savusava, Fiji
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Apia, Samoa to Savasava, Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Astronomer Jonathan Ward – The History and Fate of the Universe
- Enrichment Lecture with Destination Lecturer Linda Walker – Fiji – The “Sugar City” and Gateway to Fiji
- Enrichment Lecture with Oceanographer George Losey – Amazing Creatures of the Coral Reef
- Showtime! Limelight
Tonight’s Dinner was in The Restaurant
February 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Apia, Samoa
Where in the World Are We?
In Apia, Samoa in the South Pacific Ocean
APIA, SAMOA ISLANDS
THIS CHARMING COLONIAL-STYLE TOWN IS A HUB OF BUSINESS AND SHOPPING
The art of Samoan tattooing – Samoa is a fascinating cultural exception. They are the only territory where the tradition
of tattooing has never been interrupted under the pressure of missionaries. The tufuga ta tatau (tattoo artists) are
therefore still descended from families of tattoo artists who have handed down their techniques from generation to
generation since time immemorial.
In Samoa, tattoos marked the passage to adulthood and were necessary for marriage, among other things. A long and
painful process, the pe’a (male tattoo) and malu (female tattoo) proved, and still show today, the strength and
courage of those who wear them and mark their allegiance to the group of chiefs and their respect for their authority
and Samoan traditions. Lasting up to several weeks, the men’s tattoos cover the body from torso to knees in intricate
and complex designs.
A real Samoan tattoo is accompanied by binding rituals that are still widely carried out today. For example, for the
duration of the creation process, which can take several weeks for a man, the tattooist must stop cutting his hair,
shaving his beard, and having sexual intercourse. He must also eat his meals separately and be accompanied wherever
he goes, day or night. For women, as the tattoo only covers the upper part of the leg, a tattoo only lasts a day or two but
involves the same rituals and the same extreme pain.
Men with a completed pe’a are soga’imiti. Those who didn’t go all the way, because of the pain or the price, are called
pe’a mutu – a disgrace – while those who didn’t get tattooed are called telefua or telenoa, which means “naked” in
Samoan.
Today’s Excursions to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and the Bahi’a Temple
The museum is the former home of the author which has been perfectly restored to its glorious day with some of the author’s work and family memorabilia.
Robert Louis Stevenson is famous for his many writings including Treasure Island, Kidnapped, and the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Originally from Scotland, he was known to the Samoans as the man with great ‘manas’.
Due to his many positive interactions with the local community, he became very popular and also a well-respected figure to the locals who knew him. He passed away on December 3, 1894, at the age of 44. His colleagues and people who worked for him buried him on top of Mount Vaea (within Vailima) at a spot overlooking the sea.
The Bahi’a temple was designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Hossein Amanat. As is required according to Baha’i scripture, the temple has a nine-sided circular shape. Like other Baha’i houses of worship around the world, the Samoan temple honors local cultural and environmental elements. The temple sits among 20 acres of prayer gardens comprised of over 60 species of plants, flowers, and trees, all native to Samoa. The dome of the temple itself is reminiscent of traditional Samoan architecture, the Samoan fale.
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February 1, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Apia, Samoa
Where in the World Are We?
Anchored off Apia, Samoa – ALL DAY – Officials would not clear our ship to tender in or dock.
APIA, SAMOA ISLANDS
A PARADISE ON EARTH, WITH ITS WARM CULTURE AND BREATHTAKING SCENERIES
As the first independent state of Polynesia, Samoa is considered the cradle of the nation, a place where the Earth and the heart fuse seamlessly. Incidentally, were one to translate the word “Samoa” into the traditional Polynesia dialect, they would find that the words “Sa” and “Moa” mean exactly that: earth and center. Apia, Samoa’s only town, is found on the central north coast of Upolu, Samoa’s second largest island.
Originally a tiny village of just over 300 inhabitants (c. 1800), the town’s population has grown to be just shy of 40,000. While a population of such size might mean forgetting traditional roots in favor of modern life, this has not been the case in Apria.
The Samoan way of life is still very much the order of the day; traditional open-sided houses with thatched roofs on platforms of coral or concrete, also known as ‘fales’, can be seen everywhere and nearly all of the population (including the policemen) wear the typical local dress; skirts, or ‘lavalavas’ for men, and long, mumu-style dresses for women.
The markets are bursting with culture and color, selling everything from handicrafts to cuisine and local produce. If the idyllic setting of aquamarine pools of bluey green water, framed by low fringed palms and huge umbrella trees seems familiar, that’s because it probably is. The island, and notably the southern resort of Lefaga, was used in the 1953 Gary Cooper classic Return to Paradise Beach. It is also the last place on Earth to see each day’s sunset.
MAKETI FOU
This 24-hour market is a must-see shopping and social experience. Explore the vibrant atmosphere with local merchants, shoppers, and men playing games of mu (Samoan checkers), and offering primarily local produce. Souvenir hunters will find siapo (decorated bark cloth), woodcarvings, coconut-shell jewelry, lava-lava (wraparound sarongs), and T-shirts.
If you want a revitalizing drink, a cold niu (drinking coconut) would be a wonderful refreshment to make the hot climate more bearable.
Sights
• Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
• Samoa Cultural Village
- Palolo Deep Marine Reserve
- Immaculate Conception Cathedral
- Tiapapata Art Centre
- Tafatafa Beach
TONIGHT’S SHOW – SAMOA PARADISE
In Pacific culture, dance and performance are
an important part of the culture and heritage
of people, and it has been passed down
through generations as a way of keeping
traditions alive. Each Pacific nation has its unique dances that tell stories, and showcase history and culture. In Samoa, for example, the Siva Samoa is a traditional dance that tells stories of the island’s history and legends.
Experience an extraordinary night featuring an incredible cultural performance and get to know more about Samoa’s culture and history through song, dance, and traditional costumes.
Check out today’s Daily Chronicle
January 31, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea – En Route to Apia, Samoa
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing past Christmas Island headed southwest to Apia, Samoa
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecturer with Destination Lecturer Linda Walker – Savasavu, Fiji
- Enrichment Lecturer with Oceanographer George Losey – Coral Reefs in the Tropical Pacific
- Enrichment Lecturer with Naturalist Professor Douglas Biggs – Ocean Life In The Extremes
- Dinner Special Feature: American Diner
- Showtime! Danny Bacher’s Swing Party
Tonight’s Dinner was on the Pool Deck with an American Diner format
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January 30, 2024 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Apia, Samoa
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing past Christmas Island headed southwest to Apia, Samoa
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecturer with Secret Intelligence Lecturer Mark Lubienski – Secret Intelligence in the Falklands
- Enrichment Lecturer with Naturalist Professor Douglas Biggs – Long-Term Coral Reef Ecosystem Research
- Enrichment Lecture with Oceanographer George Losey – Melanesia & Polynesia – The Origin & Discovery
- Enrichment Lecturer with World Affairs Lecturer Dr. Mark Elovitz – teetering on Taiwan’s Tremendous Tightrope
- Dinner Special Feature: American Diner
- Showtime! Motown
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January 29, 2024 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Apia, Samoa Islands
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing past Christmas Island to Apia, Samoa
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Dr. Mark Elowitz – Inspecting The Misbegotten, Misunderstood Ukraine War
- Enrichment Lecturer with Secret Intelligence Lecturer Mark Lubienski – Espionage & Treachery In the Cold War
- Enrichment Lecturer with Naturalist Professor Douglas Biggs – Renewable Marine Energy for Polynesia
- Enrichment Lecturer with Oceanographer George Losey – History of Hawai’i Part 2
- Showtime! Violinist Von Dylan
Check out today’s Daily Chronicle