Tag: 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

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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