A Journey to the Heart of Fiji

As I embarked on the Navua River Cruise, I was reminded of the gentle rhythm of train travel that I have always cherished. The journey began with a 7 am pick-up from the Marriott Momi Bay, where a small van transported us to a larger bus. Our driver, William, was a kind soul who allowed us to rest during the three-hour drive to Navua River. The landscape unfolded like a moving painting, with sugarcane farms and quaint villages passing by, reminiscent of the European countryside I often write about.

Upon arrival at the village, we were greeted by Nem, our guide, whose warmth and knowledge were as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer’s day. The facilities were surprisingly modern, with clean restrooms and a welcoming atmosphere. As we prepared for the boat tour, I felt a sense of anticipation akin to boarding a train bound for an unknown destination.

The River’s Embrace

The boat tour along the Navua River was a symphony of sights and sounds. Our captain, Gavin, skillfully navigated the shallow waters, while Nem regaled us with stories and even serenaded us with the Canadian national anthem. The river’s gentle flow mirrored the leisurely pace of a train journey, allowing us to savor each moment.

We disembarked to walk around the rapids, a brief interlude that added a touch of adventure to our serene voyage. The waterfall we reached was a hidden gem, its cascading waters inviting us to swim and capture memories with our cameras. The local children, fearless and free, leapt from the top, a spectacle that reminded me of the carefree days of youth.

Switching to a traditional bamboo raft, we continued our journey, with Nem sharing fascinating insights into the region’s history and culture. The raft’s gentle glide was reminiscent of the smooth ride of a train, a timeless mode of travel that I hold dear.

A Cultural Tapestry

Returning to the village, we were welcomed with a traditional Kava ceremony, a ritual that connected us to the island’s rich heritage. My husband was chosen to partake in the ceremony, a moment that felt both sacred and communal. The meal that followed was a feast for the senses, with dishes cooked underground, offering flavors as rich and diverse as the landscapes we had traversed.

The afternoon was filled with cultural demonstrations, from coconut opening to basket weaving, each activity a thread in the vibrant tapestry of Fijian life. The village women shared their skills in mat weaving and print making, their hands moving with the grace and precision of a seasoned conductor leading an orchestra.

As we browsed the handcrafted items for sale, I was reminded of the markets in European towns, where artisans display their wares with pride. The sense of community and connection was palpable, a reminder of the shared human experience that transcends borders.

The journey back to the hotel was a time for reflection, as the bus carried us through the fading light of day. The Navua River Cruise had been a journey not just through a landscape, but through a culture, a history, and a way of life. It was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where each moment is savored, and every experience becomes a cherished memory.