Fiji New Years Update: Day 5

Most everyone took it easy on January 1st and we came to find out that New Years Day is a big celebration for the Fijians. John and I walked down to the public beach and there were thousands of families eating, partying, playing rugby and enjoying the ocean.

We were invited to participate in a Kava Kava ceremony where we learned about Fijian culture, traditions and rituals. Kava kava is an esteemed mind and mood altering agent enjoyed by the non-drinking locals. After a few rounds of drinks we all were dusted with powder and told we would all sleep well.

Fiji New Years Update: NYE

December 31, 2009

The day we have all been waiting for finally arrived...New Years Eve!! There were 2 seatings for dinner and the music began promptly at 9pm. The staff built a stage right off the beach and with the help of BLVD's own Leon Cook, the sound system actually came together.

Fiji is actually one of the first places to celebrate the new year and here is the list of celebration times from around the world...

It just so happen to be a Blue Moon on this night as well which is the second full moon in one calendar month. Here are some pics from the night...I'll go back and add names later ; )

Fiji New Years Update: Day 3

December 30, 2009: There was a boat ride to what has now been coined "Crazy Island". The actually name is Nanuku Island (or Storm Island). We decided to sit this one out, but you apparently can walk around the entire island in under 10 minutes and it is truly untouched paradise.


We had dinner delivered to all of us in our villa and was by far the best meal yet...a few different curry dishes and delicious fried bread. Two of our villa mates, Brett and Laurel, got engaged earlier in the day, so we celebrated with them.


More to come!

Fiji New Years Update: Day 2

First things first. We wanted to get some staples for our stay and heard about a little market place right up the road. The area is called 'Pacific Harbour Cultural Centre and Marketplace' and has a grocery store, a hand full of of clothing and souvenir shops and restaurants. Very convenient if you need anything during your stay.

We got back to the resort and headed to the second pool in our villa area. Taunovo Bay is divided up into 13 villas (about 5 more are currently under construction) that each accommodate 10-12 people. There are 5 private rooms for everyone and there is a shared house with a full state of the art kitchen, living and dining room and rockin' sound system.





Finally it was time to check out the beach. Fiji was hit by a cyclone a few weeks ago and they are still clearing the beached of all the debris, however, the water is just perfect temperature wise. John and I took a walk on Taunovo's privately owned beach to see the sights...




We went to another resort late in the afternoon called Uprising. Had a great time and heard some killer beats.




More tomorrow!

Fiji New Years Update: Day 1

We're here!! After a flight from Phoenix to LA and a 9 hour layover, we departed LA at 9:30 pm on Saturday, Dec 26th for a 10 hour flight and arrived in Nadi at 5:30am safe and sound on Monday, Dec 28th. We crossed the international date line and completely lost the 27th. After a quick stop at the Duty Free shop, we embarked on a 3 hour scenic bus ride of the coast, drinks already in our hands, to Taunovo Bay. Here are some shots from the bus ride and pit stops...

Our gracious and hospitable host Tony Alfaro...


Shots from the bus ride...




We were greeted with friendly faces and cold smoothie fruit drinks by the hotel staff, who were more than accommodating upon our arrival. It was raining on and off, but being from Arizona, that was OK by me! We were given our keys and escorted to our rooms, which are just as impressive as the pictures from the website.

Living area and bed (and John)...


Bathroom and closet area...



Our own private pool...


After a nap and getting settled, we of course had to take time to enjoy our first sunset in paradise from one of the many hammocks on the property...



More tomorrow!

Merry Chistmas!!

Blooming Footprint would like to wish you and yours a Merry Christmas! No matter what you celebrate this holiday season, enjoy time with your friends and family.

This is a nutcracker a friend of mine owns. We are both huge Les Claypool fans and this little guy happens to look remarkably like Les...had to share!



Our next post will be from Taunovo Bay Resort and Spa, located in the town of Nadi, on the western side of Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji. The Fiji New Years kick off party is Monday at HEAVEN Sky Bar. Stay tuned!!