The MS Fridtjof Nansen

 Over three thousand years ago, Homo sapiens sailed the Pacific Ocean and found the island now known as Fiji.  Those early peoples, the Lapita, settled here and on other near by islands. 

While the first European to land here was Abel Tasman in 1683, it was the British who eventually colonized the Islands. In 1970 Fiji gained its independence.  This nation is comprised of 330 islands, one third of which are inhabited. 

As the sunset we were treated to an evening of cultural experiences and foods on nearby Liguria island. 

After a thirty minute boat ride we were welcomed with fire. 

Traditional Sevusevu ceremony and the Kava beverage.

Dinner, a Fijian Lovo, was cooked in an earth oven . Once the food was removed, a few brave Fijians demonstrated fire walking, dancing over the hot coals.

After dinner cultural dances paid homage to Fiji’s rich history.

Fire, a gift from the people of Samoa, played a vital role in the development of Fijian society and was highlighted in many dances.