So we arrive in Fiji and are greeted with singing, flowers and welcome drinks - not too shabby! We spent the first night in Nadi at Smugglers Cove beach resort where we were greeted by John the local coconut con man where we ended up spending 20 FJD for two coconuts. The next stop was a quick one hour boat trip to Mana Island where the beaches were empty, the sand was white and the water crystal clear!

The actual resort was quite basic and the mixed dorm room slept 17 smelly backpackers, so we spent most of the time on the beach. This was not without its difficulties due to our pale skin. We felt almost like vampires hiding in the shade for the first few days as any exposure seemed to just frazzle our skin.

On our first day we made our way to the other side of the island with the help of our Japanse sea captain friend Yuichi who spoke very little English but was very enthusiastic about everything!!

We found a great spot for snorkeling where the coral was beautiful and the fish were plentiful! We came back to this spot most days as the beach was deserted.

On the last day we went for a hike up the mountains on the island and got lost (as per usual) in a field of really long spikey grass.

The hostel Ratu Kini included 3 free meals per day and arranged evening Fun and Games which included Polynesian night with dancing men smuthered in oil, crab racing, Bula hour and music chairs.

All together a great experience!

Today is our last day in Fiji so we are off to catch some rays!

Bula!