Well, its currently 9 pm on Friday, Fiji time and I'm killing time in the airport with my new traveling pal Kim. We decided to take on the true backpacking style and spend the night in the airport - avoiding the dodgy hotels in Nadi (dodgy is a word our Aussie friends have taught us, i.e. sketchy). Anyways, we've just finished pizza and beer and some more duty free shopping (as what else is there to do in the Fiji Airport). Our flight to Auckland isn't for another 12 hours but hey, it should be a good time.
But back to the island...

Beachcomber is a great place to stay, though I must admit that I got a bit of "island fever" and was ready to bust out of there for NZ a few days ago. Between the snorkeling, the warm beaches, the sunsets and sunrises and the "cool" tub that overlooks the setting sun - life doesn't get much more glorious. Yet a part of me couldn't stand to live in this tropical climate...the gnats were everywhere (which didn't quite make the best topping on my morning omellette)...and the food got really old. But all in all, it's a beautiful place.
The coral reefs here comprise the brightest neons and subtle earthy tones - and luckily, I never had to say "Bula" to a reef shark. A typical day included several cold showers (which have never felt so good in my life), snorkeling midday, a whole lotta sun, happy hour, checking out the sun set, and finishing out the night exchanging slang with Aussies and Brits - and of course, taking part in traditional Fijian ways.
When in Fiji, do as the Fijians do. My aussie honeymooner pals bought me a round of Kava. It's the traditional Fijian drink, which basically tastes like muddy water and has the effect similar to anbesol - your whole mouth goes numb. The Fijians take great offense to you if you don't finish it. We learned the Bula dance, which is a cornier island version of the macarena, but it seemed like a good idea at the time.
Anyways, back to my friend Kim. This Californian hails from San Diego, has been writing a novel for 3 years, traveled to Brazil and Tanzania...and is now off to Wellington, NZ to work for 3 months and travel for another three. We've got a lot in common and its been great having her along for the journey.
That's the thing about travelling - you're never really alone. And its the most surprising thing I've come to realize so far. There are so many stories to be told, to be heard, to be passed along. And when you're out there on your own, you give yourself permission to take it all in and enjoy the ride.
I hope to email y'all soon, but its been crazy in Fiji...it was killing me to not check my email on the island! Well, wish me luck as we work to camp out in the airport. This is where my road begins... : )