Fiji

Bula!

I just returned from the Yasawa Island group where I stayed on three islands--it was spectacular!

The first island was Nacula at Oarsman's Bay Resort. http://www.oarsmansbay.com/ While I was there I hiked to an amazing vista with a 360 degree view of the island, visited a local tribe, snorkeled and made friends with some funny British girls. I also braved my first hostel. It was cake, really. Of the four I've stayed in, three were great and one not so much. But I now know that I can survive without a real shower or lights. :-) I also found that the mosquitoes here really love everyone but me, so I didn't even need to use my mosquito net after the first night!

Travellers island hop via the Yasawa Flyer, aka the big yellow boat. It's really quite fun because every time you board you reunite with other travelers that you've met on board previously or on another island. After a tearful departure from Oarsman's (the locals play the guitar and sing to you as the boat leaves) I was on my way to Naviti. Here is where I ran into Hanne (pronounced) Hanna who was the first girl I met while leaving the airport. She's great! A beautiful Norwegian with a thick southern accent. She studied in America (in Ketucky) for a year where she learned English. She and I became fast friends with each other as well as Danny (from Spain and hilarious) and Ben (from the UK). All of us travelling alone, we became a new group. After visiting beautiful beaches and hiking a mountain in Navtiti, the four of us were off to Waya Lailai.

We all fell IN LOVE with Waya Lailai. The Fijians, the resort, the food, the half dome looking rock that marks this beautiful island, all of it was brilliant. Hanne and I were even bumped to private rooms because the dorm was full. We felt lucky until we got spooked by our gecko friends who were sharing our new digs. HA! Another new friend that I made there was Glen Craig, an Aussie photographer. He has spent was I think has been the last 20 years capturing this amazing island group and the friendly Fijians. As I read through my Lonely Planet guide I noticed he was feature and he even gave me a signed copy of one of his books. He's one of the most interesting people I've met in awhile.



Tonight I'm in Nadi on the main island. I ran into a threesome of French guys who I've been seeing on and off during the island hoping. They all live in Auckland and have invited me to stay in there "flat" and show me around on my way out of NZ towards the end of April.

For now, I'm really getting excited to see New Zealand and of course to see Rob! I fly in the AM and he arrives on Sunday.

Other than that I'm having an amazing time. I've been staying healthy and running everyday. I think of all of you often. Please send e-mails letting me know how each and every one of you are doing!!!