I love the beauty and contrasts of Canberra’s four seasons. That said, I find a mid-winter seaside getaway to a balmy climate is a restorative balm for my body, mind and spirit.
Lucky me was among a select group of journalists and travel writers invited on a getaway (aka media famil) to experience Fiji Airways’ first direct flight from Canberra to Nadi which took off last Friday – CBR’s first international service since BC (Before Covid). Canberra Airport’s Stephen Byron is confident it heralds the beginning of more international routes to and from our fair city. As we prepared to board our four-hour direct flight to Nadi, Stephen promised we wouldn’t be waking to minus-five tomorrow. Promise fulfilled. It was pleasant 19oC – chilly by Fijian standards – rising to a sunny top of around 26-28oC.
Fiji is where happiness lives. The Fijian people are genuinely warm and welcoming. “Bula!” they smile, whether airline attendants, waiters, hospitality workers or passers-by. We stayed at Sofitel Fiji Resort for three idyllic days, punctuated with day trips to glorious Tivua Private Island thanks to Captain Cook Cruises and Six Senses Fiji luxury resort. Bliss.
I returned, too soon, on Fiji Airways’ first Tuesday flight to CBR; this new twice-weekly service (Tuesday and Friday) making a short break to Fiji feasible; a longer break even more desirable.
This past week I’m grateful for my balmy Fiji getaway and for all those who made it possible and memorable. “Vinaka.” Take care,
Julie Samaras
