Fiji Fresh

The winter had been long, dark and cold and I still had another two months to go before I could reliably think of above 20 degree temperatures and sunshine. It is at these times that one longs for the beach, blue skies and being able to wear Tshirt and shorts for the day.

Fiji - the name alone brings images of tropical palms, tropical islands and tropical drinks to mind. And they came to mine! Five nights were booked in a blink and I was keen to enjoy what Fiji had to offer me on this return visit.

Arriving at Fiji airport you already know you are somewhere laid back and relaxing. Stepping from the plane onto an open walkway quickly acclimatises you to the heat. The trio playing you a welcome as you wander through customs sets the scene and you can feel your body start to relax.

Fiji is in many ways, still a developing nation. Driving to the resort through the suburban strip you can see the general disrepair and poor quality of housing stock set amidst the sugarcane fields and banana palms. But notwithstanding this, the people are incredibly welcoming and friendly, probably because of it really.

My stay is the Westin Resort, Denarau Island. Set just off the mainland but connected by a bridge, it is still central and is flanked by other leading resort and hotel brands. Not for me this time the outlying tropical islands though they did provide some lure. but travelling alone neither the 'romantic couples' destination nor the 'family friendly' appealed.

Settling in on my first evening, I was happy to simply soak in the warmth, my Westin signature cocktail in hand and begin to relax.