Tag Archives: Qamea

Qamea along with its Local Community, Northern Fiji – Part Five

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Next day out, we’re visiting the local community who entertained us the night before, have invited us to visit the village where they live.

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It’s an interesting walk into the lives of very humble Fijians who take this path daily.

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Vine-covered trees are just the norm and although humid we’re feeling a nice breeze from the sea.

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And who should we run into? Some of the school children about to have their lunch. If you have the opportunity to visit a school, make sure you clear out any pencils, stationery etc to take with you as they appreciate these small tokens to assist them with their everyday learning.

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Cute and not too sure about us coming over for the day.

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Soon enough we’re met by our host for the day and again inviting us to join them for a morning tea and sing along.
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Quality locally-made handicrafts are for sale which assists the locals in maintaining the school and local’s living expenses. Many of the villagers are employed and trained by Qamea in its daily operations such as hospitality; food and beverage service along with outdoor activities and the upkeep of the property.

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The unpretentious Church is set up for everyone to visit and reflect.

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Kava, also known by its Fijian name yaqona, is an indigenous plant that has been long used by Pacific Island cultures for its pleasant relaxation effect. In the past it was solely used by Fijian chiefs, but is now enjoyed by everyone. It is still customary and good etiquette to participate.

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And at the end of the day, we make our way back through the humungous vegetation and glad there’s a well-worn path to follow.

Qamea Resort and Spa, Northern Fiji – Part Four

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Saying goodbye to Matangi wasn’t easy but hello Qamea around the corner with a short speed boat ride from our next host makes the transfer seamless. About ten minutes makes a quick crossing from one island to the next.

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Site inspection of Qamea Resort and Spa reveals some truly magnificent, well-thought-out structures, built and considered for clientele looking for exclusivity.

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My home for the next two nights, the Honeymoon Suite … I’ll keep this Bure in mind for when it really does happen – that’ll make headlines!

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Again louvered windows allow a warm but welcome breeze through this very stylish, contemporary Bure with a separate bedroom, study and lounge area. The shower facilities are available both inside and also outside as a closed-off recess which includes a spa.

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Chess – for big people like me.

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At Qamea Resort and Spa, we’re given a welcoming from the community’s locals including the children who entertain us with their traditional story (Meke) through dance and song.

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An offering of Kava to the nominated ‘Chief’ of our group for the ceremonial greeting of the guests.

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As each community has its own Meke this is definitely one of the best as the youngsters really thrive in showing off their cultural inheritance which will be passed down for generations to come.

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And, if you’re like me and salivate over Kokoda (which is a raw fish salad), Qamea have cooking classes as well to show you how it’s made the traditional way.

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And just when you didn’t think sunsets could be any better than the last one you saw in Fiji.