Embarking on my journey from Auckland to Nadi International Airport in Fiji, I anticipated a relaxing stay at the Tokatoka Resort Hotel, a luxurious retreat. Awakening just before 8 am, I felt the excitement of the upcoming adventure. After a quick morning routine of consuming pineapple slices and hydrating, I retrieved my toiletries bag from the car and brushed my teeth. Departing the hostel around 8:30 am, I encountered a minor inconvenience on the road due to a small traffic jam. Despite this, I appreciated the unique traffic management system on the highway—employing a traffic light on the ramp. This innovative approach allowed only two cars to enter the ramp whenever the light turned green, a feature I hadn’t encountered before.
Wicked Campers Formalities
Upon the opening of Wicked Campers, I promptly arrived to address the necessary formalities. Unfurling the tent, I presented it to the attendant for inspection, affirming that it had not been utilized during my journey. Satisfied with the condition, he arranged a cab for my transportation. Engaging in a pleasant conversation, I discovered that the gentleman, a mechanic from the UK, was en route to Bali and would later venture to Japan.
The cab promptly arrived, and I departed with my bags. During the 20-minute journey, the cab driver, a kind individual, commended me for the courage displayed in my travels.
Airport Check-in and Budget Choices
At the airport, the check-in process and customs clearance were relatively swift. Beyond customs, individuals were eager to sell me some overpriced items. Although I had considered purchasing new sunglasses, the price tag of 240 dollars for a pair of Ray-Bans seemed exorbitant. My previous pair had cost me around 110 euros. If only I hadn’t stepped on my glasses in Bali.
After some time, I took a seat and opened my laptop. I proceeded to book a new flight for my upcoming destination and secured a reservation for a car rental.
Flight Experience and Nadi Arrival
I opted not to purchase any food and instead proceeded to exchange my money immediately. In total, I exchanged 65 NZD, receiving approximately 85 Fiji Dollars. Around 11:45 am, I strolled toward the gate.
They finally displayed the departure time on the screens: the flight was scheduled for 12:55. I was flying with Fiji Airways, formerly known as Pacific Air. There were many children on board, something I disliked. Instantly, memories of my inaugural flight on this global journey from Amsterdam to Singapore rushed back to me.
The flight was okay, with a three-hour duration, which is relatively short compared to the flights I’ve experienced. To my surprise, they served food. I forgot that this wasn’t a budget flight like Jetstar or Lionair. I was glad I decided not to buy an overpriced hamburger for 12 NZD. When I received my food, chicken wasn’t an option anymore, but the tuna sandwich was enjoyable. It was a small but satisfying meal.
Around 4 pm, we touched down at Nadi International Airport, situated on Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji. Fiji comprises over 333 islands, with approximately 160 being inhabited. The disembarkation process was swift, and to my surprise, upon exiting the tunnel, we found ourselves outdoors. The pleasant temperature instantly relaxed me; I had been eagerly anticipating these conditions for two weeks. The skies embellished a beautiful blue, adorned with some friendly clouds hovering around the mountains. Contrary to my expectations, Nadi International Airport wasn’t as extensive as I thought. I took a few pictures of our plane and proceeded down the corridor towards immigration, ensuring I wasn’t the last in line.
Navigating ‘Fiji Time’ at Customs
I sprinted the final stretch upon spotting a queue of 20 people ahead of the customs booths. Having heard about the concept of ‘Fiji Time,’ where things tend to move slowly in Fiji, I was prepared. Online advice emphasized the importance of planning well in advance here, as some processes unfold at a leisurely pace. Consequently, I had mapped out my accommodations and excursions for the initial week, leaving the subsequent plans open for flexibility.
The line behind me continued to grow steadily. While I commended my organizational prowess, the reality was a 20-minute wait before it was my turn to present my passport. Descending the stairs, I noticed a few additional shops, yet I proceeded past them. My priority was the restroom, and only afterward did I retrieve my backpack from the conveyor belt. The distinctive yellow hue of my flight bag made it easy to spot, much to my satisfaction.
Following that, my bags had to undergo another round of security screening. I presented the officer with my card detailing information about my belongings. I informed him that my boots and the shoes I currently wore had traversed a forest in the last 30 days. Fortunately, they were not too stringent with these regulations; the officer was content, and I could proceed. I grinned, thinking, ‘Fiji Time.’ I had anticipated a thorough inspection, possibly requiring me to delve into my backpack and retrieve my hiking boots for cleaning, as was the case in New Zealand.
Money Exchange and Telecom Decisions
After that check, I first exchanged my remaining 50 Australian Dollars. Heading toward the Western Union booth, I converted it to approximately 80 Fijian Dollars (FJD). Returning to the hall behind me, where some stores were located, I entered the Vodafone store. Inquired about their coverage area and data roaming prices, well aware of the potential challenges in obtaining internet access in Fiji. Australia and New Zealand were already challenging, but I anticipated Fiji to be even more so. The Vodafone sim card was free, with a data roaming pack offering 1 GB for 7 days (20$) or 2 GB for 30 days (70$). I informed the girl that I needed some time to think and mentioned that I intended to withdraw cash from the ATM first.
I aimed to withdraw the maximum from the ATM, but it proved impossible. Instead of the intended 1200 FJD, I obtained 900 FJD, which would suffice for the time being. Heading to the hall, I approached the Digicel stand, the other telecom provider. After gathering information, I opted for a free sim card. Their data roaming options were appealing: 300 MB per day for 1.50$ or 1 GB per week for 6$. International calls to my home country were approximately 0.60$ per minute. Once my phone was set up, I followed the girl’s advice and went to the designated shop to purchase 20$ worth of credit. While I anticipated the internet quality might not be exceptional, at least I avoided the hefty price tag of a 70-dollar sim card.
Indulgence at a Resort
The Digicel representatives suggested that I could walk to my accommodation, a mere 5-minute stroll. Aware that the Tokatoka Resort Hotel was situated adjacent to the airport, I found the idea enticing. Opting for a bit of luxury, I decided to indulge in a pleasant stay for the next two nights. I planned to return to hostel life later, but not at that moment. Exiting the airport, I turned left and reached the reception in 10 minutes. After checking in, an employee graciously carried my luggage. It almost felt like I was back in Indonesia, albeit now shelling out 60 euros per night instead of 10, haha.
My room at Tokatoka Resort Hotel was quite delightful, featuring a king-size bed, a sleek TV, a refrigerator, a pristine toilet, a spacious shower, and a large comfortable sofa. Placing all my belongings on the sofa, I collapsed onto the bed, reveling in its extraordinary comfort.
Opting not to rely on the pricey restaurant of the Tokatoka Resort Hotel, I headed back to the airport to procure some refreshments for the refrigerator. I purchased snacks and a few colas. Although I hadn’t brought my camera along, the journey back treated me to the captivating hues of the sunset on the horizon.
Swimming Pool Retreat and Shower Bliss
Upon returning to my room, I felt it was high time for a dip in the swimming pool. The Tokatoka Resort Hotel boasted a delightful pool, and I had every intention of dedicating a substantial amount of time there tomorrow, leisurely immersed in my book. I enjoyed a 30-minute swim, relishing the playful moments with the water slide. It felt like a return to childhood, and the overall experience was absolutely delightful.
Upon returning to my room, I promptly indulged in a refreshing shower. The showerhead offered three different settings, and I made sure to experience each one, luxuriating in the cascading water for a good 20 minutes.
In the evening, I settled into my room, watching a movie on my laptop and unwinding. Around 11 pm, I retired to my incredibly spacious king-size bed. I lay there, feeling content like a blissful baby, contemplating the wonderful days that lay ahead.
