In an effort to avoid going stir crazy, with grim determination I ventured out last night despite the appalling conditions.
Today, though, the downpours have been more sporadic. So, whilst I could see no point in embarking on any more distant adventures, at least I was able to get out and have a last look round Fiji’s second largest conurbation.
I must say that of all the countries I have visited so far, Fiji has been my least favourite. Of course, the weather hasn’t helped but it’s more than that. I think it’s the lack of variety of things to do plus the missing ‘something’ that makes a place special. For sure, the people are very friendly (while I was waiting to cross a road today a man came up to me and said ‘what’s your name?’. Slightly taken aback I told him. He just smiled, shook my hand, said: ‘My name’s John. Have a great day’ and walked off!). I’m sure that on sunny days the whole island takes on a totally different complexion. But without that sunshine, it’s all a bit of a nothing. In other places I have visited that are on/by the sea there has always been something else other than the beach. For example, the old city in Havana, the parks and gardens in Buenos Aires, the artists’ quarter in Guayaquil, palaces in Lima, the tropical jungle in Panama plus the endless attractions in Rio etc. Here, unless I have missed something, there seems to be very little other than the beaches; no other characteristic to mark this country out.
Laukota city where I have stayed is, frankly, a bit of a mess.
I think this rotting hulk that lies just offshore probably best sums the place up.
It’s all a bit run down. Maybe it’s not in the grand plan to make this place a tourist/holiday destination but a bit of money tarting up just the sea front would make a big difference.
Of course, nowhere looks particularly attractive in the wet
and for sure, even Christmas shopping can’t be much fun when you are in danger of getting drenched.
The Fijians, though, seem reasonably stoical about it all. But then, living here maybe they know what to expect.
In about 12 hours I start the long journey to Malaysia. Somewhat surprisingly, there are no direct flights. So I have a 4 hour flight to Sydney followed by 8.5 hours to Kuala Lumpur. A long day and another example of how vast this area of the world is. At least travelling such a distance there’s a chance of leaving the bad weather behind!
Could I be heading for the sun at last?
Phileas.
thelasthurrahsite 