Warrior spirit

In a nod to small island nations achieving sporting glory, Fiji recently made headlines when its rugby sevens team won gold in Brazil. Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Fiji, in part because of its place in Fijian culture.

Sport was one of the tools used to train young warriors. That link was seen in the cibi, a warrior dance that was performed to rally the troops before they fought with neighbouring tribes. It later transitioned from the battlefield to the sporting field, where it used to be performed by Fiji’s rugby team before its matches.

Don’t let this fearsome past put you off a visit to Fiji though – the residents of this island nation are among the friendliest and most hospitable in the world and are always eager to welcome guests to their villages.

Upon stepping into a village, newcomers participate in a welcome ceremony that involves the presentation of kava - the root of a pepper plant - to the village head. This is ground into a powder and added to water. After that, guests are invited to drink up. This staple of Fijian culture is a wonderful way to learn more about this fascinating country and make new friends.

Perhaps part of their welcoming nature stems from their multi-cultural background – residents are of indigenous background as well as a mix of Chinese, European and Indian ancestry. And this unique heritage can also seen in the country’s food.

EAT UP

A must-try during your stay in Fiji is lovo – a traditional feast of coconut-infused vegetables, succulent meats and delicious crops baked in an earth oven. How’s that for reaping Mother Earth's abundant offerings?

These mouth-watering delights are wrapped in banana leaves, placed over hot stones, then covered in earth and slow-roasted over several hours. Once it’s ready to be served, just unwrap your feast, drizzle some lemon juice and enjoy the heavenly concoction of new tastes, textures, aromas  and sensations.

If you don't fancy waiting several hours for your meal, hit the streets and you’ll be spoilt for culinary choices by restaurants offering a wide selection of local food as well as Asian and continental favourites. Sample rich, flavorful fruits like mangoes and pineapples at vibrant markets that will set your taste buds into overdrive.

And what if you just can’t get enough of the unique flavours and tastes of Fiji home? Book an interactive cooking class so you never have to leave your memories of Fiji behind. Bon appetit!

Experience Fiji's culture and food for yourself with Fiji Airways' twice-weekly direct flights from Singapore on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Visit fijiairways.com for more information.

Produced by the TODAY Special Projects Team.