Nukubalavu Village

OVERVIEW

Become immersed in village life in Nukubalavu, one of the oldest settlements on the island of Vanua Levu. As is traditional in Fiji, the elders will warmly welcome you to the village, which is one of the larger ones on the island. As you meander about Nukubalavu, you will see local artisans weaving coconut palms and pandanus grass into mats and other useful items. You may also see a demonstration of meke, a type of storytelling dance that has long been a part of all great Fijian ceremonies and momentous events such as the birth of a child. In the village hall, you will watch a kava ceremony in which a pepper root is pulverized and soaked in water to make a tea-like beverage that can have a relaxing even intoxicating effect. It is typically served in a hollowed-out coconut shell. Green coconut water, known as “bu,” is another popular Fijian drink that may be offered.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Nukubalavu, a traditional village that is larger than most.
• Watch weavers create a variety of useful items from palm fronds and native grasses.
• Gain an understanding of local life by watching a fascinating kava ceremony.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.