Dropping back a few days before Nadi, it was actually fortuitous that we did not proceed directly from Suva to Nadi. With the engine Murphy gauge issues sorted out, it was too late to proceed direct. We reviewed our Lonely Planet guide for Fiji and set our sights on Beqa (pronounced Binga). As a quick aside, we have found the Lonely Planet guides really useful – we highly recommend them as an additional cruising guide. From now on, we won’t be without them.
Beqa, it turns out, has a marvelous resort on it (the Beqa Lagoon Resort) that we would rate at 4 to 5 stars. The central pavilion is constructed in a traditional manner and is just charming. There are 12 Bures (small huts) that accommodate up to 24 people. Each Bure has its own small freshwater pool and view of the lagoon. The Lodge caters to divers and each day, the lodge transports folks out for two tank dives on the local reefs. The afternoons offer snorkeling, lounging by the wonderful freshwater pool, day hikes, crafts and many other activities.
It didn’t take Deb long to spot the day spa with its substantial list of services. Deb signed on for the works.
Steve and I walked the grounds, took care of some boat chores and went snorkeling on the local reefs. While nice, we are spoiled after some of the truly magnificent reefs we have seen.
The lodge proprietor, was wonderful and invited us to stay on for dinner. He also suggested that we come by at 6 PM for cocktails and listen to the Ravi Ravi Church choir from the local village. They apparently are well known as one of the best small choirs in Fiji.
When we arrived, the sun was setting and lanterns and torches lit the entire area – it was lovely. The choir was indeed excellent. I am in the process of figuring out how to upload video to the blog. Once I do so, I will put up some of their music.
The food was excellent. We had lamb shank with vegetables and potatos, creamed soup and a souffle for desert. The proprietor is an Aussie and he said that’s what Sunday dinners had to be. We agree.
We sat with a couple from California (the wife was Swedish) and they shared some of their pictures from the days dive. We talked about some of the places we had been in Sweden.
Really a great day and evening.