As the Mamanuca Islands faded into the distance, our hearts sank a little lower. We were saying goodbye to Fiji and her beautiful people. Nowhere during this sailing adventure have we encountered such warm, welcoming and friendly people, allows accompanied with a "bula" and a smile. It is clear to see the appeal of cruisers getting stuck in this part of the South Pacific, returning year after year, having spent the cyclone season in New Zealand. We loved Samoa, but Fiji surpassed all of our expectations, in every way. Truly our "happy place"!

There wasn't one thing we couldn't get done or couldn't do. We even got our passports renewed here without an issue. Activities abound. No matter what sport or activity you can think of, Fiji has it on offer. From sky-diving to zip-lining and everything else in between - Diving, snorkeling, sailing, yacht racing regattas, deep sea and reef fishing, jet-skiing, canoeing, paddleboarding, swimming in mud baths and hot springs, hiking including the hash, triathlons, golfing, touring, dining, live entertainment, getting married and enjoying a myriad of customs and traditional activities related to both the indigenous Fijian and the Indian Fijian cultures or, simply, finding a spot on a white sandy beach, lapped by warm turquoise waters, under swaying palms to take nap or read a book.

After clearing out at Vuda Marina yesterday, we decided to spend one last night at Malolo Lailai island, where we enjoyed a late lunch, completed the last of our passage preparations and enjoyed sundowners at the MCYC Island Bar with Knockando (Clair and Darren) as well as say our goodbyes to Twocan (Margaret and Barry). Apparently we had just missed Raya (Ros and Rick), but we plan to see them in Sydney Harbour for New Year. Having a large turtle surface right next to Paw Paw while underway sealed our experience of Fiji.

Under sunny blue skies, light winds and calm seas, it's westward and onward to enjoy all the new experiences that await us!