Cultural Activities
July 10, 2009 by Taveuni Resort
Filed under Cultural Activities
We offer a large selection of complimentary Resort activities in Paradise. Ensure you take advantage of all we offer to allow you to learn more about the Fijian people, the way they live and their fascinating culture.
Snorkelling
Paradise Taveuni offers the very best snorkeling in Fiji, right at resort’s private marina. The only Resort in Fiji with a deep water frontage, Paradise has exceptional underwater flora and fauna only a step away from the resort’s private marina and snorkeling platform. You will discover a large selection of tropical fish and colourful soft corals that Taveuni is renowned for. Our friendly Pro Dive Taveuni crew will assist you in choosing snorkelling gear and point you in the right direction for an exciting adventure within the crystal clear waters of Paradise. Mask, fins and snorkel are complimentary during your stay.
Snorkelling Safari
Our local guides will escort you to the departure point, where you will embark on a voyage of discovery. Allow 1 – 2 hours to explore the amazing underwater world. Your Guide will point out lion fish, moray eels, clown fish, colourful christmas tree worms and so much more. Wet suit hire is recommended to protect you from the Fiji sun.
Please note that House Guests are offered complimentary use of mask, snorkel and fins. There is an extra charge for wet suit hire at FJ$20 per day. Snorkelling from the boat incurs additional charges.
Snorkelling Information in Paradise
SCUBA Pool Splash
Have you ever wished to feel what it’s like to breath under water?
Try a SCUBA dive in the safety of the horizon edge swimming pool with our PADI Instructors. If you enjoy the experience, why not sign up for a PADI Open Water Course and learn to dive in Paradise.
Sulu Tying Demonstration
Modern Fiji’s national dress is the sulu, which resembles a skirt. It is commonly worn by both men and women. The type worn by both men and women is the ‘Sulu va Taga’ pronounced Sulu vah Tanga which is a wrap around piece of rectangular material which is elaborately decorated with patterns and designs of varying styles this is for more casual and informal occasions. Many men, especially in urban areas, also have Sulu va taga which is a tailored sulu and can be tailored as part of their suit. Many will wear a shirt with a western-style collar, tie, and jacket, with a matching Sulu va taga and sandals, this type of sulu can be worn to a semi formal or formal occasion. Even the military uniforms have incorporated the Sulu va taga as part of their ceremonial dress. Perfect to wear by the pool, around the resort and especially to Fiji Night! Let our Fijian staff show you the many intricate ways to tie the colourful Sulu (sarong).10 minutes.
Learn To Speak Fijian
The official language of Fiji is English while the national indigenous language is Bauan which is only one of the many dialects that exist in the Fiji Group, each of the fourteen provinces have their own dialect, though there is a clear distinction between the dialects.
Other languages spoken in the country are Hindi, Cantonese, Rotuman, Gilbertese (Rabi Island), and Tuvaluan (Kioa Island). The Fiji Islands are traditionally linked to their island neighbours Rotuma, Tonga and Samoa, and this is evident in the culture and dialects of the Northern and Eastern provinces being Cakaudrove, Bua, Macuata, and Lau. The Fijian Language uses the Roman Alphabet as in English however readers need to be careful interpreting Fijian words in this, and similar articles. The following conventions exist:
The letter “c” is pronounced like the English “th” sound in “then”. Therefore, “Laucala Bay” is spoken as Lauthala Bay. Each letter “d” is preceded with an “n” sound. Nadi (the airport town) is pronounced Nandi. Each “b” letter is preceded with an “m” sound. The town Ba is pronounced mBa. The letter “q” is pronounced as an “ng” (better “ng” + “g”) sound as in the English word “finger”. Beqa is pronounced mBeng-ga. The letter “g” by itself is sounded as an “ng” sound as in the English word “sing”. The letter “r” is rolled as in Spanish. In Fijian words, each vowel is given its full weight and never shortened, skipped or slurred.
Join our Fijian staff for an introduction and fact-finding lesson giving you the basics of the Fijian Language. 30 minutes.
Frond Weaving
Weaving using various materials was a craft generally mastered by the women but also aspects of weaving were mastered only by the men, various types of weaving practiced were and still are; basket weaving, coconut rope weaving, coconut leaves weaving. Make a basket, dinner plate, sunglasses and so much more. Lots of fun! It’s amazing what you can do with a Coconut Leaf! 1 hour
Kayaking
Take one of the Resort kayak’s and head north to Dolphin Bay or south to Vuna Reef and discover the beauty of the Taveuni coastline. The waters of Paradise are particularly calm in the morning and perfect for an early morning paddle.
Fish Feeding
Feed the beautiful tropical reef fish that inhabit the surrounding waters.
Coconut Lesson
Learn some interesting facts about coconuts, how to open them the Fijian way and an easy dish you can prepare at home. 30 minutes
Guided Cultural Walk
Set off with our local guide for an educational & leisurely walking tour of the local area. The 2 hr walk visits a village ruins, a deserted cemetery, the nearby black sand beach & the southern reservoir. Learn about the people of this beautiful island along the way.
The 4 hour walk towards the south includes a tour of past the Indian school, Vuna, the local village with Masi (Tapa) production and mat weaving. Wander through the endless coconut plantations along the way. Your guide will point out features of interest including vegetation and its traditional uses.
Coconut Tree Climbing
Watch as the limber staff scale even the highest of trees on the resort. Sample the tropical tastes of fresh coconut juice. 15 minutes
Snake Show
The Resort pets – Fijian Boas – are up close and personal. Touch a snake and have your photo taken. 30 minutes
Bury The Lovo
Learn how the staff prepare, bury and cook the Fijian delicacies under the Lovo fire. Enjoy the Lovo Feast that evening. 30 minutes
Garden Tour
Our Grounds staff will take you on a short walking tour of the Resort gardens giving you local knowledge of the flora and fauna within the Resort. Learn about the local plants and trees with Fijian names given in most cases. 30 minutes
Fiji Library
Located at the Tour Desk you will find a selection of Fiji interest books for your use during your stay. Ranging from Fijian history to fish identification you are welcome to make use of these books at any time. See our helpful Managers.
Book Exchange
Located by the Tekiteki Bar, you are welcome to take a book and replace it with one of yours. You will find magazines, travel handbooks, children’s books and a selection of novels. Help yourself.
Board Games
You will find a selection of games to pass your time including Backgammon, Chess, Checkers, Dominos and playing cards.
Jogging / Power Walking
Keeping fit in Paradise is easy to do with our large range of activities, however if jogging and running is what you desire, take off along the main road along the back of the Resort The public roads are safe to run on (and a little dusty) during the day and you can head north to Nobognio Farm to get more of a hilly workout or south to Vuna Village keeping a flat pace most of the way. Keep an eye on your footing, wear good running shoes, take some water with you and it’s best to set off either before breakfast or after 4.00pm. Let our Security Team know where you are going to ensure your safety.
Need a jogging partner? Ask Terri to join you for an afternoon run.










