BULA Fiji! And welcome to paradise. Well sort of. The day I landed it was pouring it down with rain. But I guess they don't call it the rainy season for nothing!

My short week in Fiji was spent island hopping across two sets, the Mamanuca and the Yasawa islands. My first stop being beachcomber island on the Mamanuca Islands. A very small island there was not much to do on my first day as it rained. I did the tour of the whole island; a 5 minute walk! To avoid the growing sense of cabin fever, especially after Australia's crazy full itinerary, I quickly tried to make friends. I found a cool bunch people from England, Northern Island and the US. And we got to know each other over a drink or two (or three...).

So low and behold the next morning I was feeling pretty rough. More than rough. I had given myself sever dehydration. To spare all the yucky details I was sick a lot but after some paracetamol and sleep I survived. But I learnt my lesson! Water, drink tonnes of water!!!

Next island was on the Yasawa Islands. A place called manta ray resort. And this truly was paradise. All those photos of fiji... This was it! Plus the sun had come out at last and gave us two days of heaven! Feeling back to my more usual self I ventured out for a snorkel. The fish and coral reef were something spectacular. I've never seen colours like that before in my life! The island also provided lots of different activities so I had a go at weaving a bracelet and making a coconut ring and bracelet. True Fijian style! Like on the other island, I met some really nice people that I felt I could really relax around. So apart from the odd arts and craft activity we all spent our time hiding in the shade or eating the superb meals provided. Four course meals a la carte? Yes please!!!

But like a wise man or woman once said, all good things must come to an end. And so is the case with Fiji. It has been the perfect break between the craziness of nz and Australia and the business which will be Asia. Vinaka Fiji, let's hope we meet again!