Bringing Back the Fun, Helping Our Economy
Shangri-La’s Fijian Beach Resort’s Beach, Beats and Eats launch last weekend highlighted two important issues – the enjoyment of life missing right now and the need for the economy to keep ticking over.
The initiative by the resort will be remembered for a long time by management, staff and over 200 guests who booked in for the weekend treat.
Entertainment
It showed a glimpse of life before the coronavirus pandemic set in.
Even the staff moved about to the rhythm of the music, as they got about doing their work.
Navi Fong who headed the team that perfomed at the Beach, Beats and Eats event last weekend said they were grateful to be back doing the things they did prior to COVID-19.
“After the lockdown, I personally realised how much I took things for granted,” Mr Fong said.
“I am filled with so much gratitude just being here able to perform for the local audience.
“It is very inspiring and humbling.
“We are humbled Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort wanted to partner with us again and we were very grateful that they thought of us and engaged other local artists that we can perform with.
“It is such a great atmosphere this weekend (last) and we are very grateful that they considered us.”
Inside Out
Inside Out band leader, Apakuki Nalawa, said his group, which was formed seven years ago.
Band members are ex-Marist Brothers high school students who usually performed at Shangri-La’s Black Marlin bar and the restaurants.
Two weeks ago, the band got together for a practice session, which was the first in five months.
Mr Nalawa described the Shangri-La’s inaurugal Beach, Beats and Eats, as “A breath of fresh air.”
“Apart from getting the opportunity to play on stage again, we are talking about the way forward, and how to adjust to the present situation,” Mr Nalawa said.
“Coming back to play after five months was like something new – like we had just started our career.
“The past few weeks was a good experience for us to step back to see how far we have come.”
Local Economy
Resort general manager Francis Lee hit the nail on the head with his summary of the resort’s weekend initiative.
He said most properties would be lucky to break even when opening for locals.
He said it was important to keep the local economy ticking.
Employment for tourism workers would allow for taxis to be hired, shopkeepers to receive money for items bought, and the sale of prodice for vegetable farmers and market vendors.