Vilitati is cultural tourism champion
FROM exploring possible trails to guiding and sharing rich Fijian history, Vilitati Rokovesa soared high when he was announced winner of the Cultural Tourism Champion category at the recent 2023 Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards gala dinner.
Cheers of acknowledgment erupted at the Denarau Island Convention Centre when the Talanoa Treks veteran tour guide was declared winner of the night.
Mr Rokovesa, originally from Nubutautau in the Navosa interior, has played a pivotal role in ensuring guests not only experience the highland sceneries but also learn a thing or two about the village and its history for a few decades now.
His determination to provide guests the best experience was finally acknowledged over the weekend during the awards.
“This is a great moment for me and my Talanoa Treks family,” Mr Rokovesa said.
“I also dedicate it to all the villagers in Navosa, Nadarivatu and Ra that we work closely with to keep the business running, this is for all of us.
“I didn’t expect to win tonight, first time too to receive such and award and for that I’m grateful.”
The professional guide believed international visitors deserved to be told the values of tradition and his work mainly revolved around ensuring this was initiated when guests trekked the mountainous terrain on the highlands of Viti Levu.
For him personally being a cultural champion means more than just being a tour guide, it is also about telling the world that Fiji, while being a great tourist destination is also a country that is proud of his rich cultural tradition and history.