1,000 Words

“FIJI TIME” is a phrase commonly used by locals to describe the slow and easy lifestyle of the Fijians. As city-dwellers, we have an ingrained sense of punctuality and efficiency that has been instilled since young.

Even on holiday, my buddy and I would get up bright and early at 6.30am, have a quick breakfast, and reach the jetty on the dot at 8am, ready for our first dive of the day.

Of course, this was met with some ridicule from the locals. But as the days progressed, “Fiji Time” started to grow on us: Breakfast was now a morning respite best enjoyed with a view. Brisk walks to the jetty slowed to a pleasant stroll amid the calming sea breeze; the crashing waves harmonised with the rustling leaves, occasionally punctuated by the joyous laughter of children.

Before long, I found myself falling in love with this slow islander lifestyle. It’s not easy to subscribe to “Fiji Time” back in the city, but I now try to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of every day.