I am still on Viti Levu island – on Fiji. In the north of the island, in the mountains they have preserved old-style village with traditional bures – thatched houses. They have a church, the school and are happy to show how to prepare and how to drink kava. Tourist agencies offer tours to Navala charging 275 FJD per person.
The budget traveller can make it on a cheap: I took the public bus from Nadi to Lautoka (2,75) then next one to Ba (3,00) Then…. Ouuuu…. It is Sunday. Nobody told me that on Sundays public buses from Ba to Navala located 28 kms inland do not operate… But near the bus station in Ba the pick-up drivers are waiting to take you there (fot much higher price). Only first 5 kms od the road is paved, then it is bumpy gravel. check the tyres if you go there by rented car). The scenery is extra ordinaire!! Imagine black, volcanic mountains covere party by luch green… With my crazy driver it took me only 40 min to the point where you will see the thatched roofs of Navala on the other side of the river with picturesque mountains in the background. Then we crossed the river and I experienced big surprise. The village is fenced. Just because they charge 25 FJD entry fee and 10 for obligatory guide. I wanted to talk to the chief of the village to ask for discount. aThey took me to such a bure. -Mr chief, I spend too much money for the pick-up to pay you full entry fee! No mercy! But the place is really great!
