Kathmandu: Waiting for Clear Skies
Due to inclement weather, I found myself exploring Kathmandu while waiting for flights to Lukla. Kathmandu is rich with history and culture, and I made the most of my time visiting Pashupatinath Temple, the Boudhanath Stupa, and the ancient royal palace. The vibrant streets of Thamel, filled with trekking gear shops, bars, and clubs, provided a lively distraction. Pro tip: Use the SBI ATM for cash withdrawals to avoid hefty fees that other ATMs charge.

Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization and Exploration
Finally in Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest, I spent time acclimatizing and exploring the local attractions, including the Everest View Hotel and the intriguing Sherpa Museum. The helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Namche offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a thrilling glimpse of Everest itself, known locally as Sagarmatha.

Day 1: The Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
After a hearty breakfast of potato curry and Tibetan Phale bread in Namche Bazaar, we set off for Tengboche. The trail led us through rhododendron and pine forests, accompanied by the sounds of the Dudh Koshi River. We stopped for lunch in the charming village of Phunki Tenga, enjoying local cuisine before tackling the challenging climb to Tengboche Monastery. The day’s highlight was the evening prayer ceremony at the monastery, surrounded by towering peaks.

Day 2: From Tengboche to Dingboche
Our journey continued with a descent through forested trails and a crossing of the Imja Khola River. We arrived at Pangboche, the highest permanent settlement in the valley, and lunched in Shomare, where the landscape turned more rugged and barren. As we reached Dingboche, the stone-walled fields provided a picturesque setting against the towering mountains.

Day 3: Acclimatization in Dingboche
To adjust to the altitude, we spent the day in Dingboche. A short hike to Nagarjun Hill at 5,100 meters offered breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, and more. The afternoon was spent exploring the village, relaxing in teahouses, and preparing for the higher altitudes ahead.

Day 4: From Dingboche to Lobuche
The trail from Dingboche to Lobuche took us through alpine meadows and past the poignant Everest Memorials at Thukla Pass, honoring climbers who lost their lives on Everest. The trek was challenging due to the altitude, but the stunning vistas of Nuptse and the Khumbu Glacier were our rewards.

Day 5: Lobuche to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp
This was the day we had all been waiting for. The rocky, high-altitude trail led us to Gorak Shep, our final stop before Everest Base Camp. The journey to Base Camp was tough but awe-inspiring, with views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. Reaching Base Camp was a moment of immense pride and joy.

Day 6: Kala Patthar and Return to Kathmandu
Before dawn, we began our climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point of our trek. The sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse was a sight to behold, with golden rays illuminating the peaks. From Gorak Shep, a helicopter whisked us back to Lukla and then to Kathmandu, marking the end of our incredible journey.

Final Thoughts
The trek from Namche Bazaar to Kala Patthar is an adventure of a lifetime, filled with challenges, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments. From the serene Tengboche Monastery to the triumphant arrival at Everest Base Camp and the awe-inspiring sunrise at Kala Patthar, every day brought new experiences and memories. The warmth of the Sherpas and the camaraderie among trekkers added a special touch to the journey. This trek is not just about reaching a destination but about the journey itself, testing our resilience and deepening our connection with nature.

Tips for Future Trekkers:

• Try Dal Bhat, a nutritious local dish with rice, vegetables, and lentil soup.
• Acclimatization is crucial for a successful trek.
• Be prepared for higher prices and limited amenities as you ascend.
• Carry sufficient cash and ensure you have travel insurance.
• Dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather.

The post A Promise Fulfilled: My Everest Base Camp Journey first appeared on Dr Pratik Surana.

Before I continue to write for your consideration and begin to bore you with my lamentations and presentations, I anticipate receiving some positive feedback. You must also be getting ready to say “Bhad Mein Jao” at this very moment. Please take note that you are required to travel to the village of Bhad, which is located in Gujarat close to Porbandar. The attention of Bhad is required. Special messages were sent to me by residents of Bhad in an effort to save them from this embarrassing circumstance. They have been calling at all hours of the day and night to make it clear that their town is not comparable to hell. When people say “Bhad Mein Jao,” which literally translates to “Go to hell,” it causes them pain.

I checked this very carefully: there is no one in Bhad named Yamraj, there are no cauldrons filled with boiling oil, there is no raging fire, and there are no men with lashes and leashes to tame a sinful consciousness. Even though it is not dark, the sun rises there as well. In the event that someone curses you to go to Bhad, you should never take it personally. If you could, please ask them to pay for your airfare, stay in a luxurious hotel, and take you on a tour of the area. You will have a wonderful time in Bhad, I assure you of that. Who wouldn’t want to go on a vacation where they are all paid for and get to see the sights?

Bhad is not a town that exists in mythology; rather, there are three to four villages in India that are named Bhad. You can fulfill the wishes of the soul that is being tormented by going to any of the Bhads that are located closer to you. When you do this, you will be able to say with confidence, “I am all yours, darling, your wish is my command.”

Bhad, where are you? https://maps.app.goo.gl/CrZXphQVquZdkcEZA

The village of Bhad is located in the Khambha Taluka of the Amreli District in the state of Gujarat. Approximately 314 kilometers separate it from Gandhinagar, the capital of the state.

Is it a living hell? No, not in the least. To our relief, we did not discover any yamraj or devil in that location. Despite the fact that there were no damned souls, punishments, or raging fires, it was the complete opposite of the concept of hell. Visit the location in question if you do not believe what we say. The monsoon season brings a more surreal atmosphere to the village, which is otherwise a peaceful place. You will find a great number of nearby locations that you can visit, such as Diu, Sasan Gir, Girnar, and many others.

Which way to get to Bhad? Approximately 70 kilometers away is where you will find Diu Airport. There are no major train stations in the immediate vicinity. However, the Rajkot Railway station is approximately 144 kilometers away from Bhad and is the closest railway station. On the road is the most efficient way to get to Bhad.

Fun Facts Regarding the Bhad A total of 274 families call the village of Bhad home, making it a village of a medium size. 1160 people are residents of this area. When compared to the literacy rate in Gujarat, the literacy rate in Bhad is significantly higher. Agricultural activities are the primary means by which people in Bhad make their living.

Should you still be undecided about whether or not you should travel to Bhad, read this blog till the end . Therefore, from this point forward, you should refrain from becoming enraged whenever someone says, “Bhad me jao.” Instead, you should request that they book your flights to Gujarat and accommodation in Bhad. This will allow them to feel the satisfaction of actually sending you to Bhad, while also providing you with a free vacation.

According to the information that was discovered about Bhad, the village of Bhad came into existence after a few families belonging to the community known as the “Bhutiya Bhadhiya” settled there. “Warrior” is the meaning of the word “Bhad,” which is shoorveer in Hindi. Agriculture constitutes the major contributor to Bhad’s economy. It is equipped with all of the fundamental conveniences that are available in our modern times. As a matter of fact, it is equipped with public and government schools, medical facilities, internet connectivity, transportation services, and a bus stand (this information is provided by a YouTuber who took a video of the Bhad bus stand). Both the nearest airport and the nearest railway station are located in Porbandar, which is 25 kilometers away. The name of this village is the only thing that appeals to tourists in this area.

So next time someone says “Bhaad me jaao”. You know where to go..

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Must-See Marvels

We had been planning a trip to Dubai for quite some time, but for various reasons, it didn’t materialise until last Christmas. Finally visiting the city of dreams, we spent several memorable days there. Dubai is a favourite destination for many Indian tourists, primarily due to its glamour and numerous man-made wonders. The short travel time and availability of Indian diaspora and food also contribute to its appeal. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are two stunning destinations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), each offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Here’s a brief travelogue on both:
Dubai – Renowned for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife, Dubai boasts iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centres globally.

The Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree, offers luxurious resorts and stunning views. For those interested in culture and history, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood provides a glimpse into Dubai’s past with its traditional architecture and museums.

Reaching New Heights at Burj Khalifa: Ascending to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, we were treated to unparalleled views of Dubai’s sprawling cityscape, the glistening
coastline, and the vast expanse of desert beyond. Witnessing the city transform into a dazzling sea of lights at sunset left us in awe of human ingenuity. Setting Off into the Golden Horizon: Embarking on an expedition into the heart of the Arabian Desert for a Dubai Desert Safari, we left behind the skyscrapers and bustling streets of the city. Our convoy of 4×4 vehicles ventured into the vast expanse of golden dunes, where dune bashing and cultural encounters awaited us.

Abu Dhabi – As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi boasts a rich cultural heritage alongside modern attractions. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, showcases intricate Islamic architecture and stunning marble work. The Emirates Palace, a luxurious hotel, is another architectural marvel worth visiting. Yas Island, home to attractions like Ferrari World and Yas Water World, provides entertainment options for visitors of all ages.

The Grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: We were spellbound by the architectural masterpiece that is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Adorned with gleaming marble, intricate carvings, and dazzling chandeliers, it’s a testament to the grandeur of Islamic architecture. Reflections and Farewells: As our journey drew to a close, we reflected on the unforgettable experiences and memories created in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From the vibrant colours of Miracle Garden to the towering heights of Burj Khalifa and the serene beauty of the Grand Mosque, each moment was a treasure to cherish.

With gratitude in our hearts, we bid farewell to these two gems of the Arabian Peninsula, knowing that their allure will linger in our memories forever.

The post Dubai and Abu Dhabi A Tale of Two Gems In The Dessert first appeared on Dr Pratik Surana.

The year that’s about to end! Reviewing the year 2023!

Like every year I have been reviewing and writing to you about how the year went by, for past several years, I wish to do the same now.

It’s a tradition I have followed for many years and I always like to communicate regarding our achievements and major events in the previous year. This is the time to be thankful about what life gives you and how you take it in the stride in terms of adapting to the changed world. It is the right time to thank you for your personal, professional and social support to me, my team and my family.

As they say “The great beginnings always happen in mind and then come into action.” This year taught us the same in many ways!

As we traverse through ever evolving times in VUCA Times (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) this year has been no exception as long as international events, situations around us are concerned.

 I will start with the personal front:

On personal front, this year started with a good note when my loved ones have been safe and sound. The very new gift I received as award by Maha Sewa (Government of Maharashtra’s initiative for promoting service sector businesses) where I was recognised by Maharashtra Ratna Puraskar in Mumbai for exceptional training services.

My visits to my hometown Hingoli were more frequent as compared to the previous year and was happy to celebrate Diwali over there with family and friends (who are more like extended families to me). Things have been settling down well there. Health wise, my fitness journey has continued with a roller coaster ride, though health has been quite good and no concerns on that front.  I was planning to go for a trek called “Annapurna Circuit” in Nepal but 4 out of 5 friends dropped out resulting into my cancelation as well. Hence I went on a small experience in tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh region in central India where I spent some time in the nature retreat and a small trek of 3 days Re igniting the passion for an old hobby always cheers one up! However, I continued with my long motor bike rides and went to Lonavala as well as Panchgani on my Royal Enfield Classic 500 (the name I have for the machine is “Subhanrao”). Besides in an argument, someone said to me “Bhad me jaao”. I googled and found the village Bhad in Gujarat, ahead of Rajkot and went there and said “Aapne Kaha tha Bhad me jaao, main jaa kar aa gaya. Now it’s your turn.”

There has been a long pending item on to do list to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan. I was fortunate this year to go to Amritsar on my birthday with a very dear and one of the best  college friends  and cross over the border from Dera Baba Nanak into Pakistan, visited Gurudwara and came back on the same day under visa free corridor policy .

More details can be found in my blog: https://pratiksurana.com/had-a-happy-blast-in-pakistan-and-loved-it/ . Besides, I continued with my hobby of writing and completed my long pending 5^th book titled as “Navigating Through Emotions: A journey from being emotional fool to emotionally literate person”.

On the social front:

Our NGO Quantum Foundation achieved different milestones. We have our projects “Mission One Million” which speaks of One million emotionally literate people by 2035. Happy to tell you that we have already reached half way mark way before..”Half Million mark is already achieved by 2023” Under this, we started with the following:

1. Free emotional literacy sessions which speak about emotions in our day to day life and their impacts. We arranged sessions in various countries for various companies, government organisations and NGOs as well as various departments free of cost.
2. Café EQ: The panel discussion on EQ and it’s application areas was re started and we had Café EQ 5.0 titled as “Leading and influencing using EQ” where renowned corporate leaders presented their views.

3. We also started with the Podcast called “Emotionally Yours with Pratik” which is available across 10+ platforms including Amazon, YouTube, Spotify, etc… The first episode was shot where the famous actress Meenakshi Seshadri Mysore, where she unfolded her journey about how she overcame difficulties in her life during her life journey. Many more episodes from famous personalities and people who have inspired and influenced others are on their way soon.

4. We have also been successful in getting “Emotional Intelligence” integrated as subject in main curricula of many school boards, polytechnic and for various colleges and universities including deemed universities in India as a mandatory subject.
5. We are in the process of signing up an MOU with NHRD Network to reach out to all the HR community in companies, schools and colleges and collaborate for this cause.

The second project called Project Dharohar (related with history and legacy we carry) under which we achieved the following:

1. Recognise: We recognise the renowned historians under Late Shri Prakashchandra SURANA awards in the following categories for this year:
   1. Late Shri Prakashchandra SURANA Senior Historian Award was conferred upon Dr. G.B. Deglurkar, ex-chancellor and senior historian at Deccan College
   1. Late Shri Prakashchandra SURANA Digital Historian Award to RJ Sangram Khopade for his podcast “Itihas Navachi Vyakti”.
2. Inspire: Under this part, we encourage schools, colleges, universities to form history clubs where the young minds can be influenced and inspired to study history through story telling in history, historical site visits, research, etc. . . . Under the same, we established the history club with “The Orchid School” in Pune.
3. Support: We support the students under “Late Shri Prakashchandra SURANA Scholarship” as a part of Quantum Fellowship for students doing Ph.D. in history. We signed Memorandum of Understanding with Deccan College

.

On the professional front, the year has been great as the company in India, Quantum Infotrainers and Consultants Private Limited, has achieved good sales and is expected to close 45% higher than the previous Financial Year. We added 45 new customers and delivered sessions across the domains of IT Skills, Soft Skills, Life Skills, Coaching and Cross Culture Sensitivity.

The company in Singapore “Quantum Trainings Pte Ltd.” has done well in terms of retaining major clients and acquiring major clients in IT, BPOs and Pharma companies globally.  We also acquired a major client who is one of the biggest financial consulting company in APAC for our training services  Soon we shall make our footprints in GCC and MENA regions apart from APAC.

The tireless journey grows achieving various milestones, overcoming hurdles and ensuring that the journey is enjoyable. This is only possible with the support of near ones like you. The family, friends, associates, colleagues, clients and everyone who has been a part of the journey, no words of gratitude can express the contribution they have made in making this journey enjoyable.

 As we inch closer to bid a goodbye to the passing year and ready to welcome the coming year 2024, it’s time we express gratitude for all that life has given us and prepare ourselves for welcoming the New Year that brings the positivity, hope and above all, optimism!

Wishing everyone happy festive times and in advance, Wishing You a Very Happy New Year 2024!!

Warm Regards

Pratik P. SURANA

The post Reflecting on the year 2023! first appeared on Dr Pratik Surana.

For many years, our neighbouring country has been a matter of curiosity for me, I must admit that Kartarpur Sahib was always been on my list and couldn’t visit it earlier because it was not possible due to visa regulations. I have some great friends from the neighbouring country who have been educationists, teachers, professors and corporate trainers and I have had the honour of conducting a few training sessions online for them and a client in Pakistan. My curiosity, warmth of my Pakistani friends, and their kind love and affection for me, backed by my faith in Sikhism (though I was born as Jain and have been practising multi-religious and faith philosophy for quite some time, being someone in between free thinker and an atheist) if I could choose my religion, I would want to be a Sikh. Sikhism is a man-made faith based on the principles of humanity. It teaches you tolerance, acceptance, giving, and serving.I have visited Gurudwaras in not just India but also London, Birmingham, San Jose, Paris, Manila Singapore and now Pakistan. Everywhere I felt the same unity and purity.

So this time, since my trekking expedition to Annpoorna Mountains got dropped, thought of trying my luck with Kartarpur Sahib Darshan on my birthday. First headed to Amritsar and then booked a cab to Dera Baba Nanak (around 50 km, an hour’s journey from Amritsar) where the town borders Pakistan and has the Land Transport Authority of India, which has an immigration checkpoint. 

I had informed my friends in Pakistan about my visit and three of them were kind to travel all the way from Karachi, Multan and Rawalpindi just to meet me for a couple of hours! Yes, Kartarpur not only allows Indians to freely enter their country and visit the sprawling Gurudwara but also gives people from both sides an opportunity to mingle with each other!

I loved the sound of that and decided to apply for the permit. ( Click on this link for registration). 

So let us get down to the basics:

What is required?

– Passport with at least 6 months validity

– Aadhar Card

Just click on the link above and fill in the details. Upload the photos of your passport as well as your Aadhar card to finish the process. Enter the date of intended travel. Once you fill out the form and submit it, do save/print the final form to have a record of your application number.

Your local police station will verify your address and other details and the permit will be issued 3 days before your travel date. They will let you know, one way or another, only three days in advance. So make sure you have made the travel bookings. The trains to Amritsar are almost always full.

Assuming you got the permit, don’t forget to take a printout of your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). You will need this document to enter. Without this paper, they will NOT allow you. You will also have to carry your passport.

There are two ways to get there:

– Train/bus/air to Amritsar: As soon as you arrive in Amritsar, you can take a bus/train to Dera Baba Nanak. It takes about 1.5hrs approx. by train and bus. I took the bus so I will share the process from the bus station.

As you get down at the bus station, you can take one of the free shuttles to the immigration center. I was very late and couldn’t find the shuttle so I took a rickshaw that took Rs. 50 to drop me to the border.

– Drive: This would be a better option because after 5 it is almost impossible to find a transportation back. Fortunately, I was travelling by an individual cab.

Once you reach the immigration, the process is fairly simple. You can simply show them your passport and ETA to get the approval slip. There are at least 3-4 checkpoints at the Indian immigration where you have to fill out the customs form and declare the currency you are taking.

The funniest thing that happened was polio drops. They gave me two disgusting drops of polio medication before I left the building. I asked them why I needed this, they told me that Polio has been completely eradicated from India and they don’t want us to bring it back from Pakistan.

Once you are done with the process, you can find a battery rickshaw that will take you to the border. From here you walk into Pakistan on foot.

The first thing you will notice once you enter Pakistan is the big smile with which they greet you. I met a few soldiers who were very happy to see me as I was probably the last one to enter the gates of Pakistan that day at 2:30 PM. People usually come in the morning and leave by the afternoon. I saw another battery-operated rickshaw on that side that took me to Pak immigration.

You have to pay $20 to gain entrance into Kartarpur. It is advisable to take the currency from India because the exchange rates in Pakistan are insane. You pay that outside the immigration center and proceed towards getting an entry slip. They will give you a card with a yellow band. You need to wear it at all times.

Pakistan immigration does not stamp your passport. Instead, they issue you an entry/exit slip that you need to hand over on your way so make sure you keep it safe and handy.

As you get the slip, proceed to exit the building and you can board the waiting bus that will drive you to the temple.

You can also walk the 3.5 km stretch which is a plain road and a beautiful one at that. You would especially enjoy crossing the bridge over River Ravi. The approaching Gurudwara looks incredibly beautiful and peaceful.

Once you reach the Gurudwara, you can walk around the massive complex and marvel at its immaculate construction. This project was completed in all of 11 months from scratch, one of the crowning glories of Pakistan and a world record too! It is really praiseworthy, the complex and its management.

What I enjoyed the most was the free interaction with fellow Pakistanis who are more than happy to meet you and greet you! You will feel so welcomed and enjoy their well-known hospitality.

This temple is important to Sikhs because it was the final resting place of Guru Nanakjii. However, what strikes you the most is the fact that people of all faiths are welcome here. Needless to say, don’t forget to try the langar that is also served with just as much love and care.

Things to remember:

1. The souvenir shops inside the complex are expensive, but you can buy some authentic Pakistani fare. You can exchange your currency here too. Shops are allowed to accept only Pakistani currency. There are good sweets and dry fruits as well as Pakistani Pathani clothes strongly recommended. Get as much of Jal Prasad from Kartarpur Sahib. No restriction on that.

2. You HAVE to be back by 5 PM on the Indian side. They drill that into your head when you are leaving.

3. You have to spend all the Pakistani currency there and exchange it on your way back. No Pakistani currency of any denomination is allowed in India and has a strict 2 years jail sentence. 

4. The last bus leaves at 4.30 PM so make sure you hop on to that one.

5. A $20 fee will be charged to give you access to the corridor

6. The polio drops. Yuck. It is mandatory.

7. Do carry your passport and ETA form

8. They do not stamp your passport.

9. It is very safe inside; in case you are worried about security.

10. You will not be able to leave the complex. On your permit, you can only visit up to the temple and back. You cannot go to other cities.

11. You need to apply for the permit at least 10-15 days in advance.

12. Once you travel, you will not be allowed to travel again for one year (an Indian immigration officer told me this). Pakistan, however, has no such restriction.

13. You can take your private cars and park them in the complex.

14. It doesn’t matter if you are not a Sikh. It is open to everyone.

15. Your phone will receive network, at least I did and I use Airtel

I strongly recommend that you experience this peace gesture between the two countries. It is perhaps the first time we have been given the opportunity to interact with our neighbours. It is truly an amazing experience because they will welcome you and make you feel so special. You will also see that hate is just a tool that both countries use to create distractions when it suits them. I loved the people, the beauty of the complex, and of course the smooth process! 

So I had a blast in Pakistan and came back happily!! They too were happy to welcome me and have a blast!!

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I started off my journey with my colleague to collect beautiful moments. The tickets were ready and the first encounter at the Mumbai immigration. The person hard-heartedly said we do not have a Visa to travel. However, we had heard that the Visa to Fiji is on arrival. Just a couple of hours left for the travel, we were traumatized and hastily connected with Mr. Nitya Mudliyar. We were unperturbed when Mr. Nitya Mudliyar told us that we need not worry and can travel lacking any apprehension and we can obtain the Visa on arrival. Nitya is a person of Indian origin and was born and brought up in Fiji, whom I met thru an Ex faculty for some business meeting. Later, when I boarded the flight, I continued to make memories. My co-passenger was a Korean whom I engaged in a conversation. And I regret all these years for having a glance at his Korean Food. Live Octopus!! I just shut it over and survived with a Cup of Green tea. Now to top it up the Layover was 5 hours in Seoul  (South Korea’s Capital) with a temperature of 9 Degrees and no warm clothes.  The cold never bothered me anyway when I set off on a two hours tour to temples in Seoul. I experienced the culture and heritage of Seoul on this exciting tour, which shows the importance of Buddhism in Korean Culture. Later, set continued the travel and landed in Incheon in South Korea. The next flight was to the final destination Fiji. All the people whom I met sounded me that not to venture out alone in Fiji unless necessary. My anxiety grew stronger, but with the trust in Lord, I moved along and informed my family about my safe landing.

Just cherish your happy moments as yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and you never know where the road ahead leads. Nitya received us at the Nadi Airport and to my surprise, he spoke very good Hindi being a South Indian. When we walked across we saw some men wearing white shirts and some skirts and ties and shoes. I found it a bit hilarious initially but then later saw many of them dressed in similar attire. This is supposed to be the National dress of Fiji called “Sulu”.  As we proceeded we pass lovely Blue waters. Astonishingly, around 33% was the Indian population and during that period Mr. Mahendra Singh Choudhry was the Finance  Minister of Fiji who was way earlier in 1999 the Prime Minister of Fiji. I must say that people over there are of four origins, namely Polynesian, Micronesian, Melanesian, and Indian origin. The country speaks Hindustani (A mixture of Bhojpuri and Hindi) which is the official language of Fiji.

BULA !! which means welcome. I definitely felt that I have arrived somewhere special when I was welcomed in a great way. They played the drums with flowers in their head. Oh, what a great warm and friendly hospitality. I was highly contented. Nadi ( Pronunced as Nandi)  to Suva we went thru the turtle walk.  It just left me highly impressed. The people seemed to be so happy-go-lucky, which reminded me of Goa. Nitya then dropped us at the Hotel and asked us not to venture around. It was extremely difficult to stop moving around in the beautiful city. I was put up in a hotel called 180 Degrees. The name was so kept as the International date line passes thru Fiji and the Hotel was built on it.   The subsequent day we went to the Post office at the clients’ site to help them with their software which was malfunctioning. Post Office Fiji used to run a software that was given to them by Post office New Zealand. Fiji’s most of the Government and all other things are highest influenced by Australia or New Zealand. We did an analysis and were taken to the systems head where he explained everything. We learnt that two months prior to our travel there was a Military coup and now the entire country was controlled by the Military. The EDP head jokingly commented, “Fix it or we have a beautiful prison”. This left us petrified.

You haven’t really experienced Fiji until you drink Kaluha  (also called yaqona) with the locals. This is an intoxicating drink. It’s not polite to reject, one should at least take a sip. The effects are very mild and it’s very relaxing. This is the real taste of Fiji. 

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

1. Fijians are known as the friendliest people in the world, but rejection not accepted.
2. Do not wear a hat as it is considered as insult to the Chief
3. Always remove your shoes before entering any house or other building
4. Speak softly. Raised voices are interpreted as expressing anger

THINGS I NOTICED:

1. Hindi movies are played in theatres
2. Most pubs play Hindi songs
3. People play Rugby just like Indian’s play Cricket
4. Pearl is eminent
5. Whales tooth is a National emblem which one can carry back home as remembrance
6. Diwali is a National festival and celebrated 8 to 10 days
7. Fijian Indian’s treat themselves different from other Indian’s
8. You can find the highest Obesity in Fiji
9. People are happy go lucky
10. Teenage Crime is the highest
11. A exceptionally sparkling city
12. Cost of living is relatively high

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