Tonga Time

by | Dec 14, 2015 | Cultures of Polynesia, Tonga

Tonga, like it’s cousins across the Pacific, has it’s own approach to time. Today may mean tomorrow. Half an hour may be more like two hours or in some cases two days or even a week. If you are a foreigner this may take a bit of adjusting to, but remember you...

Welcome to Fiji!

by | Oct 26, 2015 | Cultures of Polynesia, Fiji

    “Bula Vinaka” and welcome to Fiji! This phrase means more than simple hello or greeting, and the speaker proclaims “good health” or “good life” to the hearer. The approximate 330 inhabitable islands of Fiji are spread out over more than a million square...
Traditional Fijian Meke Dance

Traditional Fijian Meke Dance

by | Oct 14, 2015 | Cultures of Polynesia, Fiji

When I first saw a Fijian dance at the Polynesian Cultural Center, I thought I would fall asleep. But each time I saw their performance, my appreciation grew for their songs, derua, and dances. I also grew to love the Fijian people. They are so giving, friendly, and...