Tia Punja, 27, is the procurement and operations manager for Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) Foods Limited.

In 2012, she moved for university and work to New Zealand and decided to return to in 2018, because she missed the Fiji lifestyle.

“I currently work for my family’s business – FMF Foods,” she said.

“I work weekdays but try to get away every weekend and alternate between: fishing weekends on dad’s boat in Nadi, Rakiraki, Leleuvia and Savusavu – these spots have been on rotation since the pandemic.

“If I stay in Suva, we go out on our mate’s boats or barbecue in backyards.

“Pre-pandemic, I travelled all over the world, and while I do miss it, I am really enjoying travelling my own backyard – Fiji is awe-inspiring.”

What is the one place in Fiji you’d take every visitor to, and why?

Leleuvia.

It has that true Fijian flair.

It is beautiful, eco-conscious and simply what a real Fijian experience is about.

It is by far my favourite island to visit.

What is your secret backyard favourite spot?

High points in Rakiraki. It’s breathtaking. We like to go and park up there to watch the sunset, or pull out our foldable chairs, and have a drink.

What is your favourite place in Fiji for a pie/coffee?

I really do love my coffee – I used to live in the coffee capital of the world.

So, it was interesting finding my ‘regular’ in Fiji, but it is easily The Corner Bakery.

My coffee order is spot-on every time, and the food is great.

What is the one Fiji spot on the top of your bucket list?

I’ve been to a few islands in the Yasawas, but I would love to visit the rest of them.

Take a week or two off, and island hopping.

Or better yet, convince my dad to take his boat that way, and stay for a few weeks. Bliss.

Feedback: susana.tuilau@fijisun.com.fj