An advocate for a sustainable forester is keen to visit undisturbed places around the country especially in the Mamanucas.

He is Semi Vuloaloa Dranibaka, the acting General Manager for Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited.

He took up the post after retiring from the Ministry of Foresty where he spent 22 years on a number of executive positions.

Originally from Namarai, Nakorotubu, Ra, Mr Dranibaka believes that the sunny western side has a lot to offer where visitors can relax and enjoy the views.

Below is an excerpt interview with Mr Dranibaka.
How Many Places Have You Visited Around Fiji?
I have visited nearly all places in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Ovalau, Gau, Lakeba, Vanua Balavu, Cicia except the Yasawas, and Southern Lau.

Aerial view of the Volivoli beach resort.

What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, And Why?
I am from Ra Province and would love to visit or take visitors to hotels at my province including Volivoli Beach Resort, Dreamview Villas and Dua Dua Beach Resort.

Beautiful hotels for getaways and beautiful scenery.

One of the many Bulaccino Cafe’s in Fiji.

What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee/Pie, And Why?
Bulaccino cafe remains my favourite cuppa where I enjoy it with my friends.

he village of Namarai Viti Levu, Fiji. Cyclone Winston destroyed 30 of the 36 houses when it swept through the community on February 20, 2016 © Alana Holmberg/World Bank. Source: https://reliefweb.int/report/fiji/

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot, And Why?
My village is Namarai, in the district of Nakorotubu in the province of Ra, where I can do anything with anything, such as gardening, fishing, snorkeling.

Monuriki Island in the Mamanuca group.

What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains On Your Bucket List, And Why?
The Mamanucas and the Yasawas I would love to visit some beautiful undisturbed islands from there.

Yasawa Group of Islands. Source: https://offgoesannie.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DJI_0097.jpg

Feedback: laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj