Fijians are the key asset in the tourism sector that set the local tourism apart from the rest of the world, says a former aircraft engineer and local music producer.

William ‘Bigwilz’ Waqanibaravi, a vasu of Kulukulu in Sigatoka, is the average guy-next-door with a larger-than-life temperament.

His no-frills and straight-up approach, coupled with his always- happy face and hearty laughter, make him a force to reckon with in social settings.

But Bigwilz feels he is often misunderstood for what he describes as a helter-skelter attitude.

However, his sense of loyalty is a trait he thinks not many are aware of.

Fiji’s Tourism

As he sits back to enjoy retirement, Bigwilz reflects on Fiji’s tourism sector.

The tourism sector employs half the population indirectly and directly, he points out.

“There are other destinations with the same white sands, water- falls and beaches that Fiji has,” Bigwilz said.

“But they don’t have the one thing we are proud of, Fijians.”

He spends his time pursuing other interests such as drone flying, video editing, and a good espionage book.

Where In Fiji Would You Take Friends To?

Fulaga and Totoya, Lau.

It is unspoilt in its unfiltered beauty.

There are no man-made structures to break the continuity of its natural state.

Fulaga has a lagoon with one opening.

In that lagoon, there are about 200 rocky islands.

The sand is so white, against the green waters, when the sun hits it

Totoya Island Bay

What Is Your Favourite Spot For A Coffee or Pie?

The Republic of Cappuccino (ROC).

When you sit inside that corner cafe at Victoria Parade, Suva, you see the whole city pass you by.

It’s a remarkable experience when you sit there alone with your coffee or pie, and people-watch.

From that point of view, you will see people doing something, or going somewhere, or even going nowhere.

It is an interesting place to chill.

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?

Niu Grillz, Fiji Cub, Selbourne Street, Suva.

Five friends of mine – we call ourselves The Blockheads – meet there every Friday.

On Friday nights when the clubs and restaurants are full, we are having our own little gig on the side at Fiji Club.

We have a sense of ownership over that space since it became our hangout when COVID-19 shut down almost everything.

What Is One Place On Your Bucket List?

Rotuma.

People talk about it, and the photos are amazing.

I want to see what the big deal is about, as I have been all over Fiji.

A beachfront on the island of Rotuma.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj