So, I just got back from Suva, and wow, I have to spill the beans on my adventure there. Honestly, I wasn't expecting much. Just a quick trip to check the box for another city, you know? But oh man, it turned into this whole experience that I didn't see coming. If you ever find yourself wondering about the best things to do in Suva, sit down and let me share how this trip took a turn for the unexpected—a perfect blend of chaos, beauty, and those little moments that just stick with you.
This spot? Total surprise.
Right from the airport, I was hit by the humidity. You know that thick, almost oppressive feeling that makes you think about ditching the city and finding a beach instead? But, being the stubborn traveler that I am, I decided to jump right into the heart of Suva. I ended up wandering into the local market, and wow, what a delightful accident. I didn't even know it existed until I stumbled upon it!
I guess I should've had a plan or something, but there I was, almost aimlessly wandering, when I found this place bursting with colors and scents that practically lifted me off my feet. Vegetables piled high, vibrant fabrics draped everywhere, and oh, the smell of fresh fish mixed with baked bread—it was everything and nothing I expected. I wandered around, totally overwhelmed and still trying to embrace the moment. There was this sweet old woman selling coconut water, and I just had to buy one. The fresh taste? Oh man, it was life-changing.
Mutual smiles with strangers and little waves—everyone seemed so open and welcoming. It made me think about those moments we often miss in typical tourist spots. I could've easily skipped this and gone for some fancy restaurant, but—wow—this market really set the tone for the rest of my trip.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
Okay, so there was one rainy afternoon that really shifted my perspective. I had this grand idea to explore the Fiji Museum, you know, get all cultured and smart. But once I arrived, the skies opened up, and I stood there for a moment wondering if I should just bail and find a café to hide out in instead. Doubt was creeping in like, “What am I even doing here?”
But I decided, why not? I ducked inside, and I'm so glad I did because that place was like a time capsule. I learned about everything from ancient Fijian artifacts to colonial history. But the real kicker? It was a small room toward the back filled with local artwork. I don't know what it was—the colors, the stories behind each piece, or maybe just the way the rain pelted the windows outside—but I felt this electric energy coursing through me.
I actually spent nearly two hours in there, completely losing track of time. The art sparked something in me, and I realized how important it is to just be present. I came in expecting old stuff but left with this burning desire to understand more about the culture and heart of Fiji. It almost felt like a mini-epiphany tucked away in an old museum.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
The thing is, I'm one of those travelers who thinks I can navigate like a local… even with a map I can barely decipher. So, picture me wandering around, mentally patting myself on the back for finding my way to the iconic government buildings. I was moving along, all high on life after the museum, thinking I'd stop somewhere for lunch. Faced with the classic indecisiveness, I ended up walking in circles.
Finally, I spotted this quaint little café, Café 21, tucked away down a side street. I decided to pop in—not because I was hungry but on a whim, really. The moment I stepped inside, I was met with this cozy vibe, mismatched chairs, and the aroma of freshly ground coffee that was hypnotic.
I ordered a curry pie—yes, a curry pie. And wow, it sounds simple, right? But let me tell you, it was everything I've ever wanted in a pastry. Flaky, slightly spicy, and with that perfect savory filling. It felt like the universe was telling me that sometimes, the best moments are found in places you didn't plan on visiting. And can I just say, it was honestly way better than the touristy spots I'd been considering? Just goes to show how unpredictable travel can be.
A friendly detour that became memorable
On my way back, trying to avoid getting lost again, I ended up at Thurston Gardens. Ugh, I was so ready to just sit and relax, but of course, the universe had other plans. I was convinced I'd find nothing but a boring stroll, but it turned out to be an oasis I didn't know I needed.
I found a bench and just plopped down, feeling the soft breeze. It was one of those moments where you just sit and soak in everything. Families were picnicking, kids were chasing each other, and I couldn't help but smile at this slice of everyday life. A couple near me tried to set up a picnic but almost knocked over their watermelon! The laughter that came out of that moment—it felt like the air was charged with joy.
Sometimes, in between all the sightseeing and the hustle, you just need to do nothing. It was one of those little pockets of existence that felt so grounding. I even closed my eyes for a bit, letting the sounds envelop me—like the whispers of Suva filling my soul. It didn't matter that I wasn't ticking things off some grand bucket list; I was just there, living, breathing, enjoying.
So, while you might be looking for the best things to do in Suva, remember that sometimes it's the unexpected moments that stick the most. Whether it's a chance encounter at the market or a curry pie that stops you in your tracks, it's those little slips of fate that fill your heart.
As I sit here sipping my coffee and reflecting, I realize that Suva was so much more than I thought it would be. Well, I guess it's time I poured another cup, and who knows where I'll go next…
