Saturday, February 15, 2025 – One of the things I love most about traveling internationally is the opportunity to observe various cultures… how do they interact with their spouses, their peers, their elders, their children? Are they respectful to people with different abilities, religions and colors? Are they smiling and engaging? Are they open to conversation with a stranger?
I know my experience in Fiji is minimal and contained to travel-specific situations. Nevertheless, I have been impressed by the observations with regard to all the questions I posed above.
At the gate, people got up to make room for others to sit in the waiting area. They stood back and motioned for others to go in front of them in line. I especially appreciate the way the elders are treated. I watched several interactions with other passengers offering assistance and airline employees who gently assured passengers they would be taken care of and clearly explained how they would be managed in the boarding process.
The woman boarding just in front me was seriously tiny and frail. The boarding attendant stepped out of the plane onto the gangway to assist her in stepping up into the plane, gently taking her arm and placing his hand gently on the small of her back, speaking quietly and encouraging her. When I got to my seat, I noticed she was just across the aisle from me… below shows the flight attendant helping her get settled in her seat. The tenderness in her touch, voice and actions was so gentle, reassuring and genuine.
I was grateful to have this little moment in time to again experience the character and caring nature of the people of Fiji.
I was able to get a couple of shots, leaving Fiji, and a couple more arriving in Auckland. Enjoy!
Travels with Nance 