It does not take long after arriving in Fiji to be reminded that whereas Australia and New Zealand used to be seen as beneign and benevolent "big brothers", they're now seen by many as bullies. In recent years their attitude towards the "coup" regime sees them in a less favourable light, and a new best friend has emerged. China is now far more generous and understanding of Fiji's unique blend of elections and coups than traditional democracys. Fiji has accepted Chinese money, far more than was ever provided by Anzac sources, with great enthusiasm, but I suspect, mortgaging their souls in the process. Many concessions including fishing, mining, timber and immigration, not to mention being told how to vote at the UN are a given. The many new roadworks projects have gangs supervised by blue overalled Chinese foremen, locals relgated to using the Chinese made tools and wheelbarrows. We are at the Hilton in Denarau, doing our best to help them get their act together.My experience as a business mentor is being put to good use identifying issues, but as is often the case, asking for advice and actually listening to it are often diametrically opposed. Our beach front room would normally have spectacular ocean views, but remedial works means dust and diggers instead. The pool area, as with pool areas at just about any good resort, is really fabulous. The sea is as warm as the pool although not nearly as inviting at Denarau as some of the outer islands. Today being Sunday, the guy who normally operates the hammer drill (again, every resort needs renovations), has obviously gone to Church, so we have so respite from his endeavours. Funnily enough the Hilton made no mention of these works when the booking was made, and no one wants to discuss it now... A blank look conveys a lot. The days are counting down and a return to the real world beckons. .
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Don MalcolmA perfect day involves being on my Harley with a long ride ahead.
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