“Mention Fiji and images of azure waters, swaying palm trees and smiling faces appear.
Fiji holds a place in my heart – my childhood home for several years – old favourites now oft visited with my own kids. Yet there is always more to discover…
Given that no-one knows a destination like a local; I jumped at the opportunity for International Model & Fiji Airways Ambassador – Phillipa Steele – to share her Top Model Fiji Travel Tips.
Not only is her story fascinating, she knows Fiji like the back of her hand and generously shares her secrets – I love a sharer…
Phillipa Steele is half Fijian and the other half is made up of Tongan, French, English and American. Currently back in Fiji completing her studies she will soon be on a plane to New York to continue her modelling career.
Kindly she took time out of her busy schedule
Tell us a bit about your career, how it all began;
Growing up I always wanted to be a model but thought it wasn’t in my reach. When I was 15, my parents entered me into a modelling competition; I ended up coming second runner up!
After that I decided to make it a hobby and did little shoots and a few Fiji Fashion week shows.
One day a scout from Trump Models came to Fiji for a holiday and my friends saw an advertisement on TV about a model search he was holding. It was nerve-wracking as 51 girls auditioned, however I ended up being offered a trip to New York and was signed as a Trump Model – I am the first Fijian model to be signed internationally!
In addition I am thrilled to be part of the Fiji Airways team as an Ambassador.
We all love Day Spas, can you recommend any in Fiji?
The Pearl Resort – located on the warm tropical waters of Pacific Harbour (between Suva and Nadi) – The Waterside Spa uses gorgeous Pure Fiji products.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa – spa treatments are offered in a beachside cabana, you can hear the waves breaking and feel the sea breeze against your skin.
What is your favourite Fijian cuisine?
My favourite dish is Kokoda, which is raw fish marinated in lemon.
If there is one experience that you think everyone should have in Fiji what would it be?
Sand Dunes – sand boarding – Once the sun goes down, head to the bottom of the sand dunes where you can build a bonfire, play guitar and tell stories. Dunes, tunes and a whole lot of family bonding…
The best thing about Fiji is what makes Fiji, Fiji…
Where to shop in Fiji?
Local markets – Suva and Nadi both have them – great for Fijian Handicrafts and traditional products.
My hometown Sigatoka is the heart of the famed Coral Coast, we are known as the ‘Fruit Bowl’ of Fiji – so visit our food markets for the freshest pineapples, mangoes, coconuts and little sweet bananas – this is a fun thing to do. If you wander around some of the surrounding local shops you will find lots of tropical print fabrics – and tailors who will whip up a Sulu (sarong) or Kaftan.
What is the best thing about your hometown?
Sandy beaches, clear blue skies, people with the brightest personalities, delicious traditional food. Fiji is just so small, serene and peaceful – and sunny all year long.
How do you fight jet lag?
Keep hydrated & stay active – drink plenty of water before, during and after flight. I don’t drink coffee, soft drink or alcohol. I also try to sleep according to the time zone I am going to a week before I leave – another trick is to book a flight that is late at night so I snooze on the plane. I wear comfortable active wear on plane so I can go for a walk around the block as soon as I arrive at my destination.
What is in your carry on bag?
My travel diary – I write about all the countries I visit – it will be great to look back on my adventures. I make a song playlist of all my favourite songs and I pack a sweatshirt from my parents to make me feel close to them; a non-fiction book keeps my mind busy.
Do you have any advice or tips on staying healthy and fit while travelling?
Pack exercise equipment: skipping rope, yoga mat & resistance bands (I exercise in the morning to get it out of the way). I also exercise by going on local adventures – it is great to walk wherever you can.
I fill my hotel mini bar with healthy vegetables, fruit & snacks to pack in my day bag. When it comes to dining out, I avoid any battered or fried foods. I replace chips with a fresh garden salad.
I love Phillipa’s energy – apart from youth, which she has in spades – it must be growing up in that fresh tropical air..
Thank you for your time and your Top Model Fiji Travel Tips.
Wishing you much love and luck for your fabulous career.
Bula Vinaka Phillipa Steele xoxo
Monique’s Fiji Travel Tips
- Make sure you stock up on the range of Pure Fiji beauty products – stocked in many of the top Day Spas in Fiji – I smell the signature scent and am transported back to holidays, long after I have landed back home
- Sari’s make a lovely gift (or have them made into a Kaftan) – plenty of the local Indian Shops (Suva, Nadi, Sigotoka) stock them in an array of colours – ask directions to the best local tailors
- Natadola Beach is the BEST mainland beach – and home to the stunning Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
- Try a local Fijian Curry – they tend to use an aromatic mix of spices and water rather than coconut milk – chef Annabel Langbein has a fabulous version in her book Savour the Pacific
- Consider giving back on holiday – investigate if any organisations might like to take kids old textbooks or local kids sporting teams might have use for soccer boots or other equipment
- with thanks to Feroz Khalil for use of the ‘featured main photograph’ – thanks to Intercontinental Fiji Golf Spa & Resort & The Pearl Resort for use of their images
