An Australian couple, Owen and Christine Twist, are thrilled to be back in Fiji after many years. They were among the more than 2,000 passengers aboard a P&O Cruises Australia ship that docked in Lautoka on Monday. The Twists lived in Fiji during the early 1970s while serving the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Suva.
“It feels so good to be back in Fiji. We were hoping to meet some of our local friends that we have contacted through social media,” Mr. Twist commented. He reflected on their time in Fiji, saying, “We came for two years, but I liked the people so much that I stayed for nine. Then I had to go home, but Fiji has always held a special place in our hearts.”
Their daughters, who are now nurses, also spent part of their childhood in Fiji, further strengthening the family’s connection to the islands. The Twists were excited about their return and expressed appreciation for the lasting friendships they forged during their stay in Fiji.
During their visit, they purchased Fijian souvenirs, including handicrafts from local woodcarver Jone Sito. The cruise ship is set to continue to Taveuni before returning to Sydney.