An Australian couple, Owen and Christine Twist, expressed their joy at returning to Fiji. They were among over 2,000 passengers aboard a P&O Cruises Australia cruise ship that docked in Lautoka on Monday. The Twists previously lived in Fiji during the early 1970s while working with the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Suva.
Mr. Twist shared, “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.” Initially planning to stay for two years, he ended up living in Fiji for nine due to his fondness for the people. “Then I had to go home, but Fiji has always held a special place in our hearts,” he added.
The couple’s daughters, both nurses, spent part of their childhood in Fiji, which made their visit even more significant. The Twists expressed gratitude for the lasting relationships they formed during their time in the country.
During their visit, they also purchased handicrafts from woodcarver Jone Sito, taking home Fijian souvenirs. The cruise ship is set to continue its journey to Taveuni before returning to Sydney.