There are few places rivaling Fiji’s reputation as an exotic destination. White sand beaches, crystal blue water, sundrenched islands, lush green mountains and the ever present smiling faces of locals might be the main attraction for a family vacation or the perfect backdrop for a romantic honeymoon. To me, Fiji holds an even more unique quality; the purity of its wild side. Whether you dive Beqa island for one of the most exciting shark dives or the channels of Taveuni where dolphins seek refuge from approaching storms you’ll be sure to notice the locals in their element.

There are over 300 islands in Fiji, not counting the smaller islets, each boasting a large number of dive sites making it hard to claim to know Fiji. This abundance allows for multiple visits each to a new region, island and new dive sites. Fiji’s marine life is as diverse and exotic as its hills and markets. It’s a perfect destination for big fish and macro alike. In a span of a single dive day you can swim with bull sharks, Tiger sharks, white tips, black tips, travellies and countless other indigenous big fish.  Once the chum induced frenzy settles down you’ll notice the blue ribbon eel picking its head beneath you asking for some peace and quiet.

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I live and work in New York City, yes the greatest city in the world the one that never sleeps. Over the years I’ve met very few people who were not totally excited about visiting NYC. The hustle and bustle of the city streets, its famous urban skyline, endless iconic attractions, arts and cultures, supreme luxury and some of the best food anywhere all count toward New York’s universal appeal. After few years of living here, one learns the ways of true NY’rs and realizes that the real gems are hidden in places we least expect them; A windowless stained black door down a staircase full of boxes is the entrance to one of the best clubs downtown or some of the most creative food is served out of trucks parked next to Brooklyn museum. New York sometimes stares you in the eye while going unnoticed and as it turns out same rule applies to some dive destinations.

Before booking my trip to Sulawesi and Lembeh I did all the research I could to be prepared. I learned about the dark volcanic sand and the great Super Macro opportunities and added some diopters and wet lenses to my gear. Reading about snoots and other makeshift underwater lighting techniques I fitted my strobes with an adjustable cone and mounted a focus light for videos. Before arriving to Lembeh I interrogated anyone who was willing to talk to me about what to expect and tips on where to go and what to look for. I started several online discussion treads asking for dive shop recommendations and places to stay (I’ll leave the details for a separate entry). None of the above came even close to preparing me for what I was about to experience and for that I’m very thankful.

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