SULU FOR YOU
It is expected of us to
wear a native outfit called a “sulu” whenever we visit villages in Fiji. A sulu
is a large square piece of fabric wrapped around the waist and worn as a skirt
by both men and women to a length below the knee.
Other islands call them
“sarong” or “pareau”; basically, beach wraps; but the wearing of the traditional
sulu is a sign of respect in this Christian conservative country. Away from the
villages and on the resorts or onboard the Fijian Princess our dress can be
more casual, but it shows respect for the elders and the people of the village.
As the people of Fiji are hospitable, generous and forgiving and because
visiting a village should be a highlight of our trip it is only right that we would
show them such respect by wearing a sulu. Indigenous Fijians have a strong sense
of tribal heritage and customs and as guests we should immerse rather than conflict
with their beliefs.
Blue Lagoon Cruises
will provide us with our sulu for the trip. The difficulty is keeping it on.
For men the sulu is
worn tight at the waist by wrapping it around and tucking in the ends. It
should be low enough to around mid-calf, but with any movement that thing is
going to get loose. There definitely won’t be any running around while wearing
my sulu. I won’t be going commando while wearing it, nudity is prohibited in Fiji.
Attire in the villages
will be the most conservative on our trip. Women are expected to cover their
shoulders as well as the sulus which should cover the knees. Sunglasses and hats
should also be removed; wearing them is considered impolite. Also, it is
recommended to not carry a backpack on the back, but to carry it in front of
you, lest someone thinks you are hiding something,
This is going to fun,
if a bit breezy.
Thanks for reading.
Love Janet and greg.
© 2022 by Gregory Dunaj
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