Integritus Prime

We were recently at a resort that is considered the number 1 family resort in Fiji. Indeed, we were there for a family event.

Upon check in at 2pm, I was told the check in time was actually 3pm. When I pointed out the mistake in my email confirmation, I was told that information was for early or late check in and check out respectively. When I made mention of the fact that it would be nice to have the normal time of check in and check out on the email confirmation, and not just the early and late times, I was met with silence. This employee’s attitude was cold and closed – I decided to let it go.

It wasn’t the best experience after a long road trip but we decided to make the best of it. In the room, I noticed there were no extra blankets so I asked for some. After the third ask (and 7 hours later), one blanket was delivered.

Meanwhile, our family event went really well and we partied it up. We were told to shut down our music at 9pm because it would disturb other guests. That wasn’t ideal, since the room was booked for a bit longer but we complied.

The next morning at breakfast, we sat down with some fruit. A server came to us and asked if we wanted tea or coffee. Before we could really answer, she was gone, with a mention of where to get coffee. We noticed her serving tea to other guests.

We inquired if there was gluten-free bread and we were told yes, and to wait. We waited for about ten minutes and then asked again and were told to sit and they would bring it. Then I went up again to the counter after another ten minutes and waited there for a while. Two different employees apologized and then another ten minutes later the bread was brought to us by a third. By this time we had finished our breakfast and were about to go and check out, but we accepted the delicious bread, and again, made the best of it.

We asked for a porter at checkout and after the fourth ask, a porter came and assisted us with our luggage. I was overlooked in the check out line by the man attending the line. He made eye contact and then walked away.

Soon after that, a woman from the COVID counter came and helped me. It was interesting to notice the different levels in service when it came to me versus anyone with white skin.

Our borders haven’t been open that long and old norms are back in full force…

Oh, and while checking out I mentioned I didn’t have a great experience and the woman just looked at me and didn’t even ask why. I realized that’s probably why I won’t be back unless it’s for an event someone else organizes. All but one of the employees who treated me or my family in less than friendly ways were iTaukei (indigenous Fijian)…and while I’m working on growing a thicker skin, it saddens me that I’m still a second-class tourist in my homeland. Not only that, raising it as an issue was met with apathy instead of concern.

Personally, I am allergic to the status quo; especially when it’s racist, stagnant or otherwise harmful. I’m always looking for ways to innovate and create constructive change. And yet, if we don’t change ourselves, nothing changes. My change is to boycott those who uphold racism, and to support those who lead with justice. What’s yours?