Under the floor, Fiji’s coral reefs are a treasure trove of marine biodiversity, charming divers and snorkelers with their enchanting magnificence harking back to the colourful underwater world depicted in Discovering Nemo. Specifically, Fiji’s Namena Marine Reserve stands out as a supply of inspiration for the beloved movie. It was right here that Pixar’s animation workforce immersed themselves in aquatic analysis to seize the essence of the ocean’s magic, and a spot the place I, too, am captivated by its wonders. Geared up with steerage from the skilled dive workforce from Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort and the superior expertise of my Apple Watch Extremely 2 dive pc, I discover myself ascending up the reef’s towering columns like Discovering Nemo’s Australian dentist. Nevertheless, reefs like these are underneath risk, and Fiji—recognizing its significance to the setting, Fijians, and tourism income—is devoted to defending and restoring them whereas providing guests the chance to contribute.

“With no protected setting and tradition, we lose what attracts guests to our shores,” explains Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji. “We’re actively collaborating with business, group, and authorities stakeholders to align nationwide sustainability objectives, embracing eco-friendly practices, championing marine and environmental conservation, and fostering community-based tourism, all whereas embracing the renewable power revolution.” Launching in late 2024, Tourism Fiji’s Loloma Hour program will remodel conventional vacation indulgence into lasting pleasure by providing guests the prospect to contribute via environmental, cultural, and group initiatives for one hour a day, embodying the idea that true happiness stems from generosity. Moreover, Tourism Fiji and PADI’s new Bula Blue initiative will attempt to make Fiji the highest sustainable vacation spot with the biggest community of PADI Eco Facilities, enhancing regenerative journey to profit native communities. They goal to develop Marine Protected Areas by 30% by 2030, incorporate Undertake the Blue in any respect dive websites, and thru PADI AWARE, supply Fijians diving careers and assist native conservation efforts.