THE holidays are often associated with family, togetherness, and celebration, and for 21-year-old Mereani Matakibau, this year’s festive period is especially meaningful.
Born and raised in England, Mereani is spending her holidays in her island home something she has long dreamed of and finally turned into reality as a birthday gift.
Originally from Makadru Village in Matuku, Lau, Mereani recently turned 21 birthday earlier this month.
Instead of a party or gifts, she asked her parents for something far more personal – the chance to spend the holidays in her ancestral village with relatives.
She arrived in Fiji last week and will travel with her Dad in the boat on Monday to experience the festive season and all the hype associated with island life and fun.
“One of the most exciting aspects of my trip is the opportunity to reconnect with my roots,” she said.
“I am looking forward to spending time with my paternal grandparents in the village—family members that I last saw when I was just a baby.”
Mereani said this visit was not only a holiday getaway but also a chance to strengthen family bonds and reconnect with her heritage.
Being the middle child of three siblings, Mereani said she travelled to Fiji on her own for the first time, making it a significant personal milestone in her life.
While she has visited Fiji many times before, this journey stands out as it is her eigth trip back and the first without the familiar presence of her brothers by her side.
Returning to Fiji holds deep meaning for Mereani, as it is not just a destination but a place tied closely to her identity, heritage, and memories.
She shared that each visit strengthens her bond to her homeland, and the journey has always been fulfilling.
Mereani is loving every bit of the experience so far, and meeting up with her relatives has brought alot of joy and memorable memories she will cherish for life.
She said this experience marks an important step in her personal journey as she embraces travel, self-discovery, and deep and meaningful connection to her homeland.
“I’m so excited that I get to spend the holidays here in Fiji,” she said.
“It was my only wish when I turned 21 just a few weeks ago.”
She added that the highlight of her journey will be traveling to Lau for the first time, an experience she has never had before and one she eagerly anticipates.
Accompanied by her father, who also traveled from England, Mereani said this trip will be different from what she is used to back home.
“In England, Christmas and the festive season falls during winter, bringing cold weather and shorter days,” she shared.
“In contrast, Fiji’s tropical climate offers sunshine, warmth and a completely different holiday atmosphere.”
“Fiji is so hot and I love it here,” she joked.
“I might want to extend my stay a bit.”
The warmth, she said, adds to the joy of being surrounded by family and loved ones she is reconnecting with after so long.
Mereani and her father are scheduled to travel to Matuku on Monday, where she plans to spend quality time with her cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and grand parents.
She is looking forward to immersing herself in village life, the sea, sharing meals, stories, and traditions and creating memories that will last forever.
As she prepares for the next leg of her journey, Mereani expressed her excitement and gratitude, wishing everyone a happy holiday season.
She also shared her warm greetings, wishing readers a Merry Christmas in advance.
“This holiday season is more than a celebration—it is a heartfelt homecoming and a dream fulfilled,” she said.
