What is the difference between a sevu-sevu at a back packers resort or hotel and a sevu-sevu in the village?
A sevu-sevu outside the village is not a real sevu-sevu. It is referred to by those in the know as a “plastic sevu-sevu” – the Fijian holding the “sevu-sevu” will often ask you, with other guests, for your name and place of origin and the actual ceremony will be short with the central theme being the serving of kava and the humour associated with guests who decline to try it. In the village a sevu-sevu is a serious event. The village Chief and mataqali (elders) sit before you and acting on your host’s recommendations welcome you as a member of their community for the duration of your stay. You might also be asked to say a few words. This honour, bestowed on you, makes you and all your family, will ensure that you are known by the village elders – please respect this honour! It needs to be understood that this is a big honour as Fijian villages do not take kindly to backpackers who just turn up and expect to have a bed just because they flash some dollars.
