LOSEFATI Ligairi is no stranger to the tourism industry and his passion to see the industry continue growing as the days go by.
Having worked from the young age of 19 in various hotels and tourist tour companies in Nadi, Mr Ligairi has continued to look after tourists whether at sea or on land.
The programs director and tour co-ordinator for the Tui Tai Expedition Cruises on board the tourist ship Tui Tai in the Northern Division Mr Ligairi has what it takes to lure tourists to our shores.
His initiative in giving his guests the best from the Fijian people has seen him personally visit villagers on Taveuni, Rabi and Kioa asking them to give back to tourists genuine gifts such as items and traditional ceremonies.
"I personally visit the villagers and ask them to show our guests what true Fiji means and that is not only the friendliness or friendly smiles of the Fijian people but our culture and it's details.
"I have noticed that in some places not only in Vanua Levu but in Viti Levu as well, villagers just perform meke or hold traditional welcome ceremonies for the sake of putting up a performance for our tourists," Mr Ligairi said.
"That's not how we are and should not become a norm in the tourism industry because our guests deserve to see the best."
That is why Mr Ligairi has personally taken the initiative to visit villagers asking them to wear traditional outfit when traditionally welcoming guests or Fijian meke outfit during performances.
"It is important that we give our tourists the best because they give a lot in return, financially.
"These villagers benefit a lot, paying the children's school fees, their living standard is upgraded and there is fast cash through fakawela which has helped them immediately satisfy pressing needs."
He is the younger brother of former Ministry of Foreign Affairs permanent secretary and roving ambassador Ross Ligairi.
They hail from Nabalebale in Cakaudrove outside Savusavu Town.
With more than two decades in the industry, Mr Ligairi says he has has certainly not grown bored of what he does. "I am enjoying every day and as every year goes by, I have bigger and better plans for my guests of whom many have become friends.
"I have met a lot of well known people from royal families to actors and business people from all over the world so that keeps my job very interesting."
He has no immediate plans to change jobs as he works towards improving local gifts to tourists. He believes tourism has benefited many locals.
