For those who tuned into Final’s Day for the WSL Fiji Pro, Cloudbreak did not disappoint. Yet, as perfect as Gabriel Medina’s 10 point ride was, that’s only a fraction of what the wave can really do. If Pipeline is the Vatican of surfing, Cloudbreak is Mecca. No matter, there is much more to Fiji than just Cloudbreak. Home to over 330 islands, only 111 of which are permanently inhabited, where over 15 distinct languages (and over 300 regional dialects) are spoken. Through all of this diversity, there is a common thread of hospitality, warmth, and a willingness to welcome outsiders with open arms.  In the outer islands, the old way is still alive. Remote islands like Rotuma where there are no surfable waves, tourism is basically non-existent, and invitations must be granted by the chiefs. To some, ancient ways have little value in our modern world. To others, they’ve never been as important.…