Saturday, July 12, 2008

BULA !


Bula!
One of the most famous expressions in Fiji is "Bula" (pronounced boolah). It is the Fijian word for "hello". We're busy practising..
'Bula' is as significant in Fiji as "aloha" is to Hawaii, and as a visitor to Fiji, the moment you arrive in the airport you will hear this word, often pronounced by the Fijians with great gusto ... BULA !!!!
At resorts, restaurants and islands we have been greeted on arrival by the Fijian song - 'Bula Malaya' - a joyous song of welcome, which ends with an emphatic "BULA!" at the ending.
Bula represents more than just 'hello', however. It also means happiness and health. If you sneeze, do not be surprised to hear Fijians close by say "bula" as it also is used in the sense of "bless you" or "gesundheit".
That's your word for the day!

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