The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh arrived in Fiji on a two-day visit as part of their six-month Commonwealth Tour on this day in 1953-
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After receiving local chiefs aboard the Royal Liner ‘SS Gothic’, the Queen and Duke arrived in the Fijian Capital of Suva, where they were greeted by officials and silence, a great mark of respect. Afterwards, they attended a traditional Fijian Welcome at Albert Park in Suva, where they received the Fijian chiefs and gifts, including whale’s teeth.
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On their way to the Banquet that evening, the Queen (wearing her Girls of Great Britain & Ireland Tiara) and Duke were escorted by torch-carrying outriders on their way to the Grand Pacific Hotel.
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On the second day, the Queen attended a service at the Anglican Cathedral in Suva and visited the Adi Cakoban School for girls before flying to Lautoka.
