Fiji is a Mecca for divers, surfers and people who enjoy adventure vacation. It’s very popular because of its beautiful paradise beaches, white water rafting places, pleasant tropical marine climate, lush jungles and rich culture. The place is remote and has some problems which deter some tourists from going there (but it also means that there’s no typical truly crowded season).

LOCATION

Fiji is located in the South Pacific Ocean, about 1,300 miles (2,000 km) northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. It consists of 322 islands (of which 106 are inhabited) and more than 500 islets. The most important islands are Viti Levu (the site of the nation’s capital, Suva and Nadi, a hub of commerce and tourism) and Vanua Levu (a popular place for divers). In 2009, the population of the country was 849,000 people.

LANGUAGE AND RELIGION

There are three official languages in Fiji: Fijan, Fijan Hindi and English. English is used as a lingua franca in government, business and education so you shouldn’t have any problem with communication. Most Fijans are Christians or Hindu.

MONEY

The local currency is Fijian dollar. Fiji is an inexpensive country, especially in comparison to other South Pacific countries such as French Polynesia. The local food is cheap, you should also easily find good budget accommodation.

TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE

Fiji has an extensive tourism infrastructure. Tourist facilities are usually highly developed and there’s a wide variety of different accommodation options: simple and small local guesthouses, more expensive resort hotels and luxurious resort islands. The number of visitors to the country is relatively small which means that you shouldn’t experience overcrowded places.

SAFETY AND HEALTH

If you want to spend your vacation in Suva or Nadi (biggest cities), don’t leave your resort after dark. Tourists have been victims of crime – there’s a risk of robbery and mugging. If you want to feel safer, choose a resort island which is separated from the rest of the country. Also, keep in mind that Fiji is politically unstable – it’s being run by the army since the political coup in 2006.

The country is free from most tropical diseases. The highest risk of getting a disease is in the wet season because of more mosquitoes. Keep in mind that the sun is very strong – always wear sun protection!

HOW TO GET THERE?

Fiji is a very remote country. However, there are many flights that operate from Los Angeles, Honolulu, South Korea, New Zealand and Australia. Air Pacific is Fiji’s international airline.

CLIMATE AND WEATHER

Fiji enjoys pleasant tropical marine climate. It’s very warm all year round and there’s a slight seasonal temperature variation. However, keep in mind that there’s no typical dry season so there can be rainy days in every month of the year. Tropical cyclonic storms can occur in the warmer season: from November to April. The cooler season lasts from May to October. It’s rainier in the warmer season.

Average high temperatures in Fiji usually stay around 80–85°F (26–29°C). In the cooler season temperatures can drop to about 70°F (21°C) at night.

ACTIVITIES

Fiji is well known for having one of the best diving spots in the world. You’ll definitely want to snorkel or scuba dive there. It’s also very popular with surfers and sailors. The hiking is great – there are a few national parks and beautiful natural scenery (waterfalls, jungles, hills, nature reserves, rivers, small villages). Most beaches are white sand and they are surrounded by clear turquoise water with incredible sea life. Fijian culture is very rich – visit local markets, participate in local ceremonies, experience local festivities.

SUMMARY

Recommended for:

• Family vacation (preferably with older children)
• Budget vacation
• Luxury vacation
• Honeymoon and romantic vacation
• Nature lovers
• Divers and surfers

Advantages:

• Inexpensive
• Rich culture
• Beautiful natural scenery
• Still not very popular with tourists

Disadvantages:

• Cities can be unsafe
• Politically unstable
• It’s a poor country, so especially in the cities there’s a risk of tourist scams