Expenses- Currency Fijian dollar
DAILY COSTSBUDGET (up to)
$175
MIDRANGE
$175–350
HIGH END: OVER
$350
The local currency is the Fiji dollar ($); it’s fairly stable relative to Australian and New Zealand dollars. All prices quoted here are in Fiji dollars unless otherwise specified.
The dollar is broken down into 100 cents. Bank notes come in denominations of $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5. There are coins to the value of $2, $1, $0.50, $0.20, $0.10 and $0.05.
It’s good to have a few options for accessing money – take a credit card, a debit card, some travellers cheques and a small amount of foreign currency. The best currencies to carry are Australian, New Zealand or US dollars, which can be exchanged at all banks.
Before you head out to remote parts of Fiji, check to make sure you can access money, exchange currency or cash travellers cheques.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or overtly encouraged in Fiji; however, if you feel that the service is worth it, tips are always appreciated.
Other Traveling info-
* Ensure you have a valid passport and, if necessary, an appropriate visa before arriving in Fiji.
* Immigration procedures are straightforward: it’s highly unlikely that travellers will experience difficulty.
* In general, visitors do not need to show immunisation cards on entry, although it’s always wise to check with your local authorities before leaving in case this changes.
Visas
Entering Fiji is very straightforward. To get a visa you’ll need an onward ticket and a passport valid for at least three months longer than your intended stay. A free tourist visa for four months is granted on arrival to citizens of more than 100 countries, including most countries belonging to the British Commonwealth, North America, much of South America and Western Europe, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Russia, Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and many others. Check Fiji Visitors Bureau’s website (www.fijime.com) for a full list.
Nationals from countries excluded from the list will have to apply for visas through a Fijian embassy prior to arrival.
Visitors cannot partake in political activity or study, and work permits are needed if you intend to live and work in Fiji for more than six months. Foreign journalists will require a work visa if they spend more than 14 days in Fiji.
Arriving by Boat
Those entering Fiji by boat are subject to the same visa requirements as those arriving by plane. There are other requirements for those entering Fiji by yacht.
Visa Extensions
Tourist visas can be extended for up to six months by applying through the Immigration Department. You’ll need to show an onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds, and your passport must be valid for three months after your proposed departure.
People-
The Fijians are pretty easy-going, but if you are invited into a village, wear modest clothing and take off your hat (wearing one is an insult to the chief) when in the village. Leave your shoes outside the door when entering a home and keep in mind that it's also insulting to touch someone's head - which can be tempting when you are surrounded by wide-eyed, smiling children.
If you are invited to drink kava, don't ask, just enjoy the ritual and the tumb noungue, sorry - the numb tongue.
When visiting a village, it is customary to present a gift of kava, which is also known as "yaqona". The gift, (a "sevusevu"), will cost less than F$20 for a half kilo. If you are accompanied by a guide, he/she will look after that. The sevusevu is presented to the traditional head of the village ("Turaga Ni koro"). After it's been pounded into powder and mixed with water, it is usually served in the head person's house.
Be prepared to shake hands and answer personal questions like, where are you from, are you married, how many children do you have… and so on.
Fijians are the friendliest people in the world. Your respect for their customs and traditions will not only make you a welcome guest in their villages and homes, but add another dimension to your Fijian holiday. For the lovo, meke and yaqona (kava) cermonies.
One of the great things about this Pacific paradise is that everyone speaks English as well as Fijian or Hindi - although there are a few idiosyncrasies.
Any word with a 'd' has an unwritten 'n' in front of it - Nadi is pronounced 'Nandi' and the delightful cold, marinated seafood dish kokoda, is 'kokonda'. You put an 'm' before the 'b' in words like Toberua (Tomberua). Sigatoka is 'Singatoka', Naigani is Ninegani'. And a 'c' is pronounced 'th', as in the Mamanuca Islands.
Weather/Climate-
Best time to visit:
Fiji has a warm tropical climate perfect for beachside holidays. Maximum temperatures rarely move out of the 31°C (88°F) to 26°C (79°F) range all year round. Southeast trade winds from March to November bring dry weather and the rainy season runs from December to April. On average there are 15 cyclones per decade, and two to four actually cause severe damage. They occur from November to April and with greatest frequency in January and February. There is more risk in the outlying northwest island groups.
Fiji does have a wet season, which is characterised by heavy, brief local showers and contributes most of the country’s annual rainfall. The wet season is normally from November to April and results from the southerly movements of the South Pacific Convergence Zone. Typically the smaller islands in Fiji receive less rainfall than the main Island with various amounts according to their location and size. Cyclones do occur in Fiji and are normally confined to wet season.
The best months for holidaying in regards to Fiji weather is late March through to early December.
Required clothing:
Lightweight for summer, rainwear for the wet season.
GeographyFiji is located in the South Pacific, 3,000km (1,875 miles) east of Australia and approximately 1,930km (1,200 miles) south of the equator. It comprises 322 islands, 105 of which are inhabited (some are little more than rugged limestone islets or tiny coral cays). The three largest are Viti Levu (Great Fiji), Vanua Levu (Great Land of the People), both of which are extinct volcanoes rising abruptly from the sea, and Taveuni. There are thousands of streams and small rivers in Fiji, the largest being the Rewa River on Viti Levu, which is navigable for 128km (80 miles). Mt Victoria, also on Viti Levu, is the country's highest peak, at 1,322m (4,430ft).
Music/Art-
Fijian music combines the traditional Melanesian and Polynesian styles, as much of Fiji is influenced by these two cultures. However, other cultures, including the Indo-Fijians, have played a part in Fijian music as well. Folk music, traditional dances and different instruments are also largely involved with this type of music. The songs of Fiji are upbeat with beautiful rhythms and harmonies, and even the more modern music styles still convey aspects of ritualistic and traditional patterns.
The earliest form of art found in Fiji is pottery. Men typically excavate the clay used for pottery, but for the most part, the women are almost solely the potters. They will often have to work the clay by adding sand, kneading it, and letting it dry to get it to just the right texture needed to form pottery. Unlike other cultures, Fijians do not glaze their work; instead they take certain plants and rub it onto the finished product to give it a varnished look as well as a waterproof quality.
A type of cloth made from stripped bark from trees is known as masi or tapa. Mostly from mulberry trees, women will take this bark, strip it, soak it, beat it to a pulp (literally), and roll it out, like paper. This fabric is then used for many purposes, such as ceremonial wear, wall decorations, wall decorations, tablemats, handbags, etc.
In many countries that were under European rule, they were also introduced to art in a modern, European sense. And many of these countries also go through a period of revival of the traditional arts, especially when they are granted independence. It wasn’t so with Fiji. The main reason being that they never stopped pursuing their traditional art forms. And while there may be Fijian painters and sculptor actively working and creating European-style art, traditional arts still won out over European-influenced styles and techniques overall.
Attractions- (Top 5)
Sigatoka River SafariJet-boat safaris exploring the Sigatoka River run right into the Fijian heartland. The river is the longest on the island of Viti Levu, at about 10 miles, and runs from the hills of the Navosa Province into the sand dunes in Kulukulu on the Coral Coast. This freshwater river is so clear that you can view the marine life, including eels, prawns, mussels and a variety of fish, swimming just beneath the surface. Safari tours typically take you on a scenic cruise to the Sigatoka Valley, often called the "salad bowl” for its high production of vegetables. Many excursions also include tours of the island and a look at native life with traditional foods and entertainment.
South Sea Islands Yes, there is an island named Castaway Island and it is named for the Tom Hanks movie that was filmed there. Kitschy Hollywood references aside, the collection of islands in the region have sandy palm-lined beaches, crystalline waters and dynamic coral reefs that are a must-see. Day trips to the area, which include Mamanuca and Yasawa islands, give you several choices for exploration. These include a snorkeling excursion that visits the Marine Sanctuary to observe the variety of fish and sea life, or combination cruises with the option of sailing, kayaking, scuba diving or even a massage.
Kula Eco ParkMany of the area’s most threatened species live at Kula Eco Park (fijiwild.com). Kula lorikeets, iguanas and several tropical bird species such as the golden dove, red musk parrot and peregrine falcon are among the the animals that live in the park. Visitors can observe and learn about the park organizers' efforts to revitalize the animals' existence. The park also has a wide tropical jungle where a series of rope bridges lead you through a vast array of tropical vegetation, fruit trees, streams and bright varieties of flora.
Fiji MuseumFor an up-close look at the area’s history, the Fiji Museum (fijimuseum.org.fj) showcases a variety of prized memorabilia. The museum within Suva's botanical gardens offers an impressive look at showpieces dating back as far as 3,700 years. Three adjoining buildings house a history gallery, art gallery, Indo-Fijian gallery as well as rotating exhibitions. You can view pieces of Fijjian history, such as war clubs, cannibal forks and shell jewelry. A Frommer’s review warns, “Don't miss the masi (bark) cloth,” handwoven decorative fabrics customarily used for ceremonial occasions.
Bouma National Heritage ParkOn the garden island of Taveuni, within the northern group of islands, Bouma National Heritage Park is home to a broad array of Fiji’s natural beauty. You can tour lush tropical vegetation, and see mountain ridges, volcanic peaks as high as 1,000 feet and tall cliffs overlooking the sea. Within the park’s massive 37,000 acres, paved and unpaved trails take you through the scenery, with views such as the Tavoro waterfalls, Lavena Coast, and the Vidawa Rainforest. Guides can take you through some of the area’s more dense paths by hike or kayak.
DAILY COSTSBUDGET (up to)
$175
- Dorm including meals: $60–120
- Local transport and markets: good value on the main islands
- A half-day snorkelling excursion: $20–40
MIDRANGE
$175–350
- Double room in a midrange hotel: $150–300
- Local restaurants: $15–25 for a main
- Activities: Allow at least $50 per day
HIGH END: OVER
$350
- Resorts: meals and activities often included in tariffs
- Bure (cabins): $300 to $3000 per night
The local currency is the Fiji dollar ($); it’s fairly stable relative to Australian and New Zealand dollars. All prices quoted here are in Fiji dollars unless otherwise specified.
The dollar is broken down into 100 cents. Bank notes come in denominations of $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5. There are coins to the value of $2, $1, $0.50, $0.20, $0.10 and $0.05.
It’s good to have a few options for accessing money – take a credit card, a debit card, some travellers cheques and a small amount of foreign currency. The best currencies to carry are Australian, New Zealand or US dollars, which can be exchanged at all banks.
Before you head out to remote parts of Fiji, check to make sure you can access money, exchange currency or cash travellers cheques.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or overtly encouraged in Fiji; however, if you feel that the service is worth it, tips are always appreciated.
Other Traveling info-
* Ensure you have a valid passport and, if necessary, an appropriate visa before arriving in Fiji.
* Immigration procedures are straightforward: it’s highly unlikely that travellers will experience difficulty.
* In general, visitors do not need to show immunisation cards on entry, although it’s always wise to check with your local authorities before leaving in case this changes.
Visas
Entering Fiji is very straightforward. To get a visa you’ll need an onward ticket and a passport valid for at least three months longer than your intended stay. A free tourist visa for four months is granted on arrival to citizens of more than 100 countries, including most countries belonging to the British Commonwealth, North America, much of South America and Western Europe, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Russia, Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and many others. Check Fiji Visitors Bureau’s website (www.fijime.com) for a full list.
Nationals from countries excluded from the list will have to apply for visas through a Fijian embassy prior to arrival.
Visitors cannot partake in political activity or study, and work permits are needed if you intend to live and work in Fiji for more than six months. Foreign journalists will require a work visa if they spend more than 14 days in Fiji.
Arriving by Boat
Those entering Fiji by boat are subject to the same visa requirements as those arriving by plane. There are other requirements for those entering Fiji by yacht.
Visa Extensions
Tourist visas can be extended for up to six months by applying through the Immigration Department. You’ll need to show an onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds, and your passport must be valid for three months after your proposed departure.
People-
The Fijians are pretty easy-going, but if you are invited into a village, wear modest clothing and take off your hat (wearing one is an insult to the chief) when in the village. Leave your shoes outside the door when entering a home and keep in mind that it's also insulting to touch someone's head - which can be tempting when you are surrounded by wide-eyed, smiling children.
If you are invited to drink kava, don't ask, just enjoy the ritual and the tumb noungue, sorry - the numb tongue.
When visiting a village, it is customary to present a gift of kava, which is also known as "yaqona". The gift, (a "sevusevu"), will cost less than F$20 for a half kilo. If you are accompanied by a guide, he/she will look after that. The sevusevu is presented to the traditional head of the village ("Turaga Ni koro"). After it's been pounded into powder and mixed with water, it is usually served in the head person's house.
Be prepared to shake hands and answer personal questions like, where are you from, are you married, how many children do you have… and so on.
Fijians are the friendliest people in the world. Your respect for their customs and traditions will not only make you a welcome guest in their villages and homes, but add another dimension to your Fijian holiday. For the lovo, meke and yaqona (kava) cermonies.
One of the great things about this Pacific paradise is that everyone speaks English as well as Fijian or Hindi - although there are a few idiosyncrasies.
Any word with a 'd' has an unwritten 'n' in front of it - Nadi is pronounced 'Nandi' and the delightful cold, marinated seafood dish kokoda, is 'kokonda'. You put an 'm' before the 'b' in words like Toberua (Tomberua). Sigatoka is 'Singatoka', Naigani is Ninegani'. And a 'c' is pronounced 'th', as in the Mamanuca Islands.
Weather/Climate-
Best time to visit:
Fiji has a warm tropical climate perfect for beachside holidays. Maximum temperatures rarely move out of the 31°C (88°F) to 26°C (79°F) range all year round. Southeast trade winds from March to November bring dry weather and the rainy season runs from December to April. On average there are 15 cyclones per decade, and two to four actually cause severe damage. They occur from November to April and with greatest frequency in January and February. There is more risk in the outlying northwest island groups.
Fiji does have a wet season, which is characterised by heavy, brief local showers and contributes most of the country’s annual rainfall. The wet season is normally from November to April and results from the southerly movements of the South Pacific Convergence Zone. Typically the smaller islands in Fiji receive less rainfall than the main Island with various amounts according to their location and size. Cyclones do occur in Fiji and are normally confined to wet season.
The best months for holidaying in regards to Fiji weather is late March through to early December.
Required clothing:
Lightweight for summer, rainwear for the wet season.
GeographyFiji is located in the South Pacific, 3,000km (1,875 miles) east of Australia and approximately 1,930km (1,200 miles) south of the equator. It comprises 322 islands, 105 of which are inhabited (some are little more than rugged limestone islets or tiny coral cays). The three largest are Viti Levu (Great Fiji), Vanua Levu (Great Land of the People), both of which are extinct volcanoes rising abruptly from the sea, and Taveuni. There are thousands of streams and small rivers in Fiji, the largest being the Rewa River on Viti Levu, which is navigable for 128km (80 miles). Mt Victoria, also on Viti Levu, is the country's highest peak, at 1,322m (4,430ft).
Music/Art-
Fijian music combines the traditional Melanesian and Polynesian styles, as much of Fiji is influenced by these two cultures. However, other cultures, including the Indo-Fijians, have played a part in Fijian music as well. Folk music, traditional dances and different instruments are also largely involved with this type of music. The songs of Fiji are upbeat with beautiful rhythms and harmonies, and even the more modern music styles still convey aspects of ritualistic and traditional patterns.
The earliest form of art found in Fiji is pottery. Men typically excavate the clay used for pottery, but for the most part, the women are almost solely the potters. They will often have to work the clay by adding sand, kneading it, and letting it dry to get it to just the right texture needed to form pottery. Unlike other cultures, Fijians do not glaze their work; instead they take certain plants and rub it onto the finished product to give it a varnished look as well as a waterproof quality.
A type of cloth made from stripped bark from trees is known as masi or tapa. Mostly from mulberry trees, women will take this bark, strip it, soak it, beat it to a pulp (literally), and roll it out, like paper. This fabric is then used for many purposes, such as ceremonial wear, wall decorations, wall decorations, tablemats, handbags, etc.
In many countries that were under European rule, they were also introduced to art in a modern, European sense. And many of these countries also go through a period of revival of the traditional arts, especially when they are granted independence. It wasn’t so with Fiji. The main reason being that they never stopped pursuing their traditional art forms. And while there may be Fijian painters and sculptor actively working and creating European-style art, traditional arts still won out over European-influenced styles and techniques overall.
Attractions- (Top 5)
Sigatoka River SafariJet-boat safaris exploring the Sigatoka River run right into the Fijian heartland. The river is the longest on the island of Viti Levu, at about 10 miles, and runs from the hills of the Navosa Province into the sand dunes in Kulukulu on the Coral Coast. This freshwater river is so clear that you can view the marine life, including eels, prawns, mussels and a variety of fish, swimming just beneath the surface. Safari tours typically take you on a scenic cruise to the Sigatoka Valley, often called the "salad bowl” for its high production of vegetables. Many excursions also include tours of the island and a look at native life with traditional foods and entertainment.
South Sea Islands Yes, there is an island named Castaway Island and it is named for the Tom Hanks movie that was filmed there. Kitschy Hollywood references aside, the collection of islands in the region have sandy palm-lined beaches, crystalline waters and dynamic coral reefs that are a must-see. Day trips to the area, which include Mamanuca and Yasawa islands, give you several choices for exploration. These include a snorkeling excursion that visits the Marine Sanctuary to observe the variety of fish and sea life, or combination cruises with the option of sailing, kayaking, scuba diving or even a massage.
Kula Eco ParkMany of the area’s most threatened species live at Kula Eco Park (fijiwild.com). Kula lorikeets, iguanas and several tropical bird species such as the golden dove, red musk parrot and peregrine falcon are among the the animals that live in the park. Visitors can observe and learn about the park organizers' efforts to revitalize the animals' existence. The park also has a wide tropical jungle where a series of rope bridges lead you through a vast array of tropical vegetation, fruit trees, streams and bright varieties of flora.
Fiji MuseumFor an up-close look at the area’s history, the Fiji Museum (fijimuseum.org.fj) showcases a variety of prized memorabilia. The museum within Suva's botanical gardens offers an impressive look at showpieces dating back as far as 3,700 years. Three adjoining buildings house a history gallery, art gallery, Indo-Fijian gallery as well as rotating exhibitions. You can view pieces of Fijjian history, such as war clubs, cannibal forks and shell jewelry. A Frommer’s review warns, “Don't miss the masi (bark) cloth,” handwoven decorative fabrics customarily used for ceremonial occasions.
Bouma National Heritage ParkOn the garden island of Taveuni, within the northern group of islands, Bouma National Heritage Park is home to a broad array of Fiji’s natural beauty. You can tour lush tropical vegetation, and see mountain ridges, volcanic peaks as high as 1,000 feet and tall cliffs overlooking the sea. Within the park’s massive 37,000 acres, paved and unpaved trails take you through the scenery, with views such as the Tavoro waterfalls, Lavena Coast, and the Vidawa Rainforest. Guides can take you through some of the area’s more dense paths by hike or kayak.