Fiji

Fiji, a country in the South Pacific, is an archipelago of more than 300 islands. It’s famed for rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Viti Levu is home to the capital, Suva, a port city with British colonial architecture. The Fiji Museum, in the Victorian-era Thurston Gardens, has ethnographic exhibits.

 

Things to see and do in Fiji

Some things that are worth trying out:
Place to Eat

View The Fiji Photo Gallery

 

Typical costs when traveling

Traveling in Fiji can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, with daily costs varying based on accommodation, food, and activities. Expect to pay around FJ$60-92 (US$26-40) for a hostel dorm bed, while a basic room for two could cost FJ$280-550 (US$116-238)A self-catering apartment might start at FJ$500 (US$216) per night. Food can be quite affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around $10-15, while a tourist resort might charge $25 or more. 

 

Accommodation:
  • Hostel dorm bed: FJ$60-92 (US$26-40) 
  • Basic room for two: FJ$280-550 (US$116-238) 
  • Self-catering apartment: From FJ$500 (US$216) per night 
  • Luxury resort: $500 or more per night 
Food:
  • Local restaurant meal: $10-15
  • Tourist resort meal: $25 or more
  • Breakfast: Around AUD$6-12
  • Lunch: Around FJD$16-20
  • Dinner: Around FJD$25-30
  • Coffee: FJ$7 (US$3)
  • Fresh coconut: FJ$2 (US$0.86)
  • Roti stuffed with curry: FJ$3 (US$1.30)
  • Dinner for two: FJ$30-70 (US$12.95-30)
  • Beer/pint at the bar: FJ$8 (US$3.45) 

Transportation

  • Buses (local transport): FJD $1–$10
  • Taxis (within town): FJD $5–$20
  • Inter-island ferries: FJD $60–$150 (depending on distance)
  • Domestic flights: FJD $100–$300+ one way

Do’s and Don’ts

In Fiji, it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sitesRespect Fijian customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a home and avoiding public displays of affection. When in a village, avoid touching someone’s head, which is considered sacred, and remove your hat and sunglasses as a sign of respect. 

 

Do’s:
  • Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees, and consider wearing a sulu (sarong). 
  • Respect religious practices: Join in blessings or group prayers. 
  • Be mindful of Fijian time: Things may take longer than expected, so be patient. 
  • Greet everyone you pass: Acknowledge their presence, even in rural areas. 
  • Wait for a blessing before eating: This is a sign of respect. 
  • Remove shoes when entering homes: It’s a sign of respect. 
  • Bring cash: ATMs can be scarce in some areas. 
  • Respect the head: Do not touch someone’s head as it is considered sacred. 
  • Remove hat and sunglasses when visiting a village: It’s a sign of respect. 
  • Consider gifts for your hosts: If staying in a village, gifts are appreciated. 
  • Learn a few Fijian phrases: It will enhance your experience. 
  • Be aware of potential safety concerns: Take the same precautions you would in any major city, especially at night. 
  • Be mindful of “Fiji time”: The pace of life is relaxed, so be patient. 
  • Respect the environment: Leave no trace and be mindful of wildlife. 
  • Be a savvy consumer: Be aware of potential scams and negotiate prices.
  • Explore the outer islands: They offer a different perspective of Fiji.
Don’ts:
  • Visit villages on Sundays: Sundays are days of rest and religious observance. 
  • Walk around unannounced in a village: Ask for permission first. 
  • Touch someone’s head: It’s considered disrespectful. 
  • Break the dress code: Dress modestly, especially in villages. 
  • Criticize Fiji unnecessarily: Avoid pointing out social problems without offering solutions. 
  • Shout or raise your voice: It can be interpreted as rude. 
  • Wear a hat or sunglasses in a village: It’s considered disrespectful.
  • Give gifts to children in the street: It’s not considered respectful. 
  • Walk alone at night: Especially in urban areas. 
  • Overuse the term “Fiji time”: While the pace is relaxed, punctuality is still valued in some areas.

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