collaborative post | Fiji is a stunning island nation located in the South Pacific, where tourists are warmly welcomed by friendly and engaging locals, hoping to immerse them in the holiday of a lifetime. Tourism is the largest sector of the Fijian economy, and many locals are eager to see the industry thrive again after the devastating effect of a global shutdown.
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With so many beautiful island locations on offer, you will have a difficult time narrowing down your itinerary for just one trip. From crisp white beaches to exploring far-flung islands, you are guaranteed to return time and time again. Before you travel, don’t forget to buy Fiji dollars to save yourself the time and hassle of securing currency once you arrive in the magical place.
Best Time to Fly
Deciding on when to fly to this tropical paradise largely depends on the activities you hope to engage in once there. Fiji has a summer rainfall system, so its wet season lasts from November to April, with downfalls typically lasting only a couple of hours during the afternoon. The rain brings out the lush landscape of tropical flowers and impressive waterfalls.
October and November signify the Rising of the Balolo and your opportunity to sample a local delicacy. Edible sea worms, often called ‘caviar of the Pacific,’ merge from the numerous coral reefs surrounding these islands, offering a unique opportunity to anyone hoping for the full Fijian experience.
With nearly 34% of the population being of Indian descent, every march sees the famous Holi festival with delicious traditional Indo-Fijian dishes on offer and the famous color festival. In October, the annual Diwali celebration is marked with impressive fireworks displays and delectable sweets.
For visitors hoping to soak up as much sunshine as possible, a visit between May and October will guarantee plenty of fun in the sun, although the beaches will be more crowded and prices higher in response.
Places to Stay
Fiji is made up of over 330 islands, with only one-third being inhabited. On arrival, you fly into Nadi International Airport, located on the main island of Viti Levu. It is also home to Suva, the capital city, which is located roughly three and a half hours away.
While the area around the airport doesn’t have the best beaches, it is the perfect location to base yourself for shorter day trips to surrounding islands for crisp white sand and picturesque turquoise water. Those wanting to explore more of what this incredible country has to offer can head off to the popular Denarau Island or Tokoriki Island.
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Denarau Island
Located just 20 minutes from the airport, Denarau Island is a popular tourist spot. This gated community is the perfect place to spend a few relaxing nights, with the Marina acting as the gateway to the popular Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, as well as offering excursions, day trips, small ship expedition cruises, and resort connections to other islands.
With many high-end resorts situated around the community, you won’t be short of luxury accommodations to take in the sights and sounds of this spectacular place. Take a tour of the local village or visit the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool near the Garden of the Sleeping Giant for an exciting day out.
Alternatively, you can take one of many day trips that leave from the Port Denarau Marina, with Captain Cook Cruises offering boat trips to the Tivua Private Island, a wonderfully charming small island filled with exciting activities and luxury cabanas to soak up the jaw-dropping views.
Tokoriki Island
While day trips offer a lot of freedom and flexibility, for travelers wanting to spend a few nights on a smaller, south pacific island, Tokoriki Island will tick all your boxes. It has two main resorts, one being an adults-only Island resort, and can be reached by boat or helicopter.
The Sheraton Hotel & Spa, which is open to anyone wanting to stay, offers many activities for guests, from coconut ice cream making to lei-making workshops and cooking lessons. You can also play tennis or mini-golf on the property for no extra cost or visit the telescope located on the helipad for a glimpse of the night sky on a clear night.
A visit to the beach presents the chance to engage in a number of different activities and excursions, including tackle fishing, parasailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Weather
Located in the southern hemisphere, close to Australia and New Zealand, the climate in Fiji is tropical and mild. Year-round, the temperature averages from roughly 25-31 degrees Celsius. Like all southern hemisphere countries, the warmer months fall between November and April, while temperatures drop slightly from May to October.
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Etiquette
Fijians live a slower pace of life, with ‘Fiji time’ affecting locals and tourists alike. This can sometimes mean that activities and services may take a little longer compared to other places. Be patient and respectful when waiting for a service in a restaurant or retail store. Embrace the slower pace to enjoy your island vacation fully.
When visiting smaller villages across the country, dress modestly and remove your hat and shoes before entering a home. Furthermore, smile and acknowledge everyone you may pass, as it is considered poor form not to do so.
