Fiji Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Fiji?

  • Fiji is comprised of over 300 islands.
  • The capital city of Fiji is Suva.
  • Fiji has more than 500 species of hard and soft coral.
  • Fiji is known for its lush tropical rainforests.
  • Fiji is home to some of the world's most unique wildlife including the crested iguana, giant fruit bat, and mako shark.

History

Fiji is a small island nation located in the South Pacific, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm hospitality. The history of Fiji spans over 3,000 years, with the island being inhabited by indigenous communities before the arrival of Europeans.

The first settlers in Fiji were believed to be the Lapita people, who arrived around 3,500 years ago. They were skilled navigators and agriculturalists, and their influence can still be seen in Fijian culture today. The Lapita people were followed by the Melanesian and Polynesian communities, who brought with them their own customs, traditions, and languages.

In 1643, the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman was the first European to visit Fiji, but it wasn’t until the late 18th century that Europeans began to establish a presence on the island. British navigator Captain James Cook visited Fiji in 1774 and claimed it for Great Britain, but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that British missionaries and traders started to settle on the island.

The 19th century saw significant changes in Fiji’s history as the island became a hub for the trade of sandalwood, which was highly prized in China. This trade brought an influx of European and Chinese indentured laborers to Fiji, which led to a diverse cultural mix on the island.

In 1874, Fiji officially became a British colony, and the British influence on the island grew stronger. Plantations were established, and sugar became a major export, leading to the importation of Indian laborers to work on the plantations. The Indian community grew rapidly, and their influence can still be seen in Fijian cuisine and cultural practices.

Fiji gained independence from British rule in 1970, and Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara became the country’s first prime minister. However, political instability and ethnic tensions between the indigenous Fijian population and the Indo-Fijian community led to several coups and changes in government throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

In 2006, a military coup led by Commodore Frank Bainimarama resulted in the suspension of the constitution and the declaration of a military government. However, in 2014, democratic elections were held, and Bainimarama was elected as the country’s prime minister.

Today, Fiji is a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. The island nation continues to face challenges, such as the effects of climate change and political stability, but its resilient people and rich history make Fiji a unique and fascinating place to visit.

Transportation on Fiji

Getting to Fiji and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Local Transportation

2022

1. Public buses: Fiji has a well-developed public bus system that connects major cities and towns. The buses are affordable and offer routes to popular tourist destinations.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Fiji and can be found at airports, hotels, and major tourist areas. They are a convenient and comfortable option for transportation, but they can be expensive.

3. Rental cars: Renting a car is a great option for exploring Fiji at your own pace. Most major international car rental companies have branches in Fiji, and there are also local companies that offer affordable rates.

4. Water taxis: As Fiji is made up of many islands, water taxis are a popular mode of transportation between islands. They can be hired for private tours or for island hopping.

5. Ferries: For longer journeys between islands, ferries are a cost-effective option. They offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel, and some even have onboard entertainment and dining options.

6. Bicycle rentals: Many resorts and tourist areas offer bicycle rentals, which is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the local surroundings.

7. Scooter rentals: Scooters are a popular mode of transportation in Fiji, especially on the smaller islands. They can be rented at affordable rates and are a great way to navigate through traffic.

8. Air travel: For traveling between the main islands, domestic flights are available through Fiji Airways. They offer a quick and convenient way to get around Fiji.

9. Traditional boats: For a unique experience, you can also travel by traditional Fijian boats called “druas” or “camakau.” These boats are often used for cultural tours and can provide a glimpse into Fijian culture.

10. Walking: Many areas in Fiji are easily accessible by foot, especially in smaller towns and villages. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery.

Know Before You Go...® - Fiji Travel Tips

Before making their way to Fiji , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Fiji even more relaxing.

Capital: 1 word.Suva
Population: 2021900,000
Size: 2021Unknown.
Official Language: The official languages of Fiji are English and Fijian, while Hindi is also widely spoken as a secondary language. English is used in government and business, while Fijian is the most commonly spoken language among the indigenous population. Hindi is spoke
Currency: Fiji's official currency is the Fijian dollar (FJD), which is divided into 100 cents. The Fijian dollar is readily available in banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars, as well as coins of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents. In Fiji, most businesses, especially those in tourist areas, accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash as some smaller establishments may only accept cash payments. ATMs can be found in major towns and cities in Fiji, and they accept international cards. It is important to note that some ATMs may only dispense Fijian dollars, while others may offer a choice of currencies. Traveler's checks are accepted at major banks and hotels, but they are not a popular form of payment in Fiji. It is recommended to bring traveler's checks in major currencies such as US dollars or Australian dollars, as they can be easily exchanged for Fijian dollars. For those who prefer to use cash, it is adv
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Fiji are an important aspect of the country's tourism and hospitality industry. Here are some key points to keep in mind: 1. Tipping is not a common practice in Fiji, and it is not expected in most places. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% of the bill would be greatly appreciated. 2. Most hotels and resorts in Fiji include a service charge of 10-15% in their bills, which is distributed among the staff. This means that you do not need to tip separately. 3. There is a 9% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services in Fiji. This is usually included in the advertised prices, so you do not need to calculate it separately. 4. A 6% Environmental and Social Levy (ESL) is also charged on most goods and services in Fiji. This is used to fund environmental and social initiatives in the country. 5. If you are staying in a hotel or resort, a 6% Hotel Turnover Tax (HTT) will be added to your bill. This is used to fund the devel
Dress Code: The dress code in Fiji is typically casual and relaxed, with lightweight and comfortable clothing being suitable for the warm and tropical climate.
Topography: Fiji is a mountainous island nation with lush rainforests, white sandy beaches, and coral reefs surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.
Telephone: Country code: +679 Area code: None (Fiji does not have area codes)