Our Fiji specialists are experienced and passionate about the region - between them they have spent many weeks a year researching new experiences and ensuring everything is of the highest standard. They know these islands inside out.
Practical Information
International flights arrive and depart from the main island of Viti Levu, and air schedules mean it is often necessary to spend a night there at the beginning and end of your stay in Fiji.
For those on a short stopover we suggest either staying on Viti Levu or venturing to the nearby Mamanuca Islands.
Around the islands
If time permits we strongly recommend island-hopping to give you a really good flavour of the diversity of experiences available. To the west the Yasawa Islands offer pristine beaches, and the northern islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni add their own distinctive cultural traditions.
For many travellers the main attraction is the superb diving, and most resorts offer dive schools and facilities to explore underwater, but we can also tailor itineraries to favour relaxation, peace and quiet, or suggest a wide range of activities to get you walking, trekking, sailing or kayaking.
Language
English is the official language of Fiji, though many Fijians are multilingual and speak their vernacular Fijian or Fiji-Hindi.
Food & Drink
Fiji is the multicultural hub of the Pacific and the cuisine therefore enjoys an infusion of indigenous Fijian, Polynesian, Indian, Chinese and Western influences. Traditional Fijian foods include roots, boiled or baked fish and seafood in lolo (coconut cream). Meat (pork or beef) is generally fried and accompanied by dalo roots and leaves, and dishes tend to be heavily spiced. There is an abundance of fresh seafood and exotic fruits.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or encouraged in Fiji, but if you feel that the service or food has been particularly good, tips are always appreciated.
Money
The official currency of Fiji is the Fiji dollar. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at all major banks, international airport and foreign exchange bureaus and all international credit cards are widely accepted. Banks in larger places such as Suva and Nadi can give cash advances on major credit cards and there are a growing number of ATM's (cash point machines) around.
Social
The Fijians have a relaxed and friendly culture closely linked to traditional ceremonies and values which still command awe and respect. Fijian culture dictates that visitors are treated as honoured guests, which is exactly how you are made to feel when you are welcomed into a local village to see the chief. The most popular and well known tradition that is still widely practised is the Kava or Yaqona, which involve a local drink whose reputation precedes it. Kava drinking is as much a part of Fiji as beaches and bures, and is now used for welcoming and bonding with visitors and to initiate storytelling sessions. It is the custom that you sample this local tipple soon after you arrive in Fiji, which will surely be a sip to remember!
Under The Skin
Read
'Children of the Sun' (photographs by Glen Craig and poetry by Bryan MacDonald) has spectacular photographs of Fiji accompanied by poetry.
Listen
Music is everywhere in Fiji. The experience starts on arrival at the airport where there will undoubtedly be a local group playing and the experience will be repeated throughout your stay in the islands. The nicest thing is that even when there are no guests to welcome you are likely to see small pockets of locals singing and playing guitar to amuse themselves. The hyms emanating from local churches on a Sunday are truly beautiful.
Watch
'The Land Has Eyes' was the first Fijian film to be submitted for nomination for an Oscar. Shamed by her village for being poor and the daughter of a convicted thief, Viki is inspired and haunted by the Warrior Woman from her island`s mythology. The lush tropical beauty of Rotuma, Fiji contrasts with the stifling conformity of island culture as Viki fights for justice and her freedom.
Eat
Dalo (taro) is widely used in cooking as are coconut derivatives. Out on the island you get an abundance of sea food and generally less meat. Many resorts also have lovo nights; the lovo is tradional cooking method using hot stones.
Drink
Kava - a ceremonial non-alcholic (but mildly narcotic) drink used primarily in welcoming ceremonies; Fiji Water - the local bottled water that some LA starlets are reputed to wash their hair in; Fiji Gold beer, not so good for your hair but excellent for quenching your thirst!
Word
Bula! (Hello)
Trademarks
Friendly, genuine hospitality, beautiful islands, diving, snorkelling, relaxing.
Sulu (sarongs), brightly coloured shirts, tapa cloth, woven baskets and carved wooden bowls.