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 flavor 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 travelers 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 favor 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. Traveler's checks 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 honored 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 practiced 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!
Travel Advice
Our certified country specialists can advise on any safety concerns you may have. For current information, please refer to the Canadian Government Travel & Tourism website.
When to go to Fiji
You'll find temperature and rainfall information, together with a month-by-month guide on visiting, on our guide for when to go to Fiji.
More Information
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Flight Time
15 hours upwards dependent on airline (Toronto to Nadi) -
Time Zone
UTC +12