Fiji 🇫🇯
Heading to Fiji? Hold up you’ve got to read this travel guide first. Here’s everything you need to
know to have the best trip to Fiji.
Fiji had been at the top of my bucket list for as long as I can remember until I checked it off, and in the best way possible! My trip to Fiji was a heartfelt celebration a surprise wedding renewal for my parents, a gift from my siblings and me.
But, why exactly did we choose this destination among all others? Fiji supplies all the classic images of paradise. Glittering sands, turquoise waters, luxe resorts…you know the drill. And believe me when I say, it really lives up to the vibe.
Beyond the fact that Fiji caters to lovebirds of all kinds, there’s so much more to this island country. In fact, Fijian customs will make you feel a million miles away. Ever tried the dizzying kava drink? Or watched folks defy fire and walk across scalding stones all without burning their feet? If not…it’s about time you did (Read: take a trip to Fiji).
Keep reading for the ultimate travel guide to Fiji!
Fiji Island
How to Get to Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, so it’s mainly accessible by air. The main gateway is Nadi International Airport (likely where you’ll be landing). You can catch a direct or connecting flight, based on your country.
There are some travel requirements for Fiji, but generally, you want to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Fiji. Visa requirements will vary by nationality; many countries have visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements with Fiji.
How to Get Around Fiji
Fiji’s got a whopping 333 islands and there are multiple ways to navigate around these. There are local buses, taxis, and car rentals. But my favourite is ferry rides! They give you a true feeling of this island country.
Where to Stay in Fiji
We stayed on the serene Mana Island (a part of the Mamanuca Islands) which was perfect for experiencing the world-class snorkelling and white sands of Fiji. The Mana Island Resort and Spa, however, is a bit run-down (it can do with a refurb, you know). But we were there for the true Fiji spirit which lies in its waters and natural beauty and we were elated to be here! Plus, we got a pretty good deal.
Other places to stay in Fiji are-
Nadi
Because you’ll likely land at Nadi airport, Nadi is naturally the most convenient place to stay. Here, you can expect a city vibe mixed with that chilled-out beach-vibe. It is also one of the most affordable places to stay in Fiji.
Bamboo Backpackers is a good option for budget travelers. Its onsite bar and restaurant are always busy. In fact, it’s a good spot to meet other travelers even if you’re not staying here. Personally, I love the Smugglers Cove Hotel. This small boutique hotel gives you just the right comfort.
Denarau
This island is also close to the Nadi airport. This is a good spot to stay for some shopping and then proceed for your island getaway.
The Radisson Blu Resort is huge, and offers plenty of activities, including an adults-only pool. The port is also just around the corner.
The Sheraton Denarau Villa is great for 5-star luxury. It has fantastic villas + 6 swimming pools as well as 14 restaurants.
Entrance into Mana Island the resort we stayed at
What to Do in Fiji
We had a great time in Fiji, and always had something to do! Here’s what I totally recommend whether you’re traveling with your family or your partner.
Visit Navala Village
This is easily Fiji’s most scenic settlement. You can walk through here and admire elaborately designed rooftops of the chiefly bures; these are all neatly aligned around the village green.
Fire Dancing
One of the highlights of my trip was watching traditional Fijian fire dancing. The hypnotic music. The artistry of the performers. The communal atmosphere. What an unforgettable experience it was! This is a window into Fiji’s traditions and definitely shouldn’t be missed.
Snorkelling
The waters around the Mana island and, well, virtually in all of Fiji are the perfect spot for watersports. And my favorite was snorkeling. You’ll get to enjoy comfortable water temperatures of around 27°C and incredible visibility of up to 50 metres. No better place to make new gilled friends!
Relax on a Beach
Of course. Fiji’s beaches are known around the world, so when in this island country, you want to spend some time on the white sands. If you’re looking for a secluded place, Horseshoe Bay doesn’t see as many visitors. Sunset Beach is perfect for enjoying a romantic sunset.
Experience a Kava Ceremony
This is a cornerstone of Fijian culture. Kava is basically a drink made from the root of the yaqona plant. The kava is prepared by pounding dried root into a powder and then mixing it with water. It is then strained into a large communal bowl. Participants will sit in a circle and have the drink served in a coconut shell passed one person at a time.
Visit Local Markets
If you like to take souvenirs back from loved ones the type that truly reflect the destination you’re visiting you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the markets of Fiji. You can find fresh produce at Suva Municipal Market while the Nadi Handicraft Market is great for jewellery, woven baskets, etc
One of the seafood dishes I had
What to Eat in Fiji
No trip is complete without enjoying some delicious food! Here’s what you want to try in Fiji:
- Fish suruwa- a curry dish made with white fish, coconut milk, tomatoes and veggies + various spices
- Lovo- this one’s interesting. Parcels of meat and vegetables are wrapped in banana leaves. They are then placed in a shallow pit filled with hot coals.
- Rourou- made with taro leaves stewed in coconut milk until soft (and then flavored)
- Palusami- corned beef, onion & garlic, and coconut cream wrapped and steamed in taro leaves
- Cawaki- especially for the seafood lovers. This is the only species of edible sea urchin in Fiji.
- Nama- a type of seaweed harvested in shallow waters (this can also be eaten raw, for example, as a garnish)
- Purini- a classic Fijian sweet treat similar to steamed English pudding (except it is made using coconut milk instead of dairy)
- Vudi vakasoso- another fun sweet. It’s made from vudi fruit a cross between banana and plantain and coconut milk
The Customs of Fiji
The people in Fiji are so welcoming! I loved mingling with them, and even made a lifelong friend here. For your dressing, go ahead and pack that floral button-up shirt hiding in the back of your closet. Fijians tend to dress in bright colors, often covered with tropical prints. Also…the word “Bula” (pronounced boo-lah) is a greeting actually, an expression of happiness and life in Fiji. In terms of dressing, swimwear is fine at resorts, but it’s a good idea to dress modestly to respect local customs.
Fiji 🇫🇯
How Long to Stay in Fiji
Come for at least a week! But the longer the better. 7 days are suitable to see one or two islands (because island hopping can be time-consuming and expensive). So, don’t bother trying to see everything in one trip. Keep some for next time or the next 😊
When to Visit Fiji
Let’s just say whenever you have the chance. Temperatures stay pretty constant throughout the year (at a nice and warm 80). However, some tropical storms may hit from November to April. So, for the Fiji experience you’ve dreamed of, the best time to visit may be July to September. The shoulder seasons are short May to June and October but they’re nice times to visit since you won’t see heavy crowds.
Mum and Dads Surprise Wedding Renewal
