Fiji Travel Guide, South Pacific Islands Tweet Once notorious as the "Cannibal Isles," Fiji is now the colorful crossroads of South Pacific travel. Of the 322 islands that make up the Fiji Group, over 100 are inhabited by a rich mixture of vibrant, exuberant Melanesians, East Indians, Polynesians, Micronesians, Chinese, and Europeans, each with a cuisine and culture of their own. Here Melanesia mixes with Polynesia, ancient India with the Pacific, and tradition with the modern world in a unique blend. Fiji offers posh resorts and hotels, good food and accommodations, nightlife, historic sites, hiking, kayaking, camping, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Travel around Fiji is easy by small plane, catamaran, copra boat, outboard canoe, open-sided bus, and air-conditioned coach. With even a month at your disposal you'll barely scratch the surface of all there is to see and do. Best of all, Fiji is a visitor-friendly country with uncrowded, inexpensive facilities available almost everywhere. You'll love the vibrant, outgoing people whose knowledge of English makes communicating a breeze.

In a word, Fiji is a traveler's country par excellence, and whatever your budget, Fiji gives you good value for your vacation dollars and plenty of ways to spend them. Bula, welcome to Fiji. Fiji is everybody's favorite South Pacific country, offering a veritable cornucopia of adventure travel opportunities. How Fiji is the hub of South Pacific aviation. Most tickets from North America to Australia and New Zealand allow a free stop in Fiji. Who The 2007 census reported that Fiji's total population was 837,271, of which 56.8% were Melanesian Fijians and 37.5% were Fiji Indians. The name Fiji is a Tongan corruption of the indigenous name "Viti." The Fiji Islands are arrayed in a horseshoe configuration with Viti Levu (great Fiji) and adjacent islands on the west, Vanua Levu (great land) and Taveuni to the north, and the Lau Group on the east. This upside-down U-shaped archipelago encloses the Koro Sea, which is relatively shallow and sprinkled with the Lomaiviti, or central Fiji, insular group.

Together the Fiji Islands are scattered over 1,290,000 square km of the South Pacific Ocean. If every single one was counted, the isles of the Fiji archipelago would number in the thousands. However, a mere 322 are judged large enough for human habitation and of these only 106 are inhabited. That leaves 216 uninhabited islands, most of them prohibitively isolated or lacking fresh water. Most of the islands are volcanic, remnants of a sunken continent that stretched through Australia. This origin accounts for the mineral deposits on the main landmasses. None of Fiji's volcanoes are presently active, though there are a few small hot springs. The two largest islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, together account for 87% of Fiji's 18,272 square km of land. Viti Levu has 50% of the land area and 75% of the people, while Vanua Levu, with 30% of the land, has 18% of the population.

(View a detailed map of Fiji.) (top) Weather in Fiji Compared to parts of North America and Europe, the seasonal climatic variations in Fiji are not extreme. There's a hotter, more humid season from November to April, and a cooler, drier time from May to October. Hurricanes can come during the "rainy" season but they only last a few days a year. Seasonal differences in airfares should be more influential in deciding when to go. On flights from North America the low season is May to August, the prime time in Fiji. Christmas is busy but in February and March many hotels stand half empty and special discounted rates are on offer. In short, there isn't really any one travel season and every part of the year has its advantages. (top) Flora & Fauna Patterns of rainfall are in large part responsible for the variety of vegetation here. The wetter sides of the high islands are heavily forested, with occasional thickets of bamboo and scrub. Natural forests cover 40% of Fiji's total land area and about a quarter of these forests are classified as production forest suitable for logging. Coconut groves fill the coastal plains.

On the drier sides open savanna or talasiga of coarse grasses predominates where the original vegetation has been destroyed by slash-and-burn agriculture. Sugarcane is now cultivated in the lowlands here, and Caribbean pine has been planted in many dry hilly areas, giving them a Scandinavian appearance. Mangroves can occasionally be found along some high island coastal lagoons. Of the 70 species of land birds, 22 are endemic. The Fijian names of some of these birds, such as the kaka (parrot), ga (gray duck), and kikau (giant honey eater), imitate their calls. Red and green kula lorikeets are often seen in populated areas collecting nectar and pollen from flowering trees or feeding on fruit. The only native mammals are the monkey-faced fruit bat or flying fox, called beka by the Fijians, and the smaller, insect-eating bat. Some Fijian clans have totemic relationships with eels, prawns, turtles, and sharks, and are able to summon these creatures with special chants. Three of the world's seven species of sea turtles nest in Fiji: the green, hawksbill, and leatherback.

Nesting occurs between November and February, at night when there is a full moon and a high tide. (top) Fiji Highlights Fiji is brimming with colorful attractions, splendid scenery, friendly people, and exciting things to do. From the gateway city Nadi with its numerous shopping and dining possibilities, it's only a quick commuter hop to the enticing Mamanuca Group with about half of Fiji's resorts. The long, narrow Yasawa Group off the sugar city Lautoka is wilder, mightier, and less developed than the Mamanucas: The beaches are longer, the jungle-clad mountains higher, and the accommodations rougher. It's Fiji's most magnificent island chain. Fiji's mainland, Viti Levu, is the "real" Fiji, where much of the country's history has unfolded and the bulk of the Fijian people live out their lives. The 486-km highway around Viti Levu passes a series of appealing cities and towns with bustling markets, bus stations, shops, cafes, clubs, monuments, and facilities of every kind. The Coral Coast in the south is the country's second resort area, with a series of large hotels nicely spaced between Nadi and Pacific Harbor.

Pacific Harbor itself offers access to some of the best diving, fishing, kayaking, white-water rafting, and golfing in the South Pacific, and Nananu-i-Ra off Viti Levu's north coast is a favorite of backpackers. Fiji's current capital, Suva, has the country's finest cinemas, monuments, museums, nightlife, restaurants, stores, and all of the excitement of the South Pacific's biggest town. Ships, buses, and planes depart Suva for every corner of the republic. It's a fascinating place to explore. Several adjacent islands allow one to escape from Suva. Kadavu to the south is a characteristic Fijian island of small villages strewn between beaches and hills, but it is also a mecca for scuba divers who come for the Astrolabe Reef, and for surfers who have discovered Kadavu's waves. Back toward Viti Levu is Yanuca with inexpensive beach camps full of enthusiastic surfers. Anyone with even the slightest interest in Fiji's vivid history won't wish to miss Ovalau and the timeworn old capital Levuka.

Across the Koro Sea from Ovalau is Vanua Levu, Fiji's second island, heart of the "friendly north." Because a slight effort is involved in getting there, far fewer tourists ply these exotic shores. Yet Savusavu is Fiji's most picturesque town (after Levuka). Repeat visitors and local Fijians often assert that Taveuni is Fiji's finest isle, a claim which is difficult to deny. Taveuni's high spine is draped in impenetrable rainforest, with huge coconut plantations tumbling to the coast. Magnificent waterfalls pour down the steep slopes, and the scuba diving is world famous. (top) Activities Fiji has been called "the soft coral capital of the world" and few seasoned divers will deny that Fiji has some of the finest scuba diving in the South Pacific with top facilities at the best prices. You won't go wrong choosing Fiji. Diving is possible year-round in Fiji, with the marinelife most bountiful from July to November. A growing number of surfing camps are off southern and western Viti Levu. There's surf throughout the year with the best swells out of the south from March to October.

Windsurfing is possible at a much wider range of locales. Exciting whitewater rafting on the Upper Navua River is offered. In the past organized ocean kayaking expeditions have been offered among the Yasawas, around Beqa and Kadavu, and in Vanua Levu's Natewa Bay. All of the high islands offer hiking possibilities and many remote villages are linked by well-used trails. Levuka makes an excellent base with the trail to The Peak beginning right behind the town, and a challenging cross-island trail to Lovoni is nearby. More arduous is the all-day climb to Lake Tagimaucia on Taveuni. For some outer island hiking, walk right around Nananu-i-Ra in under a day, or across Waya or Wayasewa. Kadavu provides more of the same. December 25 & 26 Christmas Check with the Tourism Fiji to see if any festivals are scheduled during your visit. The best known are the Bula Festival in Nadi (July), the Hibiscus Festival in Suva (August), the Sugar Festival in Lautoka (September), and the Back To Levuka Festival (early October).

Before Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, Hindus clean their homes, then light lamps or candles to mark the arrival of spring. Fruit and sweets are offered to Lakshmi, goddess of wealth. Holi is an Indian spring festival in February or March. One of the main sporting events of the year is the International Bula Marathon held in June. The main event involves a 42-km run from Lautoka to the Sheraton at Nadi. The 12th South Pacific Games, the region's major sporting event, traveled to Fiji in July 2003. (top) Practicalities Everyone needs a passport valid at least three months beyond the date of entry. No visa is required of visitors from 101 countries (including Western Europe, North America, Japan, Israel, and most Commonwealth countries) for stays of four months. Tickets to leave Fiji are officially required but usually not checked. The currency is the Fiji dollar, which is about two to one to the U.S. dollar in value.

Banking hours are Monday to Thursday 0930-1500, Friday 0930-1600, although you'll get better rates and avoid the banks' high commissions by using private exchange offices like GlobalEX and Money Exchange. Fiji is one of the least expensive countries in the South Pacific. Tipping isn't customary here, although some resorts do have a staff Christmas fund, to which contributions are welcome. (top) Getting There Fiji's geographic position makes it the hub of transport for the entire South Pacific, and Nadi is the region's most important international airport, with long-haul services to points all around the Pacific Rim. Eleven international airlines fly into Nadi. A departure tax of F$150 in Fijian currency is payable on all international flights, but transit passengers connecting within 12 hours and children under the age of 12 are exempt (no airport tax on domestic flights). This tax is usually included in the ticket price. Fiji has four ports of entry for cruising yachts: Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu, and Suva. Calling at an outer island before clearing customs is prohibited.

(top) Getting Around While most international flights are focused on Nadi, many domestic air services to eastern Fiji radiate from Suva's Nausori Airport. The country's domestic airline, Pacific Sun, provides service to much of the country. Most local shipping also operates out of Suva. The largest company is Patterson Brothers Shipping which runs car ferries to Ovalau and Vanua Levu. Consort Shipping and Bligh Water Shipping serve Savusavu and Taveuni. Awesome Adventures' high speed catamaran Yasawa Flyer operates daily between Nadi and the Yasawa Group. South Sea Cruises operates the fast catamarans Tiger IV and Cougar from Nadi to the Mamanuca Islands several times a day. Scheduled bus service is available all over Fiji, and fares are low. Most long-distance bus services operate several times a day and bus stations are usually adjacent to local markets. Shared "running" taxis and minibuses also shuttle back and forth between Suva, Nadi, and Lautoka, leaving when full and charging only a little more than the bus. They'll often drop you exactly where you want to go; drawbacks include the less safe driving and lack of insurance coverage.

abridged from the 9th edition of: Moon Fiji Copyright © 2001-2017 David Stanley, reproduction prohibited. Get answers to FAQs about Fiji Buy your guidebook to Fiji Fiji, South Pacific Islands South Pacific Islands Home Destinations South Pacific Islands Fiji Fiji Consisting of 300 islands, Fiji is a tiny country full of huge beauty and color. Known for its beaches, reefs, inland forests and its friendly people, this South Pacific archipelago is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The people of Fiji are among this destination’s most alluring attractions – they are as welcoming as they are laid back. Visitors will be infected with the slower pace of life demonstrated by the locals, who carry on the traditions and culture of their ancestors from centuries past. As the tourism capital of Fiji, the city of Nadi spills down from the lush tropical hillside in a colorful display of shops, hotels and cheerful houses. One can enjoy a horseback ride in the highlands, a deep sea fishing expedition on the water, or simply soak up the infectious smiles for which the locals are known. The resorts of the Coral Coast are a welcoming respite from the bustle of Nadi.

A restored sugar cane locomotive on the Coral Coast railway is a great way to discover the sights of this part of the island, while the bright coral reefs that jut out from the mainland like piano keys provide an alluring undersea diversion. The outer islands of Fiji offer some of the most intriguing destinations in this island chain. From resorts with over-water bungalows to secluded luxury hotels built on crystal blue lagoons, these islands are a favorite for families, honeymooners and anyone seeking an ultimate tropical escape. Locations Coral Coast Coral Coast Named after the coral reefs that jut out into the sea like piano keys, the dry Coral Coast offers shelter from the driving rains of Suva and the crowds of Nadi. Creep along the scenic coastline using Queen's Road and watch the landscape ripen from cane fields dancing in the wind to blankets of thick forest. For a wilder ride, hop on the Coral Coast Railway and sit in a restored sugar cane locomotive as it takes you to the sights including the stunning Natadola Beach and the shopping town of Sigatoka. When the day dies down, take advantage of the resort amenities and enjoy an invigorating massage or a first-class meal in an open air dining room.

Mamanuca Islands Mamanuca Islands A chain of 20 islands near Nadi and Denarau, the Mamanucas are stunningly beautiful, emanating island paradise. Known as one of the most established resort areas in Fiji, the Mamanucas provide a stunning array of activities for all types of travelers. These islands offer parasailing, windsurfing, dolphin-watching, famous dives such as the Big W and Gotham City, some of the best surf breaks in the world, and just about any other activity you can do on or under water. Young or old, whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic vacation or a family holiday, there's an island for everyone. Nadi Nadi Sitting amongst sugar cane fields on the west coast, Nadi is Fiji's third largest city and its tourism capital. Once a small community of farmers and shopkeepers, Nadi has mushroomed into a thriving island metropolis. The main street, Queen's Road, is decorated with cheerful planter boxes and staff smile infectiously from restaurants and souvenir shops. Hotels trickle down the lush mountainside and a plethora of activities, ranging from horse riding in the Nausori Highlands to wrestling a marlin on a deep sea fishing expedition, await you.

Crowning Queen's Road is the opulent Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, a spiritual sanctuary for Fiji's large Hindu population. To feel at one with nature, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and be engulfed by acres of exotic orchards and native trees. Coral Coast Named after the coral reefs that jut out into the sea like piano keys, the dry Coral Coast offers shelter from the driving rains of Suva and the crowds of Nadi. Creep along the scenic coastline using Queen's Road and watch the landscape ripen from cane fields dancing in the wind to blankets of thick forest. For a wilder ride, hop on the Coral Coast Railway and sit in a restored sugar cane locomotive as it takes you to the sights including the stunning Natadola Beach and the shopping town of Sigatoka. When the day dies down, take advantage of the resort amenities and enjoy an invigorating massage or a first-class meal in an open air dining room. Mamanuca Islands A chain of 20 islands near Nadi and Denarau, the Mamanucas are stunningly beautiful, emanating island paradise.

Known as one of the most established resort areas in Fiji, the Mamanucas provide a stunning array of activities for all types of travelers. These islands offer parasailing, windsurfing, dolphin-watching, famous dives such as the Big W and Gotham City, some of the best surf breaks in the world, and just about any other activity you can do on or under water. Young or old, whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic vacation or a family holiday, there's an island for everyone. Nadi Sitting amongst sugar cane fields on the west coast, Nadi is Fiji's third largest city and its tourism capital. Once a small community of farmers and shopkeepers, Nadi has mushroomed into a thriving island metropolis. The main street, Queen's Road, is decorated with cheerful planter boxes and staff smile infectiously from restaurants and souvenir shops. Hotels trickle down the lush mountainside and a plethora of activities, ranging from horse riding in the Nausori Highlands to wrestling a marlin on a deep sea fishing expedition, await you. Crowning Queen's Road is the opulent Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, a spiritual sanctuary for Fiji's large Hindu population.

To feel at one with nature, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and be engulfed by acres of exotic orchards and native trees. Sample Itineraries Study Abroad Suva, Fiji - ISA RETURN TO PREVIOUS PAGE Suva Suva is the capital of Fiji, located on the island of Viti Levu in the Rewa Province, Central Division. A port city, Suva serves as the political, administrative, and commercial center of the country and is the largest urban area in the South Pacific outside of New Zealand and Australia. In 1877, European authorities decided to move the main European settlement to Suva from Levuka due to the restrictive geography of the latter. Today, the city is governed by a Lord Mayor in conjunction with a twenty-member city council. The city is home to numerous music venues, international restaurants, and sports facilities. Each year, several festivals take place in the city, including the Hibiscus Festival, which is the largest carnival in the South Pacific islands. Outside the city are beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and diving. Nearby mountains offer hiking and walking trails.

Travel To Fiji - South Pacific Island Travel South Pacific Island Travel GENERAL INFO After New Zealand the Melanesian island republic of Fiji is the the largest country in the South Pacific, both by area and population. Fiji consists of five hundred small islets and three hundred and twenty two volcanic islands, one hundred and six of which are inhabited, and all of which are surrounded by soft coral reefs. The Fijian islands cover a land area of 18,300 square kilometers which cover an overall area of 194,000 square kilometers. Ths island group has two main islands, Viti Levu at 10,388 square kilometers, which is where the island group's capital city Suva is located, and Vanua Levu at 5,587 square kilometersm, where the island group's second largest city of Labasa is located. Fiji is divided into fourteen provinces, eight of which are located on the island of Viti Levu and three of which are located on the island of Vanua Levu.

Fiji is renowned for it's miles of sandy beaches, soft coral reefs, mountain ranges, tropical forests, rivers, good infrastructure, reliable public transport system and an abundance of modern resort hotels, all of which make the island group an ideal tourist location. The official languages of Fiji are Fijian and English. The currency of Fiji is the Fijian Dollar. The predominant religion of Fiji is Christian Methodist. Fiji is located on time zone UTC +12. LOCAL TRAVEL Fiji is served by a very good infrastructure and transport network. The islands are served by no less than twenty five airports, the two main ones being Nadi International Airport, located on the island of Viti Levu, which receives flights from ten South Pacific destinations, ten Fijian destinations and seven international destinations and Fiji's main domestic airport Nausori Airport, also located on the island of Viti Levu, which serves seven Fijian island destinations and four South Pacific destinations. There are six sea ports located in Fiji located at Suva, Labasa, Savusavu, Lautoka, Levuka and Nabouwalu.

Fiji operates an extensive, regular and cheap bus service on it's main islands and several inter - island ferry services, which include RoRo ferries. The smaller islands of Fiji can all be accessed by small boat services. Taxis are also plentiful in Fiji all of which charge tariffs by distance. Fiji has several rivers and it’s vast river network is served by two hundred kilometers of navigable waterways. There is a railway on Fiji but it is purely commercial and not for passenger use. Fiji is served by 5,100 kilometers of paved roads and car hire is plentiful but expensive. In order to be able to rent a car tourists must be in receipt of an International Driving Permit and be at least twenty five years old. In Fiji vehicles drive on the left hand side of the road. SUVA Fiji’s capital city is Suva and is built upon a hilly peninsula which is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. The city has an urban sprawl of 2,048 square kilometers and a population of 180,000 people making it Fiji’s major political, industrial and commercial hub.

Suva is surrounded by vast industrial areas of factories, warehouses and ship yards, the Nabua Military Base and King’s Wharf, home of the country’s main cargo, ferry and cruise terminals. Suva is also served by a large modern business district which houses the headquarters of several banks and major South Pacific business concerns. Suva’s commercial district is centered around the areas of Cumming Street and Victoria Parade where it boasts four massive shopping malls and several bars and restaurants along with several large cinema and sports complexes. Suva consists of a myriad of old colonial and modern structures which include the Suva Minicipal Market, the Suva Campus of the University of the South Pacific, the Museum of Fiji, the Carnegie Library, several parliament buildings and Government House which is the official residence of the President of Fiji. Suva is also home to several green spaces which include seventy eight parks and a multitude of public gardens. Natural attractions around Suva include the Colo I Suva Forest Park, the Wailoku Falls and the Navua River where it’s high gorges and spectacular waterfalls make it a popular location for river rafting.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS Fiji is a major tourist destination for Australians, New Zealanders and Americans, where it’s many islands and coral reefs make the country one of the South Pacific’s main tourist destinations for scuba diving, where the sea around the islands have a myriad of dive sites and shipwrecks. Fiji has over fifty large resort hotels situated within it’s island group, some of which are located on some of Fiji's smaller and remote islands, all of which can be accessed from either a small airport or ferry port. The interiors of Fiji's larger islands are renowned for their tropical forests, rugged mountains, highland villages and abundance of rivers and waterfalls. Fiji’s main tourist locations are situated on the Mananuca Archipelago, the Yasawa Islands and Denarau Island, which is home to Fiji’s only Las Vegas style hotel and casino complex. Fiji is also home to fifteen golf courses and golf resorts. VITI LEVU is Fiji’s largest island with a population of 600,000 people.

The island consists of Fiji’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital city Suva, the towns of Nausori, Lautoka, Rakiraki, Sigatora and Nadi and the purpose built resort of Pacific Harbor. Pacific Harbour is Fiji's adventure playground situated along the island’s lush west coast. It has a myriad of dive sites and is a popular area for fishing, kayaking and white water rafting. The area around Pacific Harbor is dotted with several hotels, private residences, the Beqa Lagoon, the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, the Qara In Qio River, an Arts Village complete with a cultural centre which provides traditional dancing and fire walking and an eighteen hole golf course. The interior and eastern side of the island is a mountainous area with many fast flowing rivers and several highland villages. Fiji’s highest point is Mount Tomanivi which is 1,324 meters high which is also situated on Viti Levu. VANUA LEVU is Fiji’s second largest island with a population of 130,000 people.The island consists of Fiji’s second largest city Labasa and the town of Suvasuva.

Vanua Levu is surrounded by coral reefs and it’s interior is divided into north and south by a large rugged mountain range which contains several highland villages. The south of the island is a predominantly hilly region with several rivers and vast areas of tropical rain forests. The town of Suvasuva is located on the island’s south coast, a town which is popular for it’s hot springs,the Copra Shed Marina and a cosmopolitan yacht club. Suvasuva also has a ferry terminal, a hospital and a few hotels and shops. The north of the island is a mainly agricultural area which is renowned for it’s sugar cane plantations. The north of the island is where the city of Labasa is situated. The city was built on the delta of three rivers, all of which are connected by a large canal system. Labasa has a few hotels, several dive sites, a yachting marina, a large market and several shops, restaurants and bars. Labasa is also served by a hospital, a ferry port and a small regional airport.

WEATHER / NATURAL PHENOMENA Fiji has a tropical marine climate which receives daytime temperatures of between 22c and 32c and night time temperatures of between 15c and 18c. Fiji’s climate has two distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs between November and April, where the highest rainfall is localised in the mountainous regions. The dry season occurs during the months of May to October. Fiji is served by trade winds which blow in an east to west direction across the island group, keeping humidity low and winds light to moderate. Fiji experiences a cyclone season between November and April, with the worst months generally January and February. Fiji has also been known to experience small scale earthquakes. CRIME The threat of terrorist attacks in Fiji are non existent. Burglary, pick pockets, common assault and sexual assault, especially in Suva, are commonplace, especially against westerners and especially at night. Therefore visitors are asked to exercise normal caution when in built up areas especially at night. Only use bone fide taxi companies when in Fiji, as there has been reports of undesirables posing as taxi drivers in order to rob tourists.

Visitors are asked not to indulge in political rallies. Military forces have overthrown the previous democratically elected government leading to the military now ruling the islands with an iron fist and curtailing all freedom of speech. This is a problematic time for locals although this has not been a problem for tourists. Anyone in the possession of drugs of any sort will incur a mandatory three month prison sentence. As is the case everywhere else in the world drink driving is illegal, as is public nudity and topless bathing. Homosexuality has been decriminalised in Fiji but it would still be wise for same sex couples not to show affection in public places. The Fijian police have been known to be a little heavy handed with locals, although this does not appear to be the case with tourists. The emergency telephone number for the police in Fiji is 911. HEALTH Visitors to Fiji are asked to undergo a full vaccination program for typhoid, dengue fever and yellow fever, especially if visiting during the wet season. It is also advised to take out a full medical / travel insurance before visiting Fiji. Most of the hospitals in Fiji are equipped to deal with basic medical / surgical cases but more serious conditions are evacuated to Australia, New Zealand or Hawaii.

Divers are informed that there is a hyperbaric unit at the Colonial War memorial Hospital in Suva. If divers need this service and are staying on other islands within the group medical evacuation will be necessary at their own expense. Ambulances are available throughout Fiji but they are not reliable, therefore try and make your own way to the nearest hospital if at all possible. The telephone numbers for Fiji's various hospitals are; Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Suva, Viti Levu – (679) 331 3441. Tamavua Hospital, Suva, Viti Levu – (679) 321 066. Ba Hospital, Viti Levu – (679) 674 022. Lautoka Hospital, Viti Levu – (679) 666 0399. Nadi Hospital, Viti Levu – (679) 701 109. Rakiraki Hospital, Viti Levu – (679) 694 368.

Labasa Hospital, Vanua Levu – (679) 811 444. Savusavu Hospital, Vanua Levu – (679) 885 0444. Taveuni Island Hospital – (679) 880 444. St John’s Ambulance services, Suva – (679) 330 1439. For a list of Dental Surgeons in Fiji please visit - There are several foreign embassies and consulates situated in the capital Suva. To find the address, telephone number or opening times for any one of them please visit this link - VISA INFO Visas for tourists are not required for visits of up to four months but passports should be valid for six months or more from the date of arrival. When entering Fiji please be aware that there are heavy penalties for carrying drugs or child pornography into the country. Pets are not allowed entry into Fiji, as are perishable food stuffs or cash to the value of more than five thousand Fijian Dollars. January 1 – New Year’s Day. January 28 – Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday.

Good Friday Accomodation in Fiji - PacificIslandTravel.com Fiji Pacific 2015-08-05T12:15:48+00:00 Accommodation in Fiji Fiji is a by comparison to the other Islands in the South Pacific a large island group, attractive not only for its beautiful landscapes, interesting culture and spontaneous people, Fiji is also centrally located in the South Pacific. A holiday in Fiji is possible for every budget. The capital is Suva on the south east corner of Vita Levu , although most visitors have their first taste of Fiji via the international airport at Nadi , one of the other major towns. Nearby are the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands which offer beautiful lagoons and beaches. The old capital of Levuka on Ovalau Island has been preserved as a historical monument. The heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands that are home to happiness. For the perfect holiday, choose from affordable accommodation all the way through to exclusive 5 star resorts, bunk down in a hostel or book an island to yourself. Famous for its soft coral diving, white sand beaches and pristine natural environment Fiji is a leader in eco-tourism.

For business travel there is no better place halfway between North America and Asia . Weddings and honeymoons in Fiji are a dream of a lifetime, and families and children have a special place here. Watch this space – Accomodation options to come shortly! Why Pacific Island Travel? The biggest hotel website for the Pacific We only promote the best hotels Best Prices We are here to help with your booking Free cancellation (on most hotels) Reliable: Members of ANVR, SGR & BOTG 0 Pacifc Harbour - discover adventure capital of Fiji Kayaking the highlands near Pacific Harbour Suva - capital city of Fiji Toberua Island in the Lomaviti Group Church on Ovalau, the original capital of Fiji Pacific Harbour, Suva, Lomaviti Islands Map Pacific Harbour, Suva, Lomaviti Islands At the eastern end of the Coral Coast sits Pacific Harbour. Although the area was originally developed as a residential subdivision, alongside Fijiï¿½s first major golf course, itï¿½s now been dubbed the ï¿½Adventure Capital of Fiji.ï¿½ Pacific Harbour is your portal to Beqa (pronounced Ben-ga) Lagoon.

The fringing reef makes the waters a haven for scuba divers, sport fishermen and surfers. One of the prime attractions is Beqa Adventure Diverï¿½s Open Water Shark Dive. The Shark Reef has been designated a Marine Reserve and is noted worldwide for its sustainable and eco-tourism efforts. You will see the handlers feed different species of sharks, as well as view over 400 species of reef fish. The largest of the islands in the lagoon, is aptly Beqa Island home to Beqa Island Resort (geared for divers) and the boutique Lalati Resort. It is also home to the Beqa Firewalkers, who perform their legendary feat at venues from Denarau to Pacific Harbour. Also within the lagoon sits the very upscale Royal Davui Resort, named one of the top 10 hotels for romance in the world by Trip Advisor. Back on land, Pacific Harbour is the headquarters for ZipFiji and Rivers Fiji. Zip offers 200m (600 ft) of canopy zip lines through the dense rainforest nearby. You'll fly from one treetop platform to another, zooming at up to 36 mph an hour up to 90 ft.

off the ground. And if thatï¿½s not enough adrenalin, you can have a go at horse boarding - balancing on a boogieboard while being towed through the edge of the surf tethered behind a horse ï¿½ thus generating one horsepower. But the premier adventure and culture activity is with Rivers Fiji. From Pacific Harbour you journey up to the Namosi Highlands where you board inflatable kayaks and paddle the Luva River. While on the trip you visit a village for a traditional kava ceremony with the chief, travel the river by kayak, take a short hike to the tallest waterfall in the Namosi Province and finish with an exhilarating ï¿½puntï¿½ ride through the lower Navua Canyon. Accommodations at Pacific Harbour include the popular Uprising and Fiji Pearl Resorts. Itï¿½s just an hourï¿½s drive through rolling farmland and Fijiï¿½s first cattle ranch to the capital city Suva. Although not particularly on the tourist radar, if youï¿½re in the Pacific Harbour area, then we can set up day trip to the capital city.

At the south-eastern corner of Viti Levu, lies Suva, the focal point of the South Pacific for transportation, education and politics. It is a city of contrasts, with modern buildings alongside colonial structures. The main part of the city is eminently walkable starting at the large, two-story marketplace through to the Fiji Museum and Thurston Gardens. Suva has a variety of restaurants serving international cuisines, smart shops and a pulsing nightlife of drinking and dancing establishments. There is also a movie theatre complex and a trendy coffee house culture has taken hold (but as yet no Starbucks). North from Suva on the banks of the Rewa River, is Nausori, site of the islandï¿½s eastern airport hub and connecting point for the Lomaviti Islands. The island group, referred to as central Fiji, is distinguished by two properties ï¿½ the very upscale Wakaya Club and the lovely 10-bure Toberua Island Resort. Levuka on Ovalau Island, has special significance as being the first capital of a unified Fijian confederacy before the shift to Suva in 1882. A tour can be arranged to this town where time stood still.

Fiji Accommodation - Fiji Resorts and Hotels Fiji Accommodation Regions Fiji Accommodation Fiji is comprised of 330 islands with a vast selection of possible holiday destinations. The wide range of Fiji accommodation, resorts and hotels on offer in each region are almost as diverse as Fiji itself. Viti Levu is the largest island in Fiji and offers a great range of family friendly resorts. Nadi is the entry point for most international visitors while on the east coast, Suva is the country's capital. The second largest island is Vanua Levu, north-east of Viti Levu. It's a serene and peaceful region full of authentic villages and Fijian culture. The outer islands such as the Mamanucas are a favourite for Fiji honeymoons and packages. Viti Levu Denarau Accommodation 20 minutes drive south of Nadi is Denarau Island, a man-made development of waterways and gardens. It's home to one of the world's finest golf courses and Denarau Marina is the base for many cruise operators. On the waterfront are the Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, Sheraton Fiji Resort, Sheraton Denarau Villas and the Radisson Fiji - Denarau Island.

Right next to Port Denarau Marina is the Golf Terrace Apartments. A Denarau Island shuttle makes regular stops at the Golf Terraces Apartments giving easy access to restaurants and other resorts and their facilities on the Island. Coral Coast Accommodation The Coral Coast runs along the southern shores of Viti Levu and is home to the world's second largest single reef. For a budget resort specializing in diving and surfing trips there is [email protected] Between Nadi and Sigatoka, is Natadola Beach Resort, a lovely boutique style resort for couples, situated on one of the most beautiful white beaches of Viti Levu. There are also a number of Fiji resorts and hotels that cater for families and couples including the Shangri-La Fijian Resort, The Naviti, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and the Warwick. Suva Accommodation Suva is the capital and the largest city in Fiji. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu, and is the central business district of Fiji. The main activities in Suva are sightseeing, shopping, exploring the colourful Suva produce market, or visiting the Fiji Museum or Handicraft Centre. There are plenty of coffee shops, cafes and restaurants.

To stay, we suggest the Holiday Inn Suva, it's a well-priced, superior class hotel ideally located for business and pleasure. North Coast Accommodation North of Nadi on the way to Lautoka is Vuda Point and The First Landing Resort, an excellent option still quite close to Nadi and with easy access to the islands in the Mamanuca group. At the town of Lautoka is the Waterfront Hotel and in the very north of the island of Viti Levu is Rakiraki town. Here you can stay at the Rakiraki Hotel or, for a beach hideaway, the Wananavu Beach Resort. It's a picturesque, tranquil area still untouched by commercialism with some excellent diving. Nadi Accommodation While Suva is an urban city, Nadi is known as Nadi Town. Surrounded by cane fields, Nadi has a kilometre of duty free tourist stores, a colourful market and a number of good restaurants, coffee shops and bars. While most visitors head out to other resorts and islands, flight arrival and departure times often dictate a night or two in Nadi.

The Tanoa International Hotel, Novotel Nadi, and Tokatoka Resort Hotel are all very close to the airport and they offer swimming pools, excellent facilities and a warm welcome. Pacific Harbour Accommodation Pacific Harbour is located along a beautiful stretch of beach coastline with Suva City 40 minutes drive to the East and Nadi, 2 hours' drive North West. Situated south of the Coral Coast, Pacific Harbour is reputed as the adventure capital of Fiji, with both water and land based activities such as the 18 hole championship golf course. For water enthusiasts, there is world class game fishing, scuba diving off Beqa Reef as well as shark dive sites along the coast and Beqa Island, visible on the horizon, makes a pleasant picnic spot. Fiji Island Resorts Mamanuca Islands Accommodation The Mamanuca Islands are off the west coast of Viti Levu, and are a paradise of shallow clear waters, home to some of the best diving in the world. Casual and budget conscious options include Beachcomber Island Resort, Bounty Island Sanctuary Resort, Bekana Garden Island Resort and The Resort Walu Beach.

Family island resorts include popular Malolo Island Resort, and Treasure Island Resort a small, beautiful island fringed by white, sandy beaches. Honeymooners and romantics are catered for on Tokoriki Island Resort and Matamanoa Island Resort. Or for a luxury holiday, you can't go past Vomo Island Resort or Likuliku Lagoon Resort, featuring the first over-water bungalows in Fiji. The Yasawas Accommodation To the north of the Mamanucas is the Yasawa group, one of the most pristine and culturally intact regions of Fiji. The Yasawa group consists of six main islands and numerous smaller islets. The archipelago, which stretches in a north-easterly direction for more than 80 kilometers from a point 40 kilometers north-west of Lautoka, is volcanic in origin and very mountainous, with peaks ranging from 250 to 600 meters in height. The Yasawas offer isolated beaches and coves, cliffs, bays and reefs as well as the luxurious Yasawa Island Resort, a secluded island paradise with lush gardens, a white, sandy beach and crystal clear waters.

Vanua Levu Accommodation Fiji's best kept secret, Savusavu is a natural, lush and beautiful paradise on Vanua Levu - Fiji's other big island. A big, calm bay teeming with fish, fringed by untouched mountains and old copra plantations. Nestled next to all this is the town of Savusavu - the centre of a wonderfully diverse range of accommodation, activities and adventures. Situated on the shores of a large picturesque, deep water harbour, it was originally established as port for sailing ships plying the north-eastern regions of Fiji. Taveuni Island Accommodation Lush, green, coconut-covered Taveuni is also known as the Garden Island of Fiji and is the third largest island. The island is 26 miles long, about 7 miles wide, and rises to a central mountain range that is 4040ft high at Mount Uluiqalau, its highest point. It is mostly tropical rainforest and the diving is spectacular. Taveuni Island boasts a number of private, luxurious and relaxing resorts to choose from.

Kadavu Island Accommodation This is Fiji's fourth largest island and is located 75 kilometres south of the capital city Suva and is linked by both Nadi and Nausori airports. The island is host to world class diving and features the Astrolabe Reef. Overall a fantastic diving destination, Matava - The Astrolabe Hideway is located on the island of Kadavu, minutes from the Astrolabe Reef. Matava is a genuine eco resort and offers tradtional Fiji accommodation and affordable diving packages. The official website of Tourism Fiji Watch the celebrations Bula! Welcome to Fiji. Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands that are home to some of the happiest people on Earth. Known for its luxurious private-islands, all-inclusive resorts, top spas, culinary destinations and outdoor adventures, Fiji is most widely celebrated for its culture, which uniquely welcomes visitors home. Fiji's white sand beaches and pristine, crystal-clear ocean waters offer an ideal vacation destination for divers, honeymooners and families-- or simply, those looking to relax and get away from it all.

Fiji is easily accessible through convenient, non-stop flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Honolulu aboard Fiji Airways. ***** US VACATION DEALS ***** Fiji for first-timers: how to choose an island - Lonely Planet Fiji for first-timers: how to choose an island Tips & articles Lonely Planet Writer Fiji is blessed with so much turquoise water, white sand beaches, jungle rivers and authentic culture that it almost seems unfair. Whether you're looking for a decadent resort, family getaway or backpacker adventure, these islands have it all. Wherever you go, expect the warmest welcomes the world has to offer. Snorkelling in the Yasawa islands / Image by Marco Simoni / Getty Images But there isn't just one Fiji, so which island holds your perfect tropical holiday? Here's the low-down on the main options: Viti Levu The international gateway to the Fijian Islands, Viti Levu boasts a taste of everything the country has to offer from international caliber resort areas like all-inclusive and designer Denarau , to the mountain village of Navala where locals live in traditional thatched bure (huts).

Dive with resident tiger sharks in Beqa Lagoon , kayak or raft the Navua River, snorkel the outrageous reef at Nananu-i-Ra or simply bronze on the dazzling white sands of the Coral Coast on your beach towel - there is a lot to do (or not do) on this island. The capital Suva is the largest South Pacific metropolis outside of New Zealand and worth a visit to see modern Melanesian life at its liveliest. Meanwhile Nadi , the main transport hub showcases the country's Indian heritage via sari shops and plenty of yummy curries. The Mamanucas Ah, the Mamanucas . Here is a near-perfect string of wee white sand isles that hover in blue water like some hallucination of paradise. Most are only an hour or so boat ride away from Viti Levu. The Mamanucas are such picture perfect islands that the film Cast Away was filmed on this chain's uninhabited Monuriki Island - visit it on a day trip. Meanwhile famous surf spots like Cloud Break lure in wave riders and their families while Beachcomber Island is known as the reigning party resort island of the country.

You're not going to get a whole lot of cultural bling out here but if you want reliably good weather, brag-worthy sand, waiters wielding cocktails and lots tourist of company, the Mamanucas are for you. Volcanic Waya Island in the Yasawas / Image by Joachim Angeltun / Getty Images The Yasawas The Yasawas pick up the glorious tropical tail of the Mamanuca Islands and bring them north to more quiet and isolated bliss. A high-speed catamaran makes getting there from either Viti Levu or the Mamanucas a cinch and accommodation ranges from lush resorts to laid-back backpacker digs. Sparsely populated, the land is relatively dry, the beaches white. While the Mamanucas got Tom Hanks, the Yasawas got Brooke Shields when the 1980 film Blue Lagoon was filmed here. Island hop, explore the clear dark waters of Sawa-i-Lau Cave and snorkel and dive yourself silly on gorgeous reef frequented by manta rays.

Ovalau & the Lomaiviti Group Levuka on Ovalau was once the capital of Fiji and today it's one of the only towns in the South Pacific boasting Wild West style colonial buildings. Outside of town, hike jungle-clad mountains and undeveloped coasts of traditional villages. Despite the fact that this main island and its dozen or so smaller sisters lie so close to Viti Levu, few visitors make it out here. Islands like Leleuvia, Naigani and Koro have very low-key resorts on lost-feeling alabaster beaches, while Wakaya hosts the Wakaya Club , one of the country's most exclusive and beautiful resorts. Kadavu Remote and authentic yet easily accessed by plane or ship from Viti Levu, Kadavu is one of Fiji's best off-the-beaten-path assets. Eco-adventurers will find happiness at the dozen or so resorts that grow their own organic produce and work in tune with the local villages. Anywhere you stay you'll have to get there by boat from the main village passing by prehistoric-looking jungle coves chirping with rare and colorful endemic birds.

The east part of the island is fringed by the Great Astrolabe Reef, the fourth largest barrier reef in the world, renowned for its cavern and tunnel-filled underwater landscapes, manta rays and phenomenal fishing. Kava ladies on Kadavu. Photo by Celeste Brash / Lonely Planet. Vanua Levu High waterfall-strewn peaks are contrasted with bucolic lowlands of sugarcane and coconut plantations on hard-working, relatively untouristed Vanua Levu . The main, flower-filled and vaguely colonial settlement of Savusavu attracts sailors with its sheltered green bays and small selection of decent shops, bars and restaurants. Outside town are miles of near-empty beaches, some with resorts, some fronted by traditional villages and others only surrounded by jungle. Rent a 4WD and explore the wilds. Divers in the know make the pilgrimage to the Rainbow Reef famous for its forests of soft corals. Even more dedicated divers go to the nearby Namena Marine Reserve for the country's most pristine waters.

Hammock time on Namenalala island / Image by Darryl Leniuk / Getty Images Taveuni Rightly know as the 'Garden Isle', Taveuni is the most lush, tropical-flower-laden, waterfall heavy and hiking friendly island in Fiji. Most of the forests are protected and there are peaks to ascend and coastlines to wander. A highlight is the Lavena Coastal Walk that follows the forest's edge for five kilometers along white and black sand beaches and villages to a lush waterfall. The Rainbow reef (see Vanua Levu above) is also accessed from Taveuni and smaller offshore islands like Qamea and Matagi hold resorts on stunning remote white sand beaches. Everywhere you go you'll find accommodation for all ranges from super-luxe to backpacker fun. Tavoro waterfalls, Bouma National Heritage Park, Taveuni. Photo by Celeste Brash / Lonely Planet. The Lau & Moala Groups Want to get way, way out there? The Lau and Moala Groups are Fiji's last frontier, virtually un-touched by tourism.

Flights and boat services are few but with time, a sense of adventure - and even better a sailboat - it's possible to explore these friendly paradises of fluorescent blue waters, traditional villages and virgin jungles.

Question: Suva is the capital of which South Pacific island?
Answer: Fiji