Fiji is a dream destination with its crystal-clear waters, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. However, before you go, it’s important to have a few key tips that will make your trip go smoothly. Don’t worry, Fiji is an easy country to travel in, but it’s always helpful to be prepared.
Transportation in Fiji
Getting around Fiji is relatively easy. On the main islands, you’ll find buses, taxis, and ferries. For inter-island travel, domestic flights are the quickest option, but ferries are much cheaper.
If you’re staying on just Viti Levu, the bus is your best bet. They are affordable and pretty reliable. Keep in mind that some buses don’t have windows — which can be refreshing but dusty!
Taxis are also an option in most towns and cities. Just be sure to negotiate the fare before hopping in. Most taxis don’t have meters, so it’s easy for drivers to overcharge if you’re not careful.
If you’re moving between islands, ferries are the cheapest way to go. Although they are slow, they give you incredible views of the surrounding islands. Expect to pay around FJD 150-300 (USD 70-140) for a ferry ride between the main islands.
Safety Tips for Fiji
Like any destination, there are a few things you should know to stay safe in Fiji. The main concern for tourists here is petty theft. Be sure to keep your belongings in sight and avoid leaving your valuables unattended. Stay cautious, especially in Fiji’s larger cities like Suva and Nadi.
When venturing outside of the resort areas, it’s smart not to flash expensive items. While the crime rate is relatively low, opportunistic theft can still happen, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
For beach safety, note that some beaches don’t have lifeguards. Keep an eye on warning flags and, if in doubt, ask a local about safe swimming spots. Rip currents can occur, so it’s important to be careful in unfamiliar beach areas.
Lastly, avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, especially in the cities. Stick to well-lit, busy areas when exploring after dark.
Fijian Culture & Customs
Fijian culture is warm and welcoming, but it’s important to respect their customs. The people of Fiji, also known as iTaukei, are very proud of their traditions and etiquette. When visiting villages, it’s polite to participate in the sevusevu ceremony, where visitors offer a gift, usually kava root (called “yaqona” in Fijian terms). This is a sign of respect to the village chief.
When entering a Fijian house, always take off your shoes. This is a sign of respect. Be sure to dress modestly when venturing away from the beaches and resorts. Shoulders and knees should be covered in villages, especially if you’re female.
In many villages, Sunday is considered a day of rest and religious observance. Avoid loud activities or swimming in a village on a Sunday to respect the local customs.
Make sure you greet locals with a friendly “Bula!” It’s the local way of saying hello, and it’s one of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive. A smile goes a long way in Fiji!
Language Tips
Fiji has three official languages: English, Fijian (Vosa Vakaviti), and Fiji Hindi. But don’t worry, most people speak English fluently, especially in hotels, taxis, and tourist-heavy areas. Being a former British colony, English is widely understood.
However, learning a few basic phrases in Fijian can go a long way in showing respect towards locals:
- “Bula” means hello.
- “Vinaka” means thank you.
- “Io” means yes, while “Sega” means no.
Phrases like these will often light up a local’s face and make your experience more pleasant.
Saving Money in Fiji
Fiji is known for its luxury resorts, but you can definitely travel here on a budget. To save money, opt for local guesthouses or family-run accommodations instead of resorts. Airbnb is also available in the bigger towns, offering a cheaper alternative to hotels and hostels.
For meals, don’t eat at your resort for every single meal. Local restaurants offer cheaper and more authentic food, usually for around FJD 8-15 (USD 4-7). You’ll often find curry, seafood, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Street food is even more affordable. Try the local fish and chips, “roti parcels,” or snacks like cassava chips. Food markets are also a great place to grab fresh produce and local eats for cheap.
Another way to save is by skipping the expensive island tours offered by hotels. Instead, find a local operator or book ferry services directly. This will save you a decent amount of money.
What to Avoid in Fiji
While Fiji is incredibly welcoming, there are a few things to avoid to stay on the locals’ good side. Firstly, avoid wearing a hat in a village, especially around elders. In Fiji, wearing a hat is seen as disrespectful since the head is considered sacred.
It’s also considered rude to touch someone’s head, so try to avoid doing so, especially with children.
Another thing to avoid is pointing at people—it’s considered impolite. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture if you need to indicate someone.
Lastly, don’t overstay your welcome if you’re visiting a local hut. Fijians will be too polite to ask you to leave, but it’s good to gauge when it’s time to go.
How to Blend In With the Locals
Fijians are hospitable and curious about visitors, but there are a few ways you can easily fit in. First, be open and friendly. Giving people a smile and greeting them with “Bula!” will warm many interactions. Fijians are very communal and love to chat.
Dressing modestly, especially in rural areas and villages, is highly appreciated. As mentioned earlier, this means covering your shoulders and knees. Locals will respect you for making the effort to follow their customs.
Participating in local traditions like drinking kava is a great way to socialize and connect with the people of Fiji. Just make sure to be respectful during the ceremony. When it’s your turn to drink the kava, clap once before drinking and three times afterward in thanks.
Respecting the Environment
Fiji’s environment is fragile, and eco-tourism has become more important in recent years. Always be mindful of your impact on the environment. Avoid single-use plastics as much as possible. While laws have already banned plastic bags, you’ll still find the occasional styrofoam container. Bring your own reusable water bottle and shopping bag.
If you’re snorkeling or diving, don’t remove anything from the reef, not even shells. Coral takes years to regenerate after damage, and removing pieces or stepping on coral can harm the ecosystem.
Do your part by respecting nature, disposing of any litter properly, and encouraging others to help keep Fiji beautiful.
Final Thoughts Before Your Trip to Fiji
Fiji is a world-class destination that offers travelers a combination of relaxation, adventure, and amazing culture. By following these essential travel tips, you’ll not only save money but also have a much richer experience.
Whether it’s learning a few Fijian phrases, skipping the resorts, or just respecting local customs, you’ll walk away from your trip with great memories and maybe even a few new friends!
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