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8 Things to buy in Fiji

8 Things to buy in Fiji

Well-known for its friendly people, crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, heavenly tropical islands, Fiji is a popular holiday destination. If you’re visiting Fiji and looking for some meaningful souvenirs, Fiji has a great selection of hand-made handicrafts and mementos. 

Below are some of the best things to buy while you’re shopping in Fiji!

1. Sulu (Sarong)

You can find the traditional Fijian sulu across the country in most gift shops and handicraft markets. You’ll be spoilt for choice as the sulu comes in different motifs and colours. It’s highly recommended to purchase one for yourself especially if you are interested in visiting a local village. It’s customary to cover your legs when visiting a traditional Fijian village. Otherwise, the sulu also makes an ideal gift for friends and family back home. 

2. Carved Wooden Masks

Hand carved masks are interesting gifts and decors from Fiji. The masks are usually hand carved and depict local deities or legendary creatures. The Tiki masks are said to infuse the wearer with the characteristics of the face carved into it. There are also some that didn’t represent any deities but other shapes such as turtles, which is significant in Fiji. Tiki masks can be easily found throughout Fiji islands. 

3. Lali Drums

Lali drums were traditionally made from resonant hardwood timbers and are an important part of traditional Fijian culture. They were used as a form of communication to announce births, deaths and wars. Portable war drums had two or three resonating chambers and sent complicated signals over the battlefield. Smaller Lali drums are used in music. You will see them in use in multiple ceremonies such as the Meke Ceremony or to announce church services during village stays. 

4. Tapa Cloth

A popular art form in Fiji is the creation of the Fijian masi, also known as tapa cloth. The bark cloth commonly known as tapa was named by early explorers who derived the term from Tahiti, Samoa and Tonga where the word was used to refer to the white unpainted borders of the finished product. Masi is made from the inner bark of the paper mulberry tree (Broussonetia papyrifera). Masi can be used as a ceremonial dress, garments, wall décor, table mat or blanket. In the past, Fijian masi was used for men’s clothing, bedding, house partitions and mosquito curtains. Fijians display and present them as ceremonial gifts during important ceremonies such as weddings, births and funerals. 

5. Black Pearls

One of the world’s rarest pearls is being cultured in Fiji. Unlike other well-known pearls which are black or silvery white, Fiji’s pearls that are being cultured in Savusavu have a dash of rainbow colours blending with its silvery white coating, giving it an unmatched beauty. The pearls have different grades depending on their colouration and shape. You can even take an educational tour of the pearl farms to learn about the history of pearling in Fiji and there is even a snorkelling tour if you bring your own gear.  

6. Woven Mat or Basket

Handcrafted products are widely available in Fiji. There are many different types of woven baskets that are specific to different uses and are still used for day-to-day activities such as fishing, collecting crops and serving food. Kato (basket) for personal uses display more elaborate and fine weaving techniques today. Most of the products are intricately woven by artisan women from the rural villages. Thus, you can support the livelihood and income of these locals. 

7. Cannibal Fork

Fiji’s cannibalistic past is no secret – in fact, there are mementos of this morbid history in nearly every souvenir shop in Fiji. Handcrafted wooden cannibal forks with four prongs on the end come in all sorts of sizes and tiny cannibal figures made from polished coconut shells adorn the shop shelves. Traditionally, forks of this pattern were reserved for the use of chiefs at cannibal feasts. Cannibal forks are called ai cula ni bokola by the locals. 

8. Traditional Fijian Pottery

Pottery is a craft that dates from the original settlement of Fiji around 1290 BC. Although pottery styles and decoration have changed over time, the art of pottery-making has persisted in the Fiji islands to the present day. Almost all the women have pottery skills and all pottery is handcrafted with a lot of time and effort. The village of Nalotu on the island of Kadavu and the provinces of Rewa and Nadroga are famous for their pottery, much of which is still made in accordance with the rules and methods that were used hundreds of years ago.

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Best time to visit Fiji

When is the best time to visit Fiji?

Congratulations, you made the right decision in choosing Fiji as your next travel destination! Now comes the fun part — planning. 

What’s the best time to visit Fiji? Here are some guidelines to help you decide.

Weather in Fiji

There are two main seasons in Fiji: wet and humid (November – April) and dry and pleasant (May – October).

Note that the southeastern part of Viti Levu (the main island) has higher rainfall than the rest of the island during the rainy season. Just something to keep in mind.

Mid-October to mid-November is when prices are lower, there are less crowds, and the weather is dry. Thus it is an ideal time to visit.

Take note of the antipodean school holidays (around April, July, September/October, and December), because that’s when hotel and airline rates are sky high.

When is the best time to visit Fiji?

You’ll definitely want to experience a festival while you’re there. Here are 10 of Fiji’s most important festivals so you may adjust your visit accordingly. The exact dates sometimes vary from year to year.

1. Festival of the Friendly North - Celebration of Culture

Celebration happens in August.

This celebration takes place in Labasa (an agricultural town on the Vanua Levu island) and is one of the most notable festivals in the country. It is a charitable event that started forty odd years ago. The proceeds go to a cause in Labasa, for example, better health services in the town. 

During the festival, the people of Labasa gather on the streets and at the famous Subrail Park. Be entertained by the beauty pageant. Don’t forget to congratulate the winner of the title!

2. Diwali - Festival of Lights

Celebration happens in October.

Fiji is home to a large population of Indians, thus Diwali is a major celebration on the archipelago. Traditionally, South East Asian countries like India celebrate the festival by lighting diyas. In Fiji, there are light-shows, firecrackers, parties, and lots of fun. All the locals regardless of religion or ethnicity come together to celebrate the festival.

3. Bula Festival - Popular Fiji Festival

Celebration happens in August.

“Bula” means “hello”, thus as you might imagine, the annual Bula Festival is an introduction to Fiji and her people. It lasts an entire week with food, music, and other exciting events. The celebration is held at both Koroivolu Park and Prince Charles Park. Just like the Festival of the Friendly North, all proceeds of the event go to charity.

4. Holi - Festival of Colours

Celebration happens in March.

Holi is another festival brought over by the ethnic Indians, known as the “Festival of Colours”, owing to its vibrant and vivid colours. Although it is celebrated primarily by the Hindus, people of different communities come together and throw colourful powder on each other. The simple ritual represents forgetting old grudges and forging new relationships, which is why it’s celebrated during spring time, the season of new beginnings.

5. Fiji Day - Celebration of Independence of the Island

Celebration happens in October.

Fiji gained independence from British colonial rule in the 70s, a major event in history. The people of Fiji celebrate their independence annually on the 10th of October; the festivities may last up to a week in the main cities. There are parades, parties, and performances in every corner of the country. You bet it’s a big deal to the Fijians!

6. Lautoka Sugar Festival - A Fun Festival

Celebration happens in September.

Fiji is synonymous with the sugar trade, and the city of Lautoka in Fiji is a star player in sugar production. Every year, the people of Lautoka celebrate the Sugar Festival. As usual, there is music, dancing, food, and a beauty pageant, where the participants contest for the title of “Lady Sugar”, “Miss Sugar Princess”, and “Mr Sugar King”.

7. Hibiscus Festival - A Beauty Pageant Festival

Celebration happens in August.

Hibiscus Festival is the oldest, biggest, most awaited celebration on the island of Fiji. The beauty pageant is the main event of the festival — you’ll see Miss Hibiscus get crowned! — but there is also a celebration of Fijian culture. The festival is Fiji in a nutshell. It’s the one you don’t want to miss.



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How to Travel to Fiji Guide

How to Travel to Fiji Guide

If you’re thinking: sun, sea, sand, and exotic culture, Fiji is the perfect place for you!

Unfortunately, it’s in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, a rather secluded part of the planet. Thus, a little homework is required. Here’s a tourist guide of everything you need to know about getting into the beautiful country of Fiji. 

How to get to Fiji

Your destination is Nadi International Airport (NAD). You’ll arrive at the western side of the main island Veti Levu.

Here is a list of airlines that operate direct flights to NAD, or the connection you can expect to make.

Note: Direct flights are marked with *

If you’re flying from North America:

  • Air New Zealand 
  • from Los Angeles* – daily
  • Fiji Airways 
  • from Los Angeles* – daily
  • from Vancouver via Honolulu – X2 weekly

If you’re flying from UK or Europe:

  • Air New Zealand 
  • From London via Los Angeles – daily
  • From London via Hong Kong – daily
  • Korean Air 
  • From London via Seoul

If you’re flying from Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa:

  • Virgin Australia 
  • From Brisbane* – daily
  • From Sydney* – daily
  • Fiji Airways 
  • From Brisbane* – daily
  • From Sydney* – daily
  • From Melbourne* – 4X weekly
  • From Auckland* – daily
  • From Christchurch* – weekly
  • Air New Zealand 
  • From Auckland* – daily

 

If you’re flying from Asia:

 

  • Air New Zealand – from Hong Kong* – daily
  • Fiji Airways 
  • From Singapore
  • From Delhi
  • From Mumbai
  • From Kolkata
  • From Chennai
  • From Bangalore

If you’re flying from elsewhere in the Pacific:

  • Fiji Airways 
  • From Apia, Samoa
  • From Funafuti, Tuvalu
  • From Honolulu, Hawaii
  • From Christmas Island, Kiribati
  • From Tarawa, Kiribati
  • From Port Vila, Vanuatu
  • From Nuku’alofa, Tonga

 

Note: All information is subject to change by the airlines.

Covid-19 protocols for Fiji

Only fully vaccinated travellers and their accompanying minors are allowed to visit Fiji

All travellers aged 16 years and above must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination while checking in at the airport prior to departure for Fiji.

In case your country of origin does not offer vaccinations to those below 18 years old, 16- to 17-year-old travellers are to apply for a special exemption at covidexemption@gmail.com.

“Fully vaccinated” is defined as having received the recommended number of initial doses (typically 2) of vaccine that is recognised by Fiji. Vaccine booster shots are accepted as additional protection.

Among the vaccines recognised by Fiji are:

  • AstraZeneca
  • Pfizer
  • Moderna
  • Johnson and Johnson
  • Nuxaxovid (Novavax)
  • Coronavax (Sinovac)
  • Covidshield
  • BBIBP-CorV (Sinopharm)
  • Covaxin
  • Sputnik V

Fully vaccinated travellers are not required to produce a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country.

However, if you tested positive within 30 days prior to your travel to Fiji and have recovered, kindly have one of the following documents ready upon arrival in Fiji:

  • Proof of isolation period served by a credible institution, or
  • A fit-to-fly certificate/letter from a medical practitioner, which would exempt you from testing requirements pre- and post-arrival in Fiji. The fit-to-fly certificate should include the following:
  • Date of onset symptoms
  • Date tested positive
  • Date of cessation of symptoms
  • Release date from isolation 

If you recovered from COVID-19 more than 30 days prior to travel, the above requirements do not apply.

Check out the official Fiji tourism website for the latest updates.

Visa requirements for travellers to Fiji

You do not need a visa if you come from any of the following countries:

  • Antigua & Barbuda
  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • The Bahamas
  • Bangladesh
  • Barbados
  • Belgium
  • Belize
  • Bermuda
  • Botswana
  • Brazil
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • China
  • Columbia
  • Cook Islands
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Commonwealth Dominica
  • Estonia
  • The federal Republic of Germany
  • The federated States of Micronesia
  • Finland
  • France
  • The Gambia
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Holy See (Vatican)
  • Hong Kong
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Israel
  • Italy 
  • Jamaica
  • Japan
  • Kenya
  • Kiribati
  • Latvia
  • Lesotho
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxemburg
  • Macau
  • Malawi
  • Malaysia
  • Maldives
  • Malta
  • Mauritius
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Monaco
  • Nauru
  • The Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • Norway
  • Palau
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • The Philippines
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Republic of Ireland
  • Republic of the Marshall Islands
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Samoa
  • Serbia
  • Slovak Republic
  • St Kitts & Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Vincent & the Grenadines
  • Seychelles
  • Sierra Leone
  • Singapore
  • Slovenia
  • Solomon Islands
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain 
  • Swaziland
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Tanzania
  • Thailand
  • Tonga
  • Trinidad & Tobago
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • Tuvalu
  • Uganda
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Ukraine
  • United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
  • United States of America
  • Uruguay
  • Vanuatu
  • Venezuela
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Should you require a visa, there are 2 types of visas available:

  • Single Entry Visa (SEV) — valid for 3 months and can only be used once.
  • Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) — valid for multiple entries within a 12-months period, starting from the date of issue. The visa-holder can then remain in Fiji for a maximum of 4 months.

Assuming that you are applying for a tourist visa, prepare these documents for application:

  • A fully completed visa application form
  • A certified copy of your passport main page with bio data
  • Two coloured recent passport-size photos
  • Confirmation of pre-booked hotel if available
  • A copy of your travel itinerary/ticket
  • Proof that you have sufficient funds to financially support yourself during the duration of the stay, possibly your bank statement or visa cards
  • Proof of approved visa and onward ticket, if you plan to travel to another country after Fiji
  • Consent letter from your spouse if you are travelling alone
  • Consent letter from your parents if you are below 18 years old and travelling alone
  • Letter stating approved leave from work or school, stating the number of days of absence. The letter is to be signed and stamped by the employer or school principal
  • If you plan to stay with your friends or family members, the following are required:
  • Sponsoring letter by the local host
  • A copy of the host’s valid ID/passport/residence permit

Refer HERE for information on other types of visas. 

Vinaka (thank you) and happy travels!



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Important Things to Note When Traveling to Fiji

Important things to note when travelling to Fiji

Weather

Fiji has a warm tropical climate perfect for beachside holidays all year round. The temperatures in Fiji range from 26°C to 31°C on average.

The wet season is normally from November to April with heavy, brief local showers and contributes to most of Fiji’s annual rainfall. The best months to visit Fiji are from late March to early December.

Clothing

Fiji has a warm tropical climate perfect for beachside holidays all year round. The temperatures in Fiji range from 26°C to 31°C on average.

The wet season is normally from November to April with heavy, brief local showers and contributes to most of Fiji’s annual rainfall. The best months to visit Fiji are from late March to early December.

Etiquette

Fijian culture is vibrant and friendly, and you can expect a warm welcome at any of the villages you visit. It’s important to be respectful at all times when visiting a Fijian village. 

Fijian villages are generally not open to the public and visits are by organised tours. When visiting a village it’s customary to bring a gift of yaqona (kava) with you. This is for your sevusevu ceremony during which guests request permission from the turaga-ni-koro (village chief) to visit the village. Therefore, when visiting a Fijian village, the visiting party’s spokesman will have to present their i-sevusevu to the village chief to communicate the purpose of their visit and to seek the necessary permission to carry out their activities. The visiting party’s spokesman is responsible for all formal communications between them and the village chief. 

 

A Yaqona or Kava ceremony involves certain protocols that include seating arrangements and roles during the ceremony. As a visitor, you must sit at the designated spot provided by your village host. Everyone sits on the floor, as it is considered disrespectful to sit on a chair. Exceptions can be made if the individual has mobility issues and can be seated at a distance away from the crowd.

  1. When drinking yaqona, you must clap once before receiving the yaqona bilo (bowl) and prior to drinking must greet the villagers and their chief. Consume the yaqona in one gulp. After drinking, return the bilo (bowl) to the bearer and clap three times.
  2. It’s polite to ask permission if you’d like to take photos of the kava ceremony or people.
  3. Remember to dress conservatively when you visit a local village. Ladies should wear a sulu (sarong) over their shorts or trousers.
  4. Don’t wear anything on your head, including caps/hats/sunglasses.
  5. In Fiji, Sunday is a special day for families. Fijian usually reserve this day to relax and spend time with loved ones. Don’t be surprised that most establishments and traditional villages are closed on Sundays. Thus, make the most out of your Sunday roaming around town instead.
  6. If you are visiting a Fijian household, observe proper etiquette. Before you enter, leave your shoes outside and wait for your host to let you in. Slightly crouch when passing by the door as a show of respect.
  7. It is customary to sit on the floor.
  8. Keep the tone of your voice moderate (avoid yelling or acting overly excited).
  9. When visiting a village, and if you’re offered food, you’ll need to wait for the food to be blessed before digging in. After everyone has gathered around the table, the head of the house will say masu (grace) for the meal. After the blessing, you can start your meal. 
  10. Fijians consider the head the most sacred part of the human body. That’s why touching someone’s head, even the heads of young kids, is a gesture you should avoid when in Fiji. Instead of patting someone’s head, you can ask for a high-five or hug.
  11. Don’t place your hands on your hips.

 

Power plug

Fiji uses power plugs type I, which is the plug that has three flat pins in a triangular pattern. Fiji operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.

 

Smoking

Fiji has strict no-smoking laws. You are strongly encouraged to only smoke in designated areas. Smoking in public places may result in a steep fine.

 

 

Tipping

While always appreciated, tipping is not customary in Fiji. At some resorts, you may find a communal tip jar where guests can contribute funds that are split amongst the staff.  



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