Fiji

Fiji

• About Fiji

  Fiji is a beach paradise destination and perfect holiday for diving, swimming, surfing and snorkelling. Centrally located in the South Pacific Fiji consists of 322 heavenly islands each one ringed with coral reefs and warm waters. Fiji offers much more than beach activities though - there is a fascinating Pacific culture and history to explore throughout the islands and stunning tropical and mountainous interiors. The two most important islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, containing 87 per cent of the country's population. There are also swathes of tropical forest with exotic flora and fauna, waterfalls and natural swimming pools.

• Culture

  Fiji is a blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, Micronesian, Chinese, Indian and European cultures. For many years until a military coup in 1987 and a resulting Indian emigration the indigenous people of Fiji were an ethnic minority in their own land. Fiji, a former British colony is still part of the British Commonwealth of nations, a Commonwealth Republic. Viti Levu hosts the capital city of Suva and is home to nearly three quarters of the population.

• Travel

  Fiji and Hawaii are the main airline destinations of the region with several airports. Fiji is well serviced by international airlines and connections to many Pacific Islands and the Pacific Rim. Nadi International Airport is the main airport arrival near Nadi city centre. Nausori International Airport is Fiji's second international airport, north east of Suva. Fiji is also a popular cruise destination and there are many ports of entry for private boats. There are good air connections between the islands. Ferries and charter boats are common alternatives. The larger islands have excellent bus networks.

• Climate

  Fiji benefits from a mild climate throughout most of the year. A wet season extends from November to April although rain can fall at any time. Easterly and south easterly winds prevail. The mountains of the larger islands produce clouds and more rainfall on the windward sides. Daytime temperatures average 25 Centigrade with high humidity. Cyclones can blow up November to April although they tend not to be dangerous.

• Did You Know?

  The name Fiji is the old Tongan word for the Fijian islands, which is derived from a Fijian name Viti.

• Recommended Attractions

  Koroyanitu National Heritage Park

  Perfect for nature lovers and walkers on Vitu Levu. There are six villages to explore. You can climb the summit of Castle Rock and see terraced gardens and traditional villages.

  Bouma National Heritage Park

  This national park of rainforest and coastal forest in eastern Taveuni covers 80 per cent of the island. The park has three waterfalls with natural swimming pools.

  Fiji Museum

  This excellent museum in Suva covers Fiji's considerable archaeological, political and cultural history. See strange musical instruments, jewellery, warfare and cannibalistic utensils.

  Colo-i-Suva Forest Park

  This lush rainforest park north of Suva is an oasis for exotic birds and flora. Walking trails take you past stunning scenes of paradise including clear natural pools.

  Sigatoka Sand Dunes

  One of Fiji's natural highlights these impressive dunes near the mouth of the Sigatoka River are windblown and rugged. They rise to 60m at the western end.

  Parliament of Fiji

  Opened in June 1992 on the Battery Rd, Suva, Fiji's parliament complex is unique and stunning. Created in the post-1997 coup it combines many traditional Fijian elements including open air corridors and traditional arts and crafts.

• Recommended Places

  Mamanuca Group

  Popular day tripper paradise islands with sumptuous beaches - ideal for diving, snorkelling and surfing.

  Lau Group

  Southern islands group dominated by Lakeba. Lakeba was a traditional meeting place for Tongans and Fijians. There are caves on the island, including Oso Nabukete, which roughly translates to: "Too narrow for pregnant women".

  Suva

  Colonial buildings combine with modern shopping malls and lively waterfront. The Suva Municipal Market is a good experience with its hustle and bustle and exotic fruits and spices. There are also plentiful curry restaurants.

  Vanau Levu

  The Tunuloa Peninsula is connected to the rest of Vanua Levu by a narrow strip that forms Natewa Bay. Copra plantations, villages and forest create a special atmosphere. The eastern Buca Bay is another popular ferry stop.

  Levuka

  Stunning colonial buildings and gritty fishing industry are the main urban features but there are lots of other attractions. Western Lovoni village lies in a stunning volcanic crater. You can also explore rainforest, burial sites and a hill fort.

  Nananu-i-Ra

  Small paradise island highly recommended on any northern Viti Levu tour. Beautifully hilly, the 3.5 sq km island is surrounded by bays, white sandy beaches, rolling hills and mangroves.

• Key Facts

  • Full Name - Republic of Fiji
  • Capital City - Suva
  • Population - 840,000
  • Time Zone - GMT 12
  • Languages - Fijian, English, Hindi
  • Religion - Christian, Hindu, Muslim
  • Currency - Fiji Dollar