Fiji Is Amazing

Fiji Podcast series to include Wildlife expert Jack Hanna

AMERICAN wildlife conservationist and celebrity Jack Hanna says Fiji is one of the safest countries he has visited.

Jack, Suzie and Julie Hanna in Fiji

He said when an offer to visit here was made he and his team carried out research on the country and its wildlife.

“I have travelled to many places in the world but I have never met any culture in the world where everyone has got a smile on their face and is always happy,” he said.

“When I got here I was asked in an interview “do you feel safe” my response to that is that Fiji is the safest country in the world.

“I came here to record to shows but instead I got to shoot four shows in six days. Some of the places I visited here in Fiji were amazing.”

Mr Hanna and his 11 member crew were invited to Fiji under the Fiji Visitors Bureau’s International Media Visitation Program.

FVB Director marketing Cherrill Watson said Mr Hanna’s visit to Fiji was to boost the destination in terms of tourism given his popularity on wildlife in the US.

“With a target of over 84,000 visitors for the United States/Canadian markets this year kind of extensive press coverage received in the first quarter boosts our confidence in increased awareness of Fiji,” she said.

“Jack Hanna and his film crew visited leading tourist regions, including Nadi, Vatulele, Savusavu, Toberua, Pacific Harbour, Coral Coast, and the Mamanucas.”

More on Fiji

The Fiji Tourism Bureau was kind enough to make this Fiji Travel information available to our audience. If you would like to learn more about Fiji, please visit Fijime.com or check out the Podcast Series on Fiji - Podcast Bula.

What to Do and See in Fiji

Being a small island nation of 330 islands, with abundant natural resources, Fiji is blessed with year-round warm weather, golden sandy beaches, clear blue water, attractive coral reefs and exciting high waves. Coupled with this, Fiji has the facilities, infrastructure and atmosphere to provide a truly unique and unforgettable vacation experience. Fiji’s safe tropical forests are within easy reach and the clear waters offer unsurpassed snorkeling and scuba diving.

The genuine friendliness and hospitality of the Fijian people is legendary and time after time is cited by visitors as the single most memorable experience of their Fiji visit. Fiji offers a relaxed pace of life which suits the festival and carnival atmosphere which is an integral part of major international sporting events. Fiji has an excellent choice of accommodation and a range of modern sports facilities that can cater for all types of major sports events.

Fiji is famous for the variety of activities available. These include snorkelling over shallow reefs close to shore, diving, which offers a full range of a underwater experiences, riding in a jetboat, trekking in the tropical rainforests, swimming in the crystal clear waters of a rushing river, or even a visit to a sacred cave? How about a full day or half day shopping tour of Suva, or a special week-long excursion around the major island where you can pilot a raft through raging rapids, sail through the magnificence of the Yasawa island chain or safari into the highlands to see rugged peaks and remote villages.

For the Adventurer in us All

Fiji’s rainforests are unique in that they have no harmful animals or insects. Here one can enjoy serene contemplation of nature in complete safety. Multi-hued birds flit from the trees, and if you are lucky you may spot several varieties of Fiji’s tiny wild parrots. While the forest can be thick and impenetrable, you will find pathways used by the Fijians who know the jungle as well as you know your own living room.

Because of the mountainous nature of the islands, there are numerous streams and waterfalls, often with a cool pond in a rocky basin beneath the falls. One of the most famous is the sacred Bouma Falls on the Island of Taveuni, seen by the world in the motion picture “Return to the Blue Lagoon”.

Here you will also find a natural waterslide, also featured in the movie, where local residents have enjoyed themselves for centuries. Fiji has no leeches or crocodiles, and wild streams and brooks are crystal clear and unpolluted.

TRULY SPORTING - Activities & Sporting Events

Fiji offers a diversity of sports, from Scuba diving to sky diving, from badminton to beach volleyball. Being a small island nation with abundant natural resources, our islands are blessed with year-round warm weather, golden sandy beaches, clear blue water, attractive coral reefs and exciting high waves. Coupled with this, Fiji has the facilities, infrastructure and atmosphere to provide a truly unique and unforgettable vacation experience.

Challenge a round of golf, venture out for a dawn surf, be tempted by a two-day trek through ancient sand dunes, or simply join the locals for a darts session in a nearby club.

From thrilling rushes to soft laid-back activities, from exciting involvement to sideline observation, Fiji is a virtual sporting wonderland.

7 active reasons to get motivated in Fiji

Individual and team options, catering to all levels of ability
Unparalleled diversity of land-based sports, including championship golf courses
Myriad of water activities, including diving on world class reefs
Exciting spectator sports such as Rugby, Fiji’s national sporting pastime
Wide range of venues, complexes and resort facilities
Group sports events for executives
Local comradeship and new friendships

Fiji for Weddings and Romance
You can choose from modern international resorts or smaller more intimate islands because this tropical paradise has a resort just right for you. Some resorts will help you arrange your wedding either in traditional Fijian style or the white wedding of your dreams.

Whatever your plans, come and discover why Fijians are the world’s best hosts and dive into Fiji for a wedding and honeymoon that you’ll never forget.

You better believe it! In Fiji, everything has its very own pace with a relaxed, unhurried philosophy behind everything.

Don’t get annoyed…chill out and go with the flow. Aren’t you stressing out with all your wedding plans? wouldn’t it be great, once the hectic schedule of your wedding is over, to arrive at a place which is so mellow and unhurried that you probably don’t even have to wear a watch anymore?

The Fiji people are so warm and friendly that no matter what resort you stay at, you will probably find yourself greeted with hugs, the female staff mothering you with genuine concern and hospitality so touching you’ll be lost for words.

TRULY ROMANTIC – Wedding & RomanceFiji … an idyllic and relaxing tropical paradise, a haven for the about-to-be weds, newly weds and the romantic at heart. Getting hitched in Fiji has become quite a trend in this century, to the extent where many resorts, hotels and even cruises, are offering fabulous wedding and honeymoon packages to suit every couple’s needs.

Choices range from luxurious private hideaways to the more modest options. Experience cliff top desk set amidst cascading waterfalls, enjoy lush tropical surroundings, feel the waves lapping beneath your feet, or even partake of a unique underwater ceremony.

7 magical reasons to say I DO in the Fiji Islands ….

Remote settings and complete privacy
Tropical ambiance in lush garden settings
Your very own secluded beach
Fijian choirs and warrior escorts
Unique cultural ceremonies and adorned traditional costumes
Variety of all-inclusive resort wedding packages
Quaint wedding chapels and churches

Eco Tourism
Fiji has an unspoiled, unique environment of extreme beauty and tranquility Fiji is a nature lovers delight. Adrift for millennia in splendid isolation in the blue of the South Pacific it has escaped the evils of industrial progress, the incursions of dangerous animals, poisonous snakes, spiders and pestilent diseases such as malaria. It awaits your discovery. What To See And Do In The Fiji Islands Outside Our Resorts And Hotels

The Fiji Islands in the South Pacific are an archipelago of over 330 islands packed with attractions that can be found no where else and offers a unique experiential opportunity for the visitor.

Fiji is still very much untouched by the outside world and in places, life has changed very little for centuries. The range of memorable experiences available is so diverse that it is possible to discover virgin grasslands and tropical rainforests unscarred by logging or mining as well as marvel at the exotic customs of the Fijian, Indian, Chinese, Rotuman and other cultures that have made Fiji their home. You can explore the ruins of a fascinating pre-European war hill fortification, or wander through a colonial town that has changed little in over 150 years and soak up the history that surrounds you. There is much to do and see for those who want to come and experience the real Fiji, it’s beauty, culture and people.

This site can’t hope to include all there is to do in Fiji but the attractions we have included are one we think will maximise your opportunity to see the beauty of Fiji as well as perhaps learn a little bit about our country and its culture and history. The attractions listed here are known as Ecotourism attractions and this represents Fiji’s desire to show the world the unique natural and cultural activities that we possess while at the same time ensuring their conservation and preservation for future generations to enjoy. Because many of these are run by the indigenous Fijians themselves you have the opportunity for a memorable as well as educational cultural interaction. Whilst these attractions are operational they cannot be pre-booked but information about them can be obtained from these operators directly or from the Fiji Visitors Bureau upon your arrival.

Eco-Culture & Adventure
Fiji … the last frontier for your first dose of authentic, cultural and sustainable eco-adventure! Partake in a traditional yaqona (Kava) ceremony, view the cosmopolitan city of Suva from the top of Joske’s Thumb, or ride the white water rapids of the Luva River. Fiji simply has it all.

If you’re traveling at a more sedate pace, go trekking in any of our tropical park reserves and take in the splendour of our flora and fauna. Alternatively, for real Fiji Time, share in the indigenous way of life with a village visit.

The reception you will receive at one of the numerous home stays around the country will warm your heart, and develop life long friendships with the friendliest people in the world.

So whether you choose to hike or bike, enter a cave or ride a wave, Fiji is tailor-made for relaxed, authentic experiences and adrenaline filled adventure.

7 eco-friendly reasons to explore the Fiji Islands, naturally …

Accessible beauty: dense rainforests, pristine water-falls and unique caves
A melting pot of customs and multi-cultural diversity
Dive, surf, canoe or trek your way through unspoilt landscapes
Active conservation and preservation programs
Experience life in a remote Fijian village
Off-the-beaten track adventures
Special events, including Eco Challenge and specialist eco-vacation packages

Kava Ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

What our WEATHER is like?

Fiji enjoys an ideal South Sea tropical climate and can get hot in the summer but seldom reaches above 35 Deg C (96 Deg F). Trade winds from the east southeast bring year long cooling breezes late afternoon and early evening.

What is A BURE?

A bure is a thatched roof resort villa reflecting the style of a traditional Fijian village accommodation.

Are the ACCOMMODATIONS primitive?

No, accommodations range from budget to luxury and 5-star with the amenities you would expect for a room costing anywhere from F$65.00 to F$500 twin share.

When is THE RAINY season?

The season for our tropical rains is from December through February coinciding with our warmest summer months.

Is THERE AIR conditioning?

Yes, office buildings, banks, major retail outlets, boutiques, restaurants and major hotels offer air conditioning. Smaller mainland resorts and private island resorts offer either air conditioning or ceiling fans or a combination of both.

What CLOTHING should I bring?

Dress is casual and informal throughout the islands. Visitors should bring a light tropical wardrobe including golf shirts, shortsleeve shirts, T-shirts, shorts and slacks for evenings. For women, summer dresses and lightweight skirts, slacks and blouses. The wraparound “sulu” (sarong) is Fiji’s most distinctive form of dress for women and men.

What LANGUAGE do the locals speak?

Fiji is an English speaking country.

Are there BIKES to rent?

Yes, bicycles are available at major resorts and shops.

Is TIPPING required?

No. Actually, tipping is not encouraged in Fiji and it is left to the individual to determine whether to make a gratuity. In lieu of daily tipping, some resorts operate a staff Christmas fund where “tips” are shared.

Is the water SAFE to drink?

Yes, fresh water reticulated in Nadi, Suva, Lautoka and other major towns has been treated and is safe to drink from the tap. It tastes good too!

What “SHOTS” do we need?

Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are only required if coming from an infected area as designated by the World Health Organisation. Fiji is free from malaria and other major tropical diseases that are endemic to most tropical countries.

Is FIJI safe?

Yes, Fiji has one of the world’s lowest crime rates, but prudence dictates that if carrying valuables, you check them in hotel/resort room safes or safe deposit boxes.

How LONG is the flight?

Coming west from Canada and Europe, you’ll stop in Los Angeles, and some flights out of Los Angeles and Canada stop in Honolulu. Air Pacific has four non-stops and Air New Zealand has one out of Los Angeles. Flight time from LA to Fiji is 10 hrs, Auckland to Fiji 3hrs, Sydney to Fiji 3hrs 50min.

What is the EXCHANGE rate of USD to FJD?

Approximately 2 Fiji dollars equals 1 US Dollar.

What are some of the BEST SURFING spots in Fiji?

Isolated surf spots like Frigate Pass and Kadavu, where the waves cascade onto reefs, which are margined by deepest blue water, can only be described as breath taking. The surfer is ever aware that he is an exotic animal in this environment. The crystal clear waves occasionally remind him that he is not alone with sharks often coming in to see this odd guest. Fortunately they have never been considered a guest for dinner as a surfeit of natural fare abounds.

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