Holiday Fiji Accommodation

Fiji is located in the South Pacific Ocean and is considered an island nation.  Consisting of approximately 322 islands, only 106 of those are inhabited.  There are an additional 522 islets, or significantly smaller islands.  The majority of the population of Fiji, about 87%, lives on one of the two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

Weather & Topography
For anyone who knows geography, it is no surprise that the climate of Fiji is tropical and warm almost all year round.  The islands are very mountainous and thick with tropical forests.

Culture & Religion
The peoples of Fiji are made up from Indian, Chinese, European and indigenous populations creating a rich and varied tapestry of culture.  Social traditions, languages, food, architecture, religion, arts and crafts, music, sports and dance all have contributions from various cultures in addition to maintaining aspects of individuality. It is each of these unique cultures that contribute to the communal and national identity that is so distinctive to Fiji.

A key aspect of everyday life and culture in Fiji is the indigenous culture which is still very alive today in Fiji.  However, with the introduction of so many other cultures, this culture has evolved to include ancient traditions from India and China as well as more modern aspects of the European influence which is also present.

 Native Fijians are mostly Christian while Indo-Fijians are mostly Hindu or Muslim.

The official languages of Fiji are Fijian, English, and Hindustani.  While less than half of the population of Fiji speak Fijian as a first language, well over half speak it as a second language, making it something of a national language and part of the islands’ identity. 

The national sport in Fiji is rugby union and this sport is very competitive and successful, making it to the quarter finals of the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Food is primarily based on what is found in the sea and vegetables, including dalo and cassava.

Holiday Highlights
There are several vacation highlights when visiting Fiji.  Among the top choices are:

• The Arts Village: daily dance performances, pottery demonstrations and a tour of a village
• Colo-i-Suva Forest Park: Bring a lunch to this gorgeous scenic spot.
• Naihehe Sacred Cave Tour: Sacred caves in the Sigatoka Valley, including traditional Fijian customs.
• Wainadoi Spice Gardens: Jungle gardens, waterfalls, spice gardens, river, and streams. 
• Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple: Fiji’s largest Hindu Temple
• Takalana Dolphin watching
• The Fiji Museum at Thurston Gardens: Fijian artifacts
• Numerous island cruises, helicopter cruises, and city tours

Tips for visiting villages in Fiji

• Dress appropriately to the culture.  This means modestly.  Women must not wear any clothing that exposes bare shoulders, and no one should wear shorts.
• Never touch anyone’s head or wear a hat.  Either action is interpreted as a sign of disrespect.
• Speak in a quiet voice.  Speaking loudly is not a sign of joy but rather an expression of anger.
• Always take off your shoes before entering any building or home.
• Finally, always stay with your assigned host when visiting a village.  This is part of the custom and tradition and it is respectful to abide by these assignments.

Fiji is a beautiful spot in the world both for those who live there and those who visit. 
It is a slower paced style than many are used to but one where you can relax, enjoy the local culture and rejuvenate your spirits.