Fiji: What To Know Before You Go
Fiji is made up of 333 tropical islands with a perfect blend of white sand beaches, and lush rainforests filled with waterfalls. We like to think of it as Hawaii before large resorts moved in. It is the ideal destination for a relaxing vacation to recharge the batteries or to celebrate a special occasion. Many islands have one resort on them, and with so many choices, there is an island to meet almost everyone’s dream of the ideal island paradise.
Getting Here
Reaching the remote island paradise of Fiji involves an overnight flight on a 747 (12 hours) nonstop from Los Angeles. Only 5 hours from Australia and 4 hours from New Zealand. The international carrier is Air Pacific, although you can also fly into Fiji on Qantas (from Australia), Air New Zealand (from New Zealand), V Australia and Pacific Blue.
Getting Around
Getting from island to island mostly means flying on small prop planes (12-20 passengers). Flight times vary greatly depending on the destination, the most common routes being Savu Savu and Taveuni several times daily. A catamaran services the nearby Mamanuca islands from Denarau Marina near Nadi airport. Occasionally the world-famous luxury cruise line, Paul Gauguin cruises from Tahiti through Fiji. Travelers unpack just once, living aboard in opulent accommodations as they sail from one paradise isle to the next. On the islands themselves, shared and private touring options are available including visits to local villages. Private water taxis, helicopters and seaplanes are also available.
Popular Activities
In general, Fiji is a destination for relaxation and unexpected adventures.
- Romance
Over water bungalows, private picnics, and dining on the beach. Fiji is one of the few places left where you have the chance to feel like you have your own island for the day, and then return to a luxurious resort for a gourmet dinner. - Diving and snorkeling
World famous for its excellent visibility and reefs like the Somo Somo Straight, you will be amazed by the marine life in Fiji. - Adventure
Rafting, hikes to waterfalls, zip-lining through rainforests, shark feeding and horse riding along beaches. A combination of Costa
Accommodations
An array of free-standing beach bungalows called Bures are common in Fiji. Luxurious over water bungalow resorts and Bures with private plunge pools at adult only resorts are also popular. Spacious apartments are ideal for family vacations, and exclusive villa rentals are available complete with your own beach, chef, and masseuse.
Dining
Most of the resorts are completely self-contained and serve Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. The food is exceptionally fresh and sourced locally. Seafood and fruit feature prominently on the menus, and if you are lucky enough to land a great catch fishing, it will likely feature in the evening’s menu. Weekly themed buffets called ‘Mekes’ are popular where food is cooked underground. On the main island and Savu Savu you may venture abroad to try a local restaurant featuring Indian influenced cuisine.
What To Wear
Island casual is suitable for most resorts, many even invite you to park your shoes in your room until the day you leave. You can leave your tie or jacket at home, except for Laucala Private Island Resort. Sarongs and swimwear is fine for breakfast and lunch anywhere. Linen or cotton pants are ideal for a nice dinner.