South Pacific island paradise … crystal clear waters, from shallow to deep … gentle breezes … coral reefs, isolated beaches and coves … casual, relax atmosphere … perfect R & R getaway !
Where is it
300 islands, 540 inlets scattered over 3 million sq. km (1 million sq. miles), the Fiji archipelago in South Pacific Ocean, surrounds Koro Sea; 2,100 km (1,300 miles) north of Auckland, New Zealand. About 100 of islands are inhabited; capital is Suva on largest island, Viti Levu or Great Fiji.
Complex geologic history … submerged platform, ancient formation, volcanic action, sedimentary deposits, coral formations, gives rise to jagged dividing range running north-south; with Tomanivi (Mt. Victoria); highest peak at 1,324 metres (4,344 ft).
Rivers Rewa, Navua, Sigatoka and Ba all rising from this central mountain area.
The Climate
Sub-tropical climate, 20 – 29°C (60s – 80s°F); good rainfall in east – occasional tropical cyclones, great forests, coconut palms along coastal areas, tropical fruits, vegetables; reefs, rocks, mangrove swamps; dry grasslands in west – gives significant east-west contrast.
Favourable climate and soils give rise to good agriculture … copra, cocoa, kava, taro, pineapples (absolutely sweetest to taste), cassava and sugar cane; light-industrial activities such as boatbuilding (fishing boats and pleasure crafts); brewing, paint and garment manufacture; mainly on eastern side.
The People
Melanesian – Polynesian descent locals, with Indian and other migrants create melting pot cultures, language, customs, traditions and uniquely exotic cuisine.
Imagine blend of Polynesian, Indian, Asian and European influences in everyday life – creates spicy-sweet flavours, combined with fresh produce … Fijian interpretation of mee goreng (fried noodles), tamarind fish, sambal veggies, assorted curries; finish with coconut infused pancakes, toasted brown sugar fresh coconut filling or sweetest pineapple pieces topped with vanilla ice cream, toasted coconut … simply heavenly !
You just have to watch your waistline …
Tourism is Fiji’s main industry, resorts mainly located around Nadi … with natural island beauty … tropical temperatures … small offshore islands dotted everywhere … secluded beaches … perfect island paradise.
Resorts caters for all ages and budgets – at times kids stay for free !
Things to do
Cultural Life
But Fiji is not just about beaches …
With rich cultural heritage, traditional Fijian ceremonies like drinking of ‘yanggona’ or kava is part of important ceremonies and everyday life.
Visit Local Village
Travel to foot of ‘Sleeping Giant’ mountain range … through cane fields … visit local Natalau Village – enjoy traditional ‘Sevusevu’ or Kava ceremony … enjoy traditional lunch cooked by locals … take a short walk through village … see how locals live …
Island Sunset Dinner and Show
Definite must do is the ‘Island Sunset Dinner and Show’ – located on small island off Viti Levu … travel down Tuva River … Enjoy big ‘Bula’ welcome on beach … learn about Fiji’s cultural rituals, see how traditional customs are celebrated.
Unearthing of the ‘lovo’ – earth oven filled with meats and vegetables – dinner for the evening … fire walking demonstration … be entertained by the ‘meke’ traditional storytelling song and dance … knife and fire dancers … traditions preserved and shared with visitors …
Gorgeous Sunsets
Nothing can take away the magnificent sunset along shoreline … hues of oranges to purples amongst clouds …
Sing-along with guitar-strumming locals … sea-breezes sweeping sandy beaches … bare-foot, cold drinks in hand … silently watch aftermath of sunset … Mother Nature at her best …
Conclusion
End evening with exhilarating acrobatic fire display on beach … great finish to most entertaining evening.
Fiji, definitely most surprising island nation in South Pacific !
Colourful history … colourful shirts and sarongs … colourful natural surroundings !
Relaxed environment, easy-going locals allow most stressed-out to unwind and ‘go-with-the-flow’ after a few days; truly wondrous island paradise … within easy reach from Australia.
A Must Go Destination !
