Fiji Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Fiji Travel Questions
Is Fiji a good destination for a relaxing trip? Yes, it is often described as an excellent place for a relaxing holiday, especially for those looking to stay at a resort and unwind.
Is Fiji safe for tourists? Generally, yes, especially in tourist areas and resorts. Normal precautions should be taken, particularly at night in cities like Suva and Nadi.
Is Fiji safe for solo female travelers? Yes, it’s generally safe for solo female travelers, but exercising common sense and caution, especially at night, is advised.
What is the best way to get around the main island? Taxis are a good option. You can also rent a car, but be prepared for driving on the left side of the road. Public buses are also available.
Is it better to rent a car or use taxis? Taxis are often recommended as they can be cheaper than renting a car for day trips, and you get the benefit of a local driver’s knowledge.
Are there ride-sharing services like Uber in Fiji? No, Uber does not operate in Fiji. Taxis are the primary option.
What are taxis like in Fiji? They are generally inexpensive. It’s a good idea to ask for a day rate if you plan to travel around a lot. In some areas, drivers may not use meters and will quote a fixed price, so it’s a good idea to ask for the fare upfront.
What is “Fiji time”? It’s a local concept that refers to a relaxed approach to time. Don’t be surprised if people are a bit late.
Money, Costs, and Budget
Is Fiji an expensive destination? It can be. Resorts, food at resorts, and imported goods are often pricey.
How can I save money on food? Eat at local restaurants in towns and cities instead of exclusively at resort restaurants. Also, visit local markets for fresh produce.
How much cash should I bring? It’s a good idea to carry some cash, as card facilities aren’t everywhere. $200 FJD is a good amount to have on hand at any time.
Do I need to tip in Fiji? Tipping is not part of the local culture, but it is accepted.
Will my Australian/US credit card work there? Yes, most tourist-focused places accept credit cards. However, some vendors may charge a surcharge of 2-4%.
Is it better to exchange money in my home country or in Fiji? Some people recommend exchanging half your money in your home country and half in Fiji to potentially get a better rate.
How much money should I budget per day? A daily budget for a backpacker could be around €60 (about $65 USD), but for a resort stay, food alone can be over $150 FJD per day.
Getting Around & Itineraries
How do I get to the smaller islands? You can take the Yasawa Flyer from Port Denarau or other ferries. Awesome Adventures Fiji is a popular company for island hopping.
Is it better to stay on the main island (Viti Levu) or on a smaller island? The main island, especially around Nadi, is not as “picturesque” as the outer islands. It’s recommended to head straight to an island for the classic Fiji experience.
Which are the best islands for backpackers? The Yasawa Islands are known to be backpacker-friendly.
What are the key regions to visit? Nadi (airport hub), Denarau (resort area), Coral Coast, Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands (for island hopping and beautiful beaches), and the northern islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
Is it worth it to visit for only 5 days? Some travelers say it’s not worth the long flight for such a short trip. The ideal length for a trip is generally considered to be 10-14 days to properly explore and relax.
What is there to do on the main island? You can visit the Sleeping Giant Orchid Farm, the Koroyanitu National Park for hiking, and go on a Navua River rafting trip.
Should I stay in Denarau? Denarau is a gated community with many resorts. It’s convenient for transfers, but some feel it lacks an authentic Fijian feel. It’s a good base for a night or two before heading to the islands.
How are the roads for driving on the main island? The main roads are generally good.
Activities & Experiences
Is the snorkeling good in Fiji? Yes, the snorkeling is excellent, especially in the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands. Many resorts offer snorkeling right off the beach.
Is it worth it to do a shark dive? Yes, some travelers highly recommend the shark feeding dives.
What are some unique cultural experiences? Attending a Fijian church service to hear the hymns, participating in a kava ceremony, and visiting a local village.
What is kava? It’s a traditional drink with a mild sedative effect. It’s an important part of Fijian culture and you may be invited to participate in a kava ceremony.
Are “traditional village tours” a scam? Some travelers warn against tours that seem inauthentic and may try to extort money from tourists. It is better to visit a village with a local you know or a reputable company.
What is a “meke”? It’s a traditional Fijian dance and firewalking ceremony that you may have a chance to witness at certain resorts or cultural centers.
Where can I see a meke? The Arts Village in Pacific Harbour is a good place to witness firewalking by the original descendants on Beqa Islanders.
Is the food good in Fiji? Food at resorts can be very expensive. Local Indian food is highly rated by many.
What’s a good alternative to a resort stay for an authentic experience? Look for homestays on islands like Qamea.
What is the deal with the “mud hot spring”? One traveler advises against it, calling it rushed and unhygienic.
What are some non-structured activities? Hiking, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular.
Are there good places to hike? Yes, Koroyanitu National Park and trails in villages on the main islands.
Are there good surfing spots? Yes, Fiji is a known surf destination.
What to Pack & Logistics
What kind of power adapters do I need? The outlets are the same as in Australia and New Zealand.
What should I pack besides clothes? Sunscreen, bug spray, and a power bank are all highly recommended.
Is it humid in Fiji? Yes, it is very humid, so pack accordingly and remember to hydrate.
Do I need to worry about mosquitoes? Yes, bring bug repellent.
Should I get a local SIM card? Yes, it is highly recommended as roaming can be slow and expensive. Providers like Digicel and Vodafone offer cheap data plans.
What should I know about local customs? It’s respectful to wear long clothes when visiting a temple or a village. Do not wear a hat in a village.
Is it okay to go topless on the beach? No, it is generally considered inappropriate in Fiji.
Should I book with a travel agent? Some travelers say it’s not necessary and you can get a better deal by booking directly.
What is a “Bula Pass”? It’s a pass that covers boat transport, accommodation, and food for island hopping, often used by backpackers.
Is it better to buy a Bula Pass or book things individually? Some people found it cheaper to book on their own, especially if traveling with a group.
What’s a good day trip from Denarau? Malamala Beach Club and Cloud 9 are popular spots.
Is it a good idea to bring snacks from home? Yes, this is a popular tip to save money, as snacks and imported goods at resorts and shops are very expensive.
What is the local beer like? Fiji Bitter is a locally produced beer and is a lot cheaper than imported options.
Are there supermarkets? Yes, there are supermarkets in the towns where you can stock up on essentials and snacks.
Cultural Etiquette
What is the local greeting? “Bula!” is the common greeting and is used all the time.
Is bargaining acceptable? Bargaining is generally rare in stores, but may be possible at local farmers markets.
How should I behave in a local village? Be open, friendly, and genuinely grateful. Respect local customs, such as not wearing a hat.
Should I be on time for dinner invitations? It’s a good idea to be on time or slightly early, though “Fiji time” means locals are not offended by tardiness.
How should I interact with locals? Be friendly and open, but don’t offer too much personal information to strangers.
Are Fijians religious? Yes, many Fijians are very religious, and you will likely see a lot of religious references.
Specific Locations and Resorts
Are there any recommended resorts for a budget traveler? Fiji Beachouse on the Coral Coast is a popular choice for backpackers and a younger crowd.
Are there any recommended resorts for couples/honeymooners? Royal Davui Island Resort is highly recommended for its villas and views.
Which island is best for scuba diving? Taveuni Island has some of the best scuba diving spots in Fiji.
Is there good snorkeling on Taveuni? Yes, Taveuni has excellent snorkeling.
What is there to do on Taveuni? Besides diving and snorkeling, you can visit waterfalls, go up to the international dateline, and do the Lavena walk.
Is it worth it to visit Savusavu? Yes, it’s described as a glorious and more affordable alternative to the tourist hubs.
What is the Coral Coast like? It’s a beautiful area with resorts and activities, but it can be isolated if you don’t have a car.
How far is the Coral Coast from Nadi? It’s a bit of a drive, but many travelers say it’s worth it.
Are there good places to eat in Denarau? Sails is a highly recommended restaurant.
What’s the best way to get from Nadi to Pacific Harbour? A taxi.
Is it worth it to visit South Sea Island? It’s a very tiny island that gets a lot of day-trippers and has a backpacker vibe.
What is the food like at Octopus Resort? The food is described as very good.
How is the snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Resort? The snorkeling is described as the least interesting of the popular resorts in the Yasawas.
What is Paradise Cove known for? It has excellent food and coral reefs, but it is also very expensive.
Health and Safety
What should I do if I get sick? Bring your own medications and a letter from your doctor.
What’s a local remedy for diarrhea? Eating young guava leaves.
What’s a local remedy for minor cuts? Squeezing the juice of crushed wa-bosucu leaves onto the cut.
Is the water safe to drink? In places like Pacific Harbour, the water is generally considered safe. However, in some areas like Nayagi or Navua, it’s better to drink bottled water.
Are there any areas to avoid at night? Yes, some travelers advise avoiding parts of Suva and Nadi at night due to safety concerns.
What about petty crime? Petty crimes like pickpocketing are an issue. Don’t leave valuables unattended.
Weather and Environment
What is the weather like in January? It’s the rainy season, but weather apps can be surprisingly accurate. It can be sunny all day or rainy.
What is the visibility like for snorkeling/diving during the rainy season? The water near the mainland can be brown with zero visibility. It’s better to head to the outer islands.
What’s a good time of year to visit? The dry season from May to October is generally considered the best time.
What should I do if there’s a cyclone? Be aware that tours and activities may be canceled.
Are the beaches on the main island as beautiful as the pictures? No, the iconic Fiji beaches are on the outer islands.
Miscellaneous
Is the exchange rate favorable for US/Australian visitors? Yes, the exchange rate is generally in their favor, making things relatively cheap outside of tourist areas.
What is Fiji Water? It’s a bottled water company. It’s ironic that it’s a major export, but many people in Fiji don’t have access to safe drinking water.
Can I work in Fiji? Yes, travelers discuss moving to Fiji for work, so it is possible.
What is a “Fijian Indian”? A person of Indian descent living in Fiji, who are a significant part of the population.
Is it possible to visit local schools? No, this is not a common tourist activity.
How should I get from the Nadi airport to my accommodation? A taxi is the cheapest option.
Is it necessary to pre-arrange transportation from the airport? No, there are plenty of taxis available.
Are there any other modes of transport for island hopping besides the Yasawa Flyer? Private catamaran charters are available if you can afford it.
What is the general vibe of the locals? Most travelers describe the people as wonderful, kind, and friendly.
Is there anything a first-time visitor might not expect? The level of humidity, the cost of imported goods, and the fact that the main island isn’t as beautiful as the outer islands.
Are there any good places to go hiking? Yes, Koroyanitu National Park is a great option with well-maintained trails and huts.
What is the night sky like on the islands? The night sky is beautiful, especially on the outer islands. Kadavu Island has a dark sky reserve.
What is the best way to book tours? You can book tours at Port Denarau, and if you book at the last minute, you might be able to get a small discount.
Are there any good surf spots? Yes, Fiji is a world-renowned surf destination.
Is it worth visiting Taveuni if you’re not a diver? Yes, there are plenty of other activities like hiking and visiting waterfalls.
Can I use my Australian power devices? Yes, Australia and Fiji have the same power outlets.
What is the food like at the resorts? It can be repetitive, with themed food nights being a common occurrence.
Is it worth flying to another island instead of taking a ferry? Yes, for islands like Savusavu and Taveuni, flying directly from Nadi can save a lot of time and hassle.
How can I avoid getting “tourist prices”? Be mindful of where you eat and shop, and make sure taxi drivers use their meters where applicable.