Fiji is a beautiful part of the world we all know that. Some would say it’s captivating with its islands of glorious white sand, turquoise oceans and isolation at the end of the world. Yet, many Aussies underrate this country. I was told it would be boring and expensive from the Aussies and people living in Australia. I’m probably the wrong person to tell that to. I’ve been an avid traveler for 3-4 years now and there is always something exciting about visiting a country for the first time. I had no idea about Fiji when I first decided to go, just a place to relax for a couple of weeks was my train of thought. If you’re heading to Fiji, more so for backpackers it might be worth having a read of these before hand.
Fiji is for backpackers too
Despite it’s reputation as a beach resort for the prawn sandwich-eating tourists, you can backpack this beauty of a country. Street food is cheap as is local transport and hostels.
It isn’t just a boring place with resorts
Continuing on, there is so much to do. You can island hop, spearfish, scuba dive, and jungle hike, skydive and party all here. It isn’t just about sitting on a beach..
You can keep the cost down
Local food can be as cheap as $1 for a two-rolled Roti from the street. Markets are common especially in Cities like Nadi and Suva.
Although island hopping can be expensive..
Saying that, to really book a tour of continuous island hopping, they can add up with prices. Either pay a local who has a boat or be specific about the islands you want to see.
Fiji is a third world country still
You may only see crystal clear water and beautiful beaches, but Fiji is poor still in the local areas. Be cautious of this.
Fiji is multi-religious
It’s important to respect each religion here. Whether that means covering up when appropriate or respecting each ones choice. Christian, Muslim and Hindu are three to name.
Fijians are the friendliest
You will never beat a most friendly nation of people. BULA!!
It’s clear waters baby…
PARADISE! Amazing visibility almost everywhere you go. Turquoise waters to fully enjoy!
Diving and snorkeling are some of the worlds best
Snorkeling with sharks is pretty common here, but the one of the worlds BEST shark dives exists here. From Bull to Tiger sharks, if you love this kind of thing, you got to do it.
Fiji time…
Forget your European standards, Fiji time is ALL you will hear here. Just sit back and relax and let Fiji do the rest.
The cigarettes are harsh…
Smokers! Not to encourage it but these cheap cigarettes are more like cigars.
But RED weed exists..
Never heard of it? Well if you get your hands on this stuff its what the locals smoke. Pretty darn hazy. Get the Pringles ready.
Castaway Island is definitely worth the trip
Just like Maya Bay in Thailand for the movie ‘The Beach’, Castaway Island is truly amazing. And it doesn’t have as many two-finger photo-taking tourists either.
Accommodation sense?!
Book online before you go, prices double at walk in value. Pfft!
If in Nadi, head to Newtown Beach
Most people hang here as it has an array of accommodation, such as the favourite Bamboo or its sister place Tropicana Capricorn Hotel.
But for a day trip from Nadi, maybe the 4th best beach in the world..
Natadola Beach.
Discover Kava
This natural plant mud induced drink is a ritual here for Fijian’s. It’s a relaxed feeling, a little bit soothing and a bit numb. Just like Fiji, chilled out!
Common Fiji’n Phrases
Bula (Hello) Vanaka (Thank You) Lamo Kei (Come Here) Lei Lei (Crazy!)
Fijian’ Food
Normally either a curry or some fresh Fish, the cuisine here is tasty but spicy. It may make you go to the toilet a little quicker though given it’s different bacterial ingredients.
Fishing is mandatory
Well its not exactly law, but a lot of the locals rely on this method, and in particular spear fishing. Living of the natural land and ocean which is refreshing.
The WIFI kinda sucks…
Most places the WIFI is fairly bad, you might be lucky though.
It’s a German takeover
Everywhere. Just everywhere. Is Germany that bad?
Hitch-hiking is common
You can catch a ride by the old thumb out technique, and Fijian’s given there nature will happily apply.
Taxi, Bus, Car, Scooter, Transport is decent….
It’s fairly easy to get around here. Taxis are cheap, buses are even cheaper, but strangely Cars are cheaper than Scooters for hire. Anyway, they are available.
Tropical Weather
You will either burn or tan in the sun, or you’ll get drenched in the down pour rain.
