Destination: Fiji

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK INFORMATION

Getting Started

Blessed with some of the warmest people on the planet and a genuine zest for tourism, Fiji lends itself to all genres of travel. Honeymooners, divers, backpackers, families, bird-watchers, adventurers, independent travellers and tour groups all flock here to make the most of the stunning landscape and abundant sunshine. Luxury beachside resorts and private transport cater to tourists looking for pure R&R with minimum effort. But it’s also easy to get off the tourist trail and explore the archipelago independently, regardless of your age or budget. Travellers in this camp can make the most of good transport networks and plenty of accommodation in popular destinations, with minimum preplanning. Peak-season travel will require more thought, as will reaching remote areas such as the Lau, Moala and Rotuma islands.

Fiji is also one of the South Pacific’s major transit hubs. Even if you’re just stopping over for a day or two, it’s worth getting out and seeing something. Better yet, extend your stay (most airlines will allow you up to three months for a stopover) and really experience the country. Those visiting Fiji on a package tour should consider exploring Fiji for a week or two; many agents will allow you to extend your stay on either side of your accommodation package when you book.

Whatever your preferred approach to travel, bear in mind that Fiji is not a ‘budget’ destination per se and caters better to midrange wallets. That said, plenty of backpackers head here and travel comfortably enough without spending a ransom.

DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT…

Insect repellent, which is sold in city pharmacies but needed most elsewhere.
Plenty to read – bookshops are only found in cities.
Reef shoes to protect yourself and the reefs that surround most of Fiji’s islands.
A Zen-like patience to cope with ‘Fiji time’, which is more official than GMT.
Wedding rings if you’re here to get hitched.
Your own snorkel and mask as they’ll probably get a daily workout.
Checking the current visa situation.
Keeping abreast of the current political climate – Fiji likes to coup.
A waterproof camera to capture your marine encounters and make your friends jealous.
Sunscreen and a raincoat to combat tropical climate conditions.
Seasickness tablets if you don’t have sea legs – with over 300 islands, there are a lotta boats in Fiji!

Travelling to Fiji?
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