Most resorts have a Fiji or Lovo night which may include a performance or fire dancing. We asked Chris Mitchell from DiveHappy.com to share his essential safety tips for your underwater adventures in Fiji. About to travel to Fiji and wondering what Fiji is known for? Cannibalism existed here until the Christian Missionaries arrived in the mid 1800s. If you love kava, then you can ask for ‘high tide’ and you’ll be handed the fullest cup from which to drink. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Having lived more than a few summers in Fiji, I can definitely tell you it’s near impossible in the heat and humid to get as much done in your day when compared to winter. Fiji 2020 population is estimated at 896,445 people at mid year according to UN data. Fiji was once known as part of the “Cannibal Isles”. by Mantaray Island Resort | Jan 31, 2019 | Fiji. Wishlist. Safety Tips for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling in Fiji. Fiji took on the presidency of COP 23—and sought to co-chair, with the government of Sweden, the United Nations Oceans Summit—as a direct result of its endangered relationship to the sea. Fiji ranks number 161 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population. You won’t find too many watches being worn here. If you’re told something will be done by a particular time, then give or take an hour or half a day or week depending on the topic. 13. Only 110 of them are inhabited and all of them are beautiful combinations of volcanic mountain ranges, rainforests, and gorgeous sandy beaches. Fiji Currency – Learn all about Fiji’s currency the Fiji Dollar (FJ$) here.. Fiji Transport – How do you get to where you need to go when you land in Fiji? Facts about tourism in Fiji. Generally, things do get done but life is lived at a slow pace. There are growing calls for Fiji's powerful Attorney-General to stand down from office, in the wake of allegations he was involved in two bomb attacks in the late 1980s. Getting around Fiji. Now that you know some new fun facts about Fiji, you’re going to want to visit for sure. Many resorts, ours included greet new guests by playing “Bula Malaya,” a song of welcome that can’t help you but feel so warmly welcomed and it likely to be your first introduction to island hospitality. While islanders may disagree on many issues, they are universal in their recognition of the importance of the tourist trade to their islands' future. Bula, like the Hawaiian aloha or the Aussie ‘G’day’, is a word in the Fijian language that has many meanings, each of which depends on the given the situation. About to travel to Fiji and wondering what Fiji is known for? Fiji is listed as one the countries known to have the Zika virus, which means men and women should take safety precautions as outlined by the World Health Organisation. Things to Know. Suva What is Suva known for? Fiji is a land of white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, and coconut plantations. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Located in the south pacific, Fiji is composed of 320 tropical volcanic islands with 110 that are actually inhabited. That pottery is generally associated with peoples who had well-developed skills in navigation and canoe building and were horticulturists. Here are 10 other facts about Fiji you might not know: 1) Fiji is composed of more than 300 islands. But did you know that out of all of the islands throughout the South Pacific, Fiji has one of the largest concentrations of great breaks in the region? Fiji’s first settlements were started by voyaging traders and the first Europeans to land and live among the native population were shipwrecked sailors. Most of Fiji's islands and islets … Or want to be on top of your game at your next trivia night. ^Conditions Apply. Let’s wander on through our top 7 list of things we think Fiji is known for. Fiji is an island country in Melanesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific that is known for being one of the happiest countries in the world. Buy local. Perhaps what Fiji is most famous for, however, are its crystal clear waters, coral reefs, shallow lagoons and white sand beaches that draw in thousands of tourists annually. We think this is what Fiji is best known for, do you agree? There are numerous bars and nightclubs to be found here, providing a stark contrast to the peaceful island paradises that the country is so famous for. … The original settlers of Fiji, who came to the islands over 5000 years ago, are now called the Lapita people but were originally Melanesians and Polynesians. In 1643, Dutchman Abel Tasman, known for his explorations in what is now Australia and New Zealand, sighted Vanua Levu, Fiji's second largest island, but he did not land. A whopping 89% of Fijians claim that they are very happy according to recent studies. Imported food in Fiji is very expensive, but local fruit and vegetables from the produce markets are very cheap. I flew on a tiny plane from Suva to Taveuni, also known as Fiji’s “garden island”, I was drawn to this particular island to walk through dense rainforest, swim beneath waterfalls, go diving at Rainbow Reef, and relax at one of the boutique eco-friendly guesthouses, where I sipped fresh coconuts under the property’s thick rainforest canopy. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Everybody can sing, I’ve never heard an out of tune Fijian singing, Fijian voices are stunning. Fiji is listed as one the countries known to have the Zika virus, which means men and women should take safety precautions as outlined by the World Health Organisation. Or want to be on top of your game at your next trivia night. Do you want to know what is Suva know for? Make sure if you ask for ‘high tide’ that you drink it all. The last known Fijian cannibalism victim was a missionary named Rev. With more than 300 islands to choose from, you'll find plenty of tropical attractions and rewarding things to do. It’s hard to tell exactly what, but the country’s natural beauty plays a huge part and it’s easy to see. Leave your question in the comments below to be added to the FAQ. But plastic surgery isn’t only popular for foreigners; Koreans are infamous for being rather blasé regarding cosmetic procedures. Imported food in Fiji is very expensive, but local fruit and vegetables from the produce markets are very cheap. Check out our ACCOMODATION options, there’s something for every budget from our air-conditioned dormitory to our beachfront villas. The warm blue water, multi-colored coral reefs, and large variety of exotic sea life draw visitors from all around the world. One of the largest towns and most visitors’ first stop on Fiji, Nadi is a culturally diverse city of 30,000. If you’re female and really don’t want to try it, you may politely refuse the offer. It’s hard to tell exactly what, but the country’s natural beauty plays a huge part and it’s easy to see. Fiji - Fiji - History: When Fiji’s first settlers arrived from the islands of Melanesia at least 3,500 years ago, they carried with them a wide range of food plants, the pig, and a style of pottery known as Lapita ware. Cannibalism existed here until the Christian Missionaries arrived in the mid 1800s. With 333 islands to choose from, you’re bound to find one that’s perfect for you. Most produce is sold in a ‘heap’ for a between $2-$5FJD. Fiji is known for its rich indigenous culture and beautiful beaches, rather than its food. When most people think of Fiji, they think of the largest and most visited island in the chain (named Fiji as well). Fiji has something for everyone, from the newlywed couple to the adventurous backpacker. What You Need to Know About Driving in Fiji; Why I Love Going to the Movies in Fiji; All Fiji Articles; What do you want to know about moving to Fiji? Written by Karen Hastings. Get ready to experience some of the most breath-taking underwater vistas in the world. Can you guess what makes them so happy? Bure-kalou or … You can’t miss the striking orange color of ripened papayas and mangoes in the horizon. Can you guess what makes them so happy? Fiji Fashion Week 2012 brings together designers from France, USA, India, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Nigeria, Samoa, Cook Islands, Wallis & Futuna and Fiji. So, you’re going to need to thrown out your hustle and bustle ways and accept that if you want lunch or dinner in restaurant you need to allow 30-60mins for your meal to arrive. I agree to have my personal information transfered to MailChimp ( more information) Never miss a post by subscribing via email. Several species were lost in prehistory and are known only from fossil remains. In Fiji, kava is drunk with great attention to detail in a formal setting known as a Kava Ceremony. Add to Wishlist Remove from Wishlist. Your hosts will be impressed you know the protocol. Famous for its friendly people and heavenly tropical islands, Fiji is the quintessential South Pacific paradise. Fiji is known as the "soft coral capital of the world," boasting 4,000 square miles of coral reef housing over 1,000 species of fish. However, this small island nation still has a rich culinary heritage. The population density in Fiji is 49 per Km 2 (127 people per mi 2). Famous for its friendly people and heavenly tropical islands, Fiji is the quintessential South Pacific paradise. Fiji is famous for its white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests and islands. Fiji is definitely in line for the most stunning place on Earth as well. Namotu Left So named after the huge lefties the spot is renowned for. These ingredients, along with the creativity of Fijian cooking, results in truly diverse and fascinating cuisine. Here is a guide to all you need to know on hotel transfers, inter-island ferries and domestic flights. Do not forget to have sightings of the azure color of the sea or the white waterfalls that cascade down the black lava rocks. The roots of the Kava plant are cultivated and used to create a drink that is primarily used to relax, acting as a light sedative rather than a stimulant. Nadi Beach is a wide strand, perfect for lazing in the sun and watching sunsets. The Kava plant belongs to the pepper family and its botanical name is Piper methysticum (meaning intoxicating pepper). This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. If you visit Fiji for a holiday you’ll likely be offered some kava at some point during your stay, so it’s important you know some kava etiquette. With more than 300 islands to choose from, you'll find plenty of tropical attractions and rewarding things to do. This makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. In fact, Fiji is made up of 333 tropical islands, many deserted and private like Castaway Island Fiji (also known as Qalito island). Visitor VAT Refund Scheme. Known as the adventure capital of Fiji, Pacific Harbour is a playground for adventurers who want to experience it all, from ziplining and diving to shark-feeding and riding world-class waves at Frigates Passage. Kava is a plant grown mostly in the Pacific Islands, it’s not only grown in Fiji. Their harmonies are to die for, I could sit and listen all day. Buy local. What do you wish you'd known before going to Fiji? Located in the south pacific, Fiji is composed of 320 tropical volcanic islands with 110 that are actually inhabited. Here are some of the things the country is famous for. Fiji FAQ – A guide to everything you need to know before you go to Fiji!. Fiji can best be described as a country with a mixture of many beautiful colors. Let’s wander on through our top 7 list of things we think Fiji is known for. The word is most commonly used as a greeting, meaning “hello!”. Fiji Known for Top Surfing Spots. If you’re planning travel to Fiji, find out what you need to know about coronavirus in the Coronavirus section. It consists of some 300 islands (about 100 of which are inhabited) and 540 islets. Fiji is an island country in Melanesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific that is known for being one of the happiest countries in the world. Read on to discover some interesting facts about Fiji. The Fiji Republic is actually not just one beautiful island but an archipelago of some 333 islands and over 500 islets. Fiji time applies everywhere except when there’s manta rays to swim with, then you’d better hurry or you’re literally miss the boat! Without a doubt, Fiji time is heavily loaded on the give side of this formula. At Kula Eco Park in Sigatoka, you can catch the endangered Fijian crested iguana, take close-up photographs of Fiji’s wonderful endemic birds, and know about captive breeding activities for some of the country’s rare species. But browsing one of the many markets on the island reveals a wealth of fresh produce. Fiji is famed for its intense tropical beauty and it should come as no surprise that many people spend most of their time here on and around the beach. Fiji as a premier scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Fiji time means everything runs V E R Y  S L O W L Y ! Numerous families reach the farthest east of their range, and the island is home to several endemic species and genera, as well as sharing several more endemics with its close neighbours Tonga and Samoa. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Known for affordability and professionalism, the hundreds of cosmetic surgery clinics in Seoul alone will all be accessible in a minimum of six languages, and often more. Cloudbreak Fiji’s most famous break; for experienced riders only. In 1643, Dutchman Abel Tasman, known for his explorations in what is now Australia and New Zealand, sighted Vanua Levu, Fiji's second largest island, but he did not land. Fiji's territory is comprised of 332 islands although some sources have indicated that there are 333 islands. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The warm nature of the Fijians is one of the reasons the nation has a large tourism sector. Here are some of the … Dance in Fiji is symbolic of the salad bowl of cultures that exist on the islands. It surrounds the Koro Sea about 1,300 miles (2,100 km) north of Auckland, New Zealand. Fiji was known as the Cannibal Isles; for example William MacGregor, the long term chief medical officer in British colonial Fiji, stated that the rare occasion of tasting of the flesh of the enemy was done "to indicate supreme hatred and not out of relish for a gastronomic treat". I’ll just leave this here…. There are numerous shades of lush greens in the scenic landscapes, lovely mustard and chartreuse playing as palm trees dance in the cool breeze. Fiji population is equivalent to 0.01% of the total world population. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Fiji Time. Essential Travel Tips. The avifauna of Fiji is the richest in West Polynesia. Well, that and Fiji’s stunning 333 island, so let’s chat about them next. 11. Sep 14, 2020. Fiji, country and archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. We use cookies to improve your website experience. The people of Fiji are known as some of the most friendly and hospitable of any of the islands in the South Pacific. It was believed that cannibalism started from long sea voyages with not much choices to survive and these practices were brought over to the islands. Fijian’s big bula smiles make it no surprise that Fijian’s come out on top as being one in the 2018 Gallup International’s Annual Global Survey as the happiest cultures on Earth. © Copyright 2020 Lets Travel More. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo! That pottery is generally associated with peoples who had well-developed skills in navigation and canoe building and were horticulturists. Each district in Fiji has its own unique form of the meke, and these dances can be used to narrate celebrations and important events, such as the installation of a chief or a war. Scuba diving & snorkeling in Fiji is the capital you can ’ t too! 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Faq – a guide to everything you need to know about coronavirus in the list of things we Fiji! Use this website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through website... 127 people per mi 2 ) of the “ Cannibal Isles ” and diving for beaches... Transfers, inter-island ferries and domestic flights s thought to have my personal information to! Of exotic sea life draw visitors from all around the world international models who were in Fiji indicated that are! And its botanical name is Piper methysticum ( meaning intoxicating pepper ) Fiji 's `` Lanes... Azure color of the salad bowl of cultures that exist on the largest island of Levu!