Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
INTRODUCTION TO FIJI
Sun-drenched beaches, turquoise lagoons, swaying palm trees - Fiji supplies all the clas-
sic images of paradise. No wonder, then, that every year thousands of travellers come to
this South Pacific archipelago for the ultimate island escape. With over three hundred
islands to choose from, Fiji is an amazingly versatile destination. Whether you're after
a luxury honeymoon retreat, a lively backpacker island or a family-friendly resort you
won't be disappointed. You'll also find a warm, hospitable people, an intriguing blend of
Melanesians, Polynesians and Indians.
With a reliable tropical climate, a good tourist infrastructure, English as its main language and
no jabs or pills to worry about, travelling in Fiji is as easy as it gets. As the hub of South Pa-
cific tourism, the country attracts over half a million visitors a year, mostly from Australia and
New Zealand, its largest “neighbours” lying over 2000km southeast. Of the northern hemi-
sphere travellers who arrive, many are backpackers from Europe or surfers and scuba divers
from North America.
While it can be tempting to spend your whole time in Fiji sunbathing and sipping cocktails
from coconuts, there are plenty of
activities
to lure you away from the beach. Within a ten-
minute boat ride of most resorts you can find yourself
snorkelling
with dolphins and manta
rays or
scuba diving
at pristine coral reefs. In addition, at the exposed edges of the reefs are
some of the world's finest and most consistent
surfing breaks
.
Nature lovers
are also spoilt
for choice, both underwater and on dry land, and wildlife-spotting opportunities are plentiful,
whether you're seeking turtles, exotic birds or 3m-long tiger sharks.
Away from the resorts is another Fiji waiting to be discovered: a land of stunning mountains,
rainforests and
remote villages
. Here you'll find fantastically hospitable Fijians living a sim-
ilar lifestyle to their tribal ancestors. Staying a night or two at a village homestay will give
you an authentic insight into ethnic Fijian culture as well as the chance to sample
yaqona
or
kava
, the national drink. Fiji is also home to a large
Indian community
and their influence is
seen in the delicious Indian food served in almost every town, Bollywood films showing in the
