Basics - Rough Guide to Fiji - page 64

the hop-on, hop-off boat pass along the Yasawas costs F$191 for seven days; and a domestic
flight to Taveuni can cost up to F$250 one way, although discounted fares are usually avail-
able via airline websites and can almost match passenger ferry rates, which cost from F$65
between Suva and Taveuni.
Every traveller over twelve years of age departing Fiji pays a departure tax of F$200, al-
though this is pre-paid in the cost of your airline ticket.
Crime and personal safety
As in any society, crime exists in Fiji but it's certainly not rife and not nearly as common
as in most European or North American cities. Petty theft stems from a cultural trait where
the individual owns few possessions, shares everything freely and is bound by the beliefs of
kerekere , a form of asking for something with the owner being obliged to give. It's especially
common among hotel workers and you may find clothes or small change frequently going
missing from bures and communal resort areas. Bring in clothes and shoes at night and cer-
tainly don't leave money or jewellery lying about as an invitation.
With machismo entrenched in Fijian culture, sexual harassment can be an issue for female
travellers - a firm “not interested” should ward off any unwanted attention while all the usual
precautions apply, such as avoiding walking alone at night. If in need of assistance contact
the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre ( fijiwomen.com ) in Nadi ( 670 7558), Ba ( 667 0466),
Suva ( 331 3300) or Labasa ( 881 4609). Domestic violence, or “ wife bashing ” as it's
rather crudely known in Fiji, is also disturbingly prevalent, and a bruised eye is seldom con-
cealed or reported to the authorities. At the same time Fijians are a respectful society and
treat each other and especially visitors with kindness.
Although commonly smoked by young urban Fijians, marijuana possession is strictly il-
legal and is strongly discouraged in more traditional rural areas where it is perceived as a
dangerous evil - if a village youth is caught smoking more than once, public floggings may
result. The official penalty for marijuana possession is three months in jail, so consider wisely
before indulging.
The Fijian police are for the most part helpful, with police stations in all towns and major
settlements. Larger towns have additional posts in busy areas. See the “Directory” sections
of towns for local contacts.
EMERGENCIES
917 is the free emergency telephone number to summon the police. Call 911 for am-
bulance or fire service.