Fiji
Where in the world is Fiji!?
One of the world’s favorite getaways Fiji, is situated among the South Pacific Islands further out from the east coast of Australia. Fiji is made up of hundreds of islands situated around the main larger island of Viti Levu, this is where most resorts are located. Smaller groups of islands include the Yassawa’s, Mamanucas and Kadavu groups.
People & Culture
About 840,000 locals live here, from the traditional Fijians to the Indian shop owners, every one is made to feel welcome in Fiji. It’s almost exhausting the amount of times you will say Bula!
A relaxed island feel to Fiji really sums up her reputation, everything will be run on Fiji Time! In other words (late)!
But be warned, there’s an infectious motion that has swept through Fiji and cannot be dampened - Smiling!! If every smile you gave and received was worth $1, you would be a millionaire by the time you returned home.
Religion and Money
Most Fijians are quite religious and will attend the many churches around Fiji on Sundays. The Hindu culture is quite large with a huge chunk of the population being of Indian decent.
Local currency is the FJD Fijian Dollar. Fiji isn’t really a shopper’s destination, although you may just find some great wooden carvings such as spears and axes to take home (and use on the new husband!). Average prices really depend on where you purchase your goods. For example: a can of Fijian Bounty Rum can cost you up to $10 FJD at a resort, or if you went to the local general store, you could get a 6 pack for about $12 FJD
Exchange rate average is about $1 AUD = $1.20 FJD
Average Prices
|
Local Beer. |
FJD $4 AUD $3.30 |
Raindrops keep falling on my head…
Rainy season starts November to March although these are the warmest, with June being the driest month, but also less hot. A bit backward we know but remember this is a tropical island in the middle of the ocean! Temperatures hardly drop below 26 degrees all year round, perfect!
How to get there
Air Pacific is Fiji’s national airline and operates daily flights from Sydney and selected days from Melbourne and Brisbane. Flying time is between 5-6 hours. Fiji’s inter island domestic carrier is Pacific Sun operating between the larger islands of Fiji.
Getting Around Fiji
Of course the easiest way to locate yourself between islands is by boat or charter. Many companies have set up inter island transfers, making your journey easier between islands.
Seaplanes are another good way of getting around, and at the same time seeing the magnificent beauty of the islands. There are water taxi’s that operate the same way taxis do here, but by boat; these get pretty expensive, so your best bet is to just book a scheduled transfer from here.
Before you go
Ensure you have a current Australian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining from your return date into Australia. A Visa is not required for Australians to travel to Fiji. If the passport that you travel on is foreign, you must contact Wedding Destinations to check your status.
Duty Free please
250 grams of tobacco or 200 cigarettes, alcohol maximum is 2.25 litres for spirits and liquors, or 4.5 litres of wine, champagne, port or vermouth.
Electricity
Power points and plugs are the same as ours
To be honest, ladies there is not much point in taking the hair straightener, the weather is humid and the air somewhat thick, you hair will be a frizz ball again by mid morning! If you cant live without your Ipod and such you have the outlets to charge your electronics and laptops etc.
Why we love Fiji!
Simmering away in the melting pot of sun, sand, reef, rainforest and culture, sheer natural beauty is how to describe this leisurely oasis. It does not matter where you go in Fiji, the scenery is just so lush and green. Swaying coconut palms and gentle waves lap her beaches. Amazing coral reefs make for perfect diving! The friendliest people, their enthralling culture and their warm hospitality are only just a few things that really make your holiday a memorable one. Take a trek to Koro Volcano or hit the tee at one of the many golf greens. Each island has something different to offer, making it the perfect destination if you’re after a bit of diversity. Picture yourself marrying by the beach surrounded by midnight blue and turquoise water, hugging white silk shores. As a traditional Fijian choir sings, and warriors lead your way to a sand floor chapel, you submerge into the enchanting relaxed environment that is Fiji.
Handsome Honeymoons!
Fiji is a great place to honeymoon itself, so why not just transfer to another island? This can be easily done. Our top pick has to be LikuLiku, it is just divine. It’s the only resort in Fiji that hosts those amazing Overwater bungalows that have a view of the fish below you! Snorkeling is fantastic and so accessible, right on the doorstep of your bungalow. The luxuries of this resort are star class, just see our luxury collection pages.
Direct flights to Hawaii operate from Nadi Airport, so say “Aloha” to some action on Honolulu, its nightlife, fantastic hospitality and surfing . Shop in Waikiki at the international market place, or take a quick flight to her other islands for some great scenic drives and luxury resorts. Also a must for surfers!
Also easily accessible is mainland USA. Soak up the celebrity atmosphere of Hollywood and Los Angeles, or take a great gamble in the glitz and glam of the Las Vegas Casino’s. Shop on Rodeo Drive and party like a rock star in LA at one of its many social scenes.
Tahiti- The Island of Love, and Vanuatu are on the map as well. So do some more beach bumming, sun bathing, watersports, sightseeing and general relaxing, all just some of the perks of the South Pacific.