The islands of Fiji have so much to offer. The turquoise water will draw you in, exotic food will keep you wanting to try more, and by the time you leave, "Fiji Time" will be your way of life.
Kadavu Island is one of the best islands in the archipelago to visit for aficionados of scuba diving. It runs along the Great Astrolabe Reef, which is where visitors can spot manta rays, marlin, sharks and colorful coral, among other underwater creatures.
The rainforest of Colo-i-Suva offers 4 mi of walking trails among lush trees, tropical plants and melodic birds.
Suva is the capital and largest city in Fiji and offers a lot to see, from nature to historical and gastronomic activities. Visit the Thurston Gardens, the Fiji Museum, and head to the Municipal Market for a display of exotic fruits and vegetables.
Kava is the traditional drink of Fiji and is served through a ceremony that takes place during important occasions in Fijian villages.
Not to be confused with Monuriki Island, which is featured in the movie Cast Away, this inhabited island that the Fijians call Qalito is a private and breath-taking resort.
The best time to visit Fiji is during the dry season, which is between the months of May and October. While this is technically winter on the island, day time temperatures are still very warm and perfect for a day at the beach.
Citizens from around 50 countries, including Australia, New Zealand and the USA, can enter Fiji without a visa. Citizens of any other countries will need to apply for a visa in their local country prior to arriving.
Flying is the most common and practical way of arriving to Fiji, which has two international airports in Nadi and Suva. Fiji Airways is the local airline and offers nonstop flights to over 20 destinations in the USA, Asia, Australia and other locations around the Pacific.
While there are no ferries connecting Fiji to its neighboring countries, cruise ships stop there on a regular basis.
Hotels and beach resorts are the most common choices for accommodation in Fiji, but more economical options are also available, such as hostels.
The main modes of public transportation around Fiji are buses, which travel around the larger islands, and ferries that travel between islands.
Bus travel tends to be inexpensive, and they can be hailed between designated bus stops. Bus travel tends to be slow, however, so allow some extra time when planning ahead.
Visitors can drive using their driver's license if it's from an English-speaking country. Otherwise, an International Driver's Permit is obligatory. Make sure that all rental conditions are made clear as some companies impose strict limits, such as taking the car on inter-island ferries or driving it on certain types of roads.
There are 15 airports spread around the archipelago, and flying is a common way of getting around. Fiji Link offers flights to and from about 10 of the airports, while other companies, such as Pacific Island Air, offer lighter aircraft travel with helicopters and seaplanes.
Ferries are available for inter-island transfers, with companies such as South Sea Cruises and Awesome Adventures Fiji. Some services are also available for transferring cars around.
When eating out, expect to pay around 10 FJD (4.60 USD) for an inexpensive meal, while a mid range meal will cost around 30 FJD (14 USD) per person, and a one-way bus ticket costs on average 1 FJD (0.50 USD). Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels and establishements; however, cash is the most accepted method of payment.