Going to Fiji? There are some useful things to know about these beautiful islands.
The endless white beaches and crystal-clear waters had us instantly sold on Fiji. And although nothing can quite prepare you for how unique this tropical paradise really is, with this list we will try.
We’ll share the few facts we wished we’d known before our trip to Fiji and the insider tips to avoid making the mistakes we did.
Without a doubt, you will arrive with expectations of a tropical paradise, but leave with a heart full of memories and the realization that Fijian culture is so much more than just white beaches and turquoise waters.
Fiji is a way of life and one you will never forget.
Ok, let’s dive in and talk about the most important things to know about Fiji. The good and the bad stuff.
Things to Know Before Going to Fiji
1. Fiji Time
From the minute you step off the plane, you will learn about Fiji time.
Whether it’s flights, tour guides, or meal times, nothing runs on schedule. To many, this is incredibly frustrating, but embrace it; it’s very much part of the Fijian culture.
It can be surprising how quickly you can adjust to life without a watch. The sense of freedom definitely makes up for the lack of urgency.
If only “Fiji time” could apply to Monday mornings at home…
2. Don’t Forget Your Passport (and Check Your Visa!)
Before you get swept away by Fiji’s turquoise waters, a quick reality check: make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Most travelers from Europe, the U.S., and Australia can enter Fiji visa-free for up to four months, but double-check for your nationality because rules do change.
3. There Are No Cash Machines
Well, there are. But, when traveling to the Yasawa Islands in particular, due to the nature of these secluded islands, there are no cash machines.
Some resorts only accept cash, others cards, so beware of this. We often found conflicting advice online and even received conflicting advice from the resorts themselves so we carried both.
When going to Fiji it’s best to take out cash at the airport, with the local currency being Fijian Dollars.
4. It’s Not Always Tropical Paradise
Picturing Fiji you imagine white sand, blue skies, and the lowest temperatures being 18 degrees Celsius (64F). And you aren’t wrong. Fiji is a tropical paradise that does offer all of that.
However, from November until April you want to pack an umbrella with that bikini as downpours are likely. It is also during this time that cyclone season hits Fiji.
We visited in February and several of our excursions and activities were canceled due to a cyclone.
And with the only mode of transport being boats, the journey between islands occasionally got particularly rough and at times was canceled completely – not so handy when you have a flight to catch!
5. Expect to Be Sung To. A LOT.
When we arrived at the airport, we were greeted by smiling, singing locals with ukuleles. We thought this was an extraordinary one-off. We were so wrong.
Every single time we arrived in a new resort and on a new island we were welcomed by the most amazing singing.
Then as you leave, a farewell song will be sung with each resort having its own version. It just makes your stay even more memorable!
6. Learn the Words ‘Bula’ and ‘Vinaka’
When traveling to Fiji you’ll quickly understand why the Fijian people deserve their reputation as some of the friendliest people on earth.
Constantly you will hear the word ‘Bula’ which can have many meanings including ‘welcome’, ‘hello’, and ‘how are you?’. And similar to how Aloha is used in Hawaii, it’s a way of life.
‘Vinaka’ is Fijian for ‘thank you’.
Locals take such pride in their culture that they genuinely appreciate your efforts in learning a word or two.
Making the effort to connect with locals isn’t just about words. A smile, a nod, or a friendly gesture can go just as far as saying ‘Bula’ or ‘Vinaka.’ In the Fijian language there’s a large emphasis on body language and facial expressions to communicate – worthwhile keeping in mind when traveling to Fiji!
7. On a Sunday, Everyone Goes to Church
One of the more important things to know about Fiji is that Sundays are a day of rest. So bear this in mind when planning a jam-packed itinerary.
Boats may not run, and some tourist sites will be closed.
Expect Fiji time in extra force on Sundays as businesses generally do not open, and even staff from our accommodation left to attend church.
But, to make the most of this, simply ask a local if you can attend their church. A Fijian church service is so heartfelt and welcoming that it will probably be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip.
Even if you are not religious, it is beautiful to see locals in their traditional dress and partake in their fabulous singing!
8. Enjoy a Cup of Kava
I bet that you won’t leave Fiji without trying, or at least being offered, a cup of Kava.
Kava is a traditional Fijian drink that is made from the ground pepper plant. To a Westerner, it looks and smells like earthy water, and to be honest, it doesn’t taste much better either.
Although it’s not as spicy as you may expect from the pepper, Kava does have a slight numbing effect on the tongue and lips. It is enjoyed socially by locals in the same way we would enjoy alcohol, as a way to relax.
A traditional Kava ceremony is common in local villages and resorts alike and is a must-do on your trip.
A little tip: if you are offered a “high tide” cup, this means a full cup or a bowl, and if you are offered “low tide”, this means a half cup or a half bowl.
9. Eat, Drink, and Learn the Fijian Way
Fijian cuisine is a delicious mix of island flavors. Don’t miss kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime) or lovo (meat and veggies cooked in an underground oven).
Dining etiquette is relaxed, but a few small gestures go a long way. Don’t start eating until everyone has their food, and remember that locals appreciate polite conversation and a smile.
10. Mind Your Manners
Fijians are friendly, but it’s still important to respect local customs.
Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites, remove shoes when entering homes, and don’t touch someone’s head (it’s considered sacred).
11. Rugby is Taken Very, Very Seriously
Do not refuse the opportunity to attend a Fijian rugby match.
Even in a local village, men, women, and children will all gather to watch the game and it is an amazing way to witness their passion for the sport.
If playing internationally, expect apocalyptic-type scenes: empty streets, shops closed, and no one at work.
Rugby is basically a religion in Fiji. No wonder they are world champions!
12. Don’t Sit Under Palm Trees
Naively, we had never considered this prior to our trip to Fiji, and being Scottish, we often sat under the palms for shade.
This was until we were told that if you see coconuts lying nearby, never sit under that tree, because over 150 people a year are killed by coconuts worldwide. That’s a crazy comparison to only 5 a year from shark attacks!
13. Getting Around the Islands
Transport in Fiji is an adventure in itself. On the main islands, buses and taxis are common and pretty easy to navigate. Between islands, your options are boats, ferries, or small planes.
We took a ferry from Nadi to the Yasawas and ended up on a ride that felt more like a mini rollercoaster than a commute. But that’s part of the charm!
Pro tip: always check schedules in advance and allow extra time for delays. Remember, Fiji Time applies here too.
14. Stay Healthy While Enjoying Paradise
Fiji is incredible, but the tropics come with their own health quirks. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and a routine check on your tetanus.
Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever are a reality, so pack repellent and long sleeves for the evenings.
Also Read: How I Got Dengue in Bali, And How You Can Prevent It
And as for food, try to eat where it looks clean and busy. We once braved a questionable roadside snack and ended up regretting it for a day. Trust us: a little caution goes a long way, and you’ll spend more time exploring the islands than nursing a stomach bug.
15. Respect the Islands
Fiji’s natural beauty is part of its magic, and locals take conservation seriously.
Avoid single-use plastics, don’t touch coral when snorkeling, and dispose of trash responsibly.
Also Read: Why You Shouldn’t Buy Seashells or Take Them From the Beach
16. Go Beyond the Resorts (Local Experiences)
Sure, Fiji’s resorts are dreamy, but the real gems are found off the beaten path.
Visit traditional villages, take part in a kava ceremony, or hike to hidden waterfalls.
One afternoon, we were invited by a local family to join their Sunday lunch in a small village. We shared food, stories, and laughter, and it’s an experience that no luxury resort could have matched.
These authentic moments are what make Fiji unforgettable.
17. Fiji Is One of the Happiest Countries in the World
In a global poll taken some years ago, 93% of respondents from Fiji voted either ‘happy’, or ‘very happy’.
When your daily life consists of constant singing, sunshine, and sea it is hard to imagine how anyone could be unhappy there. And undeniably when you leave, the Fijian culture will rub off on you too!
We hope this list of things to know about Fiji has helped prepare you for your trip and we are sure you will enjoy this tropical paradise!
Also Read:
- What to Look for in Travel Insurance
- The Ultimate Bucket List – 16 Once in a Lifetime Destinations
- 15 of the Best Beaches in the World
- Travel Planning – How to Plan a Perfect Trip
Thank you so much. My coworker informed me of Fiji airlines as a way to get to Australia or New Zealand on my upcoming vacation time. During that conversation, we spoke a little bit about Fiji, I decided to investigate. Your article is the first one that I’ve read, and it will probably be one of the last ones I need to think about. I’m not gonna go to those other destinations. Because of your article here, I’m going to Fiji. For me, I suppose the number one thing is language barrier, however, as it seems According to you, it won’t be a problem because I am amazing at expressing myself without a word. Happiness is very important these days, why wouldn’t I want to spend as much time as I could among people who only feel happiness and an expression that doesn’t involve the ridiculous difficulty of language.