The islands of Fiji have made the nation gracefully live up to its moniker: “the Pearl of the Pacific.” With verdant rainforests, breathtaking hot springs, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and sapphire beaches, each island makes for a legendary destination, proud of its unperturbed natural beauty and unforgettable tropical pleasures. You can either trek to remote villages and experience tribal rituals, or go rafting to secluded lagoons that are just waiting to be explored. One thing’s for sure, Fiji presents more exciting ways than one for you to enjoy it and magnetize you to it.
Best Time to Visit
Fiji is a tropical country governed by two seasons: wet and dry. So if you are thinking when the best time to visit Fiji is, the dry season, from June to September, is definitely the best time to go. Winter trades wind breezes in during these months, providing the country with lovely tropical weather. You should note, however, that you can expect fully-booked hotels and expensive airfares during this season, especially from July to August. That is because thesee months usher in countless Australians and New Zealanders who are looking to get away from the nippy climates in their countries. If you want generally lower rates (they are still expensive though) and less-crowded beaches, then opt for a June or September visit.
November to April signifies a hot yet wet summer in Fiji. Airfare and hotel rates are lower during these times of the year, but you can expect monsoon rains or tropical cyclones to disrupt your day of swimming and sightseeing.
Getting Around
Getting around Fiji involves a number of vehicular options, from land-based automobiles to ferries and seaplanes. If you are only traveling within the island, a budget-friendly option is commuting by bus, specifically the ones operated by Feejee Experience. This company services Viti Levu 4 days a week, and features local guides who can assist you with sightseeing, hiking, river rafting, among many other activities. For a cheaper ride (this is devoid of a guide though), ride a bus operated by Sunbeam Transport or Pacific Transport.
A minivan, a vehicle with “LM” on its yellow plate, is another option for touring around the city. You can also take a taxi to roam around the island, but make sure to settle the fare since most drivers do not turn their meters on. If you want to save money, you can jump aboard a “rolling” taxi that charges the amount of the usual bus fare.
If you want to opt for inter-island travel, riding a ferry is an affordable option. Bligh Water Shipping shuttles customers between Savusavu, Suva, Taveuni and Lautoka. Patterson Shipping, on the other hand, services Natovi Wharf, Nabouwalu and Buresala Landing. However, if you want a faster and comfier travel, you can always buy a ticket from the small planes of Fiji Air or Pacific Sun. If you don’t mind traveling in a small plane (this comes with dizzying turbulence, more often than not,) another good option is riding the Pacific Islands seaplane. A helicopter ride offered by the Island Hoppers cCmpany is also available, but it is the most expensive way to roam around Fiji’s beautiful islands.
Special Events
Discover the unique culture of Fiji by timing your trip with the republic’s colorful events and celebrations:
1) Holi, February/March
Holi is a flamboyant festivity celebrated by Hindus all throughout the republic. Similar to its Indian counterpart, the Fijian celebration of Holi involves the squirting of colored water and the frenzied ruckus that comes along with it.
2) Bula Festival, July
This week-long event features a variety of activities, such as themed nights, contests, parades, musical festivities, among many others.
3) Hibiscus Festival, August
The Hibiscus Festival, the mother of all festivals, is a time of merriment for all Fijians. Held annually in Suva’s Albert Park, this celebration is lined up with the Ms. Vodafone competition, Teen’s talent show, costume contests, awards, parades, and so much more.
4) Diwali, November
Although Hindu is not the prevailing religion in Fiji, almost all residents celebrate the Hindu Festival of Light with much delight and fervor. During this celebration, you can expect lighted candles – of course – and vibrant firework displays.
