It's not that you can't afford the Maldives, but this place offers better value for money!
1. Pre-Trip Preparation
1. Visa
- Chinese citizens holding a passport valid for more than 6 months can enter Fiji visa-free for up to 30 days (for tourism purposes).
- It is recommended to print your round-trip tickets and hotel booking confirmations in advance for inspection.
2. Best Travel Time
- Dry Season (May-October): Cool and less rainy, best for travel, peak season requires early booking.
- Wet Season (November-April): Hot and rainy with occasional tropical cyclones, but hotel prices are lower.
3. Currency and Expenses
- Currency: Fijian Dollar (FJD), 1 FJD ≈ 3.1 RMB (exchange rate fluctuates).
- Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but cash is needed on small islands and markets.
- Prices are relatively high; a meal at an ordinary restaurant costs about 20-50 FJD, more expensive at high-end hotels.
4. Language
- Official languages are English, Fijian, and Hindi; English is commonly used in tourist areas.
5. Other Essentials
- Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, snorkeling gear (can be rented locally), waterproof phone pouch.
- Power adapter (Fiji uses three-prong flat plugs, voltage 240V).
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2. Popular Island Recommendations
Fiji consists of over 300 islands, mainly divided into the main island Viti Levu and the outer islands.
1. Main Island Viti Levu
- Nadi: Location of the international airport, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple.
- Denarau Island: Concentration of luxury resorts, family-friendly, with golf courses and a marina (for island hopping).
- Coral Coast: Best beaches on the main island, recommended visits include Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and Kula Wild Adventure Park.
2. Outer Islands (Must-Visit!)
- Mamanuca Islands: Closest to the main island, ideal for short island hopping, recommended spots include Malolo Island and Cloud 9 Floating Bar.
- Yasawa Islands: Pristine charm, suitable for backpackers, featuring Blue Lagoon and cave exploration.
- Taveuni Island: Known as the "Garden Island of Fiji," famous for waterfalls, rainforests, and diving (Rainbow Reef).
- Kadavu Islands: A niche diving destination with the Great Astrolabe Reef.
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3. Experiences Not to Miss
1. Snorkeling and Diving
- Recommended spots: Mamanuca Islands, Rainbow Reef (Taveuni), Great Astrolabe Reef (Kadavu).
- See coral, sharks, manta rays, and from July to September, you might swim with whale sharks.
2. Cultural Experiences
- Village Visits: Participate in the Kava Ceremony, observe etiquette (such as removing hats and speaking softly).
- Fire Dance Performances: Many resorts hold traditional Meke song and dance shows in the evening.
3. Water Activities
- Cloud 9 Floating Bar (Mamanuca Islands): A floating bar where you can dive and enjoy cocktails.
- Castaway Island Day Trip: Filming location of "Cast Away."
4. Nature Adventures
- Bouma Falls on Taveuni Island.
- Sigatoka River rafting.
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4. Transportation Guide
1. Inter-Island Transport
- Ferry: From the main island to Mamanuca/Yasawa Islands (operated by South Sea Cruises), journey takes 1-4 hours.
- Seaplane/Helicopter: Fast but expensive (e.g., Pacific Island Air).
- Speedboat: Some resorts offer shuttle services.
2. Main Island Transport
- Taxi: Metered fare, about 25 FJD from Nadi Airport to Denarau.
- Bus: Cheap but infrequent, suitable for budget travelers.
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5. Accommodation Recommendations
- Luxury Resorts: Likuliku Lagoon Resort (overwater bungalows), Tokoriki Island Resort.
- Family-Friendly: Sheraton Fiji or Sofitel Fiji on Denarau Island.
- Backpackers: Beachhouse (Coral Coast), Blue Lagoon Beach Resort (Yasawa Islands).
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6. Important Notes
1. Safety
- Fiji is generally safe, but avoid walking alone in remote areas at night.
- Be cautious of tides and coral cuts during water activities.
2. Customs
- Avoid wearing hats or touching children’s heads when entering villages.
- When accepting Kava, clap once before drinking and three times after finishing.
3. Environmental Protection
- It is forbidden to take coral or shells out of the country; avoid using harmful sunscreens.
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7. Itinerary Suggestions
- Classic 5-7 days: Main island (2 days) + Mamanuca/Yasawa island hopping (3-4 days).
- In-depth 10 days: Main island + Taveuni/Kadavu (diving) + cultural experiences.
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Fiji is famous for "Fiji Time," where locals live at a slow pace. It is recommended to slow down and enjoy the island time! 🌴🐠