Five Fun Facts About Fiji

1)  Fiji is an archipelago

Fiji is an archipelago consisting of 333 islands with pristine white sandy beaches, tropical lagoons and beautiful underwater soft corals.

2)  Fiji's two main islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu

Fiji's two main islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.  Viti Levu is the mainland on which Nadi (pronounced nandi), one of Fiji's major cities and home to the international airport, is located.

3)  Fiji is known as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World"

Fiji is known as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World".  Named after the famous Captain Bligh of The Bounty, Bligh Water is the stretch of sea that separates Fiji's two main islands: Vanua Levu and Viti Levu.  Here is only one location in Fijian seas where currents provide nutrient-rich waters, feeding an abundance of soft corals in a stunning array of colors.

4)  Kava is the national drink of Fiji

Kava is the national drink of Fiji.  Perhaps nothing reflects the Fijians’ reverence for tradition like yaqona (kava) drinking.  Made from the pulverised root of a plant in the pepper family, this muddy-colored drink has a tingling numbing effect on the tongue.  In Fiji, yaqona drinking was and is the social cement that bonds society.

5)  Fiji actually has three official languages

Fiji actually has three official languages: Fijian, Hindi & English, but English is widely spoken throughout, so no worries.  Here are a few key words & sayings:

English                Fijian (pronunciation)
Good Morning      Ni Sa Yadra (ni sah yan dra)
Hello                   Bula (mbula)
Goodbye              Ni Sa Moce (nee sa mothey)
Thank You            Vinaka (vinahka)
Great Fiji             Viti Levu  (vee tee le voo)
Great Land           Vanua Levu  (va noo a le voo)

Fijian Village Etiquette:

Please remember when traveling to the Fijian islands to dress modestly when visiting outside of your resort.  For the ladies, do not wear shorts and make sure to cover your shoulders in some manner (no halter or bikini tops).  It is always handy to carry a sulu (sarong) with you to cover up.  Please do not wear hats or touch anyone's head.  These things are taken as a sign of disrespect.  And please speak softly as raised voices are interpreted as a sign of anger.  Fijians are known as some of the friendliest people in the world.  Respect for the Fijian customs and traditions will add a satisfying dimension to your visit and make you a welcome guest in their villages and homes.

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