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Unspoiled white sand beaches, long hot days, fabulous coral
gardens and the friendliest hosts in the world, are just a few
of the things the Island nation of Fiji is famous for.
The spirit, culture and beauty of Fiji will captivate you. As a
final destination itself or as a stopover en-route to Australia
or New Zealand,
Fiji is the perfect antidote to the pressures of everyday life.
Nadi ,
on the main Island of Viti Levu is the international arrival
point for all visitors. Urban life on Viti Levu revolves around
the capitel Suva and Nadi. Between the two urban centers , the
Coral Coast
boasts miles of excellent beaches and stunning shorelines and is
dotted with some of the finest tropical retreats in the world.
Set among deep blue waters with fringing coral reefs, the
Mamanuca
Islands offer some of Fiji’s most outstanding natural beauty.
Home to more than a dozen resorts, their close proximity to Nadi
allows easy access by
boat, seaplane and helicopter.
Northeast of Nadi are the islands of Vanau Levu,
a volcanic unspoiled wilderness and a haven for hikers and birdwatchers and Taveuni,
around which small, unspoiled private island resorts are
clustered all are excellent for fishing, diving and relaxation.
Fiji can also be explored onboard a three to seven nights Fijian
Islands cruise and experience first hand the ancient Fijian
culture as your vessel travels to a different Island daily with
ample opportunity to visit the local villages.
It’s the diversity
of Fijian life, the islands; the mosques, temples, cathedrals and bures; indigenous potteries and heritage sites;
and the ancient villages that provide the visitor with an
unforgettable experience.
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Weather
Fiji enjoys an
ideal South Sea tropical climate and can get hot in the summer but seldom
reaches above 35°C (96°F). Winter temperatures range from 72-84°F. Trade winds
from the east southeast bring year long cooling breezes late afternoon and early
evening. Tropical rains fall December to March, coinciding with the hot summer
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Entry and Departure
Passports and Visas
A valid
passport for at least three months beyond the intended period of stay
and a ticket for return or onward travel is required. Entry visas are
granted on arrival for a stay of up to 4 months for US citizens.
Customs
There are
strict laws prohibiting or restricting the entry of drugs, steroids,
weapons, firearms, protected wildlife and associated products. If you
are unsure about anything declare it to Customs upon arrival.
Tax Free/ Duty Free
Visitors
of 17 years or more may bring the following goods into Fiji, duty and
VAT free, provided they are accompanied and are not for sale:
Alcohol -
2 liters of alcohol liquor, or 4 liters of wine, or 4 liters of beer, or
any combination that does not exceed the prescribed limit for any one
item.
Tobacco
products - 500 cigarettes, or any combination of tobacco products up to
500 grams net weight.
Departure tax
Visitors
to Fiji are required to pay FJ$30.00 departure tax following check-in.
Children under 12 are exempt. This tax is not included in the cost of
your ticket.
Practical Information
Language
Almost everyone in
Fiji speaks English - as it is the official language, but the Fijian
language is preserved and widely spoken in many different dialects.
Almost everyone is bilingual and many Fijian terms are included in
everyday English usage.
Time Differences
Fiji
is +17 EST/+14PST and currently does not operate daylight saving at this
time.
Currency & Banking
The Fijian
dollar is the basic unit of currency, available in denominations of $2,
$5, $10, $20, $50. Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c and $1. There is no
limit to the amount of money to be brought in. Visitors are allowed to
take out currency up to the amount imported.
Most
airports, banks and large hotels have facilities for changing foreign
currency and travelers’ checks (commissions and fees may be charged) A
passport is usually adequate for identification.
If your
credit card is encoded with a pin, you may be able to withdraw cash from
ATMs situated at banks and shopping centers. Check with your bank for
details of where your cards will be accepted.
Major
credit cards are welcomed by most hotels, restaurants, shops, rental car
agencies, tours, cruises and travel agents. American Express, Diners
Club, Visa, JCB International and MasterCard, are represented in Suva.
Taxes
No
taxes apply to visitors
Tipping
Tipping is not
encouraged in Fiji and it is left to the individual to determine whether
to make a gratuity. In lieu of daily tipping, some resorts operate a
staff Christmas fund where "tips" are shared.
Electricity
240 volts,
50 Hz, 3 pin plugs. Fiji has three pin power outlets identical to
Australia and New Zealand. If your applications are 110v check for a
110/240v switch; if there is none you will need a voltage converter.
Leading hotels and resorts offer universal outlets for 240v or 110v
shavers, hair dryers, etc.
Health & Safety
Insurance
Before
your visit you should arrange sufficient medical and travel insurance.
Ensure the policy is adequate to cover costs for ambulance or helicopter
rescue, emergency surgery, or transportation home. We offer
comprehensive travel insurance policies to cover every eventuality – ask
your Aspire Down Under consultant for more details.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are not required unless you have come from, or visited a
yellow fever infected country or zone within six days before arrival. No
other health certificate is required to enter Fiji.
Water
Fresh
water reticulated in Nadi, Suva, Lautoka and other major towns has been
treated and is safe to drink from the tap. Bottled water is also widely
available.
Weather Safety
The
sun can be strong all year round, be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.
Driving in Fiji
Visitors in Fiji
may drive if in possession of a valid US driving license for the same
class of vehicle. The maximum speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h
(30 mph) and on the highways it is 80 km/h (50 mph). Driving is on the
left side of the road.
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