Fiji Time Article
Information about Traveling to Fiji
Before going on an overseas vacation, it is a good idea to know some basic facts about the city or country you will be staying in, just so it isn’t so obvious that you are a tourist. In this article, we will cover a few brief facts about Fiji, so that you will be better prepared when you travel there on your vacation, wedding, honeymoon or surfing safari. It is also advisable to check government websites for travel advisories.
Fiji is a tropical island, located in the massive South Pacific Ocean, approximately 4 hours flight from Sydney, Australia. Fiji is made up of many smaller islands, altogether covering more than one-million miles of land. A flight to Nadi, Fiji from Los Angeles is approx. 10 hours 40 minutes.
Like many other nations, Fiji was completely ruled by the British, until it gained its freedom in the 1970. Fiji adopted a constitutional democratic form of government. Democratic rule has been interrupted on several occasions following a coup. On December 5, 2006 Commodore Bainimarama took control of the country. The military activity has on each occasion had a serious impact on the tourism industry in Fiji.
The population of Fiji is around 854,000. The biggest city in Fiji is the capital, and is also located on the biggest island. The capital, Suva, is found on the island of Viti Levu, which is where the majority of the people in the country live. The other main population center is Nadi. The larger islands of Fiji are well known for their volcanic activity, as well as the beautiful coral reefs and mountains that make up the vast landscape.
Many tourists are drawn to Fiji each year for its lovely tropical climate. Fiji is a very popular destination for Australians as it is an ideal holiday destination for families or singles. People who live in areas that turn cold in winter love to take refuge in Fiji. It is an ideal destination to take a break from the cold weather, sleet, freezing rain, and snow so common, particularly in the northern areas of the world. Fiji has beautiful sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, mountains and heavy forestlands, so you have plenty of options. These include horse riding on a beach, snorkelling or taking a cruise.
Many different races and ethnicities inhabited Fiji. The Melanesian population is the most widespread. There are also many people of Indian descent, who came to the island as workers when the area was under British control. Indians do run the majority of the big sugar plantations found all over Fiji, but under current rule, are not permitted to own any land in the country at this time. English is the official language in Fiji, but many localsspeak their own Fijian language. Bula, which can be used both as a greeting and farewell, is one word you will hear many times. Most of the population believes in the Methodist religion, while there are some Hindus, Muslims, etc.
Fiji’s economy depends on agricultural goods and tourism. They grow and export sugarcane, ginger, and coconut to other areas of the world. For their native people, they grow rice, cassava, and sweet potatoes, which are staples of the Fijian diet. When I have visited Fiji I have very much enjoyed the tropical fruit. Fiji's main trading partners are the US, Australia, United Kingdom, Singapore and New Zealand.
Tourists bring a lot of money to the area, as Fiji is a very popular island destination for many travelers each year. Many people get married here, have their honeymoons here, celebrate their anniversaries or renew their vows here, or just come here to get away from the stress and responsibilities of their everyday lives. Tourists pay good money to stay in Fiji’s luxury hotels and resorts, and of course, have to shop for souvenirs and local goodies as well, which also boosts the Fijian economy.
On 17 April 2007 the US dollar is worth approx 1.6 Fijian dollars. You can check the latest rate at xe.com's currency converter.