Bula my friends! Are you looking for the perfect escape? We can take you there. Picture paradise and you’ll probably picture Fiji. Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover or someone who is looking to immerse themselves into a unique culture, this tropical oasis has it all. Basically it’s for anyone who likes bliss, don’t tell me that’s not you.
Warning: Going back to your day job not guaranteed.
Don’t believe us? Here are 6 reasons why you need to pack your bags and escape now…
The Islands
With over 333 white sandy islands to choose from you’ve got your pick of paradise! The Yasawa Islands are the ones to head to, 20 white isles of pure heaven. Kick start your Fijian trip in the south on the party island Beachcomber in the Mamanuca Islands, with cocktails, beaches and buzzing bars – it’s a backpacker’s mecca. You’ll be able to nurse your hangover under the lush palm trees all day. Want to escape the crowds? Head north to Nacula Island to refuel your vitamin D with some quality hammock time. The waters are crystal clear, the sunsets to die for – could this sound any more relaxing?
The Culture
It’s not all beaches, Fiji is rich with culture where you can immerse yourself into a traditional Fijian village. You’ll learn all about the local customs, culture and beliefs. Definitely take part in a Kava ceremony, no not a Spanish sparkling wine booze up. Kava is made from mixing together the powdered root of a pepper plant with water. When visiting a Fijian village you will find yourself taking part in a Kava ceremony as a mark of respect. Let’s just say it’s an acquired taste, but when in Fiji!
Cultural FYI – Leave your shoes by the door, bring your Kava root and don’t touch anyone’s head!
The Giant
Image: laurenceourac.com
Ssssh don’t wake the sleeping giant! Get close to nature and spend the day wandering along the canopy-covered boardwalk in the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Situated on Fiji’s main island, between Nadi and Lutoka, the garden has the largest, most magnificent orchid collection with over 2,000 varieties of stunning Asian orchids. You won’t believe it until you see it. If you’re getting a bit sick of beaches (is that even possible?), this makes for a refreshing break away from the sand and interesting insight into Fiji island. It’s not just about the white sandy beaches.
The Sea
“Life is better under the sea” the Little Mermaid taught us that. She probably lived in Fiji. Also known as the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World’, it is home to over 4,000 square miles of coral reef – it’s an underwater playground! Jump in and take a dip with over 1,000 species of fish from manta rays to turtles. But for the adrenaline junkies out there, you can dive with Grey Reef sharks at the Beqa Lagoon – watch them swim gracefully around mysterious shipwrecks and check out the brave Fijian divers HAND feeding them. Madness.
The Temple
Image: Instagram @txroxyq
This towering, brightly decorated Hindu temple is situated on Fiji’s main island and is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Sru Suva Subramaniya is decorated in traditional Dravidian architecture, one of only few places outside of India. This is the perfect stop for those of you who want to see the diverse cultural and architectural side to Fiji. The beautiful Hindu engravings are made from sandstone, soapstone and granite. You won’t see anything like it!
Top Tip: Visit the temple in January or April to see the Karthingai Puja and Panguni Thiru-naal festivals at the same time!
The Food
Fiji is all about relaxing, drinking and eating, lots of eating – any excuse! It may not be as well known for its delicious food, but it should be. Most Fijian cuisine is made up of taros (a root veggie), bananas, leafy vegetables, rice, coconut, fish and sweet potatoes – yum! Due to modern day integration, a distinctive style of “Fijian – Indo” cuisine has emerged, adding a touch of spice to traditional dishes. Try a Kokoda dish, made up of raw mahi-mahi fish cooked in a dressing made up of coconut cream, onions, lime juice, salt and chillies, served in a coconut shell. Bula!
Top Tip: Wash your Kokoda down with Fiji Bitter – a refreshing beer brewed in Suva.