Fiji
is full of surprising stories, rich island traditions and natural
wonders that many travellers overlook. These insights reveal a deeper
and more authentic side to the country before you discover it for
yourself.
Fiji is made up of more than 330 islands, but only around 100 are inhabited.
The traditional greeting “Bula” means life, health and happiness — not just hello.
Kava, a ceremonial drink made from plant roots, has calming properties and cultural importance.
Fiji lies on the International Date Line, but parts of it have shifted the line to stay in the same day.
Rugby is a national passion — Fiji’s sevens team is one of the world’s strongest.
Fiji was one of the first Pacific nations to establish a protected shark marine reserve.
The country pioneered community-based marine conservation practices now used worldwide.
Fiji’s sevens rugby team won the nation’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in 2016.
Traditional building techniques, such as bure construction, inspired sustainable architecture models.
It is customary to remove your hat in a village, as hats are traditionally worn by chiefs.
Visitors should not touch someone’s head — it’s considered sacred.
Modest dress is appreciated in rural areas outside resorts.
When entering a Fijian home, offering a friendly “Bula” is polite and expected.
Waisale Serevi is considered one of the greatest rugby sevens players in history.
Vijay Singh, born in Fiji, is a world-renowned professional golfer.
Lote Tuqiri and other Fijian athletes have become international sports icons.
Fijian traditional chiefs played significant roles in preserving Indigenous culture.
Fiji’s Coral Coast is famed for its lagoons and dramatic reef systems.
The Yasawa Islands are known for crystal-clear waters and volcanic landscapes.
Taveuni is called the “Garden Island” due to its lush rainforest and waterfalls.
The Great Sea Reef is one of the world’s longest barrier reefs.
Fijians are known for their warmth, generosity and strong community values.
Village life prioritises cooperation, respect and shared responsibility.
Music, dance and storytelling are central to social gatherings.
Meals often include root vegetables, coconuts and seafood.
Meke performances combine dance, chanting and storytelling.
Traditional ceremonies often involve kava preparation and sharing.
Craft traditions include weaving mats, baskets and fans.
Many Fijians speak English, Fijian and Hindi due to the country’s multicultural heritage.
Indigenous Fijian culture dates back thousands of years.
Fiji was a British colony until 1970, influencing its modern political and educational systems.
Early Lapita pottery found in Fiji reveals ancient Pacific migration patterns.
Traditional chiefly systems still hold cultural significance today.
Sabeto’s Mud Pools and Hot Springs are naturally heated volcanic pools.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves feature stunning limestone formations and turquoise water.
Bouma National Heritage Park protects rare rainforest ecosystems.
Beqa Island is known for the traditional firewalking ceremony.
Fiji has over 330 islands.
“Bula” carries deep cultural meaning beyond greeting.
Rugby sevens is a national treasure.
Kava ceremonies are central to cultural life.
Fiji straddles the International Date Line.
The Great Sea Reef is one of the world’s largest.
Taveuni is known as the “Garden Island.”
Beqa is famous for firewalking.
English, Fijian and Hindi are widely spoken.
Coral reefs support incredible marine biodiversity.
Traditional bure construction is eco-friendly.
Fijians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality.