Learn
the essential Fiji travel do’s and don’ts before your trip. From
cultural etiquette and local customs to safety and communication
tips, discover how to travel respectfully and confidently across
Fiji’s islands.
• Greet locals with “Bula!”. It’s more than hello — it reflects warmth and friendliness at the heart of Fijian culture.
• Remove your hat in villages. Wearing hats is considered disrespectful, especially around elders.
• Dress modestly in rural areas. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or travelling outside resorts.
• Bring a small gift when visiting homes or villages. Kava root or simple sweets are appreciated gestures.
• Ask permission before taking photos. Especially in villages or sacred areas.
• Accept the kava bowl politely. Clap once, say “Bula!”, drink, then clap again to show respect.
• Show respect to elders and chiefs. Sitting slightly lower or bowing your head is courteous.
• Use both hands when giving or receiving items. This shows sincerity and respect.
• Learn a few Fijian phrases. “Vinaka” (thank you) goes a long way.
• Enjoy local food and traditions. Participation shows appreciation for Fijian hospitality.
• Don’t wear shoes indoors. Remove them before entering homes or community buildings.
• Don’t touch someone’s head. It’s considered sacred.
• Don’t raise your voice or show anger publicly. Calm, polite behaviour is deeply valued.
• Don’t wear revealing clothing in villages. Swimwear is for beaches and resorts only.
• Don’t refuse kava when offered. Even a small sip is polite; refusal may seem rude.
• Don’t walk through villages wearing sunglasses or hats. This can appear arrogant.
• Don’t show excessive public affection. It’s frowned upon in traditional areas.
• Don’t point directly at people. Use your chin or an open hand instead.
• Don’t enter a village or chief’s house uninvited. Always wait to be welcomed.
• Don’t expect strict punctuality. Embrace “Fiji time,” where life moves at a gentler pace.
• Respect the chiefly system. Local leadership structures command strong respect.
• Sunday is a sacred rest day. Church attendance is common and many businesses close.
• Kava ceremonies are important. Follow your host’s lead at all times.
• Seating customs may differ. Men and women sometimes sit separately in rural settings.
• Religion is central to daily life. Show respect during prayers or services.
• Music and dance tell stories. Joining in when invited is considered an honour.
• Modesty and humility are admired. Confidence is best shown gently.
• Hospitality is heartfelt. Accept offers with gratitude, however small.
• Community comes first. Sharing and cooperation are core values.
• Family bonds are strong. Multi-generational households are common.
• Carry cash for remote islands. ATMs are limited outside major towns.
• Book domestic transfers early. Ferries and flights fill quickly in peak season.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen. Protect Fiji’s coral ecosystems.
• Wear light, breathable clothing. Tropical heat and humidity are constant.
• Use mosquito repellent. Especially during the wet season (November–April).
• Avoid tap water in rural areas. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Get travel insurance. Essential for diving or adventure sports.
• Stay hydrated. Heat can dehydrate quickly.
• Download offline maps. Connectivity drops on remote islands.
• Respect private beaches and resorts. Always ask before entering.
• Embrace “Fiji time.” Slowing down enhances the experience.
• Consider a homestay. It offers genuine cultural immersion.
• Ask resort staff about village visits. They often know trusted local hosts.
• Sunsets on the west coast are spectacular. Nadi and the Mamanuca Islands shine.
• Try kokoda fresh in villages. Fijian ceviche is at its best locally.
• Use public buses. Cheap, scenic and sociable.
• Skip global chains. Local markets and beach cafés serve better food.
• Visit during festivals. Hibiscus or Bula Festival offer rich cultural insight.
• Carry small change. Useful for markets, tips and community stops.
• Humour connects people. Laughter builds instant rapport.
• Fiji is generally safe. Petty theft can occur — use hotel safes.
• Avoid isolated beaches at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas.
• Use licensed taxis only. Look for official permits.
• Drugs are illegal. Penalties are strict.
• Do not touch or stand on coral. It’s fragile and protected.
• Respect marine life. Never harass turtles or fish.
• Monitor cyclone season. November–April requires awareness.
• Watch ocean conditions. Swim in lifeguarded areas where possible.
• Drive carefully in rural areas. Roads may lack lighting.
• Carry travel insurance. Especially important for remote island evacuation.
• “Bula” works everywhere. Use it often and warmly.
• Speak slowly and clearly. English is common but not always a first language.
• Use “Vinaka.” It shows appreciation and respect.
• Don’t rush conversations. Patience is valued.
• Keep a gentle tone. Assertiveness is less effective than warmth.
• Humour is welcome. Avoid sarcasm.
• Friendly eye contact is good. Avoid intense staring.
• Wait until everyone is served before eating. It’s respectful.
• Learn people’s names. Personal connection matters.
• Smile. It’s the universal language in Fiji.