Travelling tips to Fiji
/Well, this is that awkward moment, when I tell you why this is coming as a blog rather than a video. The answer is life happened. Everything has been here, there and everywhere that the weeks have been passing by and I haven't had a minute spare to sit down and film a video. Regardless, I hope this blog proves to be useful to you, if you are planning to head to Fiji.
Tip #1: Choose your resort wisely
Fiji is an island destination, with resorts situated throughout the islands. My tip to you would be to do your research on the islands in Fiji. You'd most likely want to stay in Denarau, but don't take my word for it. Whilst, yes, Fiji is mostly perceived as a honeymoon destination given the style of resorts there are, this is not necessarily true. It can be a family destination too. Hence, plan out whom you're going on the trip with - is it your family, your partner, a group of friends etc. Based on that figure out your likes and dislikes. Then have a look at all of the resorts available throughout the island. Research the activities available, the dining options and so on. Your choice of resort will play a big role in deciding whether you like Fiji as a destination or not. The reason I say this is because I stayed at the Westin. There weren't a lot of activities to do here and the food was very average. I spent a lot of time in the pool but would have loved the opportunity of having to do more. So, make sure you have a look at the islands and what its surroundings are like, especially if you like to walk around to get a feel for the place.
Tip #2: Money
Fiji is expensive. Be prepared when you go there. It's expensive throughout the island. Whether it's food or drinks or whatever else you intend on buying. It's very expensive and unreasonable. But you to keep in mind that tourism is probably one of their highest sources of income and they try to bank on it as much as possible. So be very prepared as buying a glass of juice for $8FJD is quite normal.
Tip #: Mosquito Repellent
Fiji is infested with mosquitos. Don't wait till you get there to buy a mosquito repellent, carry one with you wherever you're travelling from. Usually, they recommend you spray mosquito repellent on yourself if you're doing a tour that takes you out to the forest or involves high damp areas but in Fiji it's best you spray yourself with mosquito repellent wherever you go.
Tip #4: Water
If you live in a country where drinking tap water is the norm, please note that the water in Fiji is not treated. When you're at a restaurant, make sure you ask for bottled Fiji water. Whilst bottled Fiji water is relatively expensive across the world, it's not that expensive in Fiji. If you're staying at a hostel or an AirBnB make sure you stock up with enough bottles of water.
Tip #5 Booking tours
Prior to going to Fiji, I would try and search for information on things to do on TripAdvisor. This has usually worked well for me in the past, this time I struggled with finding information on Fiji. The best thing to do would be to book tours once you're there. If you're staying at a hotel, there will be a tour desk available with more information on what to do and where to go and they can book tours on your behalf. However, if you're staying at an AirBnB, I'm not sure what the best thing for you to do is. You always have the option of marking a few tours that take your fancy on TripAdvisor and then calling them once you're in Fiji or taking suggestions from friends. Otherwise, go to the closest hotel to your accommodation and book it through there.
Fiji is one of those destinations where, the more information you gather before your first trip, the better. If you have been to Fiji before, feel free to leave your tips below or perhaps add to the tips listed here.
Until next time,
MiliG