Traveling to Fiji is an experience that promises to be unforgettable and planning a trip to Fiji can be a lot of fun. This beautiful island nation located in the South Pacific offers visitors a chance to indulge in stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and warm tropical weather. Fiji is famous for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Additionally, the country is home to a rich culture and tradition, with friendly locals who are always happy to welcome visitors.
Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or engage in adventurous activities like hiking, surfing, or kayaking, Fiji has something for everyone. With its idyllic scenery, mouth-watering cuisine, and laid-back atmosphere, Fiji is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an exotic and unforgettable experience. Read these mistakes to avoid when you are planning your trip to Fiji so that your trip is as wonderful as can be!
Mistakes to avoid when Planning a Trip to Fiji
Grab an Airfare Deal when you see it!
Prices can vary a lit when it comes to flying to Fiji. There is a new nonstop from Vancouver to Fiji that has made it a more attractive destination for Canadians. You can also fly from LA and New Zealand and Australia! If you see a great price, book it!
Not booking excursions in Advance
This does not have to be weeks in advance, but do not be like me and miss a free pickup / drop off because the shuttle is full for your excursion! Some of our favorite excursions are listed below!
Fijian Cultural Village: Explore what a traditional village looked like and the roles of the community. They offer pickup and dropoff in Denarau Island hotels, Nadi Airport area hotels, Wailolo area, and children 4 and under are free. Their show is impressive (the fire show is a hit of course) and the performers make it a lot of fun for everyone! BOOK ONLINE HERE
Day Cruise to Tivua Island: This was the absolute highlight for us. Despite the rainy weather on the way there, we saw baby reef sharks and rays right off-shore! The fish were everywhere! A snorkel dream! For families there is a kids club so the rest of the family can snorkel. Children 2 and under are free. There is also volleyball and kayaking and paddle boards! It includes an open bar and lunch and there is white sandy beach all over the island! BOOK ONLINE HERE
Choosing the Right Resort
There are several resorts that offer awesome amenities right on the main Island. We chose to stay close by to minimize more travel time. The Radisson Blu Fiji is close to the airport and has great pools and family amenities. The Hilton is also right next door! I love that they have kitchen and laundry options in a resort! It makes family travel so much easier!
Read About Public Transport
If you want to get a local vibe, read about public transport in Fiji. It is cheap and often near Nadi. You can have your hotel arrange car service for you all over the island, but it is a lot of fun to ride like a local for a day. If you are staying on Denarau Island there is a “Bula Bus” that goes all over the island as well as to the Marina. It is FJ10 per adult per day. Kids are FJ2. If you do not plan to hop on and off a lot, just take the local bus, it is FJ1.50 per trip (and they give change).
Not All Accommodations Have Elevators
We stayed in a 3 story walk-up while in Fiji. If you have mobility issues or are traveling to Fiji with a toddler or baby and do not want to be lugging it up stairs or even worse, waking a napping baby, try and arrange a ground-floor room to avoid the hassle of stairs.
Learn a Few Local Etiquette Expectations and Customs
Travelers should practice certain etiquette when visiting a Fijian village, which could be done in part through resort stays. Dress modestly; avoid having bare shoulders or wearing short shorts or short dresses.
Wearing a hat is seen as disrespectful. If entering a home or another building, remove your hat and your shoes.
You will hear “Bula” multiple times a day. It means “hello!” Get used to saying it. “Vinaka” means thank you. You will also hear that a lot.
Get in the Water
Plan to get in the water as much as possible! If you have your own snorkel gear that you love, bring it along so you can snorkel at your convenience. Fiji offers some of the best snorkelling I have ever seen in the world. You do not need to dive to see it!
Consider a trip to Nearby Islands and stay in an Overwater Bungalo
There are idyllic overwater bungalows you can book while in Fiji. If this is on your bucket list, definitely consider an overwater bungalow in Fiji! The Fiji Marriott is a great place to start your search for the perfect overwater bungalo!
I hope these mistakes to avoid when planning your trip to Fiji mean you have the perfect vacation!
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have young children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.