Fiji Island hop
Island hop through this tropical paradise in the South Pacific Ocean.
It’s only when you step on a white sandy beach under a row of swaying palm trees, with warm clear water breaking quietly in the background, that you realise that all those postcard pictures of Fiji are true to life. Fiji is a tropical paradise that has a big beach culture, catering for those looking for adventure as well as for those wanting to simply kick back.
Fiji is comprised of hundreds of islands 333 of them to be exact with the two main islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, holding much of the country's population. The country's harbour capital, Suva, offers a place for travellers to replenish their backpacks before heading out for an island adventure.
The Fijian people are warm-hearted and friendly. Fiji is thought of as one of the happiest nations in the world, and the tight-knit communities and family-focused outlook make for a warm welcome wherever you go. Once you've adapted yourself to 'Fiji time a concept that represents a laid-back approach to getting things done, life in Fiji becomes somewhat therapeutic and dreamy.
From the main airport in Nadi, catch a flight to Taveuni, the Garden Island, to find secluded sandy beaches, hidden waterfalls and incredible forests. The best way to explore beaches and islands is by kayak, and there are plenty of places offering them up for hire. It’s entirely possible to paddle out and find empty islands to enjoy all to yourself. Taveuni has a meeting point where the international date line cuts through Fiji separating today and yesterday. Why not hire a tent to camp out on a beach and wake up to the waves breaking on the shore every morning?
For the more adventurous travellers, head out on an unforgettable snorkelling tour to get up-close and personal with sharks and other marine life in the clear waters off Fiji's Kuata Island. Alternatively, try your hand at underwater scootering, or dive down to a sunken wreck with certified divers taking the lead. Visit the beautiful Malamala Beach Club, located on its own island, to enjoy beachside cocktails and pristine waters to snorkel in. Islands such as Mana and Navini are the perfect locations to get away from it all, where you can stay for just one night before heading onto the next island.
When you’re not bathing in the warm ocean waters, pay a visit to the multi-coloured Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, a sacred Hindu site located in Nadi. It’s well worth booking a tour to visit local villages and learn about the Fijian culture and way of life, and also about lovo the way that food is prepared in banana leaves and then cooked over hot rocks underground. This is usually followed by a ceremony called meke, a tradition that encompasses storytelling through song and dance. Whether it’s a relaxing cruise to numerous beaches, a scuba-diving experience or kayaking with friends across clear waters, Fiji is a place that shouldn’t get left out.