i

FIJI

FLIGHT CENTRETRAVEL GUiDE SERiES

FIJITRAVEL GUiDE

ii

SUVA

KADAVU

NADI

YASAWA

TAVARUA

MAMANUCA

THE GREAT ASTROLABE REEF

VITI LEVU

VANUA LEVU

001

Pristine and postcard perfect, the Fiji Islands are made up of one thousand miles of unspoiled white sand beaches, fabulous coral gardens and azure lagoons. In total there are 333 islands, and many are uninhabited. Think wide smiles, soothing melodies on string guitars, romantic dinners by lantern light, world class snorkelling and diving, or simply snoozing away the afternoon in a hammock.

Before you know it, you’ve slowed down a notch or two, are hollering “Bula” back to friendly passersby and have adopted the locals approach to life ‘Fiji time’ when things don’t quite go as planned. So leave your watch behind, tuck a frangipani behind your ear (right side if you’re married, left if unattached), and submit to the lure of the Pacific.

INTRODUCTIONFIJI 001

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, such information, however, is subject to change. The publisher shall not be responsible for any errors or omissions. The publisher will not accept any responsibility or liability for an inaccuracy thereof. All materials copyright to Flight Centre Hong Kong. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, either electronically or conventionally, without the written permission from Flight Centre Hong Kong is strictly prohibited.

002 FIJITRAVEL GUiDE

The essentials:

• Country: Fiji• Currency: Fijian dollar (FJD)• Offical Language: English, Fijian, Fiji Hindi• Tipping: Voluntary• Electricity: Fijian outlets run on 230 volts and use a Type I plug

Fly to Fiji with Flight Centre

Are you dreaming of a tropical island getaway but think it’s too good to be true? Think again! Travel with Fiji Airways and before you know it you could be unwinding to the sound of the rolling surf. If you’re working on the go, consider upgrading your airfares to Fiji Airways’ Tabua Class.

Fiji Airways flies from Hong Kong to Nadi on the main island of Viti Levu. It’s a 25-minute taxi ride from Nadi International Airport to Denarau, Nadi’s main resort area. From here you can also transfer to the outer islands in the Mamanuca’s or the Yasawas by boat.

003FIJI

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

004

005

All Fiji holidays begin on the main island Viti Levu (Big Viti) (b), the jumping off point for the outer islands, and here you’ll find a huge range of hotels and resorts. South of Nadi, is the Coral Coast, which wraps around the southwestern corner of Viti Levu’s coastline, offering one of the largest fringing coral reefs in the world.

Many travellers make a beeline for the famous Mamanuca group of islands, which boast a string of tropical resorts on 14 of its islands, as well as local villages and several of its own deserted islands. Among the first islands to be developed for tourism, the Mamanucas hold a special place in the heart of many Aussie travellers.

FIJIWHERE TO STAY

Where to StayOverview

a

b c d e

006 FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

Our top picks

Outrigger on the LagoonQueens Road, Sigatoka (b)

Luxurious and reminiscent of a Fijian village, this beachfront resort offers beautiful suites and bures, an expansive outdoor pool, indulgent hilltop day spa and a tantaliizing array of dining options, from award-winning restaurants to pool-side cafes.

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau IslandDenarau Island (a)

A destination in itself, this tropical para-dise spoils with stylish suites and a host of unrivalled facilities, such as an 18-hole golf course, five lagoon pools, a kids’ club, luxurious day spa and a collection of diverse restaurants including an ‘in the water’ dining experience.

Tokoriki Island ResortTokoriki Island (d)

Luxurious and boutique, this heavenly resort boasts gorgeous beachfront bures with outdoor showers, canopy beds and sun-drenched balconies, all with pan-oramic ocean views and some with plunge pools, as well as a tranquil day spa, infinity pool and exquisite dining choices.

Mana Island Resort & SpaMana Island (c)

Nestled on a pristine beach, this beautiful oasis features a range of accommodation options and treats guests to a relaxing day spa, two swimming pools, a choice of sumptuous dining venues plus a kids’ club and a variety of water sports and cultural activities.

Plantation Island ResortMalolo Lailai Island (e)

Overlooking crystal-clear lagoon waters, this relaxed resort has comfortable guest rooms with garden, pool or beach vistas, four restaurants and bars, a day spa, kids club plus a medley of water and sporting activities on offer.

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island

Plantation Island Resort

Outrigger on the Lagoon

Tokoriki Island Resort

a

b

c

d

007WHERE TO STAY

e

hf

g

For a secluded stay try...

• Yasawa Island Resort (h) – just 18 bures• The Wayaka Club (g) – popular with celebrities• Vomo Island (f) – a range of villas

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

008

009

There was a time when Fiji’s food scene didn’t rate with travellers. Today it has had a much-needed makeover. If you’re staying in and around Nadi or Suva, there are plenty of terrific dining options. In the outer islands, you are restricted to meals served at the resort you’re staying at, unless there are other hotels or restaurants nearby (or you have access to a boat). Be sure and try Fijian specialties such as the tangy Kokoda (fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and coconut cream) and a traditional lovo cooked in the ground.

FIJIEAT & DRINK

Share the culture with your taste buds by…

• Drinking Kava (a) : a natural sedative• Eating taro leaves with coconut cream• Trying raw fish with coconut

Eat and Drink Overview

a

b c

Kava , Lomani Island Resort

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

010

Flying Fish Fiji: Sheraton Fiji Resort, Denarau Island (c) (e)

The Pacific outpost of celebrity chef Peter Kuruvita’s famed Pyrmont restaurant is one of the best places on the island to try local seafood. Book a beach table, and tuck into seared yellowfin tuna with sweet crackling pork and ruby grapefruit or lightly seasoned school prawns tickled with salt, pepper and paprika, with your toes in the sand. The Sri Lankan chef has also opened another Flying Fish at the Sheraton Resort and Spa, Tokoriki.

Navo / InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa

Flying Fish Fiji / Sheraton Fiji Resort

a

b

d

ec

Our top picks

Navo: InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa, Natadola Bay (a) (b)

A romantic cabana dinner at the resort’s signature Navo restaurant, where the beach meets the lagoon is a superlative Pacific experience. The menu is a celebration of fresh, local seafood, served with a tropical twist. Consistently being voted as one of the best restaurant in Fiji, the award-winning restaurant offers a great dining experience. Dine on mud crab dim sum and lobster kokoda as you sip on a decadent papaya martini under the stars.

011

Fire dancing / Jose Gil / Shutterstock.com

Sofitel Resort and Spa

Governors: 46-50 Knolly Street

Eat like a local

Sofitel Resort and Spa, Denarau Island (f)

Don’t miss the Sofitel Resort and Spa’s renowned lovo nights where you can experi-ence traditional Fijian dancing and indulge in a delicious feast of meat, seafood and vegetables prepared and cooked the Fijian way.(g) Fire dancing(h) on the beach, traditionally prepared dishes, and kava drinking are all part of the experience.

Nadina: Port Denarau Marina, Denarau Island

Nadina serves authentic traditional Fijian food with a beautiful view overlooking the bobbing boats of Denarau Marina. Big portions of tradi-tionally prepared iTaukei (Fijian) cuisine are served, packed with flavour. Be sure and try the seafood Kovu served in a banana leaf.

f

g

j

h

i

FIJIEAT & DRINK

Governors: 46-50 Knolly Street, Suva (i) ( j)

Revisit the old world charm of the South Pacific at the former residence of a Fijian high chief. Inside the restored colonial estate are white vaulted ceilings, framed vintage photos and posters of movies filmed in Fiji, while old copies of the Fijian Times serve as placements. Try Fiji’s signature dish, kokoda, stuffed crab back and enjoy a cool cocktail on the shady verandah. After lunch browse the rustic furniture and chic fashion boutique that are parts of this upmarket concept store.

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

012

a

013

Spoil that special someone with…

• Day cruises to secluded islands • Couples treatments at Frangipani Spa • Mystery flights to exotic destinations

FIJISHOPPING

Let’s face it, Fiji is paradise but not the retail therapy kind. This isn’t the place to head for a shopping fix involving large retail centres, malls, or outlets. Having said that, you can still have lots of fun shopping for locally made arts and crafts, black pearls (d) grown in the warm waters of Savusavu Bay, locally harvested coconut oil (c) (great for massage, dry skin and cooking) and divine Pure Fiji products.

There are souvenirs to be had at every turn, including pretty shell necklaces, bracelets and beauti-fully woven baskets. At local markets you can pick up carved kava bowls, war clubs, woven mats, pottery (b) and beautiful masi or tapa cloth(a) . Plus you get to interact directly with the makers.

ShoppingOverview

b

c d

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

014

OUR TOP 10 FIJI ATTRACTIONS »

015

Overview

Fiji serves up a fine concoction of things to do, most of which make this a water-lovers’ haven. If you go a little out of your way, you’ll be rewarded with coral gardens, manta rays and turtles when you dive the Great Astrolabe Reef off the tiny southern island of Kadavu.

Keen surfers should head to the Mamanuca islands for waves of legend. The permanent six-metre wave ‘Cloudbreak’ off the coast of Tavarua is described by surf champion Kelly Slater as one of the most perfect waves he’s ever surfed.

The Yasawa and Turtle Islands are cited as having some of the best beaches in the region, while the shores of the Mamanucas are known for their starring roles in major Hollywood films includ-ing Cast Away, and the hit TV show, Survivor.

Tap into your adventurous spirit with…

• Surfing or kite-surfing lessons• Snorkelling in the Beqa Lagoon Reef • Inland quad bike tours

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

016

a

b

c

1. Great Astrolabe Reef

Located off the island of Kadavu, this spectacular barrier reef is over 100 kilometres in length and rated as one of the world’s great diving locations. Those who make the trip will see stunning coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs and a kalei-doscope of colourful marine life.

Deep in the ocean and away from shorelines, the 4th largest barrier reef in the world is divers’ paradise. Not only you can see a great variety of pristine hard coral and soft coral in vibrant colours, you may also encounter marine life including manta rays, reef fish, starfish and many more. Just within an easy boat ride, you can explore the coral garden by leisure.

017FIJITOP ATTRACTIONS

d

2. Fiji Mud Baths

Variously known as the Sabeto Hot Springs or Sabeto Mud Baths, this activity is one way to immerse yourself into the Fi-jian way of life! Located halfway between the major cities of Nadi and Lautoka on the main island of Viti Levu, the Fijian mud baths are a must-do holiday experience.

A naturally occurring phenomena, the warmth of the geothermal springs comes from a volcanic source with the unmistak-able odour of sulphur which is thought to convey therapeutic properties. The mud spa ritual goes like this...enter the thick muddy pool and relax, hop out and allow the mud to dry, jump back into the muddy bath and relax some more, then pop into the clear thermal spring waters and clean up. The site is popular with locals and visitors alike and a chance for some, err, good clean fun!

018 FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

3. Garden of the Sleeping Giant

This exquisite garden takes its name from the nearby mountain, which is the shape of a sleeping giant. Founded in 1977 to house the late actor Raymond Burr’s personal collection of orchids, the garden covers an area of 20 hectares and contains over 2,000 species of flowers including some rare Fijian species.

Set among a lush verdant plantation (b), the garden is a must-see destination. There are several scenic wooden walk-ways(a) (c) within the grounds to wander around and take in the carefully cultivated flora. Tables and chairs are also dotted around the area providing the perfect location for a picnic in stunning surrounds. There’s also a tranquil lake within the garden boasting thriving multi-hued waterlilies.

a

b

c

019

4. Mount Tomanivi

An extinct volcano in the northern highlands on the main island of Viti Levu, Mount Tomanivi, formerly Mt Victoria, is the highest peak in Fiji. Standing at 1,323m, ascending to the summit of this mountain is a popular adventure activity for visitors to the Fijian Islands for a stun-ning view over the natural scenery.

Once you reach the first summit you will see the crater of the now-extinct volcano and pressing onwards, you’ll be rewarded with climbing the peak to look down onto the village of Navai, Viti Levu and the sur-rounding islands of the Yasawas (d). The trek can take up to six hours to complete, depending on the weather and it’s best to attempt climbing the mountain early on a sunny day.

d

e

f g

FIJITOP ATTRACTIONS

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

020

5. Kula Eco Park

Located on the Coral Coast, this award-winning wildlife sanctuary showcases the flora and fauna of the South Pacific. The park traverses hillside and valley forests and seasonal streams through walk-through aviaries and animal displays which you can explore from the extensive wooden walkways to the elevated path through pristine rainforest.

a

b

d

c

e

The majority of the inhabitants of the park are hundreds of species of colourful birds such as parrots(c) and doves in the most amazing primary hues. There are also iguanas, lizards (b) and boa constrictors (d) which you can handle; tropical fish, turtles(e) and soft corals in an aquarium and flying foxes. Time your visit just right and you can also feed the sea turtles by hand at 11am, 1pm and 3.30pm daily.

021

6. Kava Ceremony

What the formal tea ritual is to the Chinese and Japanese, the ceremony of drinking kava is to the people of Fiji. Enjoyed on both important and social occasions, including when accepting guests or visitors into a village, kava is traditionally accompanied by a ceremonial atmosphere. (f)

Known as yaqona or simply grog in Fiji, kava is a mildly narcotic drink made from mix-ing the powdered root of the pepper plant (piper methysti-cum)(g) with water and results in a numb feeling around the mouth, lips and tongue and a sense of relaxation. For many Fijians, kava is a link to their ancestral past and is the nation’s traditional and national drink. The drink itself is thought to have medicinal qualities, and legend has it that the ceremony surrounding kava originated from Tonga.

h

g

f

FIJITOP ATTRACTIONS

Kava , Lomani Island Resort

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

022

a

b

c

7. Fiji Museum

Travel back to discover what life was like in the Fiji Islands over 3,700 years ago at the Fiji Museum. Located within the Thurston Gardens botanical site in the city centre of Suva(a) (b) , the museum displays an amazing array of antiquities and artifacts that date back a few millennia as well as insights into Fiji’s more recent history.

Take a journey through the traditional Fijian way of life through musical instruments, weaving craft, cooking utensils and jewellery – including whale-tooth necklaces of the clan chiefs. The Indo-Fijian Gallery upstairs exhibits the contributions of Fiji’s Indian population through agricultural innovations, intricate traditional costumes and dress and Hindu artifacts, as well as displays of contemporary art.

Fiji Museum/Fiji Museum © 2016

023

8. Zipline Fiji

Enjoy the high-flying thrills of the South Pacific’s only zipline adventure. Soar through the rainforest canopy, and expe-rience the rush of adrenaline while taking in aerial vistas of rivers, waterfalls and distinc-tive flora and fauna.

Opened in 2008, Fiji’s only zipline adventure has become one of the island country’s most popular attractions. The zipline experience itself is a 2-km canopy tour over the forest floor and the Wainadoi River Valley. Guides are highly trained and can help you use equipment and techniques to enjoy the spectacular views amongst Fiji’s lush tropical gardens. The zipline tour is perfect for those wishing to see the beauty of Fiji from a unique perspective.

FIJITOP ATTRACTIONS

d

e

g

f

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

024

Board the magnificent classic schooner Seaspray and sail to beautiful beaches and stunning lagoons found within this famous group of islands. Explore the uninhabited Modri-ki Island, visit a traditional Fijian village, and swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear aquamarine waters.

What better way to enjoy the Mamanuca Islands than onboard a comfortable schoo-ner? Embark on the cruise at Mana Island, then sail through the island country’s gorgeous islands. You can step ashore on Modriki Island and Yanuya Island for a sunbathing on soft sand and a visit to the local vil-lage. If you feel like snorkelling, most islands are dotted with great snorkelling spots.

a

b c

d

9. Mamanuca Islands Sailing Adventure

025

Most Fijians still live in tradi-tional villages in a multicul-tural society that hasn’t been neutralized by mass tourism. This memorable tour includes a visit to the Nakavu village, a swim in a refreshing waterfall and a ride down the Navua River on a traditional Fijian raft.

For an authentic Fijian experience, you should pay a visit to the Navua Village where you can meet the local and learn about Fijian culture. Enjoy traditional Fijian songs and dance performed by local villagers, swim and refresh at a natural waterfall, followed by a scenic boat ride downstream the Navua River before heading back.

FIJITOP ATTRACTIONS

e

f

10. Navua Village & Waterfall Visit

FIJITRAVEL GUiDE

026

027

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

028

Once you’re relaxed you’ll be well on your way to seeing Fiji like a local. With white beaches and sparkling blue water, Fiji is also the perfect place to try your hand at water activities such as diving, kayaking, spear fishing or a leisurely cruise on a sail boat.

Insider Secrets:1. A school holiday favourite: If at all possible, avoid travelling during school holidays. Every man and his dog has booked their family holiday at this time and both hotels and airfares are often booked out, and at their most expensive.

2. Snorkel for free: Many hotels and resorts offer free snor-kelling equipment and other water sports gear including pad-dleboards and kayaks. Fiji offers a fantastic choice of snorkelling sites where you can explore the underwater world for nix.

3. Don’t forget your sunscreen: Pack your own reef shoes for beach exploring, boat trips and to avoid being cut by coral. Bring sarong to take you from beach to the bar, and lots of sunscreen too as it’s expensive to buy.

Grab your snorkel and take a dive at...

• The Somosomo Strait• Rainbows End’s excellent coloured corals• Navini & Matamanoa (great for beginners)

FIJI LIKE A LOCAL

Fiji like a Local

When you start to explore this part of the South Pacific, you’ll get an introduction to ‘Fiji time’. Like ‘island time’ – things happen, when they happen. Why rush? You’re surrounded by beautiful scenery, friendly locals and tropical ocean.

029

Did you know...?

Fiji barely has a winter! The

lowest temperature during

the season is a mild 18 degrees,

and while strictly speaking

Fiji has a rainy season, tropical

downpours are usually short

and sharp, meaning it’s a terrific

destination to visit year-round.

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

030

031

FIJITRAVEL GUiDE

032

Northern FijiFiji’s second biggest island, Vanua Levu (c) (f), is located in Fiji’s north. Taveuni, the third largest, is located to the west of Vanua Levu, and beyond the islands of Qamea, Rabi and Kioa grow smaller, less populated, more in touch with their traditional roots. On the volcanic island of Rabi (pronounced Rumbi) the Micronesian population speak their own language.

MamanucasThe Mamanuca group of islands (e) (g) are set amid deep blue waters with fringing coral reefs of turquoise and green. Resorts range from family friendly, through to secluded adults-only affairs.

YasawasThe Yasawa group of islands (a) (b) (d) is more dramatic than the nearby Mamanucas and less commercialized. With gorgeous beaches, abundant sunshine and a sense of remoteness, this string of low-key islands is the ultimate place to get away from it all.

More destinations to discoverHere are three other iconic Fijian destinations that should be on your bucket list.

Don Mammoser / Shutterstock.com

033MORE DESTINATIONS TO DISCOVER

a

b

c

e f g

d

FIJITRAVEL GUIDE

034

2016-09