The South Pacific Archipelago Of Fiji
Fiji is the name of an archipelago in the South Pacific, with a geography characterized by volcanic islands and coral atolls. The two largest islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, are volcanic and mountainous, while smaller islands are coral atolls. Fiji’s climate is tropical, with a wet season from November to April and cooler, drier conditions from May to October. The largest island in Fiji is Viti Levu where most cruise ships visit. It’s also the most populated island, with the country’s capital, Suva, and most major towns of the archipelago are located there. It is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji – home to 70% of the population or about 600,000 people. Viti Levu is the hub of the entire Fijian archipelago and measures 91 miles long and 66 miles wide.
Where Your Ship Docks
Cruise Port of Suva
This is a working port and walking out is not difficult but the area has limited public facilities available. The port is located in central Suva but there is little in the nearby area to see. Because this is a working industrial port without a cruise ship pier, disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway design and a steep ramp or even stairs can be encountered. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a difficult time disembarking and exiting the port.
The Cruise Port of Lautoka
Lautoka is a larger city than Suva with shopping opportunities only a short distance from the port entrance. Since this is a working port without a dedicated cruise ship pier disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway design and a steep ramp or even stairs can be encountered. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a difficult time disembarking and exiting the port.
Wheelchairs and Port City Characteristics – This port has an average wheelchair infrastructure typical of large cities. In the port area you’ll find moderate inclines in sidewalks. Intersection crosswalks may have curbs and other wheelchair obstacles.
Transportation
Fiji, offers several transportation options for getting around. City buses are available as well as van routes that are popular and affordable ways to travel in the city and to nearby towns. Taxis provide a faster, though potentially more expensive, alternative, especially for destinations not easily accessible by bus.
In addition renting a car in Fiji is a convient way to explore the island. Major international car rental companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar have locations in Fiji but locations are mostly at the airport and resort areas.. In 2025 rates were around $49 per day for a compact car and $80 for larger vehicles like SUVs.
The island of Viti Levu has a major highway that completely circles the 4,000 square mile island taking you from one end to the othere in under 2 hours.
Currency
The local currency is the Fijian Dollar that equals US$0.44. Foriegn currency is not usually accepted. Major credit cards are welcome and the are ATMs but be cautious of your surroundings when using.
Tipping
Tipping follows a general tipping culture in Great Britian. While tipping is appreciated it is not mandatory. If service charges are included in your bill, rounding up or leaving small change is customary. In restaurants, leaving between 5-10% of the bill is a common practice if you are satisfied with the service. Tipping tour guides is usually based on the tour cost with a few dollars being a minimum. For taxi drivers or hotel service staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is often sufficient.
Exploring Fiji’s Main Island of Viti Levu
Viti Levu is an interesting destination known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse activities that cater to many interests. The island boast breathtaking landscapes, including turquoise waters and lush greenery, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, particularly in western areas renowned for their coral reefs, where visibility can reach up to 100 feet.
Key attractions include the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, which offer a unique relaxation experience, and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, famous for its extensive orchid collection. Cultural experiences are abundant, with highlights such as the Fiji Museum in Suva and the Temple of Swami-Shiva-Shri-Subramania in Nadi, showcase the rich heritage of the island. Additionally, various tours and boat excursions allow visitors to explore the islands’ beauty while exploring local traditions and cuisines.
The Garden of the Sleeping Giant should be high on your list of sights. The gardens were developed by the actor Raymond Burr after he retired to Fiji and includes several miles of hiking paths, a large orchid collection and some magnificent views of the island for up on the mountain.
The Hindu Temple of Swami-Shiva-Shri-Subramania in Nadi is another popular attraction and is the religious center of the Indian community on Fiji, featuring a brightly decorated temple in a beautiful setting.
The Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pools are another popular destination reported to be very good as a skin treatment. Visitors cover themselves with the rich mud , high in mineral content and after drying rinse off in the hot spring ponds.
Overall, Fiji presents a blend of adventure, leasure, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking to explore the South Pacific islands.
The Archipelago’s History
Fiji’s history is marked by a transition from indigenous settlement and tribal structures to British colonization and eventual independence. The islands were first inhabited by Melanesians, followed by European exploration and colonization in the 19th century. Fiji became a British Crown colony in 1874, and gained independence in 1970.
The first inhabitants of Fiji were Melanesians, who arrived around 3,500 years ago. ]The Melanesian settlers established a hierarchal society based on clans with cultural and traditional activities being similar to Polynesian culture.
The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman is credited with first sighting Fiji in 1643. British Captain James Cook also visited the islands in 1774. And Western Christian missionaries began arriving in the 1800s. Fiji became a British Crown colony in 1874.
Between 1879 and 1916, hundreds of thousands of indentured laborers from India were brought to Fiji to work the sugar plantations. This resulted in a large percentage of modern Fiji’s population being of Indian heritage.
Fiji gained independence as the Dominion of Fiji in 1970 and in 1987, Fiji declared itself a republic with its first democratic election in 2014. Despite independence, Fiji still maintains close ties with the British monarchy, and Queen Elizabeth II remained the official head of state until 1987.
The Intentional Travelers 