One of the must-visit tourist spots in Taveuni is the beautiful Lake Tagimaucia. Situated at a height of eight hundred meters and occupying a volcano crater, it is the home to the exceptional tagimaucia flower.
The Bouma Falls, also known as the most famous waterfalls in Fiji are also located on the Tavenui Island, within the Bouma National Heritage Park.
The lagoon and Vuna village’s southern part occupy an area called the South Cape. Here, the last volcanic activity caused spillage into the waters of the sea about 500 years back.
Matamaiqi blowhole is the Tavenui region’s highlight and has geysers which are formed by the trade winds that crash against volcanic rocks. At the distance of 20 minutes (on foot) from the Waiyevo town is the famous Waitavala Waterslide.
There are 8 major villages in Taveuni and the population is primarily concentrated on the island’s more sheltered, western part.
Flights to Fiji land at 15 public airports in the Fiji islands, including Nadi International Airport, Fiji’s main air hub and gateway to international flights, and Nausori International Airport, which serves domestic flights. 85 over flights land at Nadi on a weekly basis. From there, most offshore islands are within minutes’ to an hour’s flight away.
Accommodation in Fiji
Fiji provides a spectrum of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas, to bures (traditional thatched roof houses that channel an authentic Fijian ambiance) with modern amenities, cottages, lodges, townhouses and serviced apartments. Budget resorts offer scenic views comparable to mid-range counterparts, with great locations all over the islands.
Adults- and couples-only resorts are perfect for honeymooners or those on a romantic getaway. Denarau, in particular, is a major tourism complex with luxury options. Resorts with child-friendly facilities and childcare services allow parents to get the respite the seek while on vacation. Those who favor the great outdoors can head to the campsites on Seashell Cove Resort, Tukutuku, Colo I Suva and Nukulau.
Getting around Fiji
Buses are the main way to travel between towns on the larger islands of Fiji, with extensive bus routes on Fiji’s larger islands providing cheap and reliable transport. In rural areas, buses are simply hailed as they pass. Metered cabs operate all over the country, even in rural or semi-rural areas.
Hop on one of Fiji’s inter-island ferries to travel around the principal islands. A robust infrastructure of docks and airfields connect people, goods, and services throughout the island’s resorts through ferries, helicopters, and seaplanes. Car rentals in Fiji are another common option but do take note that cars drive on the left side of the road and foreign or international driving permits have a six-month validity period.
Fijian Currency
Fiji’s currency is the Fijian dollar. Do note that tipping is not encouraged. Resorts and hotels accept all major credit cards. Bargaining is acceptable at bazaars and markets.
Entry Requirements
All visitors to Fiji require a valid passport/travel document with minimum validity of six months beyond the period of intended stay. Visa requirements vary for different countries of origin so be sure to check here.
Fiji Weather & Climate
With a tropical marine climate, Fiji’s weather is warm throughout the year with minimal seasonal changes. The might be heavy showers and even cyclonic storms, particularly during the December to April period. Light summer attire is advisable, especially during the dry season from March to November.
There is a complete selection of local Fiji food and international cuisines to choose from. For a more authentic experience, pick Fijian restaurants and cafes frequented by locals in the know. In fact, many resorts have a relationship with nearby villages that will welcome you to try traditional Fijian fare during village tours or hikes.
Fijian cuisine is wholesome, affordable and full of variety. Mainstays of the local diet include yams, sweet potatoes, nuts, seafood or meat steamed or boiled in fragrant coconut milk and an assortment of foods cooked in a pit oven or logo. Fresh tropical fruits may also be purchased at farmer’s markets.
Kava, the national drink, is also worth a try. Made from the root of the pepper plant, Kava temporarily numbs your tongue and lips and relaxes your muscles. It has intoxicating effects and consumption of alcohol should be avoided.
Fijian Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Fiji’s partygoers come out to play. Most trendy nightclubs and surf bars are in Nadi and Suva on Viti Levu, along with a range of restaurants and cinemas. On smaller islands, entertainment comes in the form of Fijian Nights, organized by hotels and resorts. A make (song and dance) always livens up these boisterous parties, where logo and Kava are served.
For anyone visiting Fiji on a gap year, Beachcomber Island is perfect. This “party island” of Fiji is home to the Bula dance – somewhat of an island sensation, not unlike the Macarena, that serves as an icebreaker.
From affordable souvenirs to luxury international labels and duty-free shopping, shopaholics will be spoilt for choice on their Fiji holiday.
Popular Fiji holiday souvenirs include carved tanoa bowls meant for serving kava, Fijian combs and replicas of cannibal dorks. You could also buy handicrafts like woven baskets, fabrics, and ceramics, or invest in the incredibly versatile sulu or sarong, which can be worn by both genders, all sizes and in multiple ways.
Shops and bazaars, especially in Cumming Street, Suva, are a haven for bargain hunters who get a rush from haggling over prices. Shops close at 5 pm on most days except Fridays and most are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.
Places to Visit In Fiji
Fiji’s beaches, especially those on Coral Coast and islands of Mamanuca and Yasawa, draw in flocks of tourists all year round, who pack up the Fiji beach resorts and hotels. These Edenic, otherworldly escapes of the South Seas have been featured in Hollywood movies like Cast Away and The Blue Lagoon. Natadola Beach on Viti Levu itself is also one Fiji’s prime beach offerings.
However, beaches are all but a fraction of the nation’s tourist offerings. Explore the Nakama thermal springs and Name blowholes on Vanua Levu and discover how Taveuni‘s lush floral and fauna and breathtaking mountains have earned it the nickname “Garden Island”.
Immerse yourself in the Fijian way of life in Suva, the capital, and Lautoka, a port town that thrives on the cultivation of sugarcane. History buffs should not miss the unrivaled collection of anthropological and historical artifacts at the National Museum in the historical Thurston Gardens.
The historical journey continues at Orchid Island, a cultivated, realistic microcosm of Fiji. Trace the journey of the missionaries in 1840 along with a central highland bush track, tour a plantation and visit the Kula Bird Park and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes as you journey from Suva to Nadi in the western side of Viti Levu.
The Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, the largest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere, boasts striking Dravidian architecture – a rare sight outside India.
Water Sports, Diving & Snorkeling in Fiji
Known as the soft coral capital of the world, Fiji dive spots are the Pacific’s finest and most. Divers and snorkelers will marvel at the jaw-dropping beauty of never-ending reefs, drop-offs, walls and channels. Surfers up for a challenge can also try navigating Fiji’s legendary waves of Cloudbreak, Swimming Pools, and Frigates.
Alternatively, take your pick from other water-based activities available, like windsurfing, cruising, sailing, yachting and game fishing. You could swim, jet or raft through the crystal clear rivers, and even go on sailing excursions to remote villages.
Today, Fiji is a melting pot of ethnicities. Melanesians, Polynesians races and indigenous Fijians make up half the nation’s population with the remainder Europeans, Chinese and Indians. Christianity is Fiji’s dominant religion. Other faiths include Hinduism and Islam, as well as native Fijian beliefs systems.
Languages in Fiji
English is the official language, while Bauman – one of the many Fijian regional dialects – is the national indigenous language. Fiji, Hindi, Cantonese, Chinese and other Pacific languages are spoken while Fiji’s traditional links to neighboring Rotuma, Tonga, and Samoa influence the dialects of cultural practices.
This exposure to many languages has resulted in most Fijians being bilingual. Fiji English, a slang with characteristics of Fijian, English, and Hindi, is used in casual settings.
Design & Architecture
Crafts practiced by men and women are kept separate. Women’s crafts include pottery, cloth making and weaving mats from pandanus leaves and coconut tree parts, while men are carving and build canoes. Fijian folk music contains heavy church influences and is often accompanied by ethnic percussion beats.
Simplicity and practicality were the main principles of Old Fijian village architecture, as you can see in the Navala Village. Each village had a meeting house and a spirit house (Bure Kalou) on an elevated base, used to differentiate social hierarchy.
Now, contemporary aspects of architecture have influenced the business, industrial and domestic sectors, and village structures have received updates such as modern materials.
Cultural & Legal Restrictions
Vibrant indigenous Fijian culture forms a big part of day-to-day living for most, but society has evolved to make way for other traditions. Diverse races and intersection of traditions in Fiji create a unique, communal culture. Fijian society attributes great significance to the family unit, the village and the land (vanua). Villages, clans, and tribes are preceded over by chiefs, who are descendants of former chiefs.
Indigenous Fijian ceremonies adhere to strict, elaborate etiquette. This is both a mark of respect to communal groups and a display of strengthening social, tribal and familial ties. Special objects used include the sacred tabua or whales tooth, tapa cloth, woven mats and Kava (or, locally, yagona) – Fiji’s national drink. Different regions also have their own practices that are passed on between generations. For instance, the Sawau tribe of Bega are well-known for being able to walk on hot stone coals, unscathed. Strict preparation rituals are required.
Along with many of its Pacific Island counterparts, Fiji is a society with strong Christian morals and practices. You are advised to dress modestly and appropriate, leaving beachwear only for the beach. Shoulders and knees of both genders must also be covered – by sulcus or sarongs, if necessary – especially when you visit churches. Hats should be removed when you visit villages and homes.
Fiji is a leader in eco-tourism, determined to preserved its pristine natural landscape. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests strictly regulates imports that may jeopardize the country’s plants and animals.
Hawaii Island offers a range of activities for the discerning traveler. The town of Hilo features the Merrie Monarch Festival, the world’s major hula event, held from March to April. Hilo also houses several galleries and museums featuring the works of local sculptors, painters, and musicians.
Liliuokalani Gardens has many Japanese bridges for kids as well as adults to run over. You can walk along the Kohala Coast to see ancient petroglyphs etched into stone at various sites. Family friendly beaches and parks offer a number of outdoor activities including snorkeling and diving. Learn about paniolo or Hawaiian cowboys and visit Kahua Ranch in Waimea for a wagon ride.
You can go sightseeing and window-shopping in Kailua-Kona, the art and coffee town of beautiful Kailua-Kona. Visit the Hamakua Heritage Corridor for a road journey or roam the streets of Downtown Hilo. On the Kohala Coast, you can tee off at one of the many breathtaking golf courses.
Hawaii is famous for the Hawaii Regional Cuisine started by 12 of the best Hawaii chefs in 1991. It is a culinary exercise that blends the world’s cuisine with Hawaii’s varied, ethnic flavors. The hallmark of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine is the use of the most natural farm-bred ingredients. These include vegetables and fruits obtained through volcanic soil and cattle reared on the upland pastures. The region of Waimea features upcountry pasturelands where grass-fed lamb and beef are grown.
Some of the restaurants on Hawaii island that exemplify Hawaii Regional Cuisine are Waimea’s Merriman’s Restaurant owned by Peter Merriman and Roy’s Bar & Grill on the Kohala Coast owned by Roy Yamaguchi. Merriman and Yamaguchi are two of the celebrated chefs who have played a stellar role in the Hawaiian Regional Cuisine movement. Honolulu Magazine has rated Merriman’s restaurant the best for 13 years consecutively while Yamaguchi-based in Oahu has been conferred the James Beard Award.
The Hawaii Island, spanning 4,028 SQ. miles boasts of many natural wonders. Among them are the world’s highest sea mountain, Maunakea, the world’s biggest mountain, Maunaloa and one of the world’s volcanoes regarded as highly active, Kilauea.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the state’s most popular tourist attraction and it is the largest covering an area of 333,086 acres. It is also a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site. Kilauea Volcano is the central attraction of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which has been erupting continuously since 1983. A vantage point in Kalapana affords visitors the chance to see lava going into the sea.
The coasts of Puna and Kau contain some of the most astounding black sand beaches which have been created by incessant volcanic activity on the island. Head to the popular Punaluu Black Sand Beach, most frequented by the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, Honu.
Asking around, I find a good handful of people have never heard of Guam, Micronesia. However, word of its uniqueness is beginning to spread. With a 17.1 percent visitor increase between 2015 and 2016, it seems people are starting to take notice. It’s no surprise: Guam boasts a rich culture, gorgeous beaches, year-round tropical weather conditions and some of the most hospitable inhabitants in the world. You could call it a well-kept secret. What’s so special? Well, here’s to Guam: I’ll break down the facts and figures to present you with 8 reasons why you should consider it for your next holiday!
1. Prime Location:
Situated in the Western Pacific Ocean, Guam is the largest and southernmost island of the Mariana’s, nestled above the equator and to the East of the Philippines. Did somebody say perfect weather conditions? Commonly referred to as ‘America in Asia’, it is actually a territory of the United States, having been the first Pacific Island to be discovered by Westerners. Occupied by the Spanish until 1898, but originally settled by the Chamorros 4,000 years ago, you can understand why it’s multi-ethnic and brimming with culture and diversity.
2. Interesting Landscape:
Given its cozy seat above the equator, you can imagine how warm the water might be. Surrounded by coral reefs, an abundance of sea life reside just below the turquoise surface. The Mariana’s (which make up part of Micronesia) are volcanic Islands, having come into existence as the Pacific plates moved. None of Guam’s volcanos are active, though they make for a fascinating view. Throw in some waterfalls (Sigma and Talofofo Falls) and Caves (Pagat and Marbo) and you’ve got a lot to explore! Steep coastal cliff’s in the north, combined with mountains in the south diversify the otherwise typically tropical appearance of the Island. White sand beaches are a-plenty. Tumon Bay is the most popular to visit, though secluded beaches can be found elsewhere across the Island’s 544 km² radii. Meanwhile, Chamorro villages and ancient latte-stone pillars give insight to Guam’s history.
3. Hospitable People:
“Hafa Adai!” is how you’re greeted. Guam’s indigenous Chamorro people are warm and welcoming, keen to share the gift of their island with visitors. Of mixed ancestry, and with the influences of multiple nations over the years Guam can be described as both modern (given its American ownership) and traditional. The prehistoric concept of “doing good for each other” (inafa’maolek) is a constant and is evident in the respect and sense of community displayed in Chamorro culture. What better place to visit than one where you’re made to feel you belong?4.
4. Unique and Complex Culture
Guam has a contentious and diverse colonial history, between the Spanish-American wars that saw America capture Guam, and the temporary occupation by the Japanese in WW2. You’ll capture a sense of this whilst there. Generally, the culture reflects the traditional Chamorro customs, where dance, songs, games, fashion and the language are all individually a unique experience. The locals have big hearts, yet also know how to throw a party! Each of Guam’s 19 villages throws an annual ‘village fiesta’, and will happily include visitors. Meanwhile, some places – such as the basically- untouched village of Inarajan and the coastal village of Umatac – give an authentic taste of Guam’s history.
5. Delicious Food
Being the diverse hub that it is, Guam specializes in local and international cuisines. Nonetheless, it’s a place where you’ll want to dine like the locals. Chamorro food has clear Spanish and Mexican influences, a favorite being ‘kelaguen’: a combination of lemon, onion, hot peppers, salt and grated coconut used to season seafood and meats.
6. Activities For All Types
Depending on how you want to experience the culture, a multitude of activities await. Hiking (referred to as ‘bonnie stomping’ by the locals) is a brilliant means of enjoying Guam’s landscape. For those willing to explore the tropical waters you can snorkel and scuba dive. Alternatively, parasailing will enable you to enjoy the ocean from a birds-eye perspective. Guam is celebrated for its shopping, whether at duty-free stalls or the culturally rich local markets. Chamorro Villages are a must, featuring local dishes and dancing. Lina’La Beach and Culture Fair is another means by which the Chamorro people demonstrate their culture. If history is your thing, WW2 museums and national parks will give you insight. There is much to see and do on Guam. Yet if none of the above are of interest, then who can resist relaxing on one of Guam’s pristine beaches?!
7. Luxurious Resorts
Guam hosts a quality selection of comfortable first-rate resorts. Tumon Bay is the main place visitors accommodate, given the accessibility of the airport and top destinations. The exotic capital, Hagatna, is nearby. Here, beautiful beachside resorts such as the more boutique Fiesta Resort Guam and the deluxe Hyatt Regency can be found.
8. Glorious Sunsets
I cannot go without gushing about Guam’s spectacular sunsets. “Red at night, shepherds delight.” You’ll see such majesty every evening, thanks to the perfect weather!
Romantics: look out! Proposals and weddings aren’t uncommon on this Pacific Island gateway. Alternatively, if you’re in the right place, live music may just accompany the view, popping the cherry on top of an inevitably unforgettable day.
Guam Sunset
Getting around Guam
Buses and trolleys provide affordable transport around Guam, connecting most major hotels to shopping centres and districts. It is also easy to grab a metered taxi with a cheap starting flag rate of US$2.40. Taxi fares increase by US$4 for the first mile and with increments of S$0.80 per subsequent mile.
Currency in Guam
The legal tender in Guam is the U.S. Dollar.
Entry Requirements
US citizens are generally allowed to enter Guam and re-enter the US with a valid US photo ID card, though passports are recommended.
Guam’s entry requirements make concessions for the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens or nationals of VWP Designated Countries may travel to Guam without a visa for the purpose of pleasure, for a period of 90 days or less, with prior approval obtained from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and with qualifying travel arrangements and supporting documentation
Visitors to Guam are recommended to hold a valid passport/travel document with minimum validity of six months beyond the period of intended stay. Visa requirements vary for different countries of origin.
Buses and trolleys provide affordable transport around Guam, connecting most major hotels to shopping centres and districts. It is also easy to grab a metered taxi with a cheap starting flag rate of US$2.40. Taxi fares increase by US$4 for the first mile and with increments of S$0.80 per subsequent mile.
Currency in Guam
The legal tender in Guam is the U.S. Dollar.
Entry Requirements
US citizens are generally allowed to enter Guam and re-enter the US with a valid US photo ID card, though passports are recommended.
Guam’s entry requirements make concessions for the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens or nationals of VWP Designated Countries may travel to Guam without a visa for the purpose of pleasure, for a period of 90 days or less, with prior approval obtained from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and with qualifying travel arrangements and supporting documentation
Visitors to Guam are recommended to hold a valid passport/travel document with minimum validity of six months beyond the period of intended stay. Visa requirements vary for different countries of origin.
