Fiji

This is known as one of the happiest place on earth. Fiji consists of 333 mountainous islands of volcanic origin, which are scattered over a wide expanse of the South Pacific Ocean. They all offer a different experiences that will entice every traveller; cruising, diving, hiking, snorkelling, fishing or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounds and recharg your batteries from the hustle and bustle of everyday living. Fiji is justifiably famous for many things; romance, stunning beaches, sparkling surf, warm climate, scenic natural environment, world-class diving, international standard accommodation and exciting dining and nightlife. So perfect for everyone of all ages, it is no wonder it’s known as the place where happiness finds and stays with every visitor. Only about 100 of the 333 islands are inhabited and many others are left as nature reserves. The three largest islands are Viti Levu (Great Fiji) with 10,425 square kilometres, Vanua Levu (Great Land of the People) and Taveuni known as the Garden Island. Fiji offers an unspoiled, unique environment of extreme beauty and tranquillity. The best part is that this tropical paradise is free of poisonous snakes, spiders and pestilent diseases such as malaria so safe for everyone. Fiji is free from major tropical diseases including malaria, yellow fever and cholera. Vaccinations are only required if you are coming from an infected area. Tap water in Fiji is generally safe to drink, but avoid drinking untreated water in remote villages. Bottled water is widely available. It is an easy place to get to and is perfect to combine a multi travel option. By air Fiji is the crossroads of the South Pacific, central among the Pacific Islands nations and a mid-stop for flights between Australia and New Zealand to Europe/UK, Singapore, Thailand, China, India and USA. Fiji Airways is Fiji’s national carrier and is one of the longest established airlines in the South Pacific. It originated as an island service over 50 years ago and now serves many destinations: Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide New Zealand : Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, USA: Honolulu, Los Angeles and San Francisco as well as Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Christmas Island so offers some amazing place to stop over. Flying Times to Fiji from London – Nadi: 26 hours so always recommend to have a stop over on the way out and back to break the journey. Fiji is exactly 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and is the first country to see the dawning of each new day. Climate The Fiji Islands enjoy an ideal South Seas tropical climate with warm, pleasant temperatures year-round. It is the perfect destination, especially for those who want to escape the winter at home. Temperature range in summer: 24 - 36 C/ 80 - 100F (December – February). Temperature range in winter: 21 - 26 C/ 74 - 84F (June – August). The larger islands have mountain ranges lying across the paths of the prevailing winds resulting in greater clouds and rainfall on the eastern sides generally from December through April. The western sides are drier, with clear skies for most of the year. The smaller outer islands tend to be mainly dry and sunny year-round. Fiji’s warm, tropical waters are great for snorkelling and diving with average temperatures of 26 and 30C (80 to 86F). Passport and Visa Entry Requirements (But always check of any changes from the UK Gov website) Fiji welcomes visitors and to facilitate entry, everything has been done to make the process as easy as possible. You will need a: • valid passport for at least 6 months beyond period of stay • a ticket of return or for onward travel • proof of sufficient funds Entry visas for holiday makers are automatically granted for a period of up to four months. Religion Fiji is a multi-cultural nation, the population of Fiji is made up of significant numbers of followers of all major religions. Visitors will find Christian churches, mosques, and Sikh and Hindu temples throughout the country. Visitors are more than welcome to join the locals for Sunday worship and it's highly recommended, even if you're not that religious. A Methodist service will give you a good insight into how the Fijian village culture is structured and why the people are so friendly and family-focused. You may not understand many of the words, but the singing and ceremony will leave a lasting memory. Fiji has many public holidays as it acknowledges the special days held by the various belief systems, such as Easter and Christmas for the Christians, Deepavali for the Hindus, and Eid for the Muslims. Self Drive and Car Hire They drive on the left hand side of the road. Visitors may drive if they have a valid driver’s license from an English speaking country or have an international license. It must before the same class of vehicle intended for hire in Fiji. The national speed limit is 80 kph on open road, 60 kph in marked areas and 20 kph through villages. Stay within limits, as there are numerous hidden speed traps along major routes. There are speed humps in villages, which must be taken with caution. Principal roads are sealed but use caution when driving in inclement weather. Never forget that pedestrians use roads and stray animals are a common occurrence. Seatbelts must be worn at all times (so basically it is the same as driving here in the UK)! So if you would like to visit the heart of the romantic South Seas and plan a dream trip to this idyllic haven, please give me a call Landline : 01323844630 Mobile : 07913304716 Email : debbie@designertravel.co.uk #DebbieDesignerTravel