Welcome to Fiji 😊

Quick Facts About Fiji

Money and Finances

The currency used in Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD), which is divided into 100 cents. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, while notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 FJD.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Fiji, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry cash as a backup in case of ATM network outages.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops in Fiji, with Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted. AMEX is less commonly accepted, so it's a good idea to carry an alternative card just in case. However, it's always recommended to carry some cash in case of emergencies.

Internet and Phones

In Fiji, the average internet speed is around 6 Mbps for downloads and 2 Mbps for uploads. There are no significant government interferences in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The main telco companies in Fiji are Vodafone and Digicel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around FJD 50 per month. SIM cards are easily available for purchase, but there may be compatibility issues with non-Fijian mobile phones.

Dialling to Fiji

To call Fiji from another country, dial +679 followed by the local number. Within Fiji, dial the area code (e.g. Suva is 331) followed by the local number.

Transport Around Fiji

Air Travel

Fiji has one international airport in Nadi, which is located on the western side of the main island. There are also domestic airports in Suva, Savusavu, Labasa, and other smaller towns throughout the country.

Train Travel

There is no train network in Fiji.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no local train network in Fiji.

Buses

There are several bus companies that operate throughout Fiji, including Pacific Transport and Sunbeam. Prices for intercity travel vary, but a bus trip from Nadi to Suva (a popular route) costs around FJD $20 and takes approximately 5 hours.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies operating in Fiji.

Driving by Car

Driving in Fiji is on the left-hand side of the road. The speed limit in built-up areas is 50km/h and on highways, it's 80km/h. Rental cars are available at the major airports and in most tourist areas, but road conditions can be poor in some places.

Local Customs

In Fiji, tipping is not common but is appreciated when exceptional service is received. Locals commonly greet each other with a warm smile and a handshake. It is also customary to address elders and those in positions of authority with respect and formality. Men and women typically address each other by their first names or with honorific titles. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to inquire about their well-being and engage in small talk before getting into the main conversation.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Fiji's health system is a mix of public and private providers, with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services being responsible for healthcare policy and regulation. Public healthcare is free for citizens, but visitors may need to pay for medical services. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor is around FJD 50-100 ($25-50 USD). Health insurance is recommended for visitors to Fiji.

COVID Situation

Fiji has had a low number of COVID-19 cases and deaths compared to many other countries. The government has implemented strict measures to try and prevent the spread of the virus, including border closures, quarantine requirements, and social distancing guidelines. As of October 2021, Fiji has had a total of 11,432 cases and 57 deaths from COVID-19.

Common Health Risks

Fiji has a relatively low risk of infectious diseases, but visitors should be aware of the risk of dengue fever, which is transmitted by mosquitoes. Hepatitis A and typhoid are also present. It is recommended that visitors take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding uncooked food and tap water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

The legal drinking age in Fiji is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is allowed in public and private places. However, drinking alcohol in public places during certain hours or in certain areas may result in fines or imprisonment. Drinking alcohol is prohibited in some religious areas and during certain religious events.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Fiji, and penalties for drug-related offenses can include lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines. Possession, use, or trafficking of drugs can result in severe legal consequences. Tourists are not exempt from these laws, and the Fijian government has a zero-tolerance approach to drug offences.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Fiji is a conservative and traditional society, and pre-marital relationships are not widely approved of. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, and people who live together or engage in sexual activity outside of marriage may face social stigma. However, there are no laws against pre-marital relationships.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Fiji, and offenders can be imprisoned for up to 14 years. The LGBTQ community faces discrimination and harassment, and there are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in Fiji.

Firearms / Guns

Fiji has strict laws on the use of firearms. Only licensed individuals are allowed to own and use firearms, and obtaining a license involves a stringent application process. Carrying firearms in public places is prohibited, and penalties for gun-related offenses can be severe, including imprisonment and fines.