Bula

There's one word you'll hear pretty much everywhere when you're out and about in Fiji: bula. It's our universal greeting and it speaks volumes. It's a way to welcome someone when they arrive, say hello, hi there, g'day or cheers, wish someone good health and even ask 'how are you'? If there's one thing that's worth doing quickly when you arrive, it's picking up the habit of saying 'bula!' -and a friendly, smiling response will never be far behind.

Temperature

We have two seasons: warm and even warmer. It's a sunny, tropical climate that'll wash the winter chills from your bones. That doesn't mean it never rains here, but you can expect May to November, our cooler months, to range from 19° to 29°c. And from December and April, the temperatures register from 22° to 33°c. 

            Local customs

It is important to dress modestly when away from hotels and resorts and particularly when visiting a Fijian village. Avoid wearing a hat in a village as it is considered an insult to the village chief. It is also insulting to touch someone's head. It's best to not wear shoes if visiting someone's house. When visiting a village it is customary to present an inexpensive gift of 'yaqona' or kava to the "Turaga Ni Koro", the traditional head of the village. Be prepared to shake hands and answer personal questions as to where you are from, whether married; and, if so, how many children.

Travel sickness

By travel sickness we mean motion sickness, seasickness and air sickness. You may suffer from yawning, nausea, vomiting, being dizzy, sweating and headache. Eat a small meal and do not drink alcohol before you travel. Look at a fixed point in the distance during the trip. Take a nap. Provide fresh air. What you should not do during the trip is reading, writing, gaming or watching on a screen. As soon as the journey is over, the travel sickness decreases. 

Safety

in major cities such as Suva there has been an increase in crime in recent years. Robberies and theft occur regularly, with foreigners and tourists sometimes being targeted. Avoid the backwaters of Suva. Thefts occur on quiet beaches. The number of pickpockets has increased in the larger cities, especially at markets and at night clubs. Pay close attention to your own safety. 

Vaccinations

Some vaccines are recommended or required for Fiji. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Fiji: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumoniaand influenza. 

6. Things NOT to do in Fiji

1. Don't forget to book a village tour

2. Don't ride share         

3. Don't expect to party all night because fiji's go to bed early instead we recommend Beachcomber

4.Don't go hiking alone

5.Don't show too much skin

6. Sun glasses and hats should be remove to show respect