Fiji Travel Tips

Here is some information that you should know prior to planning your Fiji vacation:

Banking/Currency

The basic unit of currency in Fiji is the Fijian dollar, which is available in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $20, and $50. Coins are available in 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, and $1. Approximately 2 Fijian dollars equals one US dollar.

There is no limit to the amount of money you can bring into the country. You can only take out of the country up to the amount that you imported.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are welcomed by most hotels, restaurants, shops, travel agents, and other places and services in Fiji. Visa, American Express, Mastercard, JCB International, and Diners Club are represented in the Fijian capital city of Suva. VISA and American Express can also replace lost credit cards and travelers cheques.

Entry Requirements

You must have a passport valid at least three months beyond your intended stay in Fiji, though it is recommended that it should be valid at least six months. You also must have a valid ongoing or return airline ticket.

For stays not exceeding 30 days, visas are not required for visitors who are nationals of the US, Japan, and EU and Commonwealth countries.

Health

Unlike many tropical countries, Fiji is free from malaria, yellow fever, and other major tropical diseases. It has an effective medical system in place, though locals still will use age-old herbal remedies. Fresh water reticulated in Suva, Lautoka, and other major towns, along with water in hotels and resorts, has been treated and is safe to drink, though some resorts will use artesian water for bathing but will provide separate drinking water. Guests will be advised if this is the case.

However in Fiji you could still be at risk of contracting diseases through insect bites, so bring light long-sleeved shirts and long pants to cover yourself, along with insect repellant, to prevent this. You should also bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun.

Vaccinations

Yellow Fever and Cholera vaccinations are only required for those coming from an infected area that is designated by the World Health Organization, and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for those coming from an infected area who are at least 1 year of age.

Transportation

Keep in mind that driving is on the LEFT-hand side of the road. Fiji has two international airports located in Nadi and Nausori, which provide air connections to all of the world's major cities and provide direct flights to the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Korea. Fiji also has a national airline, Air Pacific, so you can easily and quickly travel to different areas in Fiji.

Tipping

Tipping is not encouraged in Fiji, so it is completely the individual's decision. However, some resorts will host a staff Christmas fund where tips are shared among employees.