Pacific Island Paradises

2014

The most comprehensive digital travel guide on the Pacific region

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FIJI available. Water-based activities abound including snorkelling on shallow reefs, scuba diving, game fishing, surfing, windsurfing, sailing, cruising and yacht charters. On land, choose from golf, horseriding, squash, rugby and trekking through tropical rainforests. There are crystal clear rivers to swim in, jet boats to ride in, sacred caves to visit and rapids to raft through. Numerous island tours are on offer with sailing excursions and safaris into the rugged peaks and remote villages of the highlands. Shopping Whether you are shopping or browsing, you'll discover everything from unique cultural and historical artefacts, to budget and souvenir shops, stylish international boutiques, and duty free shopping. Popular purchases include carved tanoa bowls from which 'the national drink' kava is mixed and served, 'cannibal forks' and Fijian combs. Handicrafts range from woven baskets and mats to masa (tapa cloth) and pottery items. For international fashion buffs, there is the ubiquitous sulu, an all-purpose, unisex, one-size-fits-all garment. This amazing outfit is worn 100 different ways by women from beach wrap to evening dress, whilst men in both business and government wear them as a day skirt. For those who really love the age-old practice of bargaining, it is still conducted in some shops and bazaars and has reached the highest art form in Cumming Street, Suva. Shopping hours are Monday to Thursday 8  to 5  am pm, and on Fridays most shops close at 6  pm. On Saturdays a number of shops stay open for half a day and most do not open on Sundays or Public Holidays. Climate Fiji's climate is tropical, with slight seasonal variations and occasional heavy rainfall. CORP AD March to November is the dry season, and December to April is the rainy season. Clothing Light tropical gear is advisable for Fiji's tropical climate. A swimsuit is appropriate if you are near a beach or pool. When approaching a town or village, it's respectful to locals to cover up. Remove head wear when approaching a village. Smart casual attire is appropriate at night in luxury hotels. Wet weather clothing is recommended for the wet season. Time zone GMT +12 hours or AEST +2 hours. Currency The currency is the Fijian dollar. All major credit cards are accepted in the tourist resorts. ATMs can be found in all major cities and towns as well as the larger hotels and the airport. Tipping is not encouraged, but do bargain in the bazaars.

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