 WELCOME
TO THE FIJI ISLANDS |
We in Fiji have often been told that our 333
unspoiled islands in the tropical South Pacific
is the world's friendliest paradise. In many parts
of the world, much of what Fiji has in abundance
and takes for granted, is now a rare commodity.
Clean air and water, an unpolluted environment,
lack of serious diseases such as malaria, uncrowded
beaches, beautiful virgin coral reefs and forests,
our own unique exotic culture and above all, genuine
legendary friendliness of our people, is what
the rest of the busy, crowded world is seeking.
But more than anything, Fijians like to be happy
and they want you to be happy too. Smiling is second
nature to our people and their warmth and friendliness
is infectious.
| TOURISTIC
AREAS IN FIJI |
NADI REGION
The NADI area is the 3rd largest city, which
is a 10minute taxi ride from Nadi International
Airport and serves as the 'gateway' to the rest
of Fiji. This is a tourist honeypot area as the
town itself is driven by tourism. Nadi jammed
with interesting shops and eateries offers restaurants
of every international flavour, curio shops for
the passionate shopper and focal point for the
numerous stop-over hotels, nearby Denarau Island
Resorts, golf, tennis and cruise lines. Area activities
include Shotover Jet boat rides, highland trekking
and viewing the beautiful orchids at the Garden
of the Sleeping Giant. A major attraction is the
new Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, the largest in
the Southern Hemisphere and the work of art built
to a design thousands of years old. Nadi is the
ideal place to pick up those last moment things
you might want to purchase for your friends at
home before departing. It is the focal point for
many of Fiji's best known hotels & resorts.
A gateway to cruises and boating activities. Nadi
is a convenient stepping-off point to explore
Viti Levu and the nearby Mamanuca & Yasawa
Islands. Nadi town is where most visitors arrive
at Nadi International Airport and this is the
first part of Fiji they see. Nadi is where you
will find the most visitors facilities in Fiji,
and of course, the greatest number of souvenir
shops, but check around first. Nadi is the ideal
place to pick up those last moment things you
might want to purchase for your friends at home
before departing.
| PACIFIC
HARBOUR |
Pacific Harbour was developed as a complete destination
with its own 18 hole championship golf course
and inland waterway. The nearby island of Beqa
(pronounced Ben-ga), home of the legendary firewalkers,
is a world renowned diving location, fishing and
a host of other activities await the visitor.
| MAMANUCAS |
The Mamanuca Islands immediately west of Nadi bay
and Viti Levu, Fiji's largest island are set amongst
deep blue waters with fringing coral reefs of turquoise
and pastel green. These islands, easily accessible
by boat, air seaplane and tourist service helicopter,
are the home of more than a dozen resorts, each
of its own separate island. They offer some of Fiji's
most awesome beauty. Among the myriad of sports
and cultural activity opportunities, these island
waters boast excellent diving, snorkelling and wonderful
sailing. Set among deep blue waters with coral reef
of turquoise and pastel green, the Mamanuca Islands
and the islands of Nadi Bay offer tourist some of
Fiji ´s most outstanding island beauty. A
chain of islands visible on a clear day from Nadi,
this has often been called Mecca of Fiji. Many of
Fiji's outer-islands resorts are located in the
group. These are considered among the most beautiful
islands in the country with miles of white sand
beaches and coral blue waters, providing a tropical
experience in comfortable surroundings.
| CORAL COAST |
The Coral Coast area runs 100km (60miles) across
southern coast of Viti Levu from Momi, 12 miles
south of Nadi to Pacific Harbour. The coastline
offers a range of spectacular tropical scenery from
"Caribbean" pine mountains cascading down
to the shores, sugar cane fields, coral lagoons
and seemingly endless beaches. It's the home of
some of Fiji's most famous international style resorts
as well as extensive sightseeing opportunities such
as Sigatoka's sand dunes, Biausevu waterfall, Kula
Eco Park and every activity imaginable…. River
rafting, cave touring and authentic Fijian village
tours where you'll see incredible pottery making.
The Coral Coast begins of Momi approximately 20
kilometers south of Nadi. The paved highway meanders
through spectacular scenery featuring Fijian villages,
sugar cane fields, coral lagoons and beaches.
| THE NORTH |
The North includes Fiji's second and third largest
islands, Vanua Levu and Taveuni, known as the "Garden
island" for its rich floral and rainforest
habitat. It also boasts of several smaller islands
featuring some of Fiji's best diving and intimate
resort getaways. Accessible by plane or local ferries,
northern resorts here offer a real opportunity to
interact more closely with the people and culture
of Fiji and deliver a vacation experience that just
doesn't exist anywhere else in the world.
| OUTER ISLANDS |
Outer islands include, among others, Vatulele
which is South of the Coral Coast and the Yasawas,
the furthest most island chain of Viti Levu. This
is where the original and sequel to the movie
Blue Lagoon were filmed. These islands, accessible
by air, sea plane, helicopter or cruiser offer
some of the world's leading properties, exclusive
5-star resorts, where the cuisine is superior;
the wine list is first class; and, champagne flows
freely. Here, you'll discover uncomprising service,
luxurious amenities, bountiful water activities
and an experience unmatched in the world.
The outer islands in this section are Kadavu,
Ovalau, home of the former capital Levuka, and
the other islands that include Vatulele and the
famous Yasawa Group. These distinctive and remote
islands offer a wide range of diverse accomodation
styles to suit all tastes. The Yasawa Group made
up of some 20 islands of volcanic origin, lie
in a chain north west of Viti Levu. They commence
about 40 km of north-west of Lautoka and stretch
for 80 km. Some of the larger islands are Yasawa,
Waya, Nacula, Naviti, Yaqeta and Matacawalevu.
Nanuya Levu better known as Turtle Island is the
base for one of Fiji's most exclusive resorts.
The islands have white sandy beaches and crystalline
tropical rain.
| SUVA |
The capital of Fiji, Suva was developed in the late
1800´s and retains much of the character of
the colonial period. Its many attractions, markets,
a museum and sightseeing tours.
| LAUTOKA
& RAKIRAKI |
This is in the heart of Fiji's 'Sugar Belt' with
thousands of small holdings cultivating sugar
cane for mills in Lautoka, Ba and Rakiraki. The
coastline faces Bligh Water and the Yasawa islands
shimmering on the horizon The city of Lautoka
is only twenty minute ride by bus from Nadi and
offers a more typical town area. There are several
good restaurants, hotels, an arts and craft gallery
located at the Waterfront Hotel, and a thriving
market. It is also the departure point for many
tours and cruises to the offshore islands.
| ACCOMODATION |
FOR CONTACT DETAILS ON RESORTS VISIT BASIC
FACTS / WHERE TO STAY
| TOP RANGE |
Nadi is home for the luxurious Sheraton Fiji
Resorts, TrendWest and not to mention the world
class Port Denarau Marina that berths the lavish
small cruise ships. If you are the opulent person,
then this is for you!
Sheraton Resorts is located on Denarau Island
and its properties include the celebrated Sheraton
Fiji Resort, Sheraton Royal Denarau Resort, Sheraton
Denarau villas and the Denarau Golf & Racquet
club. Denarau Island is also Fiji's premier meetings
& incentives destination. The Sheraton Royal
Denarau resort, with its beachfront location and
traditional architecture, remains a favourite
among meeting and incentive groups. In contrast,
the Sheraton Fiji Resort is the epitome of a bright
and tropical, contemporary resort. Its open air
of relaxation and genuinely friendly staff keep
drawing groups back to relive the magic of Denarau.
The latest edition, the Sheraton Denarau villas,
is a prime choice for families, VIPs and delegates
who prefer the luxury of a villa suite. From accommodation
to architecture and décor to meeting facilities
and from exotic outdoor venues to a range of inspiring
themed events and recreational activities, Sheraton
Resorts Denarau Island offers a choice of options
that is unrivaled in the South Pacific islands.
Apart from the Sheraton Chain, there are other
properties that offer its own unique services
such as Sonaisali Island Resort, which is 25minutes
from Nadi International Airport and 10km from
Nadi town. The Resort is stylish in design and
execution as native timbers and Fijian architecture
harmonise with modern interiors designed to please
the most discerning guest. The Resort's accommodation
ranges from the hotel beachfront rooms to traditional
Fijian bures and Executive Beachfront bures with
private outdoor spa and sun deck. Activities range
from exhilarating water sports to river/jungle
cruise, Lawai village trip and fishing charters.
Entertainment at the Resort include live band,
Fijian meke and firewalking show.
Along the Coral Coast, situated on its own private
109-acre island and conveniently connected to
the main island by courseway lies the Shangri-la's
Fijian Resort. The Resort is 45mins. from the
Nadi int'l airport and there are 436 elegant guestrooms,
each with its own private balcony and ocean view.
The resort is one of Fiji's most popular and complete
holiday resorts. From sports of all kinds to simply
relaxing under a swaying palm tree and sipping
exotic cocktails, Shangri-La's Fijian Resort provides
for an ideal holiday.
The North also features its own share of luxury
accommodation such as Jean Michel Cousteau Fiji
Islands Resort, Namale resort and Nukubati Resort
and it also includes Matangi Dive.
- Jean Michel Cousteau
- Namale Resort
- Nukubati Resort
- Matangi Dive
However, the Outer Islands should not be eliminated.
The Outer islands includes Ovalau and the neighbouring
Wakaya Club (where most Hollywood stars are hosted
such as Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe, Michelle
Pfeifer, Tom Cruise, Bill Gates and many more);
Vatulele Island Resort (with the famous 'The Point'
had Tommy Lee Jones being the first occupant as
well as other famous stars of Hollywood) and the
famous Yasawa Group.
- Wakaya Club
- Turtle Island Resort
- Vatulele Island Resort
- Yasawa Island Resort
In the Mamanuca region, Mana Island Resort offers
Executive bure accommodation as well as their
exclusive Honeymoon bure for newly weds or those
seeking a getaway for renewal of vows. The honeymoon
bures and beachfront bures have private Jacuzzi
and receive butler service. Tokoriki Island Resort
is a tropical paradise nestled in the pristine
waters of Mamanuca with activities in great abundance
that there is never a dull moment. In addition,
Matamanoa is a small intimate secluded resort
that has recently refurbished boutique island
catering for couples and honeymooners.
| MIDDLE
RANGE |
There are many hotels that belong to the middle
range band.
In the Nadi region, many of the hotels are located
close to the International Airport to make it
easier for inbound or outbound travellers. These
include Tokatoka Resort, Raffles Gateway, Tanoa
International, Shangri-La Fiji Mocambo and Fiji
International Dominion Hotel which are all within
5minutes from the Airport.
Tokatoka Resort is located opposite the Nadi
International Airport amongst lush tropical gardens.
Accommodation options vary from apartments and
studios to villas and are well facilitated. There
is a poolside restaurant and bar that offers buffet,
a la carte meals and nightly entertainment. Large
pool with slide, separate children's pool.
Raffles Gateway is situated right next to Tokatoka
Resort and is literally the "gateway to Fiji".
Friendly and affordable accommodation for the
holiday-maker and business person. Spa/pool complex
situated adjacent to the bar and palm court coffee
shop. Fijian band serenades nightly with traditional
kava tasting. 24hr check in and room service.
The Raffles gateway will allow you to relax and
unwind on your way to or from your holiday destination.
Other resorts are:
- Fiji International Dominion hotel
- Club Fiji Resort
- Shangri-La's Fiji Mocambo
- Sandalwood Lodge
- Tanoa International Hotel
In the Mamanuca region, set among deep blue waters
with fringing coral reefs of turquoise and pastel
green, are the beautiful exotic islands that is
home to a range of resorts that are as different
as unique. Other resorts are:
- Castaway Island Resort
- Malolo Island Resort
- Navini Island Resort
- Plantation Island resort
- Musket Cove Fiji resort
- Treasure Island Resort
- Navini Island Resort
Hotels in the Outer Islands, although in remote
areas are distinctive and offer a wide range of
diverse accommodation style to suit all tastes.
- Lalati Resort
- Marlin Bay resort
- Matana Beach Resort
- Tiliva Resort
- Toberua Island Resort
Along the Coral Coast and in the Suva area, there
is also a range of hotels that belong to this
category - middle range. Other Resorts are:
- Crusoe's Retreat
- Hideaway Resort
- Outrigger Reef Resort
- Naviti Resort
- The Warwick Fiji
- Lagoon Resort
- Holiday Inn
- Raffles Tradewinds Hotel
The West of Fiji, boasts a few of its own Hotels
situated in the heart of the 'Sugar belt'. The
coastline faces Bligh Water and the Yasawa Islands
shimmering on the horizon.
- Lautoka Hotel
- Mokusigas Island Resort
- Wananavu Beach Resort
| BUDGET
ACCOMODATION |
When it comes to budget accommodation, Fiji offers
a wide range of choices - from dormitories on
beautiful coral cays to self-contained cottages
on white sandy beach and hotels in the town and
cities.
Nadi :
- Beachside Resort - beachsideresort@is.com.fj
- Club Fiji Resort - reservations@clubfiji-resort.com
- Capricorn International - Capricorn@is.com.fj
- Nadi Bay Motel - nadibay@is.com.fj
- Hotel San Bruno - Tel: (679) 6700444 Fax : (679)
6703067
- Seashell Surf & Dive Fiji - seashell@is.com.fj
- Stoney Creek Hotel -www.stoneycreekfiji.com
- Travellers Beach Resort - beachvilla@is.com.fj
Lautoka :
- Cathay Hotel - cathay@fiji4less.com
- Sea Breeze Hotel - Tel: (+679) 6660717 Fax (+679)
6666080
The Yasawa Islands, home of the fabulous Blue
Lagoon, boasts an exquisite network of 12 budget
and backpacker properties all owned and operated
by local Fijians.
- Yasawa Budget : www.fijibudget.com
Coral Coast ;
- Beach House - info@beachouse.com
;
- Club Masa Resort - Mobile : (679) 9925717
- The Crows Nest crowsnest@connect.com.fj
- Tubakula Beach Bungalows - tubakula@fiji4less.com.fj
- Robinson Crusoe Island - robcrusoe@is.com.fj
Pacific Harbour :
- Coral Coast Christian Camp - coastcc@is.com.fj
- Club coral Coast - clubcoralcoast@is.com.fj
- Pacific Safari Club - Tel: (+679) 3450498 Fax
(+679)3450499
Suva :
- Colonial Lodge - Tel: (+679) 33133666/3300655
- Motel 6 - Tel: (+679) 3307477 Fax (+679)3307133
- Raintree Lodge Fiji - raintreelodge@is.com.fj
- Peninsula International Hotel - Tel: (+679)3313711
- Sunset Apartment Motel - Tel: (+679) 3301799
- South Seas Private Hotel - southsea@fiji4less.com
RakiRaki :
- Rakiraki Hotel - Tel: (+679) 6694101 Fax (+679)
6694545
- Betham's Beach Cottage - www.bethams.com.fj
- Nananu Beach Cottages -Tel: (+679)6694633
Mamanucas :
- Beachcomber Island Resort
- Bounty Island Resort - huntsnadi@connect.com.fj
Kadavu :
- Jona's Paradise Resort - jonasparadise@hotmail.com
- Matava Kadavu - Tel: (+679) 3336098 Fax (+679)
3336099
- Waisalima Beach Resort&Dive Centre - info@waisalimafiji.com
North (Savusavu/Taveuni/Labasa) :
- Beachcomber's Driftwood - driftwood@is.com.fj/konibcres@is.com.fj
- Copra Shed Apartments - prashed@is.com.fj
- Mumu's Resort - alinedris@connect.com.fj
- Garden Island Resort - garden@connect.com.fj
- First Light Inn - Tel: (+679) 8880339 Fax(+679)8880387
- Takia Hotel - Tel: (+679) 8811655 Fax (+679)8813900
Levuka :
- Royal hotel - royal@is.com.fj
| INTRODUCTION
TO ECOTOURISM |
Eco-tourism continues to be another interesting
aspect of the tourist industry exhibiting great
potential for profitable business enterprise as
secondary tourism initiatives. Eco-tourism has emerged
as an exciting complement to mainstream tourism.
Fiji has the capacity to be the leader in the world
eco-tourism sector and it is one of the niche areas
which held great possibilities for the country.
Eco-tourism is to be seen as an amalgam of the future
generations.
There are several established attractions of
this kind which have succeeded in tapping the
tourism market. The Garden of the Sleeping Giant
at Nadi offers tourists as an opportunity to see
some of Fiji's natural heritage and the Coral
Coast Railway takes people on sugar tram lines
to a picturesque beach in Nadroga.
A new initiative by the government is to target
eco-tourism projects in rural communities. Some
$1.5 million in seed funding has been allocated
in 2002 for eco-tourism projects. Government has
already undertaken a number of other eco-tourism
initiatives which has the potential to diversify
and enrich the industry in a new direction and
encourage active participation of Fijians in the
industry's economic stream.
The promotion of the cultural heritage and backpacker
type accommodation will be encouraged.
For many years, there have been shifts in travel
patterns and new trends such as ecotourism, nature
tourism and adventure tourism. Eco tourism is of
great interest in Fiji as it means a generating
economic benefits for inland areas and remote islands.
But there is a great fear that the influx of tourists
would trigger negative impacts on traditional Fijian
culture. Ecotourism also provides the conventional
traveler with alternatives on how to spend their
time in Fiji.
Ecotourism in Fiji has been long blended with
other tourism activities in the past tourism plans.
it has surfaced strongly in recent years, and
is attributed to the development of niche markets,
environmental conscious travelers as well as demand
of educated travelers in to Fiji.
In order for an operation to be endorsed as an
Ecotourism property, it needs to fulfill the following
set criteria. It has to be:
1) Culturally sensitive
2) People oriented
3) Educational/Interpretational
4) Ecologically Sound
5) Sustainable
In 2002, being the 'International Year of Ecotourism',
Fiji hosted the WTO Regional Seminar on Eco tourism
Summit that was held in Quebec. The meeting was
tasked with the responsibility of taking and presenting
resolutions of the South Pacific Region to the
World Ecotourism Summit.
The profile of Fiji was lifted more strongly with
Fiji's success in hosting a World Series Event-Eco-challenge
Fiji 2002. Competitors from 22 countries, accompanied
by re-owned TV Crews, journalists and media personnel
from participating countries, got a glimpse of what
Fiji had to offer in terms of adventure ecotourism.
Whilst the competitors treaded on rough terrain,
peaks and valley, the genuine hospitality of the
Fijian people cajoled them further on.
Furthermore, Fiji Ecotourism Association (FETA)
is currently working on accreditation scheme on
how to categorize different activities and resorts/lodges.
| POINTS
OF INTEREST - ECOTOURISM |
NADI - MAMANUCAS - YASAWAS
ABACA (pronounced Ambatha)
A trekker's and sight seer's paradise through
black volcanic mountains, primeval forest and
open grasslands. Abaca Village Lodge (Nase Lodge)
has 12 beds, BBQ facilities, swimming pools in
the river. Offers spectacular panoramic views
of the Yasawas and Mamanuca Islands.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 666 66 44 (+ 1234) / Fax
: (679) 666 65 90.
Garden of the Sleeping Giant
Founded by the late Raymond burr in 1977 to house
his own orchids, the gardens now displays Fiji's
largest orchid collection. Opens Monday through
to Saturday from 9.00am to 5.00 pm and Sunday
mornings till 12.00 pm.
Mt Batilamu Trek
A two and a half day trek into Fiji's cultural,
historical heritage and nature reserve.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 0800-67 20 455 / Email: batilamutrek@compuserve.com
Nausori Highlands
A recommended excursion on 4WD vehicle on unpaved
road for those who wish to see the 'outback' of
the Nausori Highlands. passing through cane fields,
settlement and villages. View spectacular mountain
ranges, the Mamanuca chain of islands, Nadi town,
the Garden of the Sleeping giant from the summit.
Further along the drive you arrive at the village
to Ba. Right at the 'T' junction, you may turn
left and head for Navala Village to Ba. Or turn
back and return to Nadi or continue the drive
on to the Sigatoka Valley to rejoin the Queens
Road at Sigatoka.
Shotover Jet Fiji
For action, experience & excitement try out
the mangrove corridors of Denarau Island on Jet
Fiji boat rides.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 675 06 66 / Email: reservations@shotoverjet.com.fj
Trek Fiji
With Adventure FIJI from 1Day or 4Days/3Nights
or 6Days/5Nights or 10Days/9Nights.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 672 27 55 / Fax: (679) 672
26 07 / Email: rosiefiji@is/com.fj
Malamala Island Day Cruise
Departs Port Denarau 7 days a week at 10.00am,
returning at 5.30pm. Cost F$79.00 per person.
Children under the age of twelve yrs free!
Bookings: Tel: (679) 670 24 33/ 670 24 44 / Email:
fijifuncruises@is.com.fj
Oceanic Schooner Co
Presents 'A Taste of the Islands' on board the
100 Foot schooner 'Whales Tale'. A sailing adventure,
visiting 2 uninhabited islands during this 5 island
champagne sail/cruise of the nearby Mamanuca Islands.
Bookings Tel: (679) 672 24 55 / Fax: (679) 672
01 34 / Email: funcruises@is.com.fj
UTC's Sightseeing Adeventure
Has an adventure for everyone.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 672 28 11 / Fax: (679) 672
01 07 / Email: fiji@utc.com.fj
Victory Inland Safaris
Offers half/full day adventure trips.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 670 02 43 / Fax: (679) 670
27 46 / Website: www.victory.com.fj
Vesivesi Village
Situated on Vuda Point between Lautoka and Nadi,
this village is considered by some to be the beginning
of the Fijian Race. Visesei Village is also the
home of the Tui Vuda, the high chief of the area
and the current President of Fiji.
Wacking Stick Adventure Tours
In Nadi offers: - Garden Spa Bike Tour, Beach
Bike Tour, Twin Falls Hike and Stone Warrior Hike
& Bike. Further details,
Bookings:Tel: (679) 995 30 03 / Website: www.wackingstickadventures.com
| CORAL COAST
- PACIFIC HARBOUR - BEQA |
Beachcomber's Cruise Sensational!
H.S.C Lagilagi sails from Shangri-La Fijian Resort
Jetty at 09.15am every Thurday for the Mamanuca
Group of islands and to Beachcomber Island Resort
for a swim, buffet lunch and complimentary coral
viewing/fish feeding at the Island's sanctuary
reef. Beachcomber coaches pick up from all Coral
Coast hotels and return to port Denarau.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 666 15 00 / Fax: (679) 666
44 96 / Email:
beachcomber@is.com.fj
Biausevu Water Fall
A full day trip covering a visit to a combination
of modern Fijian lifestyle (Biausevu Village)
and traditional custom, walking to the falls through
native bush and tropical forest and lunch at Vilisite's
Restaurant. Don't forget your camera, swimsuit
and good walking shoes.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 652 08 33 / Fax: (679) 652
08 48 / Email: wfall@is.com.fj
Bounty Tours & Cruises
Kindly contact Mr John Qoroya, Nalaselase village,
Sigatoka.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 652 06 48 / Fax: (679) 662
01 26
Sigatoka Sand Dunes
The Sigatoka Sand Dunes present the striking contrast
of a small arid desert admist the lushness of
the surrounding tropical vegetation. Important
archeological relics of immense significance to
the history of Fiji to have been first settled
about 3500 years ago. The dunes begin at the Sigatoka
River mouth are easily accessible by a feeder
road off the main Queens highway.
Kalevu Cultural Museum
The Kalevu Cultural Museum is situated on the
Queen Highway opposite Shangri-la's Fijian Resort
between Sigatoka and Nadi. Opens seven days a
week from 10.00 am to 5pm.
Bookings Tel: (679) 652 02 00 / Fax: (679) 652
03 22 / Email: kalevu@is.com.fj
Tavuni Hill Fort
Come and view a resorted ancient Tongan hill fortification
right in the middle of Fiji. Expert guides are
who are descendants of its Tongan ancestors will
lead you around fortress remains pointing out
and explaining the sites of significance. You
will also be given a commentary on the rich history
of the people who lived there, a real insight
into pre-colonial Fijian lifestyle.
The two ancient look out at Tavuni offer spectacular
views of the Viti Levu coastline in one direction,
the Sigatoka River in the other and the fertile
Sigatoka Valley, known as the 'Salad Bowl of Fiji'
for the variety of agricultural produce grown.
Bookings: Tel: (679) 924 80 23 / Email: tavunihillfort@hotmail.com
The only Tourist Train in Fiji
Enjoy a ride on the Coral Coast Railway in a Circa
1911 steam train as it follows the coastline.
|
Vuda Lookout Tour.
This popular half day tour you into Nadi's scenic
heartland through the beautiful Sabeto Valley to
the Gardens of the Sleeping Giant, housing the largest
and most varied orchid collection in Fiji. Giant,
housing the largest orchid collection in Fiji. Then
to Viseisei Village, the leg legendary landing site
of the first Fijians where you will be shown through
the village and handicraft displays. The Vuda lookout
affords a 360 degree bird's eye view of the West
mountains ranges, Nadi Bay, Nadi Intenational Airport
and the beautiful Yasawa Group of islands. Relax
in a Fijian Bure and enjoy a tropical friut juice
and seasonal fruits from the orchard.
Suva "City of Surprises" Tour.
Visit Fiji's capital city, Suva, the centre of
commerce, communication and the seat of the Government.
This city with a rich colonial past, includes
sights such as the President's residence, Albert
Park and Thurston Botanical Gardens. A rainbow
of colors, cultures, tastes, festivities and people.
A harbor city built on a peninsula reaching out
in the sea. Tall modern buildings balanced by
rich traditional colonial architecture. Visit
the Museum or enjoy great shopping and local restaurants.
Departs daily except Sunday.
Navua River Village Tour.
Your journey begins on a motor boat which takes
you up the river past villages and through scenes
of untouched beauty with waterfalls and deep gorges.
Experience the thrills of fast-flowing shallow
rapids along the way. Visit a village for Kava
ceremony and Fijian lunch. Swim in clear, fresh
mountain water and visit specialty shops, before
returning down the river. Departs Nadi with pickups
along at resorts along the down the river. Departs
Nadi with pickups along at resorts the way.
Beqa Adventure triangle
Beqa Island is one of the most tourist-gifted
islands on the south coast of Viti Levu. World
re-known for 'Firewalking'. Beqa Adventure triangle
comprises of a proposed base camp at Matarua Cove,
kayak through Lalati Bay Mangrove Cross passage,
Motoriki Camp and Nanuku Picnic, snorkeling and
hand line fishing on a five day package deal.
With that in mind, the project is expected to
generate employment and income within the three
villages of Waisomo, Lalati and Dakuni.
Busa Forest Park In Hotwater Thermal Pools
One of the best natural tropical forest parks located
in the heart of the coral coast tourist establishments.
It is a unique attraction with its natural gifts
of different bird species, plants, waterfalls and
hot-water spas. Activities are: Tracking consists
of a main route which later split into two; one
leading to the waterfalls and one to the hot-water
pools. The hot water pool is a natural gift to the
park, which contain some elements of natural hot-water
thermal therapy that provide some medical enrichment
to visitors.
| POINTS
OF INTEREST - DIVING |
MAMANUCA - YASAWA - NADI
Within proximity to the international airport
this area is well served with hotels and resorts
and the usual destination is the nearby reefs
and islands. The Mamanuca islands are spectacular
mini archipelago only ten minutes by air from
the airport or one hour by ferry. The Mamanuca
islands sweep in an arc to the north west, the
setting for the movie, "Castaway" and
join the spectacular Yasawa chain of islands.
The islands lie behind the great sea reef enclosing
a huge lagoon of innumerable reefs, bomies, islands,
and islets most of which have never seen a diver.
The mainland and island resorts are tailored
to meet the needs of every diver, and include
shark dive for those craving extreme excitement.
Novices have calm waters and coral reefs to explore.
Visibility frequently exceeds 35 meters. As well
as vibrant corals and colorful small reef fish
are frequently encountered. The resorts offer
a range of accommodation from small and intimate
to a few which are not so small (but not large)
and tariffs which please everyone from backpackers
upwards. All resorts have beautiful white sandy
beaches.
*Aqua-Trek Mana
*Castaway Diving
*Plantation Island Resort
*Subsurface Beachcomber
*Subsurface Malolo
*Subsurface Musket Cove
*Subsurface Navini
*Subsurface Treasure Island
*Tokoriki Island Resort
*Westside Watersports
*Yasawa Island Resort
*Dive Tropex
CORAL COAST * PACIFIC HARBOUR * BEQA * TOBERUA
World acclaim diving in these regions is simply
incredible. The area boosts a wonderful atmosphere
and activities for family holidays and the diving
is incredibly accessible.
For the connoisseur, the area has earned a justifiable
reputation as one of the world's top dive destinations.
Much of the profuse coral growth and fish life
around the Beqa barrier reef due to the islands
lying down current of the Tonga trench - a geologically
active phenomena where volcanoes erupt frequently
and send tons of nutrients to those parts of Fiji
directly in the path of the west-setting current.
Dive Boats depart daily from Pacific Harbor, Beqa
and the Coral Coast regions diving walls, tunnels,
corals, wrecks, large fish, and shark in these
regions.
*Aqua-Trek Robinson Crusoe
*Dive Crusoe´s
*Mike's Diver's
*South Pacific Adventure Divers
*AquaCadabra Diving & Adventure sports Ltd
*Aqua-trek Beqa
*Beqa Divers
*Dive Connections (Fiji) Ltd
*Lalati Resort
*Toberua Island Resort
KADAVU
This is Fiji´s fourth largest island 45
miles south of the capital city, Suva, and linked
by air from both Nadi and Nausori airports.
The island is host to world class diving and
has an early reputation with its Astrolabe reef.
As word slowly spread out about its superb diving,
small resorts dedicated to diving appeared and
live boards also made their way into the region.
It has now been found that the reefs encircling
Kadavu offer outstanding diving and its excellence
is not confined to the reefs that first made its
name.
Of more interest to the prospective diver is
the fact that Kadavu is rated as an outstanding
dive destination, equal to (and better than most)
in the world.
*Dive Kadavu
*Matava- The Astrolabe Hideaway
*Tiliva Resort
*Waisalima Beach Resort & Dive Center
SUNSHINE COAST
The eastern coast of Viti Levu, which sweeps to
its northern-most point is known as Ra or the Sunshine
Coast. The islands of Nananu-I-Ra and Nananu-I-Cake,
are sites of new dive operations. The islands are
approximately two hours drive by car from Nadi Airport
on a modern tar-sealed highway through sugar cane
fields and views of Bligh Waters and its reefs and
islands.
The areas boosts wonderful diving offering walls
with sot corals, gorgonia, feather stars and hard
corals as well as profuse fish life including large
fish and sharks. Some of the guarantee schools of
pelagics include hammerhead sharks, berracuda, turtles,
giant trevally, manta rays, moray eels and even
tuna. The area around Nananu-I-Cake has produced
many sites within the short time diving services
have been available but much to be explored.
*Crystal Divers Fiji
*Ra Divers Fiji
VANUA LEVU/TAVEUNI
Between these two lovely islands, they have enormous
flora and fauna species and also breathtaking diving.
There is superb water clarity and a great variety
of diving, including walls plunging to unbelievable
depths, vibrant soft corals, gorgonians, hard corals,
reef fish and pelagic fish, profuse marine life
and more.
Most of the reefs around these area have never
seen a diver and probably never will. Operators
select dives from a wide spectrum o some of Fiji's
best dive sites.
There is an offering of underwater wonderland,
which has made Fiji famous. These offer a memorable
testimonial to all the regions previous dive guests
who have left very satisfied.
*Eco Divers-Tours
*L'Adventure Divers
*Moody´s Namena
*Namale resort
*Nukubati Island Resort
*Aqua Trek Taveuni
*Aquaventure Taveuni
*Dolphin Bay Divers Retreat
*Matangi Dive
*Swiss Fiji Divers
| POINTS
OF INTEREST - SURFING |
In Fiji, good surf points are reef breaks and
to most of the surf points you have to go by boat.
Every Surf Resort in Fiji do surf trips every
day. A world class left, featured regularly in
surf magazines, is located on the reef at Frigate
Pass in the middle of the crystal blue waters
of Beqa Lagoon. Compared to Fiji's Cloudbreak,
Frigate is one of the most consistent surf breaks
in Fiji, ranging from workable long and fast walls
to top to bottom tubes. The predominate southeast
trade winds means it is offshore most of the time.
This wave has something for everyone. Batiluva,
in Yanuca Island, does surf trips to Frigates
every day, one of the best surf breaks in the
world.
www.batiluva.com
"Resorts Left" is a fun lefthander,
good for beginners and long boards and it works
at all tides. You can also find good and fast
barrels at Pipe lefthander, Black Rock, the long
Mata Point right-hander, with inside bowl section,
Serua Rights and Vunaniu right. Waidroka Bay Surf
Resort is the only main island resort that surfs
Frigates and six local breaks. In the northwest,
half an hour away from Nadi, you can enjoy the
famous left at Cloudbreak or the right at Wilkes.
You will be able to go to surf this waves if you
stay at Tavarua Island, Namotu Island, Seashell
Cove or at the friendly Rendezvous Beach Resort
run by Ben, one of the few Fijian surfers and
a very comfortable place to go for backpackers.
Rendezvous Beach Resort: Website: www.infofiji.com/rendezvous/index.htm,
Ph: (679) 6510571 / (GSM) 9933065. E-mail: rendezvous@infofiji.com.
| OUR MISSION |
We promote and develop tourism which protects
and prospers Fiji's unique natural, cultural and
social environment by working closely with our
many partners to develop quality visitor experiences
and a successful tourism industry which contributes
tangibly towards the nations social and economic
well being. We commit ourselves for earning respect
for our common caused by a constant quest for
professionalism, leadership, creativity sand excellence
in all we do.
| OUR ROLE |
As Fiji's National Tourist Office (NTO), the
Fiji Visitors Bureau role includes:
· Marketing the destination
· Encouraging and assisting the industry
to work together
· Providing quality research information
The Primary role of Fiji Visitors Bureau is marketing
or building awareness of Fiji in marketing the
specific products. The consumers we target see
us (Fiji), as a beautiful and natural environment,
thus making our country a place to visit 'someday'.
Our marketing involves persuading visitors that
we (FVB) can put places, people and products together
to provide a range of holiday experiences - the
best. In other words what we're saying is that:
· Here's what we and who we are
· Here's some great reason why you should
visit us
· Here's how to make it all happen
The key to turning awareness of our destination
into action lies in many closer industry co operations.
The individual operators join forces with the
FVB to market new or existing activities, experiences,
or attraction that appeals to a specific segment
in the market.
| OBJECTIVES |
The objective of the Bureau is stipulated in
the Fiji Tourist Commission and Visitors Bureau
Act. 1967 is to encourage:
a) visits to Fiji by people from other countries
and travel and holidays within Fiji by people
from within or outside Fiji.
b) the development of Fiji as a holiday resort
and the improvement of facilities for visitors,
having regard to the interests of local residents
c) the co-ordination of activities of persons
providing services for our visitors to Fiji
d) the appreciation by the community of the benefits
which will accrue to Fiji through the development
of the tourist industry
| FIJI VISITORS
BUREAU - AN OVERVIEW |
The Fiji Visitors Bureau is a statutory body
fully funded by Fiji government and the marketing
arm of the Ministry of tourism. The marketing
objectives of the Bureau is to stimulate increased
visits to Fiji by people of other countries, coordinate
overseas promotional activities and airlines servicing
Fiji and to ensure Fiji's marketing operations
are innovative, effective and efficient to maximise
available growth.
The Bureau is entrusted by the FVB Act to market
and promote Fiji abroad as a tourist destination
- a task which has become increasingly challenging
over the years with other islands destinations
making similar efforts to capture a bigger share
of the visitor market. With tourism surpassing
sugar as the highest foreign exchange earner for
Fiji, it is perhaps an appropriate yardstick as
to the success of the Bureau marketing strategies.
Each year, the Bureau prepares a marketing programme
which outlines its planned activities in each
of its overseas markets as well as it objectives
and strategies for each country. The main feature
of the marketing plan is that it looks at Fiji's
major tourist source markets i.e. Australia, New
Zealand, North America, Japan, United Kingdom
and Continental Europe and tailors a marketing
package to suit each market.
The Bureau organises cooperative promotions overseas
normally in conjunction with the major airlines
Air Pacific and Air New Zealand and invites members
of the tourism industry i.e. Hotels/resort/tour
and cruise operators, to participate with us. These
promotions/ road shows are often intensive and cover
many cities and states within a short period of
time. Often a feature of these promotions is the
inclusion of entertainment groups like the Fiji
Police Band, the Military band or the Dance Theatre
of Fiji.
The Bureau invites selected travel agents, travel
writers, journalists and television crews to invite
Fiji on familiarisation visits and their itineraries
are prepared by the FVB. Journalists are carefully
screened by the Bureau that they, and the publication
they represent, have credibility as well as satisfactory
readership and circulation. As with travel writers,
television groups are also carefully screened to
establish their ratings, audience reach, time slot,
impact and popularity. Whilst in selected sightseeing
spots. Workshops and seminars with the local tourism
industry during their visits are organised.
Advertising campaign in both print and electronic
media are mounted each year in Fiji's major source
markets of Australia, New Zealand, North America
and Japan. In most cases these campaigns are a
joint effort of the Bureau and the national carrier,
Air Pacific. More advertising and promotions improve
visitor arrivals, fill hotels and resorts and
attract new investment and more air services.
The Bureau also produces videos, the Fiji Islands
Travel Guide consumer brochures, tour shells,
posters and other promotional materials which
are used extensively in overseas promotions.
With regard to tourism generally this can be broken
down in four main characteristics.
a) Tourism involves a complex set of inter-relationships
between people, places, and products.
b) These inter-relationship evolve through the transportation
of people in various destinations outside of their
normal place of residence and their stay at those
destinations.
c) The duration of the visit must generally be of
short-term nature i.e. not permanent.
d) tourism is essentially a pleasure activity in
that sense that it does not involve earning related
travel even if the associated income is not earned
in the destination.
| HISTORY |
The Fiji Visitors Bureau was established in 1953
and is one of the oldest National Tourist Office
in the world. It is the official body of the country,
which is responsible for the development and marketing
of tourism.
By 1959, the FVB could supply statistics for the
previous year; 12,000 staying visitors; 3,800
cruise ship passengers; 36,000 passengers transiting
Nadi Airport; 24,00 ship passengers in transit
between Australia and the northern hemisphere.
Total tourist expenditure for the year was estimated
at U.S $2.5 million, or about 12% of Fiji's gross
national income. It was also estimated that revenue
from the government from tourism that year was
around US $800,000. The Government financed the
FVB that year to a tune of US $25,000.
1967, was a big turning for Fiji's tourism history.
In that year, the first luxury resort, The Fijian,
opened and a number of land and water excursions
began operating. Fiji has entered the big league
of tourism; a modern star was born and noted by
overseas travel agents and international airlines.
In 1968, Fiji welcomed 66,458 staying visitors,
31,554 cruise ship passengers, and they spent
about $20 million while they were here. Fiji Government's
grant to the FVB that year was $172,000 and a
further $12,000 came in from commercial contributions.
The FVB was then operating from a suite of offices
on the corner of Victoria Parade and MacArthur
Street with a staff of ten, some of whom are still
with the Bureau.
The Bureau was fortunate too, in consistently
recruiting loyal hard working staff. Hundreds,
probably thousands, of visitors still remember
the pleasure the friendly reception they received
at the FVB where bilos of yaqona were handed out
along with advice and brochures.
The Bula spirit was being exported too, in the
form of overseas offices to service the growing
trend of travel and tourism. Ebullient Bill Raikuna
opened the Auckland FVB office, and is still casting
Fiji the warmth around New Zealand. Avuncular
Russ Gribble made thousands of friends for Fiji
with the Sydney office.
| FUNCTIONS
|
EDUCATION OR FAMILIARISATION TOURS
In order to inform the travel trade about and
familiarise them with the tourist product(s) of
Fiji, we organize educational tours for selected
wholesalers and retailers, who can then sell the
country as a tourist destination more easily.
The same applies for travel writers that wish
to travel to Fiji and write an article on the
country either as a destination or an particular
product. Only the best comes through to Fiji.
ADVERTISING
This is a very significant part in the overall
marketing. A good example is FVB's advertising
in New Zealand. Today there are about four billboards
of Fiji´s Joeli Vidri´s smiling face
with the slogan 'sidestep the winter and wing
it to Fiji'. As you all know that we have a Fijian
All Blacks Rugby Player advertising for Fiji is
a mileage for the countries tourism industry.
Joeli being the first Fijian to dorn the all blacks
jersey has not only made a name for himself but
for his country by putting Fiji firmly on the
map.
TRADE PROMOTIONS
The FVB takes part in various promotions wide. Participation
in tourism fairs and exhibitions are done with suitable
decorated stand, which present the tourist attractions
of the country. Here the FVB aims at contacting
large numbers of potential tourist in order to inform
them about the tourist literature to interested
people is distributed. The FVB attends these promotions
together with the other local participants. A good
e.g. would be the Trade Promotion in Europe - ITB
Berlin. It is one of the biggest and largest Tourism
Fairs.
TOURIST LITERATURE
There is a need for widely diversified tourist
literature, which must be adequate in terms of
range and coverage. Literature given to Travel
Agents worldwide including, leaflets, brochures,
guidebooks (Travel Guide/Fiji Calling), brochures,
Fiji map, events calendar, posters etc. Other
materials would include films, photographs, slides,
display unit, etc. These materials are given out
to preferred wholesalers and retailers as a marketing
tool to enable them to sell Fiji confidently and
convincingly to their clients.
MARKETING RESEARCH
A consulting firm is contracted by the Bureau
to collect marketing information such as the age
group, reason for travel, period of travel etc
on the area it covers. The information is FVB
also does their own marketing research such as
fairly simple forms of desk research to highly
complex projects of fields research.
| TOURISM
IN FIJI |
Tourism is Fiji's fastest growing industry in
terms of employment creation and increased foreign
exchange earnings. The industry provides employment
directly and indirectly to an estimated 40,000
people (15 percent of the labour force) and contributes
approximately 17 per cent of total production
in the economy.
Tourism earnings for 2000 has been rebased (using
the 2000 International Visitors Survey per diem
expenditure) and now stands at $413.5 million,
a decrease of $145.1 million for 1999.
Fiji's gross earnings from tourism for the second
quarter of 2001 is provisionally estimated at $9.5
million or 7.5 per cent over gross earnings of $126.2
for the same period in 2000. The decrease is attributed
to a decline in the number of visitors days due
to the political instability since May 2000.
A tourism Development Plan has also been prepared
by the EU in close consultation with the industry
and Government. The master plan sets the following
targets for the year 2005: the attraction of a
total of 1500,000 to 600,000 visitors a year,
creation of additional $325 million in foreign
exchange.
Visitors arrivals during the third quarter of 2002
totaled 114,844 an increase of 11,751 or 10,2 per
cent over the same period in 2001. Fiji's main tourist
source markets in Australia and New Zealand have
shown positive signs of economic growth. This augurs
well for the industry with an expected increase
in tourist arrivals from these markets.
Fiji has been served by five regional airlines -
Air New Zealand, Qantas and Air Pacific. With the
growth in the tourist industry and Duty Free Shopping
industry and cosmetics, jewelry, cameras and radios.
Duty Free shopping outlets can be found in cities,
towns, hotels and Nadi International Airport. To
develop and provide healthy competition within the
shopping industry and duty free shops in particularly
an extension of duty free shopping to other premises
away from Nadi and Nausori airports.
Major hotel and resort projects include the $29
million Outrigger Reef Resort has been or completed
and several other major projects worth hundreds
of million of dollars are in the pipeline. These
include the Air Pacific Hotel Project at Denarau
and a comprehensive proposal for the development
of Natadola as a prime tourism center. Government
will give these projects the necessary push and
support to facilitate their early commencement.
| ECOTOURISM |
Eco-tourism continues to be another interesting
aspect of the tourist industry exhibiting great
potential for profitable business enterprise is
secondary tourism initiatives, or eco-tourism.
Eco-tourism has emerged as an exciting complement
to mainstream tourism.
Fiji has the capacity to be the leader in the
world eco-tourism sector and it is one of the
niche areas which held great possibilities for
the country.
Eco-tourism is to be seen as an amalgam of the
future generations.
There are several established attractions of this
kind which have succeeded in tapping the tourism
market. The Garden of the Sleeping Giant at Nadi
offers tourists as an opportunity to see some of
Fiji's natural heritage and the Coral Coast Railway
takes people on sugar tram lines to a picturesque
beach in Nadroga.
A new initiative by the government is to target
eco-tourism projects in rural communities. Some
$1.5 million in seed funding has been allocated
in 2002 for eco-tourism projects.
Government has already undertaken a number of
other eco-tourism initiatives which has the potential
to diversify and enrich the industry in a new
direction and encourage active participation of
Fijians in the industry's economic stream.
The Bouma falls and the Lavena walk in Taveuni
are already open to tourists plus the Tongan Hill
Fort in Tavuni, Sigatoka.
The promotion of the cultural heritage and backpacker
type accommodation will be encouraged.
| WORLD WIDE
ADDRESSES |
FIJI
Nadi Airport Concourse
P.O Box 9217
Nadi Airport
Tel:(679) 672 24 33/672 17 21
Fax:(679) 672 01 41
Email: fvbnadi@is.com.fj
Website: www.bulafiji.com
This office is open extended hours and meets all
international flights.
AUSTRALIA
Fiji Visitors Bureau
Level 12,St Martins Tower
31 Market street,Sydney
NSW 2000
Tel:(02) 9264 433 99
Fax:(02) 9264 430 60
Email: infosyd@bulafiji.au.com
Web:www.bulafiji.au.com.com
NEW ZEALAND
Fiji Visitors Bureau
5th flr,48 High Street
P.O Box 1179,Auckland
Tel:(09) 3732133/134
Fax:(09) 3094720
Email: info@bulafiji.co.nz
Website: www.BulaFiji.co.nz
JAPAN
Fiji Visitors Bureau
Noa Bldg(14th Flr),3-5
2 Chome Azabudai, Minato-Ku
Tokyo 106
Tel:(03) 3587 2561
Fax:(03) 3587 2563
Email: fijip@red.an.egg.or.jp
Website: www.bulafiji.or.jp
UNITED STATES
The Americas, Fiji Visitors Bureau
5777 West Century Boulevard
Suite 220,Los Angeles,CA90045
Tel:(310) 568 1616
Fax:(310) 670 2318
Toll free#1.800-YEA-FIJI
Email: infodesk@bulafiji.americas.com
Website: www.BulaFiji.americas.com
SOUTH KOREA
Honorary Consulate General Of The
Republic of Fiji
Fiji Visitors Bureau
7 Fl,Sunkiss Building, 628-14
Yeoksam-Dong, Kangnam-Ku
Seoul,135-080, Korea
Tel:82 (2) 3452 5093
Fax:82 (2) 561 6921
Email: kabifj@unitel.co.kr
Website: www.bulafiji.or.kr
TAIWAN
Fiji Visitors Bureau
Fiji Trade & Tourism Representitive
Office in ROC
Suite 3212, 32nd fl, ITB Building
333 Keelung Rd, Sec 1, Taipei
Tel:(886-2) 2757 9596
Fax:(886-2) 2757 9597
Email: joyce@fijitro.org.tw
Website: www.fijitro.org.tw
EUROPE
Fiji Visitors Bureau
Petersburger Strasse 94
10247 Berlin
Germany
Tel:(49) 30 4225 6062
Fax:(49) 30 4225 6286
Website: fvbeurope@t-online.de
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