Fiji is an archipelago paradise that hardly needs any introduction to travel enthusiasts thanks to its world-renowned beaches and idyllic way of life. Located East of Australia and North of New Zealand, this country can be easily accessed via a four-hour plane ride, making it the perfect getaway destination.
Been dreaming of finally experiencing Fiji’s “Bula” spirit? Good news: Fiji is expected to open its borders to Australians around December, when around 80% of eligible Aussies are expected to be vaccinated. A Fiji-Australia travel bubble will be implemented, which is your signal to start planning your beach holiday with the fam.
Once the Fiji-Australia travel bubble is implemented, you also don’t have to worry about quarantining for 14 days! This is true as of 14 September 2021, so watch out for any changes in protocols that may occur.
To get you pumped and ready to pack your bags for the pride of the South Pacific, here are our top 10 reasons why you should travel to Fiji from Australia post-lockdown:
- Fiji’s stunning natural beauty
- It’s only a few hours away by plane
- The “Bula” spirit and Pacific Island life
- Go Island Hopping Across 333 Different Islands
- Adrenaline-pumping activities
- Fiji is the Soft Coral Capital of the World
- Golfing in the tropics
- Stay warm at the beach any time of the year
- Fun for the whole family
- Indulge in delicious Fijian cuisine
1. Fiji’s stunning natural beauty
Fiji is an archipelago comprising around 333 islands, all enveloped with miles and miles of picturesque beaches and dotted with majestic waterfalls. Some islands, such as Taveuni, are mostly covered by lush tropical rainforests. The beauty does not stop above sea level—you’ll find Fiji’s mesmerizing underwater world with dense corals and colourful wildlife equally captivating. Your camera roll will be packed with all the IG-worthy photos you’ll be taking.
2. It’s only a few hours away by plane
Travelling to Fiji from Australia is easier and quicker than you think. You won’t be cooped up on a plane for a 10-hour flight at the very least, and jet lag won’t be tagging along the trip. In just four to five hours, (seven if you’re coming from Western Australia), you’ll step foot on Fiji and be able to witness its surreal beauty with your own eyes. Despite the proximity, you’ll be sure to feel like it's a tropical world away from Australia/ New Zealand.
3. The “Bula” spirit and Pacific Island life
Bula is a standard greeting in the Fijian dialect. It’s also a spirit that the locals imbibe that takes hospitality to the next level. Fijians are known for their friendliness and making you feel right at home! You’ll also be able to peek into authentic Pacific Island ways of life by participating in cultural heritage activities like village visits, Meke performances, fire walking, and more!
4. Go Island Hopping Across 333 Different Islands
There’s more to Fiji than sands and seas. Because it has 333 islands, each with its own charm, there’s something for all kinds of travellers. From beach-goers who simply want to sit back and relax, adrenaline junkies looking for a thrill, to nature explorers who wish to admire the island’s surreal beauty. There are also plenty of private resorts and spas if you’re up for the ultimate wellness retreat!
5. Adrenaline-pumping activities
While Fiji is an idyllic island paradise, it’s also a hotspot for various forms of adrenaline-pumping activities. From skydiving over the gorgeous islands below and exploring the caves and magnificent bodies of water, there’s plenty of activities that will make your heart race. You can also try White-water rafting through the gorges of the Upper Navua River, which will take you on the thrill of your life and show you stunning falls and lush rainforests. Meanwhile, going on the Sigatoka River Safari will have you jet boating up Fiji’s largest river.
6. Fiji is the Soft Coral Capital of the World
Surrounded by unspoiled turquoise waters, it’s a given that Fiji is also home to several reefs. But what makes these reefs unique is that they’re filled with soft corals or bendable coral-like invertebrates that resemble plants and trees. This earned Fiji the nickname the Soft Coral Capital of the World. The archipelago is also home to the third-longest barrier reef (the Great Sea Reef) and the fourth-largest barrier reef (the Great Astrolabe Reef). Definitely an excellent spot for fantastic snorkelling and scuba diving experiences.
7. Golfing in the tropics
Once you can travel to Fiji from Australia, you should definitely head over to their world-class tropical golf courses. The most notable of which is the one at Natadola Bay—an 18-hole course bordered by white sand beaches and palm trees—which is home to the Fijian Open. Imagine dropping a hole-in-one to the sound of waves lapping against the shore! You can also head to Pearl Champion Golf & Country Club and Denarau Golf & Racquet Club to enjoy golfing in the tropics to the fullest.
8. Stay warm at the beach any time of year
Have you been deprived of your annual trip to South East Asia or Bali? Good thing the beaches in Fiji stay warm all year round! So pack your swimming gear to soak in the sun at the country’s numerous islands littered with famed beaches! The Mamanuca Islands—seen in the films Cast Away and Bounty Islands—are enough to have you packing your bags with its strips of beaches and clear waters great for snorkelling and diving. The Yasawa Islands—seen in the film Blue Lagoon with Brooke Shields—are also famous for their gorgeous beaches.
9. Fun for the whole family
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities and accommodations in Fiji, making it an excellent choice for a vacation destination for the whole family. Aside from the numerous nature activities for all ages, Fiji is also known for having mei-meis or nannies ready to look after your little ones. They’ll be happy to help the parents relax a little more while in paradise!
10. Indulge in delicious Fijian cuisine
Fiji’s fertile lands and abundant seas make it a great source of the freshest seafood and tropical fruits like pineapples, mangoes, papayas and coconuts. These local ingredients are used to the fullest in Fijian cuisine, which has two main varieties: indigenous Fijian and Fijian Indian. Lovo dishes, which are meats, fish, and root vegetables cooked in an earth oven, are a must-try!