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Fiji
consists of 333 islands scattered over 42,000 square miles of
ocean. In the blue seas of the South Pacific you will find these
extraordinary and beautiful islands. They are a tropical wonderland
inhabited by a people who invented the true meaning of hospitality.
Beach lovers will be in heaven with the many miles of white
sand beaches. Surfers marvel at the endless swells. You can
kayak through the maze of unspoiled islands, hike through rainforests
dotted with breathtaking waterfalls, angle for yellowfin tuna,
marlin and wahoo....or you can spend your days doing nothing
at all...
Fiji is well known to scuba divers worldwide as one of the most
dreamed about vacations. It's reputation comes from what it
has to offer. The variety of soft coral is astounding. Fed by
the rich nutrients streaming up from the Tonga Trench and influenced
by several major rivers, the reef eco-system in the Fiji Islands
is noted for its complex nature.
Island Divisions
North
Vanua Levu, Namenalala, Taveuni, Qamea, Laucala, Kioa, Rabi
and a series of smaller islets and islands.
South
Pacific Harbour, Yanuca, Kadavu, Beqa & Vatulele Islands
Coral Coast
The Coral Coast begins about 9 miles (15 kilometres) south of
Nadi town.
Central
Lomaiviti is the Fijian name for a group of islands east of
Viti Levu - Ovalau, Levuka, Moturiki, Makogai, Batiki, Narai,
Gau and a number of smaller islands and islets. Also includes
the eastern coast of Viti Levu which sweeps to its northernmost
point is known as Ra.
West
Nadi, The Mamanuca & Yasawa Islands
The Mamanuca islands are a mini archipelago about ten minutes
by air from Nadi or one hour by ferry. The Mamanuca islands
sweep in an arc to the north west and join the Yasawa chain.
Background
Fiji became independent in 1970, after nearly a century as a
British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military
coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived
as dominated by the Indian community (descendants of contract
laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century).
A 1990 constitution favored native Melanesian control of Fiji,
but led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted
in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became
the majority. Amendments enacted in 1997 made the constitution
more equitable. Free and peaceful elections in 1999 resulted
in a government led by an Indo-Fijian, but a coup in May 2000
ushered in a prolonged period of political turmoil. Parliamentary
elections held in August 2001 provided Fiji with a democratically
elected government and gave a mandate to the government of Prime
Minister Laisenia QARASE.
Fiji
Islands At a Glance
Language: English (official), Fijian, Hindustani
Government: republic, gained independence 10 October 1970 (from
UK)
Capital: Suva (Viti Levu)
Size: total: 18,270 sq km, land: 18,270 sq km, coastline: 1,129
km
Location: Oceania, island group in the South Pacific Ocean,
about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Climate: tropical marine; only slight seasonal temperature variation
Electricity: The electrical current in Fiji is 240 volts AC
50 Hz. Fiji has three pin power outlets identical to Australia
and New Zealand.
Currency: Fijian dollar (FJD)
Driving: A bona-fide tourist in Fiji may drive if in possession
of a valid home country driving license for the same class of
vehicle. The maximum speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h
(30 mph) and on the highways it is 80 km/h (50 mph). Driving
is on the left side of the road.
Rentals: Rental cars are available at international airports
and major resorts, and are easily arranged from all hotels and
motels. There is good bitumen asphalt (hard top) highway from
Rakiraki on the north-eastern tip of Viti Levu to Suva, via
Tavua, Ba, Lautoka, Nadi and the Coral Coast. Work now in progress
will complete major sections of the highway from Rakiraki to
Suva via Korovou, allowing for an easy (and spectacular) circumnavigation
of the island. Rental cars are also available in Vanua Levu
and some outer islands by arrangement.
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