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If you visit a village, it is proper to take kava root with you for the chief.Take stickers with you to give to children (you know, like Pokemon, super heroes, etc.) They'll get you lots of smiles for good photos and you'll make the kids happy.
Everyone needs to have their shoulders covered when visiting the villages. And woman should have their knees covered. The Fijian people are extremely accomodating and will never tell you if you have done something wrong.
Most travellers will have the opportunity to participate in a Kava ceremony - you drink it, clap and say Bula (you will hear this greeting often). Kava is some sort of root (squeezed into water) that has drug-like effects - I had a couple of bowls full and ended up with a numb face and spaced out feel. Don't worry though - all natural! It is a ceremony Fijians perform to welcome or bid farewell to friends, or that's what they told us.
Kava is the local drink and its drunk by the Fijian men in a special ceremony. First you say Bula, clap your hands once, take the bowl, drink it, then clap your hands three times. When someone else is drinking you clap with them.
Fiji has two cultures: Polynesian and Indian. These tips refer to polynesian culture: It is rude to touch people on the head (hats are also considered rude and only tourists wear them). When sitting down and drinking yanqona, do not point your feet at anyone. If you visit someone, bring a gift (yaqona is a great gift!). Take off your shoes when you enter a house.
When/if visiting a local village always offer a little amount of money, or better still, buy some kava root and present it to the chief on your arrival. This shows a great deal of respect, and goes a little way to repaying the amazing welcome that you will be shown.
Don't be afraid to try the local cava when offered to you. It's meant as a friendly gesture and can be considered impolite to refuse. It does whether look or taste good, but the traditions around the serving and sharing of cava is interesting and fun to participate in. Our experience is that the people of Fiji are fond of singing and want you to join in. Some of the songs are easy to learn and there is one song in particular that has a place in our hearts : Isa Lei - the farewell song.
There was two distinct cultural groups in Fiji, the native Fijian's and the Indian Fijian's which at times have some friction between them. However, a smile and a greeting seemed to work with everyone.
A traditional thatched-roof dwelling
bula means hello, vinaka = thank you, moce = bye bye, levu = big, lailai = small. learn a couple of words and the smiles will even be bigger!
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Reviews and photos of Fiji attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Fiji sightseeing.
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