Fiji’s clear waters, white sand beaches and friendly islanders make it a tropical paradise

The South Pacific country known for world-class watersports, food and hospitality makes for a great tropical getaway despite some downsides

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Fiji’s clear waters and colourful coral reefs are just some of the things that make it a great tropical getaway. Photo: Getty Images

Published: 4:15am, 10 Jun 2024

Characterised by white sand beaches and clear cerulean waters, the Fijian archipelago comprises more than 330 South Pacific islands, most of which were formed more than 150 million years ago through volcanic activity.

Early settlers were said to be fierce warriors and cannibals, but a lot has changed since then; much of Fiji’s charm lies in the friendliness of its people and their natural hospitality.

It all begins the moment you arrive at the airport – that will most likely be Nadi International Airport, on the main island of Viti Levu, if you are flying in from overseas – where a group of singers greets arrivals at immigration with a hearty “Bula!” and a traditional welcome song.

The greeting is exchanged often, day and night, even between strangers passing each other on the road.

A Fiji Airways plane at Nadi International Airport, where most foreign visitors to Fiji land. Photo: Shutterstock

Although some tourists may cite Fijian hospitality as a reason to return, most first-time visitors head straight for a “scenic tropical getaway” on one of the country’s smaller islands.

There is a wide variety: the more adventurous visitor can easily island-hop or set off on a hike in the mountains, while couples looking for a bit of R&R are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury resorts.