Suva, Fiji Travel Tips

Suva, Fiji Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

  1. Greetings and Addressing People: In Fiji, a common greeting is “Bula!” (pronounced boo-la), which means hello or life. When meeting someone for the first time, it’s polite to shake hands and make eye contact. Use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss followed by the surname when addressing people.

  2. Dress Code: Modesty is important in Fiji. While the climate is tropical, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially in more traditional settings. Swimwear should be saved for the beach and pool areas. For men, shorts are acceptable almost everywhere.

  3. Mealtime Etiquette: Meals are often communal and sharing food is an important part of Fijian culture. It’s polite to accept any food offered to you, but declining once is sufficient if you really can’t eat more. Use your right hand for eating, as the left hand is considered unclean in Fiji.

  4. Gift-Giving: Gifts are not a common part of everyday life in Fiji, but they are appreciated during special occasions. If invited to someone’s home, it’s nice to bring a small gift like fruit, sweets, or flowers. Avoid giving items like alcohol or anything black, which are associated with mourning.

  5. Photography: Always ask permission before taking someone’s photo in Fiji, especially if they are children. Respect their wishes if they decline. When photographing sacred sites or ceremonies, always ask for permission first.

  6. Respect for Traditional Practices and Customs: Fijians have a rich cultural heritage, with many traditions related to their villages, religion, and daily life. Be respectful when visiting traditional villages, religious sites, or attending cultural events. Dress appropriately and avoid any behavior that might be considered disrespectful.

  7. Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Fiji as service charges are usually included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, if you receive excellent service, it’s appreciated but not necessary to leave a tip.

  8. Business Etiquette: Punctuality is important in business settings in Fiji. Dress conservatively for meetings. Use titles when addressing colleagues or seniors, and address them respectfully as “Sir” or “Madam”. Business communication is direct but polite.