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We know Fiji, when you book with us - you’re booking with the experts.
Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts. They may not be absolutely necessary but they will make your trip much more enjoyable.
- Learn a little of the language; it tickles the locals sense of humour.
- Some dive resorts have a small boutique gift shop but if you want snack foods to eat you’d be best to take them with you.
- Take a newspaper and perhaps womens magazines to read - and pass on to management when you’ve finished!
- Be aware that alcohol, cigarettes and skimpy clothing may offend.
- Dress modestly when visiting local villages. Don't wear shorts, and women must not wear halter tops and shoulders bare. Do not wear hats. They are interpreted as a sign of disrespect. Always remove your shoes before entering any house or other building in a village.
- Take a small backpack to keep your camera in. If staying in an air conditioned room, keep your camera box open as the camera will fog up and can cause long term problems.
- Take an extra water bottle; dehydration can be a big problem. The water is usually safe to drink at dive resorts, but check first!
- Take a wide brimmed hat, sun cream and basic first aid kit containing antibiotic cream.
- Small gifts for the local kids, especially anything made of plastic, such as a yoyo, will earn you a life long friend.
- Take a torch and mosquito coils with you.
- Eat locally and eat what is natural to the area.
- Be courteous to a fault. Speak softly. Raised voices are interpreted as expressing anger.
- Show respect, but be cautious with praise. If you show too much liking for an object, then the Fijians will feel obliged to give it to you as a gift, whether they can afford to or not.
- If you spend a night in the village, reward your host with a useful gift of similar value for each member of your party. It is not recommended that you stay in a village which is in the habit of accommodating paying visitors. If you feel obliged to pay more, then ask your host what he or she might like and purchase it for them. A bundle of groceries is graciously appreciated by large Fijian families.
- When staying in a local village, stay with your assigned host. If other villagers ask you to eat or accompany them, politely note that you are with your host and would be honoured to visit with them at some other time. Remember, Fijians will, out of customs, always ask you to eat with them or share whatever they have.
- Fiji a great place to buy indigenous artifacts. It is fine to bargain but be fair. In the villages bartering hats, t-shirts, mask and snorkels can be of more use than money.
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