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Captain Cook Cruises Fiji | Blog
Fiji is widely known for its incredible clear water, white sand beaches and island life. However this small island nation nestled in the South Pacific is more than just an island paradise, instead boasting a rich and vibrant history and a friendly, relaxed culture. Hidden treasures are found throughout in the form of little restaurants, welcoming families and private islands, but to get a good feel for what to expect, here are four key facts you may not have known about Fiji.
TIME TRAPPED: IT’S BOTH IN THE PRESENT AND THE PAST
Fiji is located in the South Pacific and is caught right on the international date line. This actually makes for a brilliant experience as one of the islands, Taveuni, is cut in half by this imaginary line. So you can travel to the island and have one foot in the present and one in the past, making for some great photo opportunities and memorable experience.
A lot of the landscapes are also stuck in the past in a way, with many islands still looking identical to how they looked hundreds of years ago. Untouched by humans, plenty of these islands contribute to the incredible ecosystem found in Fiji, however, it’s not just the landscape that is perfectly preserved. Fiji’s port town of Levuka was named its first UNESCO site, meaning it will remain the way it is now for many years to come.
If you’d like to visit these amazing locations, consider taking Captain Cook’s Colonial Fiji Discovery Cruise, which stops in Tavenui and visits the international date line, as well as the port town of Levuka.
ANCIENT CULTURE: ONE OF THE BEST PRESERVED IN THE WORLD
This wonderful island nation is also home to one of the best-preserved cultures in the entire world. A huge part of the way of life in Fiji revolves around community and the individual’s village. Rural communities are still very respectful and honour their own traditions, for example, only the chief may wear a hat due to the belief that the top of the head is sacred.
When visiting such a culturally rich place, it’s important to maintain your cultural etiquette. If you venture out to some of the outlying islands and happen to be invited to a village, be as respectful as possible. Wear modest clothing and don’t wear a hat, as that’s considered an insult to the chief. Also, avoid touching people on the head as that too is considered an insult. Always bring a gift of kava, which you’ll then enjoy with the chief and other heads of the village.
A MELTING POT OF CULTURES: THE MANY CULTURES OF FIJI
While the island nation was originally colonised by the Dutch and the British, it’s also home to a wide range of other cultures and ethnicities. 37% of the population in Fiji have some form of Indian heritage due to the high number of workers who were moved to the country by the British. Nowadays, the Indo-Fijian culture has evolved to form a large part of the friendly, unique nation of Fiji, bringing the best of both cultures. For instance, delicious Fijian curries that make use of the fresh produce grown on the islands have become very popular with tourists and locals alike.
Fiji is also home to a growing number of international communities. A large number of southeast Asian migrants now call the country home, inspiring many new flavoursome food fusions. Westerners like the British, Australians and New Zealanders also represent a growing segment of the Fijian population, as they seek to enjoy the way of life the country offers.
UNIQUE GEOLOGY: AN ISLAND NATION LIKE NO OTHER
Fiji is made up of islands that were created millions of years ago through ancient volcanic eruptions. What you might not know is that there are 332 islands, with even more atolls in the territory. This adds up to create over 11,000 square kilometres of land and 1,130 km of coastline! Now only 33% (111) of those islands are inhabited, creating plenty of opportunity for your private getaway dreams.
There is also a considerable change of pace when you first enter Fiji. The best thing you can do is to learn to embrace the change and enjoy it for what it is! After all, if you lived in a country as peaceful and stunning as Fiji, would you rush around?
DISCOVER FIJI FOR YOURSELF
While these are incredible and unique facts about the wonderful archipelago of Fiji, there’s nothing like experiencing the place for yourself. Head over to our small ship cruises page to find the easiest and hassle-free way to travel to Fiji.
