Fiji

Overview

The Republic of Fiji is an island country of Melanesia in Oceania. It comprises of 333 islands.

The country recorded a population of 883,483 in 2018 and covers an area of 18,333 km2.

Its capital city is Suva. It serves as the principal port in the country.

Other urban centres are Nadi where tourism is major and Lautoka where sugar cane production is the core industry.

History

The first European to step in the island was Abel Tasman in 1643. The island then became a British colony until it attained its independence in 1970.

Food & culture

Fijian culture is based on Indian, Chinese and European cultures.

The crops grown in the country are copra, sugarcane, ginger, tropical fruits and vegetables.

The most popular dishes are kokoda, rourou, lovo, coconut bread, cassava cake, palusami, topoi and lolo buns.

Wildlife

Common wildlife animals found in the country include dolphins, whales, eels, sea turtles, sea snakes, hawksbill, loggerhead and green Pacific Ridley.

Festivals & events

The common festivals held in the country are the festival of colours on March, the festival of the friendly north, Festival of lights, Fiji International Jazz and Blues Festival and Bula Festival.

Things to see

Mamanuca Islands are a volcanic archipelago located on the west of Nadi and the south of Yasawa Islands.

Qalito Island is of the group of Mamanuca and has a tourist resort at its western side.

Garden of the Sleeping Giant is an attractive garden located at the bottom of Nausori Highlands near Nadi.

Other must-visit sites are Mana Island, Tavarua and Malolo.

Interesting facts

It is the most popular sport in the country is Rugby.

It is one of the few countries which have three official languages; Fijian, English and Fiji Hindi.

Fiji comprises of 333 islands and 110 of them are inhabited.

Neighbours

Fiji has no land borders with other countries.