FIJI
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Geography
The Republic of Fiji is an archipelago of 331 islands of which about one-third are inhabited permanently. Fiji lies in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. The total land area of Fiji is 18,333 sq. kms. Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) covers about 1.3 million sq km of the South Pacific Ocean. The 180 degree meridian runs across Fiji.
Besides several small islands, there are two major islands viz. Viti Levu (10,429 sq kms.) and Vanua Levu (5,556 sq kms). The capital Suva (population of 330,000 approx. including its bordering towns)) is located in the south-east part of Viti Levu. Other major towns/cities located on these largest islands are Nausori, Lautoka, Ba and Nadi (where the main International Airport is located). The main city in Vanua Levu islands is Labasa. Other major islands of Fiji are Taveuni (where the international dateline crosses), Kadavu and Koro.
Most of the islands are surrounded by small mountains/hills. Fiji lies in an area which is occasionally traversed by tropical cyclones between the months of November and April.
Suva is located 3,160 km North-East of Sydney and 2,120 km North of Auckland.
Climate
Fiji enjoys a tropical climate. May to November is relatively dry period of the year when cool south-east wind brings the temperature down to mid-twenties. December to April is summer with high humidity when the temperature rises to about 32 degree Celsius. Suva gets frequent rains. Nadi and Lautoka are comparatively dryer.
Population
According to the estimates, the population of Fiji is 909,021 (June 2022). The indigenous Fijians were 57.3% followed by the persons of Indian origin at 37.6% and the others including Europeans and mixed descent accounted for 5.1% population.
Language
English, Fijian and Hindi (a local dialect similar to Awadhi/Bhojpuri) are the three official languages in Fiji. English is widely spoken and understood. Hindi is also widely spoken by Fijian of Indian Origin and understood by several indigenous Fijians as well.
Indian Diaspora
India’s link with Fiji Islands commenced in 1879 when Indian indentured labourers were brought by the British government to work on sugar plantation. 60,543 Indians arrived in Fiji by 1916. The Indo Fijians have retained their culture, traditions, food and language.
Hindi is taught in educational institutions and there are 4 radio stations in Fiji named Radio Fiji—2, Radio Sargam, Navtarant and Radio Mirchi that broadcast round the clock Hindi programmes.
The Indo-Fijian organizations run several schools and colleges, with Government support.
Economy
The Fijians economy is primarily based on tourism, agriculture and fishing. The inward remittances by Fijian working abroad and earnings from tourism constitute the main sources of revenue and foreign exchange. The manufacturing sector, especially the garment industry has recently suffered. The three coups of 1987, 2000 and 2006 have also adversely affected Fiji’s economy as a large number of professionals and technical experts have migrated overseas.
The bilateral trade between India and Fiji is relatively small. Many Indian products are imported from South East Asia notably Singapore and Malaysia. The balance of trade is heavily in India’s favour. Major items of export from India are gem & jewellery, yarn & fabrics, cotton, spices etc.
Currency
The Fijian dollar is made up of 100 cents and is fairly stable. The exchange rate between US dollar and Fijian dollar is US$1=F$ 2.19 approx. The existing rate of exchange from Fijian to US Dollar is approximately F$1= US 0.46. The existing rate of exchange from Fijian to Rupees is approximately F$1= Rs.35.74. The existing rate of exchange from Rupee to Fijian Dollar is approximately Rupee 1= F$ 0.028
Foreign currency can be exchanged at the Banks or currency exchange outlets. ANZ, Westpac, BSP, besides BoB, have branches across Fiji.
Transport & Communication
Fiji’s main international airport in Nadi (200 kms. away from Suva) provides direct links to Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Japan and Korea besides most of the Pacific islands nations. Nausori is a small airport close to Suva. Some flights to Auckland and a few Pacific countries operate from Nausori. Local domestic carrier Fiji Airways provides air link between Nadi and Nausori.
Suva is a small city. Buses are available though not for all places. Taxis are also available. Inter-city buses are available during day time. Night travel by road is not advisable. The road between Nadi and Suva is well maintained and Taxies/buses are frequently available between the places.
Air Routes Available from India
The air routes available from India to Fiji and back are as under:
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Delhi- Sydney-Nadi/Suva
Nadi-Sydney-Delhi
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By Air India and
By Foreign Carrier
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Delhi-Singapore-Nadi
Nadi-Singapore-Delhi
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By Air India and
By Foreign Carrier
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Delhi-Hong Kong-Auckland-Nadi
Nadi-Auckland-Hong Kong-Delhi
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By Air India and
By Foreign Carrier
Visa for FIJI for Travellers from India
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Fiji Visa (Travel requirements)
https://www.immigration.gov.fj/travel-requirements/fiji-visas
(All information regarding visa is contained in this link)
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List of visa exempted countries
https://www.immigration.gov.fj/index.php/travel-requirements/visa-exempted-countries
Entry visa for Fiji is issued to all bonafide visitors at the airport provided they hold valid air ticket for return or onward journey. For the purpose of the participation in the 12th World Hindi Conference Permit/Authentication letter from Fiji High Commission is not required. Please carry proof of registration generated from the website (www.vishwahindisammelan.gov.in).
Contact Details of Fijian High Commission in New Delhi.(High Commission of the Republic of Fiji, C-1/10, Ground Floor, Block C, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi,Delhi (NCT)-110057).
Email: info[at]fijihc-india[dot]in ,fijihighcommission[at]yahoo[dot]co[dot]in
Phone: +91-11-41751092, 41751093, 41751094. Fax No: +91-11-41751095
Visa for FIJI for Travellers (other then India)
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Fiji Visa (Travel requirements)
https://www.immigration.gov.fj/travel-requirements/fiji-visas
(All information regarding visa is contained in this link)
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List of visa exempted countries
https://www.immigration.gov.fj/index.php/travel-requirements/visa-exempted-countries
Covid guidelines
Kindly go through the link carefully
https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/home/traveltofiji/international-travel/
Some of the important points are listed below:
Prior to Arrival
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Proof of Vaccination: All travellers 16 years and above must produce proof of full vaccination.
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Pre-paid in-country COVID-19 Test: Travellers 12 years and above must produce proof of a pre-booked and pre-paid RAT, to be administered within 72 hours of arrival into Fiji, at any one of the CRMT approved facilities. You can book your in-country test hereThis also applies to travellers transiting Fiji for more than 48 hours.
Travellers who have turned positive within 30 days of travelling into Fiji and are entering Fiji with a proof of the isolation period served from a credible institution or a fit to fly certificate from a medical practitioner, the prepaid in-country RAT requirement does not apply. -
Travel Insurance:Travellers with existing insurance must present evidence of the cover not excluding COVID-19. Alternatively, travellers may opt for FijiCare (this app can be downloaded upon arrival in Fiji) COVID-19 travel insurance offered to travellers. All foreign passport holders must have medical travel insurance, with international coverage that covers COVID-19 before travelling.
When in Fiji
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As part of Fiji’s enhanced surveillance and monitoring exercise, travellers may undergo random RAT tests upon arrival.
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In-country RAT: Within 72 hours of arrival into Fiji, travellers of 12 years age and above must take an approved RAT at their hotel or testing facility. If a traveller has entered with a proof of the isolation period served from a credible institution or has a fit to fly certificate from a medical practitioner, the in-country RAT does not apply.
with a proof of the isolation period served from a credible institution or has a fit to fly certificate from a medical practitioner, the in-country RAT does not apply.- traveller is spending 5 or less nights in Fiji; and
- traveller has a confirmed outbound ticket from Fiji.
In the event the outbound country does not require a pre-departure COVID-19 test, then the in-country test applies.
The cost of RAT will be borne by the traveller. The swab will be done by trained professionals. If the traveller turns positive on RAT during their stay in Fiji, the confirmed case will be required to undergo 7 days of isolation. Should the traveller or the insurance provider require a confirmatory PCR result, this will be facilitated at the cost of the traveller. All primary/close contacts of the confirmed case will not be required to serve a quarantine period. However, all primary/close contacts need to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms during this period and immediately self-isolate for 7 days if present and inform relevant authorities.
On Return
Travellers may require COVID-19 test results to return to their countries of origin or another destination. The test booking can be facilitated by the hotel or an approved COVID-19 test service provider on advance notice.
Bio-Security Regulations
Fiji follows strict customs and quarantine regulations and restrict/prohibit importation of a wide range of animal and plant products including live animals, plants, fruits, vegetables, flowers, sweets, nuts, wood and other similar plant products. It is advisable not to bring food items in the accompanied air baggage as strict bio-security laws are also applicable in Australia. Even the air baggage is x-rayed at airport exit points in Australia and Fiji to determine presence of food items. Any of the aforesaid items, if brought, should be declared to the airport authorities on arrival. These items are usually confiscated by the officials at the airport
Food
All tropical fruits and vegetables like banana, papaya, pineapple, coconut, beans, cabbage, brinjals, cauliflower, lemons, radish, carrot etc and other leafy vegetables are locally available. Other fruits, vegetables and processed food items are also imported from Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada but are expensive. Almost all varieties of pulses spices, Cooking oil, pure ghee, rice and flour are available. Basmati rice is imported from India by selected stores. Poultry, fish and imported red meat are also available.
Clothing
Cotton and summer clothing is mostly required throughout the year. Except for formal occasions, casuals are accepted in most of the functions/receptions. Owing to the presence of large Indian Community, Indian clothing and saris are also locally available but are costly. However, the choice and variety is limited. High quality garments and shoes etc. are very expensive. It is advisable to bring item of personal use from India.
Tourism in Nadi/Tourism in Suva
Some facts on Nadi
Nadi is known as the arrival city for most international travellers coming to Fiji. It is known for its mix of Fijian and Indo-Fijian cultures and for being one of the main tourist hubs in Fiji. Nadi is located on the west coast of Fiji’s main islands, Viti Levu.
Why is Nadi Pronounced “Nandi”? There are a few consonants that are pronounced differently in Fijian than in English, including “d”, which is pronounced with an “n” in front of it, so Nadi is “Nan-di”. Useful link on how to pronounce words in Fijian language, link: Guide to the Fijian Language.
The daily average temperature in Nadi is 25.5°C/77.9°F,
Sights to visit in Nadi
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Explore the Garden of the Sleeping Giant: Down the same Nadi backroads as the Sebato Mud Pools, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant is a wonderful place to immerse in Fiji’s nature. The garden full of orchids and flowing plants lies in a valley below a mountain said to look like a sleeping giant. Follow the short walk around a tranquil tropical forest full of birds, skinks and other wildlife, as well as fish ponds. At the end of your walk, relax in the garden with a complimentary fruit drink.
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Visit the Sivu Subramaniya Swamy Temple: Fiji is considered to be a melting pot of cultures and religions. One impressive example of this is at the Sivu Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Nadi Town. The colourful exterior of the temple is an amazing photo opportunity with intricate sculptural details. Once inside, you will see many pictorial displays of Hindu lords and goddesses. The temple has a small entrance fee, shoes must be taken off before entering and clothes covering below the knees. Sarongs are provided if needed.
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Trip to Denarau Island: Denarau Island is a tourist hotspot of Viti Levu, with high-class resorts, a golf course, a whole town with shops and restaurants (Port of Denarau Island) and a marina with more activities and island cruises. Denarau Island is beautiful and upscale part of Nadi. The ocean view is beautiful from the Island and a day cruise can be undertaken from the Port of Denarau.
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Nadi Handicraft Market: Jewellery and clothing accessories are available. The Handicraft Market is a good place to pick up something authentic for friends, family or yourself. The market is open Mondays to Saturdays from 8am until the early afternoon. Location: Koroivolu Avenue, Nadi Town.
For more infomation please visit : https://www.fiji.travel/
Law & Order Situation
Despite its relatively small size, the crime rate in Fiji is relatively high. Avoid secluded areas and night stroll. If venturing out, recommended to do so in group.
GOI Undertakings
There are three GOI undertakings based in Fiji. Their contact details are as follows:
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The New India Assurance Company Ltd
Tel: 679-3313488
Fax: 679-3302679
Email: newindiasuva[at]connect[dot]com[dot]fj -
Life Insurance Corporation of India
Tel: 679-3304148
Fax: 679-3312499
Email: lici[at]connect[dot]com[dot]fj -
Bank of Baroda
Tel: 679-3311400
Fax: 3302510
Email: bobfiji[at]connect[dot]com[dot]fj
Website: www.bankofbaroda-fiji.com -
WAPCOS India Ltd. (Fiji Operations), Suva
Country Manager,
Tel: 7491333
kpstyagi[at]wapcosindia[dot]com
Chancery
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The High Commission of India
7th floor, LICI Building, Butt Street,
PO Box 471, Suva.
Tel: 679-3301125,
Fax: 679-3301032,
Email:
hc[at]suva[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in
hoc[dot]suva[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in
admn[dot]suva[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in -
Working hours: 9.00am to 5.30pm
Monday – Friday (5 days a week)
(Lunch break: 1.00pm to 1.30pm)
Fiji’s Time is IST + six-and-a-half hours in winter and seven and half hours in Summer. GMT +12 hours
The High Commissioner of India in Fiji is also concurrently accredited to Republic of Kiribati, Kingdom of Tonga and Tuvalu
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