Cultural Immersion & Village Visits
Fiji
Fiji is rich in culture and it’s locals are world-renowned for being warm and welcoming. You’ll feel it the minute you get off the plane: Virtually everywhere you go, you'll be serenaded by warm smiles, friendly waves and the strains of island music.
How to experience the Fijian Culture as a visitor
Visit a Fijian village on a cultural excursion or book a village stay (Don’t hesitate to contact us for more details).
In rural areas, a very traditional village way of life is still strong. Villages are led by a chief and extended family groups live together providing communal care and support for all. While Fijian people are known for being welcoming and easy going, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you're invited to visit a village. It is customary to bring a gift (sevusevu) of powdered kava root for the chief. Your tour guide will take care of this. You should dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Always take off your hat before entering a village and remove shoes before going into a home. Last but not least, never touch someone on the head, no matter how cute the young children are.
Take part in a kava ceremony (offered at almost all resorts and on village tours)
Watch a firewalking ceremony (Beqa Island is famous for its Firewalkers but there are resorts offering cultural entertainment nights that include firewalking as well)
Indulge in a lovo feast (Indigenous Fijian feasts are cooked in a 'lovo', an underground earth oven heated by hot stones. This slow-cook technique produces beautifully tender food with great flavour and a light smokiness. Many resorts offer a lovo feast at least once a week)
Watch traditional meke dancing (‘meke' meaning all kinds of traditional song and dance, from graceful fan performances to athletic war dances.. The dancers are usually accompanied by a seated group who sing, chant and play percussion instruments. Men perform in warrior outfits, and the women wear traditional dress. Each performance usually tells a story of history, love or legend. Whenever you get the chance to experience a meke, grab it. Fijians take great pride in their performance and the quality is exceptionally high. Many resorts offer Meke dance performances at least once a week at dinner time)
Check out a local Fijian market and browse the handicraft or buy some local produce
Some resorts also offer Fijian crafting lesson or Fijian cooking lesson
We have put together a list of featured resorts for travelers looking to experience the fascinating culture and elating traditions of the Fijian people!
Contact us for more information and package quotes!
Featured Resorts Yasawa Islands
Featured Resort Vanua Levu
Featured Resorts Taveuni
Featured Resorts Pacific Harbour & Beqa Lagoon
Featured Resorts Sunshine Coast
Featured Resorts Kadavu