Why Fiji is Paradise on the Planet ?
Fiji is known for its amazing pristine beaches, the various marine life forms and spectacular reefs. It is an island country in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean .This island is officially known as the Republic of Fiji.
This is basically a part of a chain of islands, which is comprised of more than 332 islands, of which a mere 110 are only inhabited. The two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu which accounts for the majority of the population. The capital Suva, is on Viti Levu. It is also the largest city.
The Fiji Island’s attraction is primarily its beautiful white sandy beaches and postcard perfect islands with all-year-round tropical weather.
With sparkling white beaches, lush rainforests and myriad getaway spots, this is one of the most romantic places on earth. As a popular wedding destination, Fiji has an abundance of grandiose venues. The beachside ceremonies are again one of Fiji’s main attractions.
Honeymoons in Fiji are the latest trend due to the amazing romantic atmosphere and serenity of the neighboring islands.
Fiji has several popular tourist destinations. A big attraction is scuba diving on the outer islands. There’s a reason so many newlyweds fly to the Fiji Islands to celebrate the culmination of their marriage.
I. Fiji - The Country
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji, is an island country in Melanesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies about 1,100 nautical miles (2,000 km; 1,300 mi) northeast of New Zealand. Fiji consists of an archipelago of more than 330 islands—of which about 110 are permanently inhabited—and more than 500 islets, amounting to a total land area of about 18,300 square kilometres (7,100 sq mi).
The most outlying island group is Ono-i-Lau. About 87% of the total population of 883,483 live on the two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. About three-quarters of Fijians live on Viti Levu's coasts: either in the capital city of Suva; or in smaller urban centres such as Nadi—where tourism is the major local industry; or in Lautoka, where the sugar-cane industry is dominant. The interior of Viti Levu is sparsely inhabited because of its terrain.
Pic : Fijian Culture
Majority of Fiji's islands were formed by volcanic activity starting around 150 million years ago. Some geothermal activity still occurs today on the islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni. The geothermal systems on Viti Levu are non-volcanic in origin, and have low-temperature surface discharges (of between roughly 35 and 60 degrees Celsius).
Humans have lived in Fiji since the second millennium BC—first Austronesians and later Melanesians, with some Polynesian influences. Europeans first visited Fiji in the 17th century. In 1874, after a brief period in which Fiji was an independent kingdom, the British established the Colony of Fiji. Fiji operated as a Crown colony until 1970, when it gained independence and became known as the Dominion of Fiji. In 1987, following a series of coups d'état, the military government that had taken power declared it to be a Republic.
In a 2006 coup, Commodore Frank Bainimarama seized power. In 2009, the Fijian High Court ruled that the military leadership was unlawful. At that point, President Ratu Josefa Iloilo, whom the military had retained as the nominal head of state, formally abrogated the 1997 Constitution and re-appointed Bainimarama as interim prime minister. Later in 2009, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau succeeded Iloilo as president. On 17 September 2014, after years of delays, a democratic election took place. Bainimarama's Fiji First party won 59.2% of the vote, and international observers deemed the election credible.
Fiji has one of the most developed economies in the Pacific through its abundant forest, mineral, and fish resources. The currency is the Fijian dollar, with the main sources of foreign exchange being the tourist industry, remittances from Fijians working abroad, bottled water exports, and sugar cane. The Ministry of Local Government and Urban Development supervises Fiji's local government, which takes the form of city and town councils.
Pic : Suva . Capital City
Fiji is a nation that occupies 7,056 square miles within the Pacific Ocean and is one of the most popular countries in the region. The people of Fiji are some of the warmest and most welcoming in the world which regularly surprises visitors to the nation. The residents warmly greet people they come into contact with regardless of whether or not they know each other. Fijian culture places a huge emphasis on friendship which is the main reason the residents are so welcoming to foreigners. The warm nature of the Fijians is one of the reasons the nation has a large tourism sector.
Ranked the world’s happiest country in Gallup International’s Annual Global End of Year Survey in 2017, Fiji offers a spirit-lifting experience like no other.
Blessed with soft, dazzling white sand and waters so clear they glow, Fiji’s beaches will make you feel like you have wandered into a dream. Start your exploration of these beaches at the Mamanuca Islands, a string of picture-perfect isles that are about an hour’s boat ride from the main Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu.
Conquer some of the world’s most challenging waves at the left-hand reef break of Cloudbreak that regularly sees 3m swells. Or be immersed in a series of family-friendly activities on Malolo Lailai Island, a tranquil 2.4 sq km isle with beachfront resorts tucked among coconut trees and tropical gardens.
You have come to the right place if an adventurous streak runs through your veins.
Experience an adventure of a lifetime on a jet-ski tour around Fiji. There are a number of tour options available, but movie buffs may want to join one that includes a high-speed ride to the uninhabited island of Monuriki, which was featured in Tom Hanks’ classic survival film Cast Away.
To see the lesser-known side of the archipelago, join a unique, pedal-powered eco trail known as Ecotrax. Learn about Fiji’s sugar cane history and cut through mangroves on rail-mounted electric bicycles, swim at a secluded beach and taste locally-grown fruits such as brown and green coconuts in this three-hour tour.
II. Here are 10 other facts about Fiji you might not know:
1) Fiji Is Composed Of More Than 300 Islands.
Most of Fiji's islands and islets owe their formation to volcanic activity which began occurring in the region approximately 150,000,000 years ago. The residents of Fiji reside in 110 of the nation's biggest islands with Viti Levu having the most significant population. The largest proportion of the inhabitants of Viti Levu live along the island's coast since the interior is not as habitable due to the terrain. Another of Fiji's islands with a significant population is the island of Vanua Levu.
2) Fiji Was Once Under British Rule.
For nearly a century beginning in 1874, the British government ruled over the territory of Fiji. British control over the area formally started after a number of the highest ranking traditional Fijian chiefs such as Ma'afu and Cakobau signed the Deed of Concession. The impact of British rule in Fiji is readily visible in most areas with the national flag being one of the most notable examples. Other areas with significant British influences in Fiji include the legal and parliamentary systems.
3) Fiji Has A Large Indian Population.
A large section of Fiji's population traces its descent to India particularly the regions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The recorded history of Indians in Fiji dates back to 1813 when an Indian sailor survived a shipwreck and lived the remainder of his life among the natives of Fiji. Most of the Indians who arrived in Fiji came to the island to work as laborers in some industries, particularly in the sugarcane sector. The descendants of the Indian laborers have succeeded in some fields such as sports and politics. Some of the most famous Fijians of Indian descent include Hafiz Khan and Joy Ali.
4) Fiji Is One Of The Few Nations To Have Three Official Languages.
The official languages of communication within Fiji, according to the nation's constitution, include English, Fijian, and Fiji Hindi. English is one of the subjects taught within the Fiji education system which ensures the country's residents can converse in the language. A large number of English speakers in Fiji makes it easy for tourists to communicate with the residents. At nearly 200 different dialects, Fijian has more dialects spoken on the island than any of the other official languages.
Pic : Suva Port
5) Fiji Has A Traditional Drink Known As Kava.
One of the most iconic beverages from Fiji is referred to as Kava and not only is it a traditional drink but it is the country's national drink. The major ingredient in the making of Kava is the ground root of a plant that belongs to the pepper family. The citizens of Fiji believe that the drink has numerous medicinal qualities particularly in the treatment of insomnia, headaches, and stress. Kava is an essential component of Fijian culture, and an elaborate ceremony is usually performed during the drinking of Kava. In some regions, Kava is referred to as Yaqona.
6) Rugby Is The Most Important Sport In Fiji.
The residents of Fiji hold rugby in high regard as it is the national sport. The British are credited with introducing rugby to Fiji during the period when Fiji was under their rule. The most popular form of rugby within Fiji is the seven aside, and their national team is one of the most successful in the world. The achievements of the Fijian national rugby team include winning gold at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Fiji is one of the most successful nations to compete in the Hong Kong Sevens having won the event 15 times. In the past, the rugby team of Fiji performed the Cibi war dance before the beginning of each match, but it was replaced by the Bole war cry.
7) The Practice Of Walking On Hot Stones Began In Fiji.
Nearly five centuries ago on Bega Island, the Sawau tribe introduced the fire walking ceremony which would later come to be one of the most popular activities within Fiji. The fire walking tradition was handed down from one generation of the Sawau tribe to the next. Most visitors to Fiji can witness the tradition in some hotels and resorts throughout the island.
8) Fijians Still Use Traditional Methods To Prepare Many Their Dishes.
Fijian cuisine is famous the world over due to its flavor as well as the methods used in its preparation. One of the most well-known traditional food preparation methods in Fiji is the use of underground pits which the locals refer to as lovo pits. The lovo pits are preferred when preparing vast quantities of food as they are exceptionally efficient.
9) Cannibalism Is A Part Of Fiji's History.
Cannibalism was a significant part of Fijian culture until the introduction of Christianity into the country. The Fiji Museum indicates that according to archaeological evidence, the practice is at least 2,500 years old. Various archaeological sites have been located with evidence to prove that the practice was widely prevalent on the island. Reverend Thomas Baker, a Methodist missionary, and seven of his followers were the last recorded victims of cannibalism within Fiji. The precise reason for cannibalism in Fiji is yet to be identified; however, several reasons have been suggested such as it gave someone control over their enemies. The residents of Fiji also believed that eating someone's flesh allowed one to possess their knowledge.
Pic : School Children in Fiji.
10) Fiji Has A Booming Tourism Industry.
Although this fact may not come as a surprise, it is interesting to note that the tourism industry in Fiji is a major contributor to the economy. Fiji is expecting the tourism industry to continue to grow with hopes of reaching $2.2 billion by 2020. Tourists to Fiji are primarily from Australia with 367,273 visitors in 2015 followed by New Zealand (138,537) and the United States (67,831).
In Fijian Islands, Not only are the reef dives, but the reef passages are another natural splendor where divers can experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with dangerous sharks such as the Gray Reef sharks. This is a must on the to-do list of any tourist. The amazing adrenaline rush that one gets from, what is known as the ‘Best shark dive in the world’ is acknowledged by many. Trainers even feed the sharks and allow tourists to experience that. It is perfectly safe and amazing at the same time, a rare combination. Fiji has a significant number of reefs where snorkeling, diving and is a common tourist activity.
Pic : Streets in Suva
Beyond beautiful beaches and thrilling adventures, Fiji also boasts a wealth of fresh produce. Savour distinctive, local dishes like kokoda — raw mahi-mahi fish marinated in coconut cream, fresh lime juice and chilli. A friend describes this dish as “Ceviche, with a richer base”.
There’s a reason that Fiji is known as the place where happiness finds you. Not only is it home to some of the planet’s most stunning landscapes, but it also immerses visitors in a warm and welcoming embrace that locals refer to as the “Bula Spirit”.
III . Fiji Videos
1, Fiji Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia
2. How to Travel in Fiji | The Perfect Tropical Getaway
3. $100 in FIJI in 24 Hours? What Can You Get?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahs7O0EESac
Conclusion
The island is renowned as the ultimate tourist destination because of its breathtaking beauty. It is a pivot for free-spirited adventurers, jet-setting entrepreneurs as well as newlywed lovebirds. The climate in Fiji is tropical marine hence it is warm all the year round. Hence, it is a tropical paradise and one of the most visited places on earth ! .The warm season is from November to April. Rainfall is minimal, but cyclones occur about once a year.
Fiji is known as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World” and is also home to the “Great Astrolabe Reef’. Fiji offers a unique diving experience since it has over 1000 varieties of marine life forms and fishes. With over 4000 square miles of coral reef, Fiji Islands offer breathtaking views of Its Islands and Beaches.
Its Truly Paradise on the earth....!!
MM Rao
============================================================================================= Sources :
https://fijianbeaches.com/fiji-islands-paradise-on-earth/
https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/travel/6-reasons-fiji-is-one-of-the-happiest-places-on-earth
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