The currency in Fiji is the Fiji dollar. Paper currency comes in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50. One dollar can be divided into 100 cents. The coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1 dollar coins. US dollars are also readily accepted at most businesses.

There’s a branch of the ANZ Bank in the international Arrivals area at Nadi International Airport which is open 24 hours. There’s also an ATM just outside the branch in the terminal where you can withdraw Fijian currency using your credit or debit card. ANZ Bank, Westpac Bank and Colonial National Bank have offices throughout the country where visitors can exchange currency and traveller’s cheques. You can also cash traveller’s cheques at Thomas Cook Travel Service and GlobalEX offices in Suva and Nadi. When visiting smaller villages, it’s best to have some local Fijian cash on hand.

Banks are open from 09:30 to 13:00 Monday through Thursday, and from 09:30 to 16:00 on Fridays.

There are no restrictions on the amount of money you can import or export in either Fijian dollars or other foreign currencies.

Visitors can import up to 500 cigarettes or 50 cigars, two litres of spirits, beer or wine, and up to F$400 worth of additional goods. Fresh fruits and vegetables must be declared and are subject to inspection. Pornography, firearms and narcotic drugs are strictly prohibited. To find out what you can take home from Fiji, contact your country’s Customs Service Office. UK residents can call HM Customs and Excise at +44 208 910 3744.

Fiji runs on a 240 volt, 50 cycle electrical system. The plugs are an angled two-prong style similar to those in Australia and New Zealand. Many hotels have converters for 110-volt shavers, but they aren’t suitable for all appliances.

Fiji poses few health risks to visitors. There are no dangerous insects, and thankfully its plentiful mosquitoes do not carry malaria. The only truly dangerous animal on the islands is the bolo, a venomous snake that is docile and rarely seen. It’s also a good idea to get a hepatitis and tetanus booster before you go to an unfamiliar part of the world.

The worst health problem visitors are likely to experience is a case of traveller’s stomach from exposure to new micro organisms in the food. The tap water is safe to drink in the hotels and main towns, but visitors should be careful in rural areas. If you prefer to drink bottled water, it is readily available all over the island. The food in restaurants should be fine, but always check that any seafood has been thoroughly cooked.

Medical care in Fiji is not up to the standards in the industrialised world. Hospitals tend to be overcrowded and understaffed. Most hotels have private physicians on-call or can refer one. There is a private hospital in Suva that provides Western-style medical care, and is probably the best choice should you fall ill. All hospitals expect immediate cash payment upon treatment, so visitors should make sure they have some kind of medical insurance before leaving home.
Suva Private Hospital: +679 330 3404
Ambulance: 911

Fiji has been experiencing a sharp rise in crime over recent years. Theft is quite common and even violent armed robberies have become more frequent. Granted, a visitor’s chances of being robbed or assaulted in Fiji are still lower than in many major American cities, but extra caution should be exercised at all times. Stay on the main streets after dark and always take a taxi back to your hotel if you stay out particularly late. Never leave valuables in your hotel room or anywhere else unattended, especially rental cars or tour buses. Women should also be extremely careful not to walk alone on deserted beaches or accept a late-night ride back to their hotel.

Fiji also has a problem with political instability going back to the 1990s. A number of military coups have occurred over the years, with the latest one happening recently in December 2006. Visitors to Fiji need to be aware of the security situation at all times, and make contingency plans for a quick departure should things deteriorate. Political tensions often lead to civil disorder in Fiji, so travellers should avoid all military or political rallies.
Police: 917

Fijians have a well-deserved reputation as extremely friendly and welcoming people and visitors should not hesitate to accept their hospitality. Unlike other South Pacific islands, modest dress is essential in Fiji, especially in the villages. Women should always cover their shoulders when entering a village and shoes should be removed before entering anyone’s house. Bathing suits and skimpy attire are fine at the beach or the pool, but not out in public.

Villages have very distinct rules for visitors. You should not enter a village until invited by the locals and don’t wear sunglasses or a hat, as this is considered rude. It’s traditional to bring a bundle of kava as a gift to the headman of a village, who will often ask visitors to stay and eat with them. When speaking, use a soft voice, as raised voices imply anger.

Fiji imposes a 12.5 per cent VAT on most services and goods, so always check if the VAT has been included in your hotel room rate. Unfortunately, visitors cannot get a VAT refund when they depart the country. Fiji’s departure tax should be included in the price of your ticket. Tipping is discouraged in Fiji unless you’ve received truly exceptional service.

The country code for Fiji is +679. When dialling a number on Fiji simply punch in the digits, as there are no area codes. There are a number of international phone shops and Internet shops in the main towns around the island and most hotels offer their own Internet service.

GMT +12

Visitor permits are given upon arrival for stays of up to four months for all citizens from the US, Commonwealth countries, most European and South American nations, as well as Mexico, Japan, Israel, Pakistan, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Turkey. Citizens of other countries must apply for visas in advance from the Fiji embassy in their country. Your passport must be valid for three months beyond the time of your visit and you must show a return ticket. Persons who wish to stay longer than four months can apply for extensions from the Immigration Department in Fiji.