gapyear.com’s Fred Takes a Mini Gap Year in Fiji
Where to go and what to do on the paradise islands of Fiji
Fred Elliot, one of the crew at gapyear.com, left us for the sun, sand and cava of Fiji. He jumped off waterfalls, dived with sharks and sandboarded down the dunes – all in the name of finding the best things to do in Fiji so us gappers can just rock up and explore.
The tan has faded, the pasty face is back and that holiday glow has gone, but for our Fred the memories remain and his tried and tested advice can be passed on…
What did you do in Fiji?
After arriving into Nadi International Airport I went straight to Natadola Beach to relax in the sea and swim off my long journey from the UK. I readjusted to Fiji time with a tasty barbecue on the beach. After lunch we hit the sand dunes and did some sand boarding – by this time I’d forgotten all about rainy old England.
The hotels in Fiji are amazing – epic resorts with everything you need. I loved just chilling out in the grand buildings. The Waisese trek and waterfalls was an amazing experience and I got to swim in the falls and dive off too. I went on a jungle river cruise which was pretty cool, as well as snorkelling, kayaking, speedboating, longboating and sharkfeeding near the Pacific Harbour too. Diving in the Yassawas was pretty cool too. It was definitely one of the best weeks of my life.
What’s the best way to get there?
From UK via LAX down to Nadi with Air Pacific or direct from Sydney no more than a few hours with same airline.
Why should people go to Fiji?
If you’re getting tired of travelling around Australia/New Zealand and want to have some rest and relaxation for 10 days Fiji is close enough for a holiday from your gap year. Anyone who loves diving will love it here as there are so many opportunities – all the sharks are vegetarian and the water is crystal clear. Or if you prefer to lay on a beach while your partner goes jet-skiing it’s the perfect place for that too.
Is Fiji expensive?
It’s dirt cheap for a backpacker, but you can splash out in some of higher end hotels if you prefer. Beers start from as little as $3FJD and a steak dinner from just $12FJD.
What’s the weather like in Fiji?
It’s tropical. If you’re a sun-lover you’ll enjoy the rays year round. If you burn easily don’t go in high season though, which is April to October. It’s hot!
What are the people like?
Amazeballs. They’re the most welcoming and friendly community ever and they’re all about the family. Word of warning though, don’t pat someone on the head it’s as rude as flicking your middle finger in England.
Are the beaches as amazing as they look?
Yeah – check out my pics! If all you want to do is chill out and not move for a few hours with a good book and a rum cocktail, I’d suggest hitting the Blue Lagoon Resort in the Yassawas.
Are there any cool festivals to go to in Fiji?
I haven’t a clue, but if you love Rugby 7s you’ll fit in perfectly. The Uprising Resort holds an annual Sevens festival in so even if you don’t understand rugby you can pop down for a fun weekend in the sun with a great atmosphere.
Is it easy to get around in Fiji?
Getting around the main island of Vitu Levi is fairly easy, either via local buses or taxis. The taxis are cheap, but the distance between Nadi and the capital Suva is a good few hours’ drive on bad roads. Or you can also use Fijee Experience bus pass to save money and keep your options open.
Any particular things we should eat in Fiji?
You must try any of the fish dishes – nothing beats freshly caught white fish marinated in lime and coconut milk. I missed out on the traditional dishes – the most poular of which is lovu which is cooked underground. Apparently it’s delicious.
What about to drink?
Oh there’s too much. I ended up waking one morning with a very fuzzy head courtesy of the local Bounty Rum. The traditional drink is Kava though – it’s not just any alcoholic drink, but one that makes you feel mellow, calm and is sure to give you a good sleep. Just don’t go crazy on it.
Can you give us some useful phrases for when we visit?
- Bula – Hello
- Vinaka – Thank you
- Tulou – Sorry
- E vei na vale-lailai? – Where’s the toilet?
- Au domoni iko – I love you
Describe Fiji in three words…
Happiness, adventure, calm, peaceful, friendly, happy – three words is not enough to describe 322 beautiful and incredible islands.
Would you go again?
Hell yeah! I’m back out there this year in September, but this time experiencing the high life with an island cruise.
Further Information
If you fancy booking a trip to paradise – we’ve got loads of information on things to do in Fiji.
Need a friend to go with? Jump on the message boards and you might even find a fellow gapper to join you.
Comments
Post a Comment