Culture and Custom

Fiji

Culture
The Fijian culture is a relaxed, easy-going and friendly culture however it is still important to respect their customs. When visiting a village modest clothing is recommended, as is taking off your hat (it is considered an insult to the chief to wear one). If you are invited into a home, be gracious and thank your host, and take your shoes off before entering, leaving them at the door. Take note it is also considered an insult to touch someone’s head – which is often tempting when surrounded by gorgeous children with big eyes and broad smiles. Also, be prepared to shake hands and answer personal questions like, where are you from, are you married, how many children do you have and so on.

Kava is Fiji’s most well-known social custom and an essential experience to make your Fiji holiday complete. If invited to try kava, don’t hesitate, just accept the offering and enjoy the unique ritual (and the unique numbing effect the drink has).

As a sign of thanks it is tradition to offer a gift, usually kava (or yaqona in Fijian), when you visit a village. The sevusevu (or gift) generally costs under F$20 for a half kilo and will be taken care of by your guide. Presented to the Turaga Ni Koro (traditional head of the village) it will be ground into a powder, added to water and served in the Turaga Ni Koro’s house.

Fijians are some of the most friendly people in the world and are eager to welcome you as a guest into their villages and homes provided you respect their traditions and customs. This will provide a fascinating insight into their traditional way of life and adds a unique element of depth to your Fiji holiday.

Religion
As a multi-cultural, multi-racial nation, Fiji is formed from a significant number of followers of all major religions.

You will see Christian churches, some mosques as well as Sikh and Hindi temples dotting the country. An excellent way to gain insight into how Fijian village culture is formed and why the Fijian people are so family-focused and friendly is to attend one of the Methodist services for Sunday worship, even if you are not religious.

If you are not religious or belong to a different sect, these services are still highly recommended as even if you can’t understand the words, the singing and ceremony is very moving and the memory will stay with you for a long time.