Backpacking in Fiji

[Matt]

Hey,

This site looks awesome. First time posting... I'm from Canada and doing a 3.5 month trip through Fiji/NZ/OZ/SE Asia... I've found lots of good info on everything but Fiji. I have 6 days there. What are happening hostels? Any recommendations for tours I've heard it's beautiful... I want to see as much as I can in 6 days so any hints would be appreciated. Anything on SE Asia particularily Thailand would be cool too.

Matt

[Diorama]

Hey Matt!

Backpacking Fiji is sooooooo easy. Most backpackers include Fiji in their year long trip (including me) so most ppl you meet are either starting their trip or just ending. The most popular destinations for backpackers are the Manamucas and the yasawa island groups. It's easy to get to from Nadi . Also a popular destination is the coral coast near Suva. I stayed in the Beachhouse which is a cool hostel right on the beach. They have activities thru out the day for backpackers. The ppl that run Oz/Kiwi experience have also started FeeJee experience, which is basically a four day bus tour that runs right around the main island. I decided against doing this tour as it is sooooo cheap to take local bus. I think I went from Nadi to Suva for $7 or something.

I must say though the Yasawas are so overcrowded with backpackers that it's not funny. I went on my own to the island of Ovalau (on the other side of fiji). And from there I took a 45 min speed boat ride to the tiny island of Caqelai (sp?). It took a grand total of 15 mins to walk around the island, but the experience was unforgettable. The island is run by the villagers on a neighbouring island..basically they have set up a little 'resort' and make it their living. However I use the resort term loosely. I was one of only 7 foreigners there. It was very basic accomodations with a piece of foam and a mosquito net and a bucket toilet. But it was a great way to experience the real fiji culture. Everynight we would sing songs and have kava together. So if you want to have that kind of experience head east, otherwise if you want to party and just sun it up go to the Yasawas.

have fun. any questions just ask!

[wphsmike]

Glad to see you're going to Fiji. My parents spent 2 years in Fiji when they were in the Peace Corps. They took some amazing pictures. Good Luck.

Mike

[U2fan]

Fiji is really nice. That said, if you have more than 2-3 days I would recommend going to a couple of islands. I stayed at beachcomber island, in the mamanuca group, and it was overall good but really a party/drinking atmosphere if you're into that. Also, the island is so tiny that you can walk around the whole thing in 10 minutes. I was definitely a little stir crazy after the first day or so...