Fiji is actually a group of tropical islands located in the South Pacific Ocean right between Vanuatu and Tonga. The total area of Fiji is approximately 75,000 square miles with 10 % of that area being land. The size of the area is somewhat smaller then New Jersey in the United States.
There is evidence that Fiji was settled either before of close to 3500-1000 BC. Several pottery pieces that were excavated in the area support that claim. The question of when large populations migrated into the area is unclear though at this time. It is believed that some of the first settlers who inhabited Fiji were traveling traders and people who migrated from the west. Melanesian and Fijian cultures are very similar in certain aspects; however with the discovery of canoes found in Samoa and Tonga, it is believed that the Fiji area has a stronger and longer connection with them.
Everyday life for a Fijian included warfare between tribes and cannibalism. Modern Fijians believe an evil force was at work as indicated in their regards of those times as the time of the devil. European sailors steered clear from the area. Fiji became independent in 1970 after nearly a century as a British colony. At this time, Christianity was introduced and tribal warfare as well as cannibalism ended. Half of the populations were once indentured Indian laborers who immigrated to the area.
English is the language spoken there in education and in most tourist areas. There are some islands whose inhabitants have some difficulty with the English language because Fijian or Hindustani is spoken there in some of the more remote areas.
Suva is the capital of one of the main islands, Viti Levu. Nearly three quarters of the population live on this main island. Remote villages are prevalent and are reached by buses and open topped carriers which travel back and forth several times a day. Lautoka is Fijiā™s second largest city.
Tourism is a large part of the economy. There are many resorts that cater to the needs of vacationers. Mountain ranges on this western side of the island has Koroyanitu National Park in which hikers stay overnight after adventuring through rainforest waterfalls and small villages. The garden of the sleeping giant offers tours for the orchids along with forest walk to explore the many botanical delights.
The climate is considered tropical marine with moderate seasonal variations. The terrain is mostly mountainous. Tropical rain forests are also plentiful here. The many beautiful beaches provide endless relaxation for that entire area and the people who visit. Coral reefs are a major natural attraction that drawers tourists from around the world. One can spend the day exploring caves, hiking mountains or diving in the clear aquamarine waters.
Since Fiji converted to Christianity in the 19th century, a strong moral society is found there. Shops and businesses tend to close for the day on Sundays and even some on Saturday as well. Keep in mind while traveling to Fiji that a Fijian would be highly offended if his head is touched by your hand or any other object as a Fijian considers the head sacred.
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