Fiji - The Welcoming Archipelago of the South Pacific
With an unique geography that allows for real expeditions in tropical forests, azure waters that hide colorful corals and exotic fish species and a welcoming people who are keen on preserving their traditions, Fiji can be considered a world apart from the modern, fast-paced today's society, thus the perfect place for a holiday getaway.
General Info
Yet another archipelago made up of hundreds of small islands (322) and islets (522) which forms a country in the middle of the ocean, Fiji is located in the south Pacific, off the Australian east coast. The largest island is Viti Levu and legends say it’s where the name of the islands comes from (the natives called Fisi). It not only makes up for 57% of the nation’s land mass but also 69% of its entire population.
The second largest island is Vanua Levu, 64km to the north of Viti Levu. Both of them are of volcanic nature and display spectacular relief, with peaks up to 1300m which capture copious amounts of rain that, in turn, afford the apparition of lush tropical vegetation. This means that most permanent settlements are in coastal regions due to the rough nature of the terrain inland.
Originally inhabited by fierce cannibalistic tribes, the islands were off limit for a long period time to Europeans who dared not settle them until the early 18th century when the British put the bases of a colony here. Today, the country is recovering from a downwards economic period by means of a dynamic tourism sector as well as the sugar industry.
As far as culture goes, the Fiji islands are an exotic mix of indigenous, Indian, Chinese and European elements with an important emphasis on the indigenous traditions which are still very much alive today in architecture, culture, cuisine, arts, music and sports, a fact which is very appealing to foreign visitors.
Law & Order
Starting with July 2007 al yacht must notify Fijian customs 48 hours prior of entering national waters by means of a form which can then be emailed of faxed. Though not always enforced, this precaution or failure to respect it may lead to heavy fines and even imprisonment. While sailing in Fiji you must obtain a clearance from the Ministry of Fijian Affairs except when sailing to the Lau Group. A clearance when leaving the country is also necessary and once obtained, you are forbidden to make any more stops on land and are expected to leave in the next 24 hours.
When it comes to passports, you’ll need a valid paper for at least six months from the date you enter the country. The tourists exempt from getting a visa are American nationals, British, Canadian and most other Europeans. They are provided with a 4-month long visa-free stay provided they have enough funds for the whole duration and proof of outgoing ticket. This period may be extended to up to 6 months.
In case you’re flying in with your group to go on a yacht, you’re going to need an approval from the Immigration Department, before you board your plane. You are reminded not to carry any drugs, pornography and weapons when reaching customs control. Alcohol too is a controlled substance, anything over 2 liters must be sealed and/or bonded.
As of January 2009 foreign yachts can stay in Fijian waters for a maximum period of 18 months, a period that suffers no extension. After the 18 months the crew will have to pay a duty fee equivalent to the value of the boat.