Fiji
When asked to name the most alluring aspect of Fiji, the vast
majority of travellers concur that it is the archipelago's people
themselves who make this former British colony a worthwhile tour
destination. Given the country's wealth of natural beauty,
considerable opportunities for activities and fascinating sights of
interest, that travellers give the highest acclaim to the
inhabitants speaks volumes about the Fijian people's character and
temperament.
Of the more than 300 islands that constitute the archipelago of
Fiji, only about 110 are inhabited, with over 80 per cent of the
total population residing on one of the two main islands, Viti Levu
and Vanua Levu. After a century under British rule, Fiji managed to
gain its independence in 1970, leaving the inhabited regions of the
country displaying a charming blend of traditional and colonial
architecture, with modern skyscrapers and edifices perforating the
skyline in some of the larger cities. With a curious blend of
Polynesian, Melanesian, Indian, Micronesian, Eastern and European
influences, Fiji serves as a feast for the eyes for any traveller.
As interesting and noteworthy as its cities are, Fiji's natural
environment is in a different league when it comes to scenic marvel.
Indeed, the small South Pacific country has few rivals even on the
world stage, so abundant and striking as its topographical,
ecological and physical surroundings are. Rugged mountains, volcanic
craters and dense tropical rainforests with spectacular, cascading
waterfalls dominate much of the inland portions of the Fiji islands,
providing not only stellar vistas and considerable biodiversity
(hundreds of plants and more than two dozen species of animal are
endemic to Fiji), but also ample opportunity for exploration, hiking
and other such active pastimes.
The most famous features of Fiji's natural surroundings, however,
are undoubtedly its coastline and offshore attractions. Boasting a
total coastline that exceeds 1,000km, Fiji has a worldwide
reputation for being home to some of the most paradisiacal and
pristine beaches on the planet. As palm trees gently sway in the
warm afternoon breeze and the tranquil, clear ocean waves tenderly
lap against glistening white sand, you can't help but relax and
savour the best that Mother Nature has to offer. The plethora of
sparking lagoons serve as the perfect swimming locales and more
adventurous travellers may venture to the iridescent coral reefs
that skirt the islands for a spot of snorkelling or diving, where
they will be well rewarded with sights of a huge range of colourful
tropical fish.
As tempting as it might be, staying close to Fiji's coastlines will
mean that travellers miss out on what makes Fiji unique. Venturing
to the cities and mingling with the cosmopolitan mix of indigenous
peoples is the only way to understand the reason behind most return
travellers' love of Fiji.