Location
Fiji is centrally located in the South Pacific Ocean and is highly regarded worldwide as a desirable destination for holidays and relaxation. Fiji is known for the genuine hospitality of its people, the splendour of its geography and the unspoiled environment of its islands, reefs and waters.
Fiji is only a four hour flight from the east coast of Australia, three hours from New Zealand and only ten hours from Los Angeles and Hong Kong.
Climate
Fiji has a warm, tropical climate without extreme temperatures. During the months of May through to October Fiji is enjoying warm, moderate temperatures from 20 to 26 degrees Celsuis while other countries in the Southern Hemisphere are experiencing cold, wet weather. In the months of November to April temperatures are generally hotter ranging between 26 and 32 degrees Celsuis.
Population
Fiji has a population of 903,900 with approximately 51% living in urban settlements. The population is made up of indigenous Fijians and a melting pot of different cultures from India, Europe, China, and other Pacific Islands.
The bulk of the population speak Fijian and Hindi as their first languages, with English as the national language.
Transport
Fiji is situated four hours’ flight from the east coast of Australia, three hours north of New Zealand and only ten hours from Los Angeles and Hong Kong.
The capital city Suva and the Nadi International airport are both situated on Viti Levu which is Fiji’s largest island.
Fiji is well-served by two domestic airlines which operate between many of the islands. Yachting and cruising are also great ways to explore the country.
Tourism and Economy
Tourism, represents a major source of income for Fiji and is a significant foreign exchange earner for Fiji accounting for approximately 20% GDP. Fiji has a strong and vibrant tourist market, which is expanding rapidly in line with its image as one of the world’s favourite tropical holiday destinations.
In 2015, tourism contributed over F$1.56-billion in foreign exchange earnings as well as providing over 110,500 job opportunities.
The Fijian Islands Bureau of Statistics and the Fijian Department of Immigration shows a steady growth of 25% in all tourism arrivals since 2007. Tourism data shows a staggering increase of 700% in Chinese tourists since 2007.
There is major infrastructure work taking place in Fiji with upgrades to its international airport and roads to modernise and meet the demands of a growing economy.