Fiji Local Customs

Local Customs

Fijian's are very friendly people who love to get to know people, especially children. They are very welcoming to tourists and love getting to know them. There are a few things which need to be considered in relation to respect. When confronting the chief of a village it is respectful to take off your hat whilst speaking to him, also taking off your shoes before entering homes. There are three main cultural ceremonies whcih they take part of such as the Lovo, the Meke and the Yaqona (Kava).

The Lovo is a type of feast, like a camp fire. It involves a hole in the ground with fire wood and stones.

The Meke is a dance which tells stories of love, history, spirits and tales of the islands. It can be performed by men, women and children. The women are in traditional clothes and garlands of flowers and the men in full warrior costumes with spears. Musical instruments are used also for percussion.

Kava is the traditional, national drink of Fiji. It is made from the roots of the pepper shrub and is drunk between friends and business associates. In a traditional ceremony the chief of the village drinks first, then is followed by other village members in order of status. When visiting a village you are expected to join in the Kava ceremony.

Whilst in Fiji there will be numerous Christian churches found throughout the islands along with Hindu temples. When viviting Fiji you are welcome to join in the sunday morning sessions at the church.

Tipping is not expected in Fiji and if you do so, most of the time it will be refused. It is up to the individual if they accept it or not. Some places on the other hand do accept them and it goes towards staff christmas. Most believe a tip is a friendly smile.

Bartering is generally not undertaken in Fiji and it considered as being rude. Sometime at the local markets bartering does occur but not in the local shop.