Fiji stole my heart! ♡

I can’t explain how bad I wanted to visit Fiji. I don’t know why I just wanted to, for many years! Ive been to bora bora which is the closest to Fiji ive ever been, and ever since Ive always had Moorea and Fiji on mind!

I’ve been working with the wonderful COMO Hotels on different property visits for my blog and social media, until they finally mentioned; interested to visit our property in Fiji? It was a no-thinking kind of immediate yes. Ive kept Fiji for a trip on my 40th as a gift for myself, and the year has come in coincidence with the property collaboration – here I am, writing this post from Fiji!!!! 🙂

Visa

Now this is a bit tricky. As usual, visa is dependent very much on the nationality; you’ll need to always check if things apply to you or things have changed. I am writing this post as of May, 2024 – I strongly encourage you to always check if there are any updates to the visa.

As a Kuwaiti National and Passport Holder; we do need visa for Fiji! My friend from Saudi also tried to go to Fiji, they as well needed visa. From what I heard, UAE nationals and passport holders are exempt from visa for Fiji.

It takes a long time to get the visa. I first applied the year before to go to Fiji, and never got my visa on time. It took over a month and a few weeks and I missed my flight. The validity of the visa is 1 year, however the duration of the visit itself is only 7 days. If you intend to travel from Fiji to another island such as Samoa, check if you can re-enter within your visa duration validity.

About Fiji

Hello Fiji, a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,100 nautical miles northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. This archipelago, consisting of over 300 islands, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush landscapes. For those planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about this enchanting destination.

To get here, the closest flights are usually from NZ and Australia (around 2-3 hours). With that said, there are multiple direct flights with longer duration for example from Singapore (which I took, 10 hours), San Francisco, Japan, Hong Kong , Hawaii and Los Angeles. There are more, just check online to see which one is best for you. I did Singapore because I wanted to stop mid-way somewhere for 2 nights going and coming back to be able to rest, enjoy and recharge.

Climate: Fiji enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging between 77°F (25°C) and 88°F (31°C). The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is cooler and less humid, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.

With that said, I visited in May, and it rained and it was humid! Ive been told by the hotel and the team that the higher season is usually in July and August for visitors to visit Fiji! So again, nothing is for sure! 🙂

Top Destinations:

• I visited and loved Como Laucala Island! It’s a private Island in the North of the Island. Very private, very relaxed and lovely. Ive stayed there for 3 nights.
• Viti Levu: The main island and the hub of activity, Viti Levu is home to the capital city, Suva, and the bustling town of Nadi. Here, you can explore local markets, historical sites, and indulge in urban comforts while still being close to nature.
• Yasawa Islands: Known for their dramatic landscapes and secluded beaches, the Yasawa Islands are ideal for those seeking tranquility and adventure. They offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Fiji.
• Mamanuca Islands: Just off the coast of Nadi, the Mamanuca Islands are famous for their stunning coral reefs and luxurious resorts. These islands are perfect for water sports enthusiasts and those looking to relax in high-end accommodations.
• Vanua Levu: Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu, is less touristy but equally captivating. It offers a more laid-back experience with opportunities to explore its lush interior, waterfalls, and rich marine life.

Ive noticed how smiley, happy and friendly the locals are! You’ll be greeted with the traditional Fijian greeting, “Bula!”—a word that signifies life, health, and happiness. Ive noticed the vibrant Fijian culture through traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The island has a charm and natural beauty that captivates the heart thats for sure.

Some activities that you could explore in Fiji are: diving, hiking through tropical forests, or relaxing in a luxurious resort.

Enjoy Paradise!