The Fiji Islands constitute one of the most picturesque archipelagos in the Pacific Ocean, widely known for its exotic blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, Micronesian, Hindu, Chinese and European traditions. According to archaeological data, the first settlers appeared in the Fiji Islands about 3500 years ago. The Fiji Islands themselves are famous for the beautiful blue lagoons, magnificent coastline, pristine rivers and hills covered with evergreen forests. The larger islands are interesting for their flora and fauna. Numerous national parks and reserves allow the visitors of the islands to see the world as it was long before the advent of man. The islands did not remain aloof from civilization, but it almost did not affect the nature of these amazing places.

The island of Viti Levu lies in the western part of the archipelago. Here are the major cities in Fiji, such as Suva, Lautoka, Nadi, Sigatoka, Nauvoo, Rakiraki and others. This is the main air gate to the country, with the Nadi International Airport located here. The capital of Fiji is located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu, stretched out on a hilly peninsula between the Gulf Laukaa and Suva Harbour. This is a political and administrative center of the country, as well as its main port and oldest city. Suva and its surrounding villages are home to almost half of the urban population of the Fiji, and many consider it one of the busiest cities in the central Pacific. Originally Suva was a small settlement with a few stone houses in the Victorian style. Here one will find unique restaurants with local cuisine, a lot of magnificent landscapes, all conditions for recreation.

However, its transformation into the largest city in Fiji happened very quickly, when it became the largest port. Now this is a very cosmopolitan city with a population of Fijians, Indians, Chinese, natives of Europe, Tonga, Samoa and Rotuma, as well as many other nations. Accordingly, the monuments of the city belong to different cultures, which makes its mosques, temples, churches and cultural centers full of color and originality.

Suva is literally immersed in greenery and lush palm trees. The entire business life is centered on the central Suva Victoria Parade Street, where there are several picturesque colonial-era buildings, banks, hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and much more. The City Market, the main outlet of the city, is located not far from here. Coral Coast is another popular resort area. Having an individual sightseeing program, one can also visit traditional Fijian villages.

The third largest city of Fiji, Nadi is on the shores of the Gulf. The local economy depends almost entirely on tourism, although it is not the most attractive part of the country, but a good starting point for trips around the island of Viti Levu, the Mamanuca island group and the Coral Coast resorts.

The main attraction of Nadi is Swami temple in the southern end of the main street. This is the biggest Hindu temple of the southern hemisphere. Just a short drive from the airport, there is a colorful local market where you can buy local souvenirs, food and clothing. This is a land of fantastic scenery, lush greenery and fast flowing rivers, populated by the most distinctive clans of Fiji. The village is considered the most picturesque in the islands.

Historical attractions, such as the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, preserve the rich history of ancient civilizations. The settlement Korotogo near Sigatoka and the group of islands Lau are great places where you can see the interpenetration of Polynesian and Melanesian cultures. In Fiji, there is a sleeping giant garden, created by Raymond Burr, in which one can admire thousands of orchids, trees and lakes. Of certain interest is visiting a Hindu temple and a sugar cane plantation. And in Lautoka you can go to the colorful markets, as well as stroll along the picturesque coast of Viti Levu.

View the listings of travel agents on Fiji Islands to be able to contact a professional travel agent. For specific travel needs, to the the list of Fiji tour operators.