Bula and welcome to Fiji! Located in the heart of the South Pacific and blessed with 333 islands fringed with sandy beaches, shady palm trees, and home to some of the happiest people on earth.

This tropical archipelago is a destination for everyone: from singles to romantic couples, families, and seniors. On all-inclusive land resorts and secluded private islands, South Pacific heaven exists and spas from the exotic to massages on the beach, await. Bars, where barefoot foot attire is optional abound, no matter what your budget. Life exists at the slowest of beats in Fiji, and that's the way they like it.

Culinary experiences are everywhere - you'll smell the traditional flavours combined with influences from India but also China and Europe. Visit the Fiji Food Markets in Suva, or a local market on any island. The food is delicious, cheap, fresh, and seafood is in abundance.

Community projects are an excellent way to embrace and immerse in the Fijian lifestyle while giving a little back. Visit a school, hospital, wildlife park-like Kula Wild Adventure Park where you can meet an Iguana up close and see other endemic animals of the region. Visit a village, take in a kava ceremony, ride the rivers of Sigatoka River in a jet boat - simply unforgettable. If you like a moderate graded hike, on Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, organise a local guide and visit Fiji's first national park, Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, scattered with ancient pottery artifacts, bones, a windswept beach, and informative visitor centre. There's Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, inland from Lautoka and the lush Bouma National Heritage Park, which encompasses almost half of Taveuni.

Underwater playgrounds abound throughout these world-class diving and snorkeling islands. Jean-Michel Cousteau is quoted as calling Fiji the 'Soft Coral Capital of the World'. Hence Fiji became the site for his first dive resort - considered one of the best today. It and numerous others showcase colourful corals and support unique reef eco-systems. The outer reefs boast some of the best shark dives in the world: Shark Reef Marine Reserve is one of the finest as is diving with the resident tiger sharks in Beqa Lagoon.

Kick back and allow island Fiji time to embrace you, as another sweeping sunset bids farewell to a perfect day in paradise. Vinaka - thank you from Fiji!

Fiji Travel Tip: Don't be tricked by a low room or bed rate; accommodation with higher room rates can sometimes be cheaper when you add up the extras included.

Best time to visit Fiji

With only two seasons: wet and dry, Fiji has become an all-year-round destination. Peak season is the most expensive and busiest time. June to August, in the dry, are very busy with many Australians and New Zealanders travelling during school holidays. Christmas can also be a busy time. Low season is typically February to March and October to November, though festivities such as a rugby match can quickly fill up accommodation. It's best to plan in advance.