THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT FIJI

Planning your first Fiji escape and looking for a little insight into the stunning tropical archipelago? Here we’ve collated some of our favourite facts about paradisaical Fiji.

1. YOU CAN BE IN TWO DAYS AT ONCE

Stretching across two time zones, you can stand with one foot in ‘today’ and the other planted in ‘yesterday’ on the island of Taveuni where the international date line crosses.

2. FIJIANS ADORE CHILDREN

Fiji is widely touted as one of the world’s most family friendly destinations. The beautiful, warm hearted people of Fiji have a deep respect for children; this is a culture where kids always come first. Families everywhere delight in leaving their children in the kind, fun and capable hands of Fijian Kids Clubs and Nanny services.

3. IT’S RUDE TO WEAR A HAT IN A FIJIAN VILLAGE

According to Fijian custom, only the village chief may wear a hat. When visiting local villages, take note that it considered insulting to wear shoes into someones house or to touch their head (including children).

4. RUGBY IS A NATIONAL RELIGION

Rugby is a big deal in Fiji. Many locals play professional Rugby Union and Rugby League and if the Fiji Sevens (one of the world’s top teams) are playing an international game, time comes to a halt. Locals crowd into shops and homes to watch the events, while businesses shut down when the game is in play.

5. FIJIANS WEAR FRANGIPANIS TO INDICATE THEIR RELATIONSHIP STATUS

To indicate their relationship status, Fijian men and women will wear a frangipani behind their ear. Tucked on the right side tells the world they're married, on the left and they are single.

6. THERE ARE THREE OFFICIAL LANGUAGES IN FIJI

Thanks to the country's rich and colourful history, Fiji boasts three official languages. English, Fijian (in various regional dialects) and Fiji Hindi are widely spoken across the islands. Interestingly, over 40% of the population are ancestors of the Indians brought in by the British to work the sugarcane fields in colonial times.