Travel guide Fiji

Bilibili are bamboo rafts, also known as "no-return rafts". They can be used by villagers to store their produce. Tour operators often include a bilibili section in their itineraries, so you can get the full local experience. Bilibili races are even organized in Fiji.

It's certainly the word you'll hear most in Fiji. It's pronounced "bou-lah". Fijian children and adults will often greet you in the street with a Bula to say hello. The word is also used to wish welcome, health and happiness. The literal meaning of this word is "life".

This is the traditional Fijian dwelling, built entirely of wood, notably coconut. Bures (pronounced "buré") were often built collectively in villages over a period of several weeks or even months. This type of housing was later abandoned by the locals in favor of solid construction, but is now fashionable in luxury hotels.

The notion of " Fiji time " corresponds to the very relaxed relationship between Fijians and time. It's impossible to know what time the bus will actually pass, offices will be closed during business hours and punctuality is unknown here. Once you've got the hang of it, though, it's quite pleasant - you become much less stressed!

Kava is Fiji's drink of choice and a highlight of Fijian social life. You'll be able to find kava roots at the market; this tree is a member of the pepper family. Kava is reputed to have relaxing, even anxiolytic effects. Not everyone likes the taste, but make your own!

This is Fiji's national dish: it consists of raw fish marinated in coconut milk, lemon, onions and chillies (not usually very spicy). It is often served with manioc French fries, another Fijian staple. Kokoda is a very fresh and delicious dish, and we recommend that you give it a try!

Meke is a traditional Fijian dance with a long cultural heritage. Songs and mime accompany the dance. Depending on the type of meke performed, the group may be mixed, female or male. There is always a distinction between the seated musicians and the dancers. The show is a beautiful moment.

Rugby is Fiji's national sport, a veritable religion. Rugby 7-a-side is the most popular sport in the Pacific, and the Fijian team has an excellent international record, rivalling its big neighbors Australia and New Zealand. In everyday life, rugby is also the sport of choice for young and old alike.

Sevusevu is the gift you bring when you're invited to or visit a traditional Fijian village. It is traditionally kava roots. The kava ceremony is a highly formal affair, which must be respected if kava is to be enjoyed in the proper manner. An experience of Fijian culture you must have at least once!

The tanoa is a four-legged wooden bowl, used in particular for tasting kava. It can be shaped like a turtle or simply decorated. This object is a must-have in Fijian craftsmanship. It can be an original souvenir to bring back from your vacation, provided you choose a small size!

Along with " Bula ", this is the second most common word you'll say in Fijian. It means "thank you", and you can memorize the long version to indicate "thank you very much": that would be " vinaka vaka levu ". As for pronunciation, Fijian has its own rules, and in this case the "a" in "vinaka" is particularly accentuated.

Vone is the Fijian word for turtle, which is an important element of Fijian culture and art. Many legends and mythologies feature turtles, which are also represented in Fijian handicrafts, either in their own right or as decoration. Vone is also Fiji's beer brand, with the turtle as its emblem.