Helping your Community
The Fijian Way: Community Togetherness and Happiness
‘It takes a village’ is more than a saying here in Fiji, where many people still live communally in a village. In fact, there’s a word for it – solesolevaki. Its where everyone comes together for a common cause – whether that’s to construct a village footpath or rebuild a neighbour’s house after a storm. This spirit of giving and neighbourly love extends beyond the village boundaries throughout Fiji and is part of what makes these islands so special.
Being Outside
Embracing Nature: Fiji's Outdoor Bliss
With year-round warmth and a tapestry of soothing blues and greens as your backdrop, Fiji’s beauty is breathtaking. With waterfall-fed jungles to palm-fringed beaches and colorful coral reefs to play in, it’s easy to see why happiness and Fiji go hand-in-hand.
Caring for Family
Family Bonds: The Heart of Fijian Society
Family ties run deep in Fiji where kinship is king. Large, extended families are typical in Fiji where multiple generations often live with or close to each other, providing help and support in times of need. Family is more than an annoying sibling or a grandmother who scolds, it provides the love and support to ensure that no one gets left out, and that no one is lonely.
Making Time to Play
Sporting Spirit: Rugby and Fijian Excellence
Fijians may be easy-going but when it comes to sport, their build, speed and competitiveness make them natural athletes. Rugby in particular has turned a small-island nation into a world-class contender. It’s a sport where talent and flair combine to make them one
Living Our Values
Harmony in Diversity: Cultural and Religious Values in Fiji
In Fiji, culture and religion play a big part in how people live their daily lives and shape the way diverse groups like Christians, Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims live peacefully together. Common religious values like helping your neighbour and giving to the needy blend well with Fijian cultural values like humility, hospitality and respect for leaders and the elderly. Respect for self, tradition and protocol builds strong relationships and an even stronger community, irrespective of individual faith.
Sharing a Meal
The Art of Sharing: Culinary Traditions in Fiji
If food were a sport, Fijians would be a serious competitor. Cooking, eating, and above all sharing food with others, is one of Fiji’s favourite pastimes. From sharing the bounty of a backyard mango tree, trading seafood with your neighbour, to all-hands-on-deck traditional lovo prep for a wedding, food is not fully enjoyed unless its shared. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join a meal by total strangers – it’s completely normal in Fiji.
Laughing out Loud
Spreading Smiles: The Joy of Laughter in Fiji
Fijians are famous for their friendliness. A well-timed joke, slightly cheeky comment or over-the-top dance move will do wonders to lighten the mood, bond with strangers and even relieve stress. Next time you’re here, join in on the fun!