Fiji Islands

Fiji is located in the South Pacific, 3000km (1875 miles) east of Australia and about 1930km (1200 miles) south of the Equator. It comprises 322 islands. The two largest are the extinct volcanoes of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. There is much of scenic and historic worth in Fiji, including its sugar cane and cocoa plantations. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets selling artefacts and handicrafts. Places of interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens, and the old Parliament Buildings. Other attractions include the acres of orchids and flowering plants in the Garden of the Sleeping Giant at the foot of the Sabeto Mountains. Tourists can pay to see fire walking ceremonies, although the ritual does remain a religious penance. Yacht cruises to the islands can also be arranged. Local dishes include kakoda (marinated local fish steamed in coconut cream and lime) and duruka (an unusual asparagus-like vegetable). Most social activity occurs in private clubs. Visitors can obtain temporary membership through hotels.