5 Things You Should Never Forget When You’re in Fiji

Fiji has approximately 330 islands. It is known for backpacking, couple or family getaway. All the pictures you see online when you search Fiji always look like paradise. But there is something that you must know about this paradise. I am not trying to scare you, okay? I’m here to tell you what to expect since it has so many islands.

Most of the islands here rely on generators and have scheduled hours to use electricity. Thanks to solar power, some of the resort owners use solar panels to supply electricity. I am not going to talk about electricity here but I’d like you to realize that there are resorts here located on under developed islands. Under developed sounds negative. Let’s just say, partially preserved. That’s better!

I like that these islands are not fully converted to a commercial resort. It’s what makes Fiji a dream trip for everyone. They make you so close to nature and culture. When I say close to nature, let me share with you the 5 things that you should never forget when you are in Fiji.

1.  Insect Repellent

Whether it’s a lotion or spray, make sure that you have this with you all the time. There are plenty of mosquitoes in Fiji. Know that it’s surrounded by water, trees, and so many plants so expect that there could be mosquitoes around. Good news is, they are not the dangerous types of mosquitoes but of course, it’s irritating when it starts to itch. There are insect repellents that can still work even if you’ve applied sun screen. When I mean insect repellent, it can also be for bugs. I have seen others complaining about bed bugs. Ultimately, we can’t really blame resort owners. Even if they disinfect the rooms, travelers come and go. Bugs could be in their stuff without them noticing. Guests rarely stay in one hotel or one island so expect that these are natural occurrences because they move from one island to another. Some travelers do not know the difference between a mosquito bite and a (bed) bug bite but they are both ithcy.

2. Anti-itch cream

Sometimes insect repellent may not work depending on the place you stay. Expect that you will notice too many mosquito or bug bites on your skin the next day. It is best that you have an anti-itch cream handy so you can get rid of the bite marks and the itchiness. I bought one when I returned to mainland. I had to endure the itchiness for so many days. Learn from my mistake and have one before you hop from one island to another.

3. Water

Always bring a water with you. If you are going to an island, buy water from the mainland because it is a lot cheaper there. If you are staying on different islands for a longer period of time, get a 6-pack of 1 liter water. Although you might pay a fee when embarking a boat since you need to declare that you are bringing some water. Bringing water is safe unless you are okay to drink rain water just like some of the locals do. You don’t want to get dehydrated for staying too long under the sun.

4. Sunscreen

Skin protection is a must. Too much sun exposure can cause skin cancer. Buying sunscreen even on mainland can be expensive too. Better bring your own before you fly to Fiji! I brought two tubes of sunscreen to make sure that I prevent sun damage. There is nothing wrong with getting tanned but the damage it could lead to is what’s dangerous. I don’t think I have to elaborate the need for sunscreen.

5. Beach mat or Sarong

 When you are on an island, you have the freedom to stay in one area – sunbathing, eating or drinking. It’s always nice that you have something to place on the sand so that you don’t have to sit on the sand and complain that sand sticking to your legs and swimwear. Sarong is always the best choice because it is so light and easy to fold. It dries up easily too!

Before buying the stuff I recommended, make sure to see your doctor before using or know if you have allergies on the active ingredients.