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It seems that we Calvinists are not allowed to post anything the least bit controversially on Catholic Threads. Since that is the case, I present part one of the Calvininst Travelogue, FIJI

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Introduction

Facts for the Traveler

When to Go

Events

Money & Costs

Attractions

Off the Beaten Track

Activities

History

Culture

Environment

Getting There & Away

Getting Around

Further Reading

Lonely Planet Guides

Thorn Tree Posts

Postcards

Related Weblinks

Fiji

Fiji was once known as the 'Cannibal Isles' and its people were believed to be fierce and hostile; a recent history of coups has done nothing to dispel this notion in the minds of some travellers. Despite this, Fiji is beautiful, it has a pleasant tropical climate, the diving and snorkelling are superb and it has excellent facilities for tourists, whether they are on a tight budget or indulging in the luxuries of a plush resort.

Fiji has a unique history in the Pacific and today it is an interesting blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, Micronesian, Indian, Chinese and European influences. For nearly 50 years, until the military coup of 1987, the indigenous people of Fiji represented an ethnic minority in their own land. Fiji was the trade centre for the South Pacific during the 19th century, and the British claimed it as a colony in 1874. During the century or so that Fiji remained under British colonial rule, tens of thousands of indentured Indian labourers were imported to work on sugar plantations. Indigenous Fijians, however, managed to hold onto their traditional rites and practices - mekes (narrative dances), bure (house) construction, kava ceremonies, tapa-cloth making and pottery.

Warning

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs warns that lawlessness and further civil disturbance are a possibility in Fiji following an unsuccessful coup in mid-2000. While it is possible to travel safely to Fiji, some areas remain under night curfew, and civil unrest relating to the trials of the coup participants is possible.

Full country name: Republic of Fiji
Area: 18,333 sq km (7150 sq mi)
Population: 772,000
Capital city: Suva (population 141,000)
People: Indigenous Fijian 50%, Indian 45%
Languages: English is the official language, Fijian dialects are spoken by the indigenous Fijians (Bauan is the most spoken) and the Indian community speak Fiji-Hindi
Religion: 53% Christian, 38% Hindus, 8% Muslims, and 1% Sikhs
Government: Democracy
President: Ratu Josefa Iloilo
Prime Minister: Laisenia Qarase

GDP: US$4.3 billion
GDP per head: US$5,700
Inflation: 1%
Major industries: Sugar, tourism, gold, fish, lumber and clothing
Major trading partners: Australia, Japan and New Zealand
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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How's the WEATHER in Fiji?

You are always welcome to post on the Catholic threads. We may disagree on some details, but I know we are headed toward the same goal.