THE YOUNG ISLANDER’S GUIDE TO FIJI (BALLIN’ ON A BUDGET)
By Jane Vavaitamana
If you’re an Islander heading to Fiji for the first time, get ready for a warm welcome! This guide is for young Islanders looking to enjoy Fiji without breaking the bank.
SLEEPING IN SUVA: OPTIONS GALORE!
Most start in Suva, where stays range from rainforest retreats like Colo-i-Suva Rainforest Eco Resort to city spots like Tanoa Plaza, perfect for walking around. If nightlife is your scene, close enough to hear the random “HOIIYYAAHH” at 2am, but still far enough to avoid the street chaos after the clubs close.
NADI: A BUDGET-FRIENDLY HAVEN!
In Nadi, Smugglers Cove will forever be a spot for kava and entertainment, while Sailors offers stunning beachfront views that are always Instagram worthy. If you need to be close to the airport, Tokatoka or Raffles Nadi are convenient options that will have you never missing a flight, unless you’re really talented.
FEASTING LIKE ROYALTY ON A BUDGET!
Fiji’s food scene is a budget-friendly delight. Try Zam Zam’s for spicy curries, DMC for a unique fast-food experience, and Sunny Pizza for delicious pizzas made with fresh ingredients, staying true to their “farm to table” slogan. For a special and boujee night, check out Tiko’s Floating Restaurant for dining on the water.
But, the forever favourite is any roadside tent flipping sausages in the air with a light up speaker blaring UB40 through the night.
NIGHTLIFE THAT’S UNMISSABLE!
As the sun sets, Fiji comes alive. O’Reilly’s (Green Door) is a local favourite where you’ll likely see everyone you know vibing to the music, even the Uncle that was sent to buy bread but never returned. Traps Bar is a rite of passage for every Islander, conveniently located opposite Suva’s sub sandwich tents.
In Nadi, make sure to hit The Hive Bar and Bar One for a night out. These clubs hit different when the lights are back on and everyone’s singing a song to distract the bouncers from chasing everyone out.
DAYTIME ADVENTURES THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK!
For daytime fun, visit Colo-i-Suva Forest Park for a dip at the waterfalls or the Fiji Museum for a glimpse at Fiji’s famous Drua canoe. Suva Market and the Flea Market are great for shopping, just don’t start haggling with the aunties, it isn’t Facebook Marketplace. In Nadi, explore the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and the Sabeto Mud Pools for a unique experience.
TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL!
To save money grab a Vodafone or Digicel SIM at the airport for cheap data. Use the buses for transportation, just get a bus card from any outlet and enjoy the breeze in your face full force and Shania Twain on blast in our windowless buses. Avoid resort taxis unless you like the pain in your pockets.
At the end of the day, Fiji is made for us Islanders. The music, the food, the humour, the “your cousin is my cousin” energy, the warmth, the chaos, the calm. It’s familiar and new at the same time, like visiting a place you’ve never been to but still feel at home in. Travel smart, take care of your wallet, enjoy the bula vibes, and make memories without blowing your entire payslip. Fiji hugs you on arrival and laughs with you the whole way through.