Fact 1: It's Made Up of Hundreds of Islands
Fiji, also known as the Republic of Fiji, is formed by an archipelago of more than 330 islands. Out of these, approximately 110 islands are inhabited. The two most significant islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, which make up about 87% of Fiji's population.
Fact 2: The International Date Line Runs Through Fiji
Fiji is one of the few places on Earth where the International Date Line runs through. Because of this, Fiji has the unique feature of being able to celebrate New Year's Eve first in the world. There is a spot in Taveuni Island where a person can stand with one foot in the current day and the other foot in the previous day.
Fact 3: The Rich Diversity of Languages
Fiji is home to a great linguistic diversity. While English is the official language, many locals also speak Fijian or Hindi. There are also an estimated 300 distinct dialects spoken throughout the region, reflecting the diverse cultural influences over the centuries.
Fact 4: The Capital City is on a Different Island
The capital city of Suva is located on a different island than the country's international airport. The Capital, Suva, lies on the Southeastern part of Viti Levu while Nadi International Airport is situated on the western side of the same island.
Fact 5: Fiji Was Once a British Colony
For almost a century, from 1874 to 1970, Fiji was under the control of Britain and was known as the Crown Colony of Fiji. It was only on October 10, 1970, that Fiji gained independence from Britain.
Fact 6: Rugby is the National Sport
Fiji is known worldwide for its excellence in rugby. Rugby sevens is the national sport and holds great cultural significance among the Fijian people. Fiji's rugby sevens team has also made the country proud by securing the Olympic gold medal at the 2016 and 2021 Olympics.
Fact 7: A Hub for Bollywood Productions
Fiji has also established itself as a favorite filming location for many Bollywood - the Indian film industry - movies due to its abundant natural beauty. The Fijian government even provides incentives to attract film producers to the country.
Fact 8: Unique Tradition of Firewalking
Firewalking, or Vilavilairevo, is a famous tradition in Fiji, especially within the Sawau tribe on Beqa Island. It's an ancient ceremony where performers walk barefoot over hot stones or embers. The performance is done to demonstrate bravery and is celebrated with native dance and music.
Fact 9: Home to a Variety of Wildlife
Fiji is home to unique and exotic species of flora and fauna. One such animal is the Fiji banded iguana, a species of lizard found nowhere else in the world. In regards to flora, the tagimoucia flower is indigenous to Fiji and is the country's national flower.
Fact 10: Fiji's Flag Still Holds a Touch of Britain
The flag of Fiji still carries the Union Jack, a symbol of its past relationship with Britain. The flag also includes the Fijian shield from the country's coat of arms, featuring indigenous elements such as a lion and a bunch of bananas.
Fact 11: Cannibalism Has a History Here
Historically, Fiji was known as the 'Cannibal Isles' due to its inhabitants' cannibalistic practices. This practice was eliminated over a century ago and is now a part of Fiji’s unique history.
Fact 12: They Have Something Called a Fijian Toilet
In Fiji, the term 'Fijian Toilet' refers to the ocean, as Fijians believe in preserving nature and keeping their island home pristine by respecting the environment.
Fact 13: The Home of the World's First Eco-Spa
First established in 2004, Fiji's Matava Eco-Adventure Resort and Spa was the world's first eco-spa. The spa offers treatments using only organic and locally sourced ingredients in its products.
Fact 14: A Melting Pot of Cultures
Fiji is a melting pot of cultures, with indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians being the two main ethnic groups. The culture is also influenced by other communities like Chinese, Europeans, and other Pacific islanders.
Fact 15: Fiji's Rare Crested Iguana
The rare crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis), is only found in Fiji. The existence of this prehistoric creature was unknown until 1981 when it was discovered during the filming of The Blue Lagoon.
Fact 16: The Fourth Largest Coral Reef in the World
Fiji is home to the fourth largest coral reef in the world, The Great Astrolabe Reef. The reef, stretching over 120 kilometers, is named after a French ship that struck it in 1827.
Fact 17: Meke Traditional Performance
Meke is a traditional form of Fijian dance-drama that combines dance, song, costumes, and the clapping of hands. It is a storytelling medium where ancient myths, legends, and history are passed down through generations.
Fact 18: A National Love for Kava
Kava, a traditional non-alcoholic beverage made from the root of a pepper plant, is a popular drink in Fiji. It's used in many traditional ceremonies and is an important aspect of Fiji's culture.
Fact 19: First South Pacific Nation to Host Peace Corps
Fiji was the first South Pacific nation to welcome volunteers from the Peace Corps. The Peace Corps is an American volunteer program that provides assistance to countries in need since 1968.
Fact 20: Fijian Rotuma Island
Rotuma Island, a part of Fiji situated 646 kilometers away from the main islands, has its autonomous internal governance. Rotuma Island has its own unique language, culture, and identity despite being a part of Fiji.