Fiji is one of the most popular and affordable destinations within the South Pacific, while also boasting a relatively strong economy. However, not all is well, with government coups, a strong military influence, and media censorship being among some of the political issues that have led to some other countries insisting on boycotting Fiji. Regardless, the ordinary Fijian people are incredibly friendly hosts and happy to share their land and traditional culture with travellers. I was fortunate enough to spend two weeks touring but a small portion of Fiji’s 330+ islands, visiting the postcard-perfect Yasawa Island Group and the ‘mainland’ of Viti Levu.
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- Tropical Sunrise
To get to Fiji's postcard scenery, one must leave the mainland and head to an island group like the Yasawas or Mamanucas.
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- Manta Ray Island
Early morning light illuminates part of Manta Ray Island.
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- Wayalailai Grasses
Taller than the average human, these natural grasses are the primary ground-cover in the Yasawa Islands.
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- Kuata from Wayalailai
Kuata Island is the first island in the Yasawa group, seen here from high up on the second island in the chain, Wayalailai.
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- Nacula Coastline
The vibrancy of the natural colours in Fiji can only be seen to be believed.
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- Waya Island
One of the most popular and most scenic islands in the Yasawas.
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- The Blue Lagoon
Toward the northern end of the Yasawas is the area known as the Blue Lagoon, the shooting location for the movies of the same name.
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- The Yasawa Islands
Looking southwest from Nacula Island.
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- Nacula Grasses
With the day coming to an end, the natural grasses take on a warm glow.
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- Nacula Palms
The relatively dry Yasawa Islands are mostly grasslands that see frequent grassfires, with only the occasional palm tree away from the shoreline.
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- Nacula Island
One of the most scenic spots in Fiji, if not the entire world, is Nacula Island.
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- Palm
With two thirds of the islands in Fiji being uninhabited, finding your own completely deserted beach doesn't take too much work.
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- Cruising the Blue Lagoon
Tourism has been reasonably gentle on the Yasawa Islands, where despite the large number of tourists, they have managed to retain their relaxed and rustic atmosphere.
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- Reef
Harbouring some stunning coral and sealife, the reefs in Fiji are justly popular for attracting snorkellers and divers. Even when viewed from far above they are fascinating.
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- Manta Ray Morning
Devoid of any development or people, the eastern side of Manta Ray Island is a mixture of rugged volcanic beaches and white sand beaches.
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- Footsteps
The setting sun brings out the patterns in the sand. Octopus Resort is in the background.
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