Local tourism expects boost from Fiji Day celebrations

The tourism sector has received an increase in bookings leading up to Fiji Day. As excitement brews within the sector, Tourism Fiji chief executive officer Brent Hill says hotels and resorts have introduced special packages to stretch the dollar.

He said commemorating Fiji Day through tourism was a great way to support the industry

“Fijian tourism properties have a wonderful range of experiences to commemorate our Independence Day; flag-raising ceremonies, feasting, tours, live performances, pool passes for visitors, and other recreational, immersive experiences,” Mr

Hill said.

“Some of these include familyfriendly and authentically Fijian activities such as coconut-husking, face-painting, sport and competitions by resorts such as Radisson Blu on Denarau.

“In the Mamanuca’s, it’s great to see products such as Beachcomber open again for day trips, and in the highlands, there are waterfall adventures and lovo lunch offered by Namosi Eco Retreat, for Fiji Day.

“There’s lots to do and lot’s to offer for Fiji Day. There’s so much happening – enjoy it Fiji.”

Tourism Fiji has also received reports of business quickly picking up for hotels and resorts as families took advantage of special deals.

Mr Hill said travellers from Suva tops the list in visiting the coral coast and Nadi.

This created more employment for locals and more special deals to boost tourism experiences for families.

He said by designing products and services that are COVID-safe, affordable and accessible, the industry is really responding to what locals and tourists need.

“Opening hours are also longer, and facilities such as gyms and spas are now also open. More restaurants are also opening their doors which is wonderful news and great for our hospitality sector

“Resorts like the ever-popular Radisson Blu, Intercontinental at Natadola and Shangri-La at beautiful Sigatoka are reporting strong sales. Pacific Harbour is also starting to pickup, and I was down in Sigatoka recently and they are reporting really solid bookings for both resorts and tourism experiences like EcoTrax,” he said.

“It’s also great to hear that Beachcomber reached capacity on their Island day trip which is great.

“We’re also hearing bookings are solid for the 3 day cruise with Captain Cook Cruises coming up soon, which makes sense – the pricing is just amazing. It’s great that domestic tourism is really boosting the industry at a time that we really need it.”

Maritime travel

With plans to allow maritime travel as 80 per cent vaccination rate is achieved, more economic goals can be achieved for hotels and resorts.

Mr Hill added there’s so much of Fiji to explore and indulge, and a wider travel landscape meat more economic value for operators and consumers.

“More so, it’s a chance for affected tourism workers in Vanua Levu and our maritime regions to be reengaged, employed, and share their talents!” he said.

“We have great ambassadors all over the country and look forward to them sharing their Bula sprit with the rest of the world.

“Personally, I can’t wait to get up to see Savusavu, and I’m sure I’m not the only one in Fiji to want to get there when we meet our targets.”