Feel the Joy
see many VFR’s (Visiting Friends and Relatives) returning as well as returning tourists who had found Fiji to be a place they belong.
“A lot of reunions, tears of joy and connecting back to their roots, culture and community.”
The spokesperson said Christmas time was the holiday season for the major tourist markets as well for locals, so Christmas was buzzing with people all over the islands.
“We have people coming down from interior villages to shop, VFR bringing remittances, visitors coming for family getaways, summer camps, honeymooners and many other visitors.
“As we know, when these tourists come, they go out to try Fiji’s authentic experiences such as going to the markets, handicraft centre, villages, restaurants, our wellness industry and adventure activities.
“All this spending goes directly into the hands of Fijians and boosts the economy.”
Fiji was one of many countries in the world that was not immune to COVID-19. The tourism industry was hit hard.
As a result of the pandemic, the Spokesperson said Fiji could not welcome any visitors to the country during the lockdown period, and this had a severe impact on tourism as the contribution to GDP dropped from approximately 40 per cent to just around nine per cent.
“However, Fijians are resilient and did not give up their spirit of generosity.
“COVID-19, despite creating the social distance, it brought families and communities together as all stood together to support each other.”
He said the industry also had a successful uptake of our Love Our Locals campaign.
“We all learnt how to appreciate and care for those around us, and this bonding helps get us prepared to head on our road to recovery, taking each step carefully towards creating a safe destination for our locals and tourists,” the spokesperson added.
Tourists during festive seasons
Tourism Fiji has seen a strong demand from the Fijian markets as both tourists and VFR swarm in at this time of year.
“Our rates are holding up and we are attracting the right type of tourists.
“While we are getting the numbers, we have also noticed that these tourists are spending more (12 per cent) and stay longer (9.7 nights on average) than they were pre-COVID.”
He said there was a demand by both visitors for Christmas holiday purposes and VFR.
“It is interesting to note that VFR who usually come during this season also invite their families here in Fiji to join them at resorts to make a family trip out of it, enjoy experiences to make memories and get a break from the usual.”
Fijian pride
The spokesperson said Fiji was a place where happiness came naturally.
“You can feel the happiness as you disembark at the airport and are greeted by the smiling, joyful singers.
He also said hospitality in Fiji was more than a sector; it is a culture, a way of life.
“Tourists coming into Fiji take back these wonderful memories, meaningful experiences, and a connection that they know they have established forever – they become part of our Vuvale (family), that is why tourists keep coming back.”
Christmas activities
This Christmas, Tourism Fiji started with the ‘Your Paradise’ Music festival! And, last weekend, the incredible Vou Dance Group added an all-new show to their lineup, with “From Fiji with Love” showing every Sunday at the Sofitel.
“Having seen it myself, it is a total mustsee for tourists this Christmas. In addition, most resorts where you can drink, dance and enjoy Fiji style – ‘Seqa Na lega’ (No worries) are having their own Christmas events and activities such as the tree lighting, Christmas dinners and gift presentations for the less fortunate,” the spokespersons said.
“From a party, to making a contribution to the society, to completely chilling out, we have it all going on this Christmas in Fiji.”
Spokesperson also said there were many specials up for grabs for tourists and the locals too.
“Day cruises, expedition cruises, super rates for outer islands, guided tours, hikes and all-inclusive holiday packages that can suit every type of interest.
“For local examples, we have Kula Wild Adventure Park offering an environmental educational tour from $40 per adult and $20 per child; and Guided Walking Tours, Suva, a wonderful new tour allowing guests to explore and allow a deeper appreciation of the capital city’s landmarks.
“From $40 per person, guests get a 2 to 3-hour private tour with local poet, Pita Sipeli, through Suva’s 14 landmarks; and Malolo Island Resort is offering families a choice of two to seven nights’ holiday packages from $1465 for stay from February to March 2023, with inclusions, to name a few.”
We all learnt how to appreciate and care for those around us, and this bonding helps get us prepared to head on our road to recovery, taking each step carefully towards creating a safe destination for our locals and tourists Tourism Fiji
Advice
While we all enjoy Christmas, Tourism Fiji is encouraging all visitors to think sustainably and opt for meaningful tourism.
“Instead of spending on plastic and materialistic items, gift an unforgettable experience to your loved ones in Fiji – especially from our tourism industry or those who work closely with our industry like Rise beyond the Reef, the Projects Collective and more,” the spokesperson said.
“Also, my advice would be to get your bookings sorted out in advance as the demand is high and you don’t want last minute disappointments.
“Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa just announced that it has already exceeded 2019 capacity, and this is the case for the majority of the properties and experiences.
“And, be mindful and thankful to those wonderful people in our industry who are working over Christmas to ensure you have a good time.”