Learning the Fijian Language: Fijian Holidays Are a Great Way to Start

Fiji is a group of over 300 islands, both large and small. Only some of the islands are inhabited, and many are surrounded by stunning and significant coral reefs, some of which suffer greatly from the effects of tourism and over fishing, as well as climate change, whilst others in the outer island areas are less affected (by tourism at least!). Fiji is in the South Pacific Ocean, about three hours flight time from New Zealand and around four and a half hours from Australia. Tourism is vital in Fiji, with Fijian holidays from overseas visitors being an important part of the economy. Remember to check out the smaller accommodation options when you plan your Fijian holiday, as places such as Sandalwood Lodge in Nadi and Naqalia Lodge in the Yasawas offer great value alternatives to the larger resorts.

The population is made up of predominantly Indian and indigenous Fijian people, along with a fairly large expat community. Roughly half the population is indigenous Fijian, and half is Indian. Many of the Indian families are descended from the original trading and working families who moved to Fiji to undertake work on sugar cane farms and the like. From time to time the volatile mix of Indians and Fijians, along with a shaky grip on democracy, can result in civil unrest and military takeovers, as occurred a year or so ago.

The most recent political unrest in Fiji occurred in early 2009, with a military takeover of Fiji and its government. The rule of law has been affected and in recent months the high commissioners to Australia and New Zealand have been sent home. Regardless of the political situation, many tourists continue to visit for their ultimate Fijian holiday. It continues to be wise as always to check with your own government about the latest travel warnings and safety issues.

There are a number of different languages which are spoken. Indigenous Fijian people speak the Fijian language, and this is taught in schools also. Most Fijian people are at least bilingual, with English being their second language. By adulthood, most Fijians are quite fluent in English. There are many of the Indian community who speak Hindi, often combined with English also.

It will only take a day or two in Fiji before you master your first phrase of Fijian language. Likely you will be greeted within minutes of your arrival with a hearty shout of 'Bulla!' from someone who spies you as a tourist. In general, Fijian people love to greet visitors to their country, and they expect you will stop and pass the time of day with them. 'Bulla' is a greeting which basically means 'hello'. It should be said with a smile and direct eye contact made to the speaker. Fiji is a land where time does not hurry past you, and Fijian people treasure their slow paced, relaxed lifestyle. Take the time to say 'Bulla' to a local and enjoy a chat for a few moments. Whether it is in a hotel, on a boat during a transfer to an outer island region such as the Manamucas, or simply walking in the street, Fijian people love a chat.

'Vinaka' is another word you will hear a lot in Fiji. 'Vinaka' means 'thank you'.

'Keri keri' means please.

'Ni sa moce' means goodbye. (When pronounced, the 'c' becomes a 'th' sound, so phonetically this is said as 'mo/they'

One is 'ndua' and two is 'rua'

Excuse me is 'to lou' (pronounced as too low)

Although English is the official language of Fiji, remember that not everyone you meet will speak it as their first or preferred language. And words and phrases of the Fijian language are generally only appropriate for using with Fijian locals, not with Indian people, as their first language is generally Hindi, not Fijian. Visually it is easy to tell the difference between Fijians and Indians, as both groups often tend to still wear traditional clothing (saris for Indian women, and often floral print dresses for Fijian women). Fijians are of much larger stature than Indians, who tend to be more petite and finely built.

So take the time to check out the travel warnings from your own country and then if you feel the time is right, head to Fiji for your own Fijian holiday and the chance to learn to speak the Fijian language.

Ni sa moce!