FREE GUIDE to living with the locals on Mana Island: a Fiji adventure
This guide offers a glimpse into my upcoming guides.
WHAT TO PACK FOR ISLAND HOPPING
CLOTHES: pack light! It’s best to travel with just a backpack, especially when visiting multiple islands.
CASH: bring cash, as many islands don’t have ATMs.
DAY BAG: a small bag for day trips to carry essentials.
WATER: it's hot out there! We brought two big 5L bottles since there’s no supermarket on the island. The hostel sells water, but it’s usually cheaper to bring your own.
SNACKS: you’ll get three hearty meals a day, but if you’re a snacker, bring some extras along.
MEDICINE: don’t forget bug spray and some medicine for an upset stomach—just in case :)
KEY FACTS FIJI CULTURE
Fijian culture is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in tradition, with a strong focus on community, hospitality, and respect for elders. It is shaped by indigenous customs and influenced by the Indo-Fijian population. During my visit, I learned that showing respect for local customs is key to having a meaningful experience. Here are some tips I picked up on how to be respectful in Fijian culture:
GREET WITH A BULA AND SMILE: "Bula" means "hello" or "welcome," and it's used frequently in Fiji. Greeting people with a warm smile and a friendly "Bula" is a great way to show respect.
DRESS MODESTLY: while beachwear is fine at resorts, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting villages or public places. For women, this often means covering shoulders and knees. For men, wearing a sulu (a traditional wrap) is common.
RESPECT TRADITIONAL CUSTOMS: If you're invited to a village or a traditional ceremony, follow local customs. For example, when entering a Fijian home or participating in a kava ceremony, it's customary to remove your hat and shoes.
SHOW RESPECT TO ELDERS AND CHIEFS: Elders and village chiefs hold significant roles in Fijian society.
BE PATIENT AND EMBRACE 'FIJI TIME': Fijians have a relaxed approach to time, often referred to as "Fiji time." Be patient and flexible with schedules, as things may not always happen promptly.
By being mindful of these customs, you'll show respect for Fijian culture and foster meaningful connections during your trip.
WELCOME TO MANA ISLAND
After arriving in Nadi and spending a night there we took of by boat for about 1 hour to an amazing small island the next day. We learned very fast that the main island offers a lot but we were read to spend time with locals for a couple of days before exploring the big island.
Here's you can find a booking link to the great getaway. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me. But first read through the whole guide to learn about this beautiful place!
BULA - OUR GETAWAY
Upon our arrival on Mana Island, we were greeted with the warm and welcoming nature of the Fijians, embodied in the word "Bula,". This spirit of friendliness and joy is a hallmark of Fijian interactions, instantly making us feel at home in this tropical paradise.
Located right on the beachfront, the hostel Mana Lagoon Backpackers was nothing short of amazing. Its prime location allowed us to wake up to the sound of waves and a breathtaking ocean views. The hostel itself was a haven of comfort and charm, offering a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a touch of island elegance. Its friendly staff, relaxed vibe, and convenient access to the beach made it the perfec base for our adventures on Mana Island.
PEOPLE & FOOD
Fijian food reflects the island's abundance of fresh produce and seafood. Popular dishes include kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), lovo (food cooked in an earth oven), and rourou (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk). Staying on an island is anything but boring, especially at Mana Lagoon Backpackers, where every day felt perfect. We enjoyed beach volleyball, cracked fresh coconuts, and explored scenic walking trails. Visits to the local village offered a glimpse into authentic Fijian life, and evenings were filled with music and singing, creating an atmosphere of joy.
HOSTEL ACTIVITIES
During our stay, we had access to a variety of tours and activities offered. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the tours and activities we took part in.
SUNSET BOST TOUR
The staff at the hostel took us on both sunset and sunrise boat tours, providing us with unforgettable experiences on the water to see the island from every side and appreciate its beauty at different times of day.
TRADITIONAL DANCE EVENING
Traditional Fijian dance and music are integral parts of cultural celebrations. Meke performances include storytelling through dance, chants, and songs, often accompanied by traditional instruments.
DAY TRIPS - THE BEAUTY BEYOND MANA ISLAND
If you're looking for even more adventure, Mana Lagoon offers day trips to nearby islands, like the famous Castaway Island. It’s a great way to explore the beauty of Fiji beyond Mana Island while experiencing even more pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
TRIP TO “CASTAWAY ISLAND”
A visit to Monuriki Island, where "Castaway" was filmed, and a stop at a stunning sandbank were unforgettable adventures. Evenings were spent on sunset cruises, followed by singing songs with a guitar under the stars.
The trip was organized by the hostel, ensuring that each activity was seamlessly planned and thoroughly enjoyable, including a delicious lunch and a hike to explore the island. These elements together create a vibrant and welcoming culture that is a joy to experience as a visitor.
Fiji’s beauty and the warmth of its people made it a truly special place, offering a perfect blend of cultural experiences and natural wonders.
Saying goodbye to Mana Island wasn’t easy, but the memories we made will last a lifetime.
This trip was so much more than just a getaway—it was a chance to meet incredible people and deeply immerse ourselves in the local culture.
From cooking together and singing traditional Fijian songs to exchanging cultural stories during amazing evenings. These experiences made the journey truly special and left us feeling even more connected to the beautiful Fijian culture.
If you're planning a getaway or just curious about this tropical paradise, feel free to reach out for any tips or questions!
The home for unique & authentic travel
