In the past, maritime travel served as a means for people to discover new lands, establish colonies, broaden trade routes, and set up new settlements. This trend has continued in the Pacific over centuries.
For those from outside Viti Levu, it is evident that traveling is one of the most rewarding ways to explore and appreciate the beauty of the world. However, island-hopping poses various challenges, and it takes experienced travelers to navigate the “storms” of such journeys.
While road travel on Viti Levu has its challenges, it is generally more manageable than sea travel. The distance one must cover, the costs involved, and unpredictable weather conditions can make island travel complex and overwhelming.
One key to successful island travel is to “travel light.” Avoid overpacking as if you are leaving for good; take only what you truly need. This is particularly important since you will frequently embark and disembark from ferries, transfer to buses, and switch to smaller boats for outer islands. Lighter luggage makes these transitions easier.
Choose clothing made of fabrics that don’t hold odor, breathe well, and are lightweight. While T-shirts and shorts are suitable, consider packing semi-formal attire for important meetings.
Traveling to the islands is also an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets. Capture these moments by taking plenty of photos to share with family, friends, and colleagues. You don’t need to be a professional photographer; the beauty of nature is compelling enough to create memorable images, especially with the help of smartphones available in Fiji.
Accepting discomforts is part of the adventure. If you come from an urban environment, you may find the initial inconveniences challenging. Be prepared for unexpected situations, such as sleeping on a ship’s floor or waiting in a bus shelter. Access to proper sanitation may be limited, and it’s wise to plan ahead by bringing along snacks and being flexible with food options.
Regardless of the season, traveling to the islands often means nighttime travel, which can be chilly. Packing a sweater, scarf, beanie, and warm socks can help keep you comfortable during the journey, especially if you end up sitting or sleeping on a windy deck.
Bringing a lightweight, dark-colored bed sheet is advisable in case seating becomes scarce on the ferry, allowing you to rest more comfortably, whether inside or on the deck amidst ocean breezes.
Your toiletry bag should also hold important personal items such as a spare razor, deodorant, toothbrush, moisturizer, and seasickness medication. Toilets on inter-island ferries can be quite basic, so it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper to avoid any awkward situations.
One of the enjoyable aspects of traveling is the chance to meet new people. Be open to interacting with strangers, sharing a laugh, or making friends along the way. Anticipate that you may find yourself sitting next to, sharing space with, or even sharing food with fellow travelers. After all, these encounters are an integral part of the journey and contribute to the overall experience.