Viti Levu, Fiji

"Viti Levu's largest island, is a tropical paradise with a rich cultural heritage, but there are several things expats should know before moving there. Firstly, English is widely spoken in Fiji, but it would be beneficial to learn some basic Fijian phrases to help integrate into the local community. The cost of living in Viti Levu is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but imported goods can be expensive. Fiji operates on Fiji Standard Time and does not observe daylight saving, so expats should adjust their schedules accordingly. The climate in Viti Levu is tropical with a warm, rainy season from November to April and a cooler, dry season from May to October. Healthcare facilities in Viti Levu are adequate for routine problems, but serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand, so comprehensive health insurance is recommended. Fiji's culture is a blend of indigenous Fijian, Indian, European, and other Pacific island influences, and respecting local customs and traditions is important. The crime rate in Viti Levu is relatively low, but petty crime like theft does occur, so expats should take basic precautions to protect their belongings. Public transportation in Viti Levu is reliable and inexpensive, but many expats choose to buy or rent a car for convenience. Fiji's economy is based on tourism, sugar, clothing, and gold mining, so job opportunities for expats may be limited in certain sectors. Finally, Fiji has strict quarantine laws to protect its agriculture and wildlife, so expats should be aware of what they can and cannot bring into the country," commented one expat who made the move to Viti Levu.