Savusavu: The Hidden Paradise of Fiji

• HelloBula
  [boo-lah]
• GoodbyeMoce
  [mo-they]
• YesIo
  [ee-oh]
• NoSega
  [seh-ngah]
• Please/You're welcomeVinaka
  [vee-nah-kah]
• Thank youVinaka vakalevu
  [vee-nah-kah vah-kah-leh-voo]
• Excuse me/SorryBula vinaka
  [boo-lah vee-nah-kah]
• How are you?O cei?
  [oh they]
• Fine. And you?Vinaka. Iko?
  [vee-nah-kah ee-koh]
• Do you speak English?Sa vosa vakaviti?
  [sah vo-sah vah-kah-vee-thee]
• I don't understandAu sega ni kila
  [ow seh-ngah nee kee-lah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAu vinakata muri kina na menu
  [ow vee-nah-kah-tah moo-ree kee-nah nah meh-noo]
• I don't eat meatAu sega ni kana koli
  [ow seh-ngah nee kah-nah koh-lee]
• Cheers!Bula!
  [boo-lah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAu vinakata me voli, vinaka
  [ow vee-nah-kah-tah meh vo-lee vee-nah-kah]

• Help!Vuke!
  [voo-keh]
• Go away!Lako yani!
  [lah-koh yah-nee]
• Call the Police!Kacivi na Pulis
  [kah-thee-vee nah poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kacivi e dua na dokita
  [kah-thee-vee eh doo-ah nah doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostAu sa lako sese
  [ow sah lah-koh se-seh]
• I'm illAu sa bibi
  [ow sah bee-bee]

• I'd like to buy...Au vinakata me voli...
  [ow vee-nah-kah-tah meh vo-lee]
• I'm just lookingAu raica ga
  [ow rye-thah ngah]
• How much is it?E vica?
  [eh vee-thah]
• That's too expensiveE rawa sara
  [eh rah-wah sah-rah]
• Can you lower the price?Vosoti kina na i voli?
  [voh-so-thee kee-nah nah ee vo-lee]

• What time is it?Ei na gauna?
  [ay nah gah-oo-nah]
• It's one o'clockE dua na ga
  [eh doo-ah nah ngah]
• Half past (10)Sa koto (10)
  [sah koh-toh (ten)]
• MorningYabaki
  [yah-bah-kee]
• AfternoonMataka
  [mah-tah-kah]
• EveningYalovata
  [yah-loh-vah-tah]
• YesterdayNakua
  [nah-koo-ah]
• TodayNimataka
  [nee-mah-tah-kah]
• TomorrowNikasalevu
  [nee-kah-sah-leh-voo]
• 1Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
• 4Va
  [vah]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Ono
  [oh-noh]
• 7Vitu
  [vee-too]
• 8Walu
  [wah-loo]
• 9Siva
  [see-vah]
• 10Tini
  [tee-nee]

• Where's a/the...?Sa yali...
  [sah yah-lee]
• What's the address?Ei na vakatakilai?
  [ay nah vah-kah-tah-kee-lah-ee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Vosoti koya...
  [voh-so-thee koh-yah]
• When's the next (bus)?Ei na gauna ni mataka...
  [ay nah gah-oo-nah nee mah-tah-kah]
• A ticket (to ....)E dua na tiketi (ki ...)
  [eh doo-ah nah tee-keh-tee kee]

Savusavu, located on the southern coast of Vanua Levu, is known as Fiji's 'Hidden Paradise.' The area was traditionally inhabited by the indigenous Fijian tribes, who relied on fishing and farming. Its natural harbor made it a strategic location for trade and settlement long before European contact.

The first known European to explore the waters around Savusavu was Dutch navigator Abel Tasman in the 17th century. However, it wasn't until Captain William Bligh's expedition in the late 18th century that the area started appearing on European maps. Bligh's journeys highlighted the rich natural resources and strategic importance of Savusavu.

In the 19th century, Savusavu became a significant center for the production of copra and coconut oil. European settlers and local Fijians established extensive coconut plantations. The town's economy thrived as it became a hub for exporting these products to Europe and America.

Fiji became a British colony in 1874, impacting Savusavu's development. The British introduced new agricultural practices, infrastructure, and governance systems. The colonial period saw the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other public facilities, which laid the foundation for modern Savusavu.

In the mid-20th century, Savusavu gained fame for its pearl industry. Japanese pearl farmers introduced techniques of cultivating black pearls in the pristine waters of Savusavu Bay. Today, the region is renowned for producing some of the finest black pearls in the world.

Savusavu is a vibrant melting pot of cultures. Indigenous Fijian traditions blend seamlessly with the influences of European settlers, Indian laborers, and other Pacific Islanders. This cultural diversity is reflected in the town's festivals, cuisine, and daily life.

Savusavu is famous for its natural thermal hot springs. These geothermal wonders have been used for centuries by the local population for cooking, bathing, and medicinal purposes. The hot springs are a popular attraction for visitors seeking relaxation and a touch of local tradition.

Today, Savusavu is a bustling town known for its picturesque beauty, friendly locals, and vibrant cultural scene. It attracts tourists from around the world who come to experience its natural wonders, historical sites, and unique blend of cultures. The town continues to grow while preserving its rich heritage and natural charm.

Savusavu is located on the island of Vanua Levu in Fiji. The most convenient way to get to Savusavu is by flying into Savusavu Airport (SVU) from Nadi International Airport (NAN) or Nausori International Airport (SUV) in Suva. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Suva to Savusavu, which offers a scenic journey through the Fijian waters, though it takes longer than flying.

Savusavu is a small town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Some resorts offer shuttle services for their guests. Renting a car or scooter is another option, providing flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Public buses also operate in and around Savusavu, connecting it to nearby villages and towns.

The official currency of Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Savusavu. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Savusavu, but it's a good idea to withdraw enough cash before heading to more remote areas.

Savusavu is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Savusavu does not have high-crime areas specifically targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There is a police station and medical facilities available in Savusavu. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and ask for permission before entering any village or private property. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Bula', the Fijian word for 'hello'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Savusavu like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Fijian goods. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the hot springs, a natural geothermal phenomenon unique to the area. For a unique experience, consider taking a tour of a pearl farm, a significant part of Savusavu's local economy.