Fiji Transport

Air Fiji (PC) (www.airfiji.com.fj) and Pacific Sun (www.pacificsun.com.fj) operate shuttle services around the islands. The flight time from Nadi to Suva is approximately 30 minutes. Turtle Airways (www.turtleairways.com) operates a seaplane service to numerous resorts in the Mamanuca and Yasawa groups from Nadi.

Discover Fiji: available with Air Fiji (tel: 331 3666 or 5055; www.airfiji.com.fj). Gives four flights within 30 days. The usual routing is Nadi-Taveuni-Savusavu-Suva-Nadi. It is only sold outside of Fiji in conjunction with an international flight ticket. Children over two and under 12 years of age pay 75% of the fare.

Most resorts have their own boat transport, some have catamaran services. Government and local shipping companies operate passenger services linking the outer islands. Yachts and cabin cruisers are available for charter; enquire at the shipping agents, being sure to confirm all arrangements with the captain once the vessel is in port. A number of ferries operate between the major islands, including South Sea Cruises (tel: 675 0500; www.ssc.com.fj), Awesome Adventures (tel: 675 0499; www.awesomefiji.com), Patterson Brothers, and Consort Shipping.

Traffic drives on the left. Main roads are paved. Beware of livestock on the roads as they wander freely during the night, although it is best to avoid driving during the night altogether. When driving past villages, drivers are advised to slow down as locals use the roads as footpaths. The approximate driving time from Nadi to Suva is three hours. The main roads on Viti Levu follow the coast, linking the main centres.

Bus: Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and Taveuni have good and inexpensive bus networks. The buses are open-windowed with tarpaulins at the ready if it rains; buses can be hailed between stops. Speedier options are minibuses between Suva, Nadi and Lautoka. Express air-conditioned buses also operate between Suva, Nadi and Lautoka.

Taxi: Taxis are widely available. Drivers tend to only use their meter in Suva. Elsewhere, check with locals what an acceptable price should be before embarking on a taxi journey.

Car hire: International car hire companies are represented. Car hire can be relatively expensive; 4-wheel drive is recommended for islands other than Viti Levu. Limousines and chauffeurs are also available.

Regulations: The speed limit in built-up areas is 50kph (31mph) and 80kph (50mph) on highways. The minimum age for car hire is 21 or sometimes 25. Front seat passengers must wear seat belts at all times.

Documentation: Valid national or international driving licence required. Third party insurance is included in car hire rates but collision insurance with rather high deductible amounts is extra.