Fiji offers a great range of accommodation, from inexpensive hostels and eco retreats to first-class resorts catering to families or couples. As with most things in life though, you get what you pay for and if you don’t do your research, you may be disappointed.

Popular accommodation choices include the many family friendly resorts, with kids clubs and activities catering for the whole family. Some of these resorts even occupy entire private islands, offering a true getaway for the whole family.

Key accommodation considerations for Fiji

Family resorts

Fiji is a very popular destination for family holidays and with so many great resorts catering specifically for them, it’s not hard to see why. From resorts on the coast of Viti Levu that are an easy drive from the airport, to island getaways like Plantation or Castaway, there’s something to suit every taste.

It’s common for resorts to have a kids club, which often have different activity schedules each day and groups for multiple ages available. If you want to keep your children occupied and have some time to relax alone, drop them off at the kids club and let them spend the day adventuring with the capable staff. Typically, these clubs are at no extra cost and many resorts offer inclusive packages that provide daily meals too.

Fijian resorts can also offer babysitting and nanny options, where an experienced nanny will come to your room or bure and look after the kids while you enjoy a dinner out, or simply take some time for yourself. It’s important to check with the resort what options are available for children before booking, so you can choose what’s best for your family. You should also clarify inclusions and extra costs, so you don’t end up getting stung by unexpected costs.

Although resorts pride themselves on their friendly and experienced staff, it’s important to still take precautions with your valuables if you’re having another person, even a staff member, spend time in your accommodation. Ensure all high value items are kept in a safe if you’re not there, just as you would if you were leaving the room empty.

Dive resorts

Fiji is home to many great dive locations, including the Somosomo Strait and the Great Astrolabe Reef. For divers, it is a paradise. Plenty of accommodation options cater to diving too, with dive resorts scattered across the Fijian archipelago.

Many dive resorts are a more basic style of accommodation than the larger, luxury resorts. Some dive resorts are more akin to backpacker lodges, but there are also plenty of options available at various levels of luxury. Make sure you check what standard of accommodation is on offer before you book, so you know what you’re getting. It’s common for resorts to offer all-inclusive packages, including food, boat transport, equipment and dive instructors, so you can tailor your holiday to suit your needs.

If you’re heading out on a diving trip, you should dive with a qualified instructor or have a valid open water diving certificate of your own. Stay within your comfort zone and if you’re worried or in doubt about anything, it’s better to play it safe and stay out of the water.

Private island luxury resorts

If it’s pure luxury you’re after, resorts like Likuliku, Laucala, Vomo and Royal Davui are situated on their own private islands and offer complete seclusion and relaxation. As with any premium resorts, these private island retreats come at a cost and don’t always cater to children, so if you’re travelling as a family, be aware of what’s considered acceptable.

The benefit of a private island is the security that comes as a result of geographical location. Burglaries in resorts like this are highly uncommon, but it’s still important to keep your valuables in a safe or leave them at home if they can’t be replaced. Seclusion also makes travellers more vulnerable to becoming stranded in bad weather, so keep an eye on the forecast and pay attention to any warnings.

Do your research

Fiji accommodation and hospitality are usually of a famously high standard, as a result of the busy tourism industry. However, there are a couple of things that can catch people out from time to time. The good news is, all of these things can be avoided by doing your research.

Location is an important factor when it comes to accommodation, especially in Fiji where you can stay on the main island of Viti Levu, or venture out to any one of hundreds of smaller islands. Getting there can be a process though, so make sure you know what’s involved with reaching your destination. Many resorts have boat or car pickups available, but it’s important to arrange these beforehand and check the costs involved. Some more remote islands also have luggage weight restrictions for transport reasons, so check this with your accommodation provider in advance.

There are a wide range of accommodation options available, with different types of packages to suit your needs. Be clear when you book whether your accommodation cost includes meals, transport, activities or any other extras, so you know what you’re getting. Typically, Fiji is a destination where travellers stay in their resorts and relax rather than venturing out to explore – so it’s important to choose the right resort for you!

Security

Burglaries do happen at some resorts, so whenever possible book a room with a safe or secure locker facilities. Leave your valuables in the safe whenever you don’t need them with you. Most accommodation options in Fiji do have safes available, but it’s worth making sure there’s one available when you book. It’s also important to keep all doors and windows locked when you’re not in your room – even if you’re just relaxing by the pool.

If your personal items are stolen from your accommodation, report it to your accommodation provider and to the local police, security or appropriate authority within 24 hours and get a full written report that proves the incident took place. You’ll need this document when it comes to making a claim.

Be picky

When you arrive at your accommodation, ensure you get what you were promised. Carry a copy of your booking with you, as it can help to rectify any discrepancies between what you expect and what you receive.
Although it’s very uncommon, we have received claims from travellers who have discovered bed bugs at their accommodation in Fiji. Along with your usual room check on arrival, it pays to check the mattress for bed bugs before you put your suitcase or any clothing on or near the bed.

It’s not uncommon for them to hide in luggage and return home with you, so don’t put your gear within jumping distance of the bed! If you do find that your room has bed bugs, talk to your accommodation provider about moving to another room.

Unfortunately, if you turn up to your accommodation and decide it just isn’t up to your standards, you won’t be covered for alternative accommodation under your policy. So make sure you read online reviews and ensure it has all the facilities you need before you book.

Checking out

When you leave, make sure you check the bill properly for any unexpected extras. If you have any questions, raise them immediately with your accommodation provider before paying. It’s also a good idea to keep printed copies of any booking forms, vouchers, or inclusive packages you have paid for, so you can rectify any issues related to these.

Last of all, book your travel insurance as soon as you book your accommodation and flights. That way, if something unexpected happens after your start date of insurance which prevents you from travelling, we may be able to refund any unused prepaid costs.

Common claims

False advertising

We see claims from customers who are unpleasantly surprised to find their accommodation doesn’t look quite like it does on the website. Whether it’s not as pretty or spacious as the pictures make it look, or whether the cleanliness levels are somewhat questionable.

Unfortunately, our policy doesn’t cover the failings of the accommodation provider, which is why we always encourage travellers to do plenty of research and read the fine print when making any bookings. Google the name of your accommodation and see what experiences others have had, check out travellers’ personal photos, and ask the accommodation provider questions if you are unsure about anything.

Sticky fingers

We’ve seen claims from people who have had items stolen from beside the pool at the resort while they’re swimming. Even if you think your items are safe while you’re swimming close by, you never know when people might have their eyes on your things. Keep your valuables in your room safe if you don’t need them with you.

Even if you want to take your phone to the pool with you to take photos or videos, be careful not to leave them unattended. Not only can they be stolen, but we also see plenty of claims for phones that have been dropped into pools or splashed by kids jumping into the water nearby.

Accommodation scams

There’s possibly nothing worse than arriving at your accommodation after a long flight and a tiring airport transfer, only to find it doesn’t exist. We’ve heard horror stories about unlucky travellers who have been scammed during the booking process. Read these tips before booking your next hotel to prevent you from falling victim to this type of trick.