FROM our turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, tropical rainforest rivers to great food, and reasonable shopping spots, the western side of Fiji offers you a slice of heaven. And whether you’re a local or a tourist, the West has got you covered.
For clothing, there are several excellent shops in Nadi Town that regularly have specials and if you want to have a moment to shop, then the best place to buy crafts are in the market. Other shops like Jack’s Handicrafts sell them as well.
Suva and Lautoka markets are great for buying fresh fruits and vegetables and often you can barter with the locals and get more for your dollar.
Aside from the cheap prices you will also see a bit of Fijian culture, markets are great to look around and get supplies for a trip out to one of the island resorts.
Website www.govisitfiji.com reports shopping in Fiji is very good with plenty of duty-free shops found all over the place. “Nadi, Suva, the Coral Coast, Lautoka and Savusavu have some of the best shopping with loads of boutiques, stores and markets found here,” reported the website.
“All of these areas have many handicraft shops to pick up souvenirs, knickknacks and other curios and ornaments as well. However, a good way to get a great deal is to try and buy Fijian crafts from the local villagers themselves, who sell their wares at a much cheaper rate, just don’t forget to bargain.
“Traditional artifacts such as spears, war clubs, masks and cannibal forks are terrific buys to remember your trip by. Yaqona bowls, Kioa baskets and woven pandanus mats, are also excellent souvenirs. Tapa cloth and soaps made from sandalwood or coconut also make for nice mementos to take back with you. Additionally, Fijian pottery can be a fine buy as well.”
Govisit.com said shopping for clothing in Fiji is top notch with most markets selling a variety of western as well as indigenous wear. “Bula shirts known for their colourful tropical prints are superb to take home with you, as are the many colourful sarongs you can find all over the place.
If you are into Indian jewellery and clothing, you can find plenty of quality saris in Nadi.”
“The main markets in town are the best places to shop, as you can haggle your way to a great deal.
When shopping, do not buy any products derived from endangered species such as turtles and coral and also avoid buying seashells.
They all play a very important part in the ecology of this beautiful tiny South Pacific island nation.”