Fiji... paradise found

The island nation of Fiji is a stunning archipelago of 333 islands scattered across the south pacific like green jewels in a crystal blue sea. Fiji's islands are made up of volcanic mountains covered with tropical jungle, pearly white palm-fringed beaches and soft coral waters making it an ideal setting for all kinds of holidays, form the purely relaxing to activity-filled discovery. Pure waters spring from an artesian aquifer in Fiji's rainforests where stunning waterfalls and refreshing volcanic pools offer an ideal place to take a dip off the beaten track. Lying on the 180 meridian, 12 hours ahead of GMT means Fijians are the first in the world to see the dawn of each day - as a visitor to Fiji, you'll delight at the prospect of another day in this beautiful island paradise.

Fiji sits at the crossroads between Polynesia, Indonesia and Melanesia a fact reflected in its strong, active chief culture, indigenous traditions but also Indian, European and Chinese influences. This unique and diverse make-up is celebrated through food, costume, dance and song, the island's sports tradition and crafts. Fijians are known as the friendliest people on earth, so when you arrive in Fiji, enrich your experience by visiting with a village Chief and taking part in a Kava ceremony.

By learning the island's customs you will gain insight into its vibrant and colourful cultural heritage - watch a traditional meke dance, take part in a communal lovo feast with delicious meats and fish cooked in earth ovens and don't forget to say "Bula!" and you'll receive the warmest smiles. Fiji Islanders were once fierce tribesmen but today are passionate sportsmen, rugby being the national sport. The Fiji National Rugby team are one of the strongest in the world and local or national matches are always an occasion of great celebration and revelry. Coach a local rugby team whilst you are here, a great way to meet the locals, learn the lingo and strike up new friendships. You'll soon be performing the cibi pre-match war dance like a local and sitting down for huge festive meal after a victory.

The island's beauty is intoxicating and sensuous, so give in to indulgence and feast on sweet tropical fruits, fresh seafood dishes infused with citrus and coconut and tender meats slow-cooked and wrapped in banana leaves. Swim and snorkel amongst the glimmering soft coral reefs, sail or raft across the waves or gaze across the island kingdom from on high after a trek through cool forests to the mountain peaks. You'll be spoilt for choice with the fantastic range of places to stay in Fiji – catering for your every need. Enjoy friendly, affordable backpacker's hostels, personable homestays, quality boutique hotels, luxurious five star resorts or float on the turquoise ocean on an elegant cruise ships. Live out your desert island fantasies as you lie down on the soft, warm sand of your own quiet stretch of beach - you'll not be wanting rescuing!

www.fijime.com and www.responsibletravel.com have come together to bring you a variety of great holidays that help sustain local businesses and workers and bring you closer to the authentic islander experience through learning about Fijian culture, respect and the natural warmth and friendliness of the people. Whether you prefer a "soft" holiday, slipping into slow-paced, tranquil Fijian time and enjoying a total chill-out or are determined to pack in as many adventure experiences as possible on land, in the sea, or up the mountains, we've got a holiday option to suit you which is guaranteed to be a fun and "responsible" choice.

Honeymooners will agree that Fiji offers unrivalled romantic sunsets and locations, you can even pep up a special ceremony with warrior escorts and a Fijian choir! Backpackers will love the carefree, informal atmosphere and variety of cheap local accommodation options, sharing a laugh and a meal with friends before exploring Fijian nightlife and lazy days watching the surf...

Adventurers will enjoy the rich history of the islands, the stories, myths and legends of Fijian folklore and wealth of activities both on land and on water. There's an island for everyone and a holiday for every taste! For a chance to experience the diversity of Fiji's landscape and explore different islands and the many activities available on each, an island-hopping tour makes a great introduction to Fiji and combines relaxing days on the beach, coral dives and guided walks into the forests and mountains. You'll stay in luxurious resorts dedicated to sustainable tourist practices and environment protection and you'll have the chance to paddle around the islands by kayak to discover hidden coves. Swim in lagoons, dive or snorkel amongst the coral. On the Mamanuca Islands you'll observe giant clams which inhabit these waters and are protected by conservationists in the area. There is plenty of opportunity to encounter and mingle with locals at crafts markets, or in more remote villages which are still relatively untouched by development and sit in lush, wild settings. For a much needed break, kick off your shoes, stretch out on the deck and listen to waves lapping against the side of your boat as you glide through azure waters to a glorious beach destination. Cruise aboard the Tui Tai an adventure ship which will take you to the lesser-known corners of the archipelago in absolute comfort and style. Experience all the cultures of Fiji in one trip as you visit Polynesian villages, mountain bike through Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni, kayak inside the magical volcanic craters along the Ringgold atoll and assist at a Micronesian dance and storytelling with villagers on Rabi Island. At night, return on deck for sumptuous dinner with your fellow travellers, watching the moonlight dance across the water. This gorgeous trip will satisfy those with a taste for adventure, allowing you to visit and experience far flung areas of Fiji you'd never see otherwise. Diving in Fiji is a magical experience and our 9-day diving holiday takes you to some of the world's most treasured diving spots. The soft coral capital of the world boasts an amazing 1000 varieties of fish and acquatic species as well as a great variety of diving environments. From the world famous Great White Wall dive in the Rainbow Reef to the Somosomo Strait you can expect to see manta rays, giant turtles and barracudas sailing past the electric, dazzling hues of pink, orange, purple and yellow coral. Don't be surprised if you spot a pilot whale or two as well as the quirkily named clown triggerfish amongst others. The flora and fauna of Fiji is dazzling and the landscape boasts both natural wonders and prosperous plantations.

Taveuni is known as the Garden Island because of the richness of its vegetation and the glorious colours provided by tropical flowers and plants. Orchid lovers will be rewarded with many varieties, as well as mangrove forests, bamboo and mahogany. To best explore the glorious wildlife and natural surroundings, stay in one of our eco-friendly beach front accommodations in Vanua Levu or Malolo LaiLai Island, set in peaceful, private gardens. Volunteer on our marine conservation trip and learn about the fragile reef ecosystems as well as picking up a recognised diving certificate on site. Working alongside scientists and conversationists, you'll mix work with pleasure, helping develop a Marine Protected Area, teaching in local schools and relaxing or playing on Fiji's perfect beaches before a shared dinner of fresh fish.

Fijians are charming and generous people with a colourful spirit to match the beauty of the islands they inhabit. Seek permission to visit the villages and you will be rewarded with a warm, heartfelt welcome and a chance to witness authentic traditional dances and festivities, from fire-walking to communal feasting. Delight in the pure, clean fresh waters of its rivers, waterfalls and lakes and the rainbow colours of its lagoons, coral reefs and beaches. Hike, kayak, dive or raft your way from island to island soaking up an atmosphere of carefree joy and harmony with nature. The Fijians value highly the bonds of communal living and the family unit, so book now and become part of the Fiji-loving family. Bula!

Find your Fiji holiday here

Words by Emma Jamieson