SallyKate

As part of our RTW Honeymoon, we have the option of either going to Hawaii or Fiji, they both look lovely - so what are the pros and cons of both, and what would you decide?

We are 26, we like nature, diving, sightseeing, but also want to relax a little, we enjoy quite lively nightlife and will also be on a bit of a budget as we are going for 6 months, so it also needs to be taken into consideration that we will need to eat relatively cheaply.

Please help! xxx

ALF

Fiji and Hawaii are very different places, and you will like one much more than the other, depending on what you like to do.

Hawaii was originally Polynesian, but has become part of the U.S. 'melting pot'. The hotels, restaurants, and night life are going to generally be much more extensive, compared to Fiji. The scenery on many islands is spectacular, not to mention the active volcanoes on the Big Island. Everything is quite expensive, making Hawaii a tough place to live cheaply.

Fiji was originally Melanesian, and it still is, although there is also a large Indian community (which has led to some racial disharmony). The islands are quite beautiful, but not nearly as rugged and mountainous as the Hawaiian Islands. In compensation, there are many more reefs and lagoons, which make for much better-quality diving. With the exception of some upscale resorts, it is generally much easier to find inexpensive accommodations and eat cheaply, comapred to Hawaii. The selection of restaurants and night life is not going to be comparable to Hawaii - if that is the most important thing, then you would be better off there.

For me, Fiji is the clear choice. Hawaii is great, but it generally feels like I'm still in the U.S., while Fiji feels like a truly exotic far-away place. The locals are incredibly friendly, and the best diving I've ever done was on sites between Taveuni and Vanua Levu.

ALF

You should re-post this message on the Australia and Pacific Islands section of this board. I think you will get more of a response there.

Al

bogart

Wow! I can't give you any advice since I have never been to either (first trip planned to Hawaii this May). but I've gotta say...26 and going on a 6-month long holiday! saweeeet!

I will say this...before we started planning this trip, I always thought that I would rather go to Bora Bora, Tahiti or Figi one day (because it's deemed more exotic) than go to Hawaii...after doing research about Hawaii I'm already IN LOVE with it and can't wait to get there!

whatever you choose, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

GoTravel

Fiji is less expensive once you get there but the flight will probably cost you more than Hawaii.

Debi

We've been to both and liked them both - but here would be my advice. You guys are young and will probably have alot more opportunities to go to Hawaii - the trip isn't so painful. Fiji is VERY far away - and since you're already doing a RTW - it's probably just in-between 2 places. I'd go there. It is less expensive once you're there. If another option is French Polynesia - I actually like that better than Fiji (especially Bora Bora or Moorea) - but you'll have plenty of time to get to Hawaii. Where ever you go - it will be wonderful!! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tansy

I lived in Hawaii for four years and went back to Maui for vacation last Nov/Dec. I also spent three weeks in Fiji in 1998 as part of a solo South Pacific trip.
They are VERY different destinations. I usually tell people that if you have two weeks or more, go to Fiji -- you'll pay more for airfare, but more than make up for that with cheaper lodging, food, etc.
Hawaii is very commercialized, especially compared to Fiji. A poll taken in Fiji several years ago showed that 80% of the population does not own a pair of shoes. They have (I think) four television stations total. There are some lovely large resorts, but the "real" Fiji is not found there. If you plan to do Fiji, be sure to get off the main island (Viti Levu) as soon as possible. There are over 300 islands in Fiji. Amazing snorkeling, swimming, beaches, people. But many small islands are quite primitive. My best time was spent on an island with eight other travelers, at a tiny "resort" with one generator (electricity from 8am to 6pm), sleeping in a bure with no electricity, water, just a bed and a mosquito net. We all ate meals together and took a hike to the Fijian village on the island to meet the chief, drink kava, and spend time with the most amazing kids.
It sounds to me like Fiji might fit your needs.

kip

Fiji! The nightlife can be pretty mellow but the people are warm and generous. The snorkling is amazing as is the sense of really being out in the middle of nowhere. Sitting on a small boat, heading out to one of the outer islands with a Fiji Bitter in one's hand is a great experience. I did this trip when I was 26, had a ball. Have been to Hawaii probably 15 times in the interim 15 years and love it but it can't compare to the experiences available in Fiji. I look forward to the day when my kids are old enough to handle the 11 hour flight. You have plenty of years to visit Hawaii which is clean, and predictable and very Amercan. Do Fiji now. Hawaii can wait.

pspercy

Fiji has had political unrest in the last couple of years (attempted coups etc). I've not followed the outcome but suggest checking it out before spending your $$. Good luck.

pspercy

P.S. Not sure of allowable side trips from an RTW trip but consider Cook Isl or perhaps Norfolk Isl if you're into islands. These two are NZ or Australian $$ based and the exchange rate is very, very favorable to USD at present.

Debi

We were in Fiji over Christmas (just 4 months ago.....) and it was nice and peaceful - and the exchange rate there is also quite good for US travelers. We had a split trip of Fiji and New Zealand - and they were very similar in exchange rates.... What ever you do - have fun!!