The Climate
Although global warming has made the climate more unpredictable than in the past, the prevailing southeast trade winds temper Fiji's warm, humid, tropical climate during most of the year. Average high temperatures range from 83°F (28°C) during the austral winter (June-Sept) to 88°F (31°C) during the summer months (Dec-Mar). Evenings are in the warm and comfortable 70s (21°C-28°C) throughout the year.
The islands receive the most rain during the austral summer, but the amount depends on which side of each island the measurement is taken on. The north and west coasts tend to be drier (and warmer), and the east and south coasts wetter (and somewhat cooler but more humid). Nadi, on the west side of Viti Levu, gets considerably less rain than does Suva, on the southeast side (some 200 in. a year). Consequently, most of Fiji's resorts are on the western side of Viti Levu. Even during the wetter months, however, periods of intense tropical sunshine usually follow the rain showers.
Fiji is in the heart of the South Pacific cyclone belt and receives its share of hurricanes between November and April. Fiji's Meteorological Service is excellent at tracking hurricanes and issuing timely warnings, and the local travel industry is very adept at preparing for them. I've been through a few Fiji cyclones, and I've never let the thought of one keep me from returning every chance I get.
Holidays & Events
Unlike other South Pacific island countries, Fiji has no grand national festivals around which to plan a visit. One exception is the annual South Pacific World Music Festival, which brings noted regional artists to Savusavu in late November or early December. Contact the Fiji Visitors Bureau or the Savusavu Tourism Association (www.fiji-savusavu.com) for details.
More likely to impact your visit is a seemingly interminable list of national holidays -- so many of them, in fact, that the government pared the list a few years ago in a effort to improve the national economy.
At press time, all banks, government offices, and most private businesses are closed for New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Monday, Ratu Sukuna Day (May 30 or the Mon closest thereto), The Prophet Mohammed's Birthday (a Mon in mid-July), Fiji Day (the Mon closest to Oct 10), Deepawali (an Indian festival in late Oct or early Nov), Christmas Day, and December 26 (Boxing Day).
Banks take an additional holiday on the first Monday in August, and some businesses also close for various Hindu and Muslim holy days. And if Fiji wins the annual Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament, don't expect anyone to be at work the next day!
