The official languages are Fijian and Hindustani, but English is widely used and understood.
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The Fijian dollar (FJD) is the unit of currency, with 100 cents to a dollar. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, shops, rental car agencies and travel agents. Not all ATMs accept the full range of international credit cards, but travelers checks and cash can be exchanged in banks and currency exchange bureaux throughout the islands.
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The international country dialing code for Fiji is +679. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the US). There are no area codes. Most hotels have direct dialling facilities. Vodaphone Fiji Ltd has active GSM roaming agreements with most international networks. There are afew Internet cafes, but connection times are very slow.
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Tipping is not encouraged in Fiji but small tips are appreciated for good service. Some resorts operate a staff Christmas fund where tips are shared, instead of tipping staff daily.
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Fiji does exhibit some socio-political tension and visitors need to be vigilant and avoid political rallies and public demonstrations. The uncertain political situation, poor economic climate and unemployment mean the crime rate is high and it is unwise to carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive clothes or jewelry.
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There is a risk of waterborne diseases such as Leptospirosis, diarrhea, dysentery and typhoid. Drink only bottled water, take care not to swim with open cuts or to walk barefoot near open waterways used by farm animals. No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Fiji, but a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers entering Fiji within 10 days of having stayed overnight or longer in infected areas. The mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever, is a serious risk between November and April. Preventive measures include wearing long clothes and using insect repellent at all times. Medical facilities are adequate for uncomplicated treatment, but travel insurance with provision for medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand is advised. There has been an increase in diarrheal illness in the Suva area; visitors are advised to take care with food anddrink.
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Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. Plugs have three oblique flat pins.
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