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Dangers and Annoyances in Fiji

In recent years locals have shaken their heads sadly when speaking about the rise in crime and lack of respect among Fijian youth. This may be true by Fijian standards, but compared with that in the rest of the world, crime in Fiji is still minimal. This is also despite the fact that many people live in what Westerners would call 'poverty'.

However, petty theft is on the rise, even on the outer islands, and visitors should be aware of that. If you are in an area where there is a lot of foot traffic, avoid leaving your clothing on the clothes line for long periods of time - it may well be gone when you return. Shoes, particularly expensive hiking boots and the like, are also prime targets for casual thieves; it might be wise not to leave them unattended. Valuables should always be stored in a safe, if one is available. Guest houses are often the target of local thieves and I've heard especially worrying reports of petty theft in Somosomo (Taveuni). Perhaps the best thing one can say is that violent crimes are still rare.

Venomous Creatures

Snake bites are virtually unknown in Fiji. Highly-venomous black and white banded sea snakes, which are often found along Fiji's shores or swimming in lagoons do not bite, unless severely provoked. In the evenings sea snakes will venture on land and I have even observed them come into my room. Despite their disturbing appearance, these creatures are docile and I have seen Fijians pick them up and handle them (though this is rare). For cultural reasons (perhaps through superstition) Fijians will never purposefully kill, much less touch, these serpents.

The bolo, another venomous species, is so rare that even herpetologists cannot find it, and it's not aggressive anyway. Pacific boas are the most common land snakes (on the islands where they haven't been exterminated by mongoose) but are not venomous or aggressive. If you are lucky enough to see a boa (usually in a tree), enjoy the sight.

Certain cone-shell creatures found in Australia and the Pacific can give a dangerous or even fatal sting. There are various fish and other sea creatures which can give dangerous stings, bites or be dangerous if you eat them. Again taking local advice is the best suggestion. Reef walkers might consider asking locals about the presence of stone fish. Also, many sea creatures are endangered and should not be harvested for ecological reasons (doing so is sometimes also against the law).

Dangers in the Sea

As a general rule, inexperienced snorkellers and swimmers should be extremely careful about plunging into areas of the sea with strong currents. There are no warning signs in Fiji for areas with dangerous currents or for hazardous swimming areas; every year novices drown. If you have the least hesitation about swimming or snorkelling, ask about local conditions before you get your feet wet. (See also Diving & Snorkelling later in this chapter.)

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