What To Buy In Fiji

1. Tapa cloth painting

Fiji is known for its tapa cloth painting. Tapa cloth is not a woven material but is a product of softened bark through the means of soaking and beating. Locals of Fiji use tapa cloth as a canvas for their artistic paintings. One of the best buys in the country is a tapa cloth painting, which has a style that is a combination of Polynesian and Hawaiian art. Usually, these paintings come with intricate patterns, strokes, animal prints, and color combinations. It’s highly recommendable for travelers who have an eye for unique artworks. You can choose to put them in a frame or post them on your wall. Either way, it’s a great addition to your collection.

2. Kava products

One thing you’ll learn to appreciate when traveling the different places in Fiji is that its culture is evident everywhere. One of the things that plays a vital role in Fiji’s culture and everyday life is kava products, also known as yaqona. Locals make a habit of drinking it, that after some time it became a ceremonial drink in Fiji. However, there are a lot of misconceptions about the product. For one, it doesn’t cause hallucinations or give you visions. It’s not a psychedelic drug but a herbal plant that helps anyone who drinks it to relax. It’s a worthy product to buy for people who have problems with sleeping.

3. Lali drum

Calling all musically inclined people out there! this traditional drum of Fiji might interest you. Lali drums play a crucial role in the ancestral Fijian culture. It’s an idiophonic Fijan instrument made of wood and is a slit-drum type usually common in Polynesia. Back in the days, Lali drums’ purpose is for communication concerning announcing wars, deaths, and births. As time passed, Fijan designed a smaller version of the Lali drum with a primary goal to create music. They call it Lali ni meke, which comes in pairs. It’s an excellent investment, especially for collecting unique instruments.

4. Fiji pearls

We all know that every girl’s best friend is jewelry. So, if you’re someone who has a special girl who’s not with you during your travel, Fiji pearls make for a fabulous gift to give your girl. You can easily buy them at J. Hunter Pearls for an affordable price. Necklaces, rings, bracelets–J. Hunter Pearls has got it covered. You might be wondering what makes Fiji pearls so distinctive. Well, for one, they have this vibrancy and eye-catching effect when worn. It’s a perfect item for everyday use– nothing too fancy, but at the same time, classy.

5. Sulu

Aside from the things mentioned above, the sulu garment is another product of Fiji that shaped its culture for centuries. It’s the traditional clothing of locals. Commonly, sulu is a skirt that both women and men wear no matter the weather and event. Why would you buy a sulu? Well, for one, it’s nice to practice the culture of the place you’re visiting. Secondly, it’s comfortable to wear, especially since the climate in the country can be too warm at times. Lastly, its style and patterns look great, making it easier to add your touch.

6. Bula shirt

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Sold to almost every market place in Fiji, bula shirt is one of the most bought products by both locals and tourists alike. Worn throughout the country, it became casual traditional wear in most pacific countries. Usually, bula shirts are made with printed and floral patterns. It’s available for both men and women. The best thing about these shirts is the smooth fabric used in creating them. It’s ideal to wear, especially during the warmer days in Fiji, to avoid having your clothes stick to you like glue when perspiring. It’s a great find, perfect for when you visit the beach.

7. Fijian pottery

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If there’s one thing Fijians are proud of, it is their pottery. One prominent variation of pottery created in the country is Lapita pottery, which has a distinctive geometric pattern imprinted on clay pots. During the pre-European times, pottery was the basis of Fijian homewares, including baking pots, yaqona bowls, and water containers. Over time, Fijian pottery was able to retain its traditional theme with the use of woven mats and carved paddles to create the designs. If you are interested in buying some works of this classic art form, you can visit Nakabuta- Lapita Pottery Village in Sigatoka for quality pottery.

Say bula to some of the friendliest people in the world

Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to experience unique culture or looking for some place offering cute trinkets and tokens, Fiji is a great choice. Not only can you immerse yourself in Fijian traditions but along the way, you’ll come to love their way of living where pressure and lack of time do not exist in the vocabulary. Don’t forget to check out our list of what to buy in Fiji for great finds.