Travel numbers are returning to pre-pandemic levels — especially to many island destinations.
Countries around the world are seeing an increase in tourism numbers. Both bucket list trips and local destinations reported a high number of travelers — many reaching pre-covid levels.
Islands, in particular, have seen strong growth in travel, including the island nation of Fiji.
“We are seeing incredible visitor numbers for Fiji today, especially outside of the US and Canadian markets,” said Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji. “In fact, in December, the arrival in Fiji was 102% of the figures of December 2019 worldwide. The US was 97% of the figures of December 2019 and Canada 135% of December 2019.
Demographic Change
Fiji is seeing a return of travelers from the US and Canadian markets.
“We’re seeing some demographic changes especially for our guests from North America. We’ve always been considered a luxury honeymoon destination in this market, but we’re seeing more families – more is already multi-generational – traveling to Fiji,” said Hill. “Overall, I think a lot of travelers are realizing post covid that they’re not willing to wait for those kinds of bucket-list trips, they want to bring it now.” He added that many of the large group reservations are to celebrate missed milestones such as birthdays and anniversaries that occurred during the pandemic.
How will travel bookings look different post covid
Fiji is known as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World.”
One big change Brent has seen is shorter booking windows becoming the norm. He noted that he saw flights booking travelers from 0-21 days before the actual travel dates. “Americans tend to book more than most travelers to Fiji, but we’ve seen this decrease post-covid,” Brent said. “Our guests are staying longer too. The average night stay is up to 9.7 nights from 5 nights before COVID. Visitor spending has also increased, which is very promising for Fiji as the tourism is 40% of the country’s GDP.
Visitors can partake in Fijian cultural experiences.
Fiji’s traditional busy season is usually June to August, coinciding with the Fijian winter and North American summer holidays. But Brent says that Fiji sees more and more travelers arriving during the shoulder season, which has good weather and offers better prices and availability in hotels. Fiji also saw a huge increase in Americans traveling to Fiji over the Thanksgiving break.
In terms of what travelers need to visit Fiji—they no longer need a negative covid test, but they do need to show proof of vaccination and travel insurance.
Every destination has a misconception about it and Brent explains that Fiji is cheaper than most people think. “Not only do we offer a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, but often many of your resort meals and activities are included in your price as well. Also, Fiji is a non-tipping culture, so that you are not expected to give gratuity wherever you go. Giving is considered generous and never unexpected. Lastly, the US dollar is strong in Fiji. Currently, 1 US dollar is equal to 2 Fijian dollars.”
What Are Some Insider Tips?
Kayaking, SUP, snorkeling and diving are popular activities in Fiji.
Visit during low or shoulder season. January – March is the traditional low season that tends to be wetter, but travelers can also get great prices during this time. This is also a good time for diving. Scuba diving is very popular in Fiji, which is why the island is often considered the Soft Coral Capital of the World. Divers can expect vibrant, healthy corals and a thriving marine life. This country is also home to some of the highest barrier reefs in the world, such as the Great Sea Reef and Great Astrolabe reef. There are over 150 PADI dive centers in Fiji, so there is plenty of marine life to explore.