| Fijian society is traditional, communal, and most likely very different from yours! Most Fijians will be pleased with your interest in their culture and will happily answer your questions. The lifestyle in Fiji is likely to be very different than that in your home country. In general, there is a very relaxed sense of time in Fiji; this is known as Fiji time. Learn to adapt to the Fijian sense of time and enjoy the more personal service you will get in stores. In your daily life, adjust to the slower pace. Walk slowly around town and enjoy the warm sun and atmosphere. Do not expect meetings to begin on time, and do not get upset with your local friends if they are “late” to an appointment. There is a saying here in Fiji “Time just doesn’t stand still in Fiji, it lies down.” This might make your think of relaxing in a hammock under the coconut palms swaying in the breeze. Very few people, if any, talk about being “stressed” in Fiji. (That is not to say that people do not work hard, and some people work long hours too). Talk to an alumni about their experience in Fiji and check out the GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Featured Students for more information.   Provided by the University of the South Pacific |