Overcharged Taxi and Transport Services
Meter Manipulation by Taxi Drivers
In Fiji, taxi drivers often tamper with meters or claim they are faulty to charge tourists inflated fares. For example, a standard 10-minute ride from a hotel to a market in Suva might start at 5 FJD but end up billed at 15-20 FJD through deliberate slowing or rerouting. This is prevalent in tourist areas like the Coral Coast, where drivers target arrivals at ferry terminals.
- Insist on seeing the meter activated before starting and note the initial reading
- Use registered taxis from official stands at airports or hotels, and compare fares to the Fiji Taxi Association's recommended rates
- Opt for app-based services like Uber if available in your area, or agree on a flat fare in FJD upfront to avoid disputes
Bogus Tour Package Deals
Scammers posing as legitimate tour operators approach tourists in public spaces like airports or beaches, offering discounted packages for activities such as island-hopping or snorkeling, then disappear after payment. In Fiji, this might involve a 'free Bula welcome drink' lure in Nadi, leading to a 200 FJD charge for a subpar boat trip that never materializes, exploiting the cultural emphasis on hospitality.
- Book through licensed operators via the Fiji Tourism Board's website and verify with a physical office
- Be cautious of unsolicited offers in high-traffic areas and ask for a Tourism Fiji accreditation number
- Pay with a credit card that offers fraud protection rather than cash, and read reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor for specific Fiji operators
Counterfeit Goods and Vendor Pressure
Fake Handicraft and Pearl Sales
Street vendors in Fiji sell counterfeit pearls or traditional handicrafts as authentic, pressuring tourists into quick purchases. For instance, at Suva's Municipal Market, vendors might claim a necklace is made from rare Fijian black pearls worth 100 FJD, but it's actually plastic sold for 50 FJD, using friendly 'Bula spirit' conversations to create urgency.
- Inspect items closely and ask for certificates of authenticity from reputable sellers
- Shop at certified outlets like the Fiji Museum gift shop in Suva and avoid street haggling by setting a personal budget
- Politely decline persistent vendors by saying 'Vinaka' (thank you) and walking away, as this respects local customs without escalating