Fiji — Shopping
Shopping
Favorite buys are woodcarvings (such as kava bowls), polished coconut shells, woven works (such as mats, coasters, hats, fans and trays), tapa cloth and pearls. Bargaining is not the norm in shops but is expected at handicraft markets. Some shopkeepers will give a discount with large purchases. Duty-free items are available and include electrical goods, pewter, crystal and porcelain.
Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1700, Sat 0800-1300. Many places close for lunch 1300-1400.
Currency
Fijian Dollar (FJD; symbol F$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of F$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of F$1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
Currency Exchange
Exchange facilities are available at the airport, at trading banks, at private exchange offices and at most hotels.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted at a number of establishments. Major international cards are accepted at ATMs, which can be found in Nadi, Suva and Savusavu, and although they are cropping up throughout the rest of the islands, these cannot always be relied upon.
Travelers Checks
Traveller's checks attract a rate slightly higher than cash and are easily changed at banks (for a commission) and private exchange offices (often without commission).
Currency Restrictions
There are no restrictions on the import of local currency and the import or export of foreign currency, provided it is declared upon arrival. The export of local currency is limited to F$500.
Banking Hours
Generally Mon-Thurs 0930-1500, Fri 0930-1600. Foreign Exchange Dealers: Mon-Fri 0830-1700, Sat 0830-1300.
Exchange Rate
| 1.00 GBP = 2.78 FJD |
| 1.00 USD = 1.73 FJD |
| 1.00 EUR = 2.44 FJD |
| Currency conversion rates as of 19 July 2011 |
