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The people of Fiji. | Source: Shutterstock
5 Fun Facts about Fiji: From Rugby to the Cannibal Isles
By
Akhona Zungu
Dec 14, 202307:05 A.M.
A breathtaking tropical paradise brimming with intriguing culture and history, Fiji is a beauty to behold. Here are five interesting facts you might not have known about the island nation.
Located north of New Zealand and east of Australia, Fiji is an archipelago comprising well over 300 hundred islands and is home to over 900,000 of some of the friendliest human beings you'll ever meet.
The South Pacific island nation, which gained its independence in the early 1970s, is a beloved holiday destination. Its people have upheld many traditions and have preserved its intriguing history, which this article will briefly outline in these five fun facts about Fiji.
An aerial view of the harbour in Lautoka, Fiji Islands. | Source: Getty Images
1. Fiji is home to the world's first island beach club.
The first island beach club to ever exist on earth is nestled within the Fiji Isles; it is called Malamala Beach Club, and it's not as old as you might think. Malamala Beach Club opened its doors in late 2017 and is one of Fiji's most lavish holiday spots.
2. Fiji was known as the "Cannibal Isles."
Fiji has a well-known history of cannibalism—dating back over 2000 years—which the country has publicly acknowledged and taken accountability for.
By the 1800s, it had been considered a normal part of life; however, it was during this century that the last act of cannibalism was documented.
As for the reasons why it was done, many report that chiefs would eat the flesh of their enemies to gain power, exact revenge, and control, or it was done as the ultimate insult.
3. Rugby is the most popular sport in Fiji.
Although there are plenty of other sports played in Fiji, rugby, particularly the seven aside form of rugby, is considered most beloved among residents.
Britain reportedly introduced rugby to the people of Fiji when the country was still under British rule. It was first played in 1884 and has since become the nation's pride.
A rugby Ball with flag of Fiji. | Source: Getty Images
4. Firewalking originated in Fiji.
The practice of walking on hot stones originated in Fijian legend. As it goes, a Sawau warrior was fishing for eels when he pulled out a spirit creature from a stream.
The creature, fearing death, persuaded the warrior by offering him wealth and prestige, all of which he rejected. Finally, it offered him the magical power of walking over fire, and he accepted.
The gift was passed down to the warrior's descendants in the following centuries; firewalking (walking on hot stones) is still a significant and active practice in Fiji.
A young man firewalking. | Source: Getty Images
5. The best way to say 'I Love You' in Fiji involves a sperm whale's tooth.
A centuries-old practice, gifting one's beloved with a sperm whale's tooth is the ultimate and most respected way of expressing affection in Fiji. It is known as "tabua" and was a valuable exchange item during gift-giving ceremonies in the old days.
Fiji is indeed a multifaceted country with thought-provoking traditions and histories. While it is most definitely a destination worth visiting for relaxation, it is also a place of deep wonder.
