Travel around Suva with Bobby
I chose to go to Suva because it’s the cultural and historical heart of Fiji. Most people think of tropical islands as just beach destinations, but Suva gave me a completely different experience. I had the chance to dive into local life, explore colonial architecture, and feel the warmth of the Fijian people. The vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine also drew me in. I wasn’t just looking for a beach getaway—I wanted to connect with the culture, and Suva was the perfect place for that.
Day 1Feeling the Pulse of the City
The moment I stepped into Suva, the energy of the city instantly pulled me in. To get to my hotel, I hopped on one of the local minibuses—a budget-friendly and insightful way to start the trip. I checked into the Grand Pacific Hotel, a place that carried a sense of history and had the perfect location right in the heart of the city.
On my first day, I headed straight to Suva Market to immerse myself in the local culture. The market was alive with vibrant fruits, vegetables, fresh seafood, and handmade crafts unique to Fiji. I couldn’t resist picking up a few local spices to take home. After wandering through the stalls and chatting with friendly vendors, I made my way to Suva City Hall. This colonial-era building, with its impressive architecture, reminded me of Suva’s deep-rooted history. The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing at the hotel’s bar, sipping on Fiji’s famous Fiji Bitter beer.
If you’re new to Suva, the market is a must-visit. It’s the perfect spot to experience local life and try authentic Fijian ingredients. The City Hall, right in the center, is a great photo stop and a beautiful piece of history.
Day 2Nature’s Call
On my second day, I was craving a bit of nature, so I set out for Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. Located just 20 minutes from the city, it’s a lush paradise filled with exotic bird songs and towering trees. I grabbed a taxi to get there—it was quick and affordable. Hiking through the trails, I discovered small waterfalls and pools scattered throughout the park, offering plenty of peaceful spots to take it all in. While I didn’t take a dip, the cool shade of the forest and sound of rushing water was the perfect escape from the tropical heat.
For lunch, I followed a local recommendation and dined at the Governors Museum Themed Restaurant. The place is full of historical charm, and the Kokoda, a coconut-marinated raw fish dish, was an absolute delight—so fresh and flavorful!
The Kokoda at Governors Museum Themed Restaurant was a delicious introduction to Fijian cuisine, though the portion size was smaller than expected for the price. The restaurant’s atmosphere was a plus, but the overall dining experience wasn’t extraordinary.
Food
After a tiring day in nature, the Grand Pacific Hotel was a welcome retreat. The room was comfortable, though not as luxurious as I had hoped given the hotel’s reputation. Still, the staff’s hospitality made the stay pleasant.
Accomodation
Colo-i-Suva Forest Park was a refreshing escape from the city. The trails were easy to navigate, and the waterfalls were beautiful, though they can get crowded with locals and tourists alike. Overall, it’s a great day trip for nature lovers.
Activity
Colo-i-Suva is ideal for those who love nature. The hiking is easy, and the scenery is breathtaking. As for food, don’t miss the Kokoda—it’s one of the best ways to experience Fiji’s coastal flavors.
Day 3Diving into History
Day three was all about delving into Fiji’s rich history, and Fiji Museum was the perfect place to start. The museum houses an impressive collection that spans from Fiji’s indigenous culture to its colonial past. The ancient Fijian war canoes were especially awe-inspiring, giving me a glimpse into the nation’s storied past. After soaking in the history, I strolled through Thurston Gardens, right next to the museum. This beautiful botanical garden, with its tropical plants and peaceful atmosphere, was the perfect spot to unwind.
By evening, I was ready to experience Suva’s nightlife and headed to Traps Bar. Known for its lively vibe, great music, and tasty cocktails, it was the place to be. The mix of locals and travelers made it easy to strike up conversations and enjoy a fun night out.
The café I tried near the museum offered a quick meal that was simple but nothing memorable. The fish sandwich was fresh, but overall, it felt like a missed opportunity to sample something more exciting or flavorful.
Food
The Grand Pacific Hotel continued to provide a solid stay, though by the third night, I began to notice some wear and tear in the facilities. The view and service were still excellent, but the room could use some modernization.
Accomodation
The Fiji Museum was informative but a bit small, and some of the exhibits felt outdated. Thurston Gardens, while beautiful, didn’t offer as much in terms of activities beyond a relaxing walk. It’s a peaceful stop but not a highlight.
Activity
If you’re a history lover, the Fiji Museum is a treasure trove. Spend a few hours there before relaxing in Thurston Gardens. For nightlife, Traps Bar is a solid choice if you’re looking for a lively night with good company.
Day 4A Relaxing Day by the Sea
On my last day, I decided to take things slow and enjoy some time by the water at Laucala Bay. After a short taxi ride, I found myself on the shoreline, where the vast Pacific Ocean stretched before me. Suva’s beaches aren’t typically for swimming, but the view and the sound of the waves were more than enough for me. I spent hours sitting on the shore, simply soaking in the peaceful vibes and reflecting on my trip.
For my final dinner in Suva, I chose Tiko’s Floating Restaurant, a dining experience that literally floats on the water. The seafood here was as fresh as it gets, and the shrimp dish I had was absolutely delicious. Dining on the water, with the ocean breeze around me, was the perfect way to end the trip.
Tiko’s Floating Restaurant was easily the best dining experience of the trip. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and dining on a floating restaurant was unique. While it was a bit pricey, the overall experience was well worth it.
Food
The final night at the Grand Pacific Hotel was enjoyable, though the overall experience hadn’t significantly changed since my arrival. It remained a reliable, comfortable choice, but I felt the hotel could use some updates.
Accomodation
Laucala Bay was beautiful and serene, though there wasn’t much to do beyond relaxing by the water. It’s a peaceful way to end the trip, but don’t expect a lot of activities or excitement here.
Activity
While Suva isn’t known for its swimmable beaches, the coastline offers stunning views and a tranquil escape. Tiko’s Floating Restaurant is a must-try—eating on the water is an unforgettable experience!
Summary of My Trip
Suva offered much more cultural diversity than I expected. Over the four days I spent there, I realized Fiji is not just about beaches, but has a deep history and rich culture. Staying at the Grand Pacific Hotel made me feel connected to that history, though the hotel could benefit from some modernization. The markets and streets gave me a close-up look at local life, though the food options were a bit limited in variety. Hiking through Colo-i-Suva Forest Park was refreshing, but it did get crowded at times, which slightly detracted from the peaceful experience. The Fiji Museum was interesting, though I hoped for more modern and interactive exhibits. Suva’s nightlife met my expectations, with Traps Bar being a fun spot to unwind. However, the lack of swimmable beaches was a slight disappointment. Overall, Suva is perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for a typical beach vacation. It’s definitely a side of Fiji worth seeing, but it may not meet every traveler’s expectations.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Suva is a unique destination for those looking to explore Fiji’s cultural and historical side. The city offers rich heritage and natural beauty, but it also presents some challenges for travelers seeking more modern amenities and variety. Based on my time in Suva, here’s how I would rate my overall experience across 10 categories.
While the fresh fruits and snacks at the market were a great way to sample local flavors, they were quite simple and lacked the variety you might expect in a city. Still, it was an authentic introduction to Fijian street food.
Food
The Grand Pacific Hotel was charming with its colonial architecture and comfortable rooms. However, being an older building, a few facilities felt slightly dated, though the location and service made up for it.
Accomodation
Suva Market was lively, and City Hall provided a glimpse into the city’s colonial history. But both experiences were fairly brief, and unless you’re deeply interested in markets or architecture, they may not hold your attention for long.
Activity