10 Fijian Phrases to Teach Your Kids Before Your Fiji Holiday

When you’re planning a family holiday in the Fiji Islands, you’re going to research the best accommodation, attractions in the area, and the best time of year to go. However, learning a few simple Fijian phrases will help your family to get more out of your trip, and is a fun way to engage with local culture. While English is widely spoken in Fiji, using Fijian phrases shows respect and is appreciated by locals and our team here at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.

Fijian, also known as the iTaukei language, is one of the three major languages in Fiji, spoken alongside English and Fijian Hindi. It is the first language of around 350,000 people in Fiji! 

How to Pronounce Fijian Words 

Before you start learning these phrases, it’s helpful to know that the Fijian language has unique pronunciations that differ from Australian, New Zealand or British English. For example, the letter C is pronounced as 'th'. Learning the sounds of Fijian letters will help you pronounce these words authentically and feel confident speaking Fijian.  

Here are some of the most popular and useful phrases to learn with your kids before arriving in Fiji.  

1. Bula

Pronounced ‘buu-laa’, this common Fiji phrase translates to ‘hello' or 'welcome.’ It also means 'life' or 'good health' and is a core greeting reflecting the warmth and hospitality of the Fijian people. A great time to say this is when meeting our friendly team at The Bula Club!  

If you’re not yet familiar with our in-house kids club, it's a highlight of the resort for families staying with us. Complimentary for children under the age of 12, The Bula Club is an opportunity for your kids to make friends during your holiday, while taking part in heaps of fun activities and adventures under the watchful eyes of our buddies and nannies. As they enjoy our kid-friendly facilities, you can take some time off relaxing at our adult-only pool, diving, or enjoying a long, indulgent lunch.

If you decide to head out on our excursion to the traditional Fijian village, the correct way to address the chief is ‘Ni Sa Bula Vinaka Saka.’ 

2. Vacava tiko?

This means ‘how are you?’ in Fijian. Practise saying it out loud as ‘vaka-tha-va tiko’ following on from ‘bula’. 

3. Moce  

Another useful and extremely easy word to say while enjoying your Fiji trip, 'moce' translates to ‘goodbye’, and is pronounced ‘mo-they.’ 

4. Vinaka 

Translating to ‘thank you’ and pronounced ‘vinahka’, this common Fijian word is useful to say when someone has done something for you. This is a fantastic one to practice with our helpful team around the resort, or while on excursions to the village.  

5. Kerekere 

Teaching children good manners - no matter where they are - is always good thing. 'Kerekere' is the Fijian word for 'please' and is used to make polite requests. Pronounced ‘kerry-kerry’, it’s a handy word to know. 

6. Io 

Short but sweet, 'io' translates to ‘yes’ in Fijian and is pronounced as ‘Ee-yo.’ 

7. Sega  

Following on from yes, you guessed it, this means ‘no’ in Fijian. Say it out loud as ‘senga.’ 

8. Kana vinaka  

Translating to ‘the food is very good’ and pronounced ‘kahna vinahka’, your kids will love practicing this phrase after finishing your delicious dinners at the resort. 

9. Ni sa moce 

Pronounced ‘ni sah mothay’, this is the Fijian way to say ‘goodbye' or 'goodnight.’ It's an easy phrase to practice while tucking your little ones in at night, both before your Fiji holiday and here at the resort.  

10. Sota tale 

Said as ‘soh-tah-tah-lay’, this means ‘see you again’ in Fijian. You'll hear this from our team as they wave you farewell, looking forward to having you back for another spectacular stay at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. 

More Helpful Fijian Phrases and Tips 

If you've perfected the 10 Fijian phrases above, here's some extra words that you might hear during your family holiday.

• Sega na leqa means 'no worries' in Fijian and reflects the relaxed attitude in Fiji.
• Yadra is the Fijian way to greet someone in the morning.
• Totoka means beautiful or pretty in Fijian, perfect for describing Fiji’s stunning landscapes.
• Lako mai means 'come here' and is commonly used in social gatherings.
• If you need clarification, 'au sega ni' means 'I don't understand'.
• If you hear someone calling you for a meal or to join in, it's part of everyday Fijian social interactions, Fijians are very friendly!
• If you forget a phrase or need help, ask any of our resort team, we're happy to share the Fijian language with you.  

One of the greatest joys of a Fiji holiday is immersing yourself in colorful Fijian culture. Don’t forget to try out a few basic Fijian words and phrases during your stay. Locals always appreciate the effort, and it’s a great way for kids to learn something new. Fijian culture values hospitality and respect, and making an effort to speak even a few greetings or expressions of gratitude is seen as a gesture of respect by the Fijian people. 

Travel Tips: What to Pack for a Fiji Holiday 

When packing for a trip to Fiji, don’t forget essentials like your visa, passport, camera, chargers, some Fiji currency (FJD), and the correct power adaptor. You'll want to bring swimwear, jandals, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and a maybe even good book (you'll have time to read it while the kids are at Bula Club). Leave your watch at home when travelling to Fiji, as you are on island time now!

For more information on how we can make your 5-star family holiday in Fiji the best yet, click here.