As you will taking on a Study Internship, you have the potential to be much more ‘connected’ to the big wide world than individuals taking on other projects. Being based in Suva, you will not need to prepare for extended periods of time without signal or electricity. This does not necessarily mean you need to be connected the whole time, we always recommend using the project as a time to switch off from the noise of home life, but of course you can stay connected.
General Advice
Mobile Phones..
- There are Vodafone and Digicel masts in Fiji and both providers have strong connection in urban areas.
- 3G is available throughout most of South-Eastern Viti Levu.
- Mobile / cell phone reception is also available in all tourist areas and cities, you shouldn’t find it hard to connect.
Purchasing A Phone or SIM Card in Fiji
You may wish to stay connected using your phone in Fiji, in this case, you can buy simple plans and insert a Fijian SIM card.
- If your phone is ‘unlocked’ (i.e you can insert any network sim card into it) then you should be able to buy a sim card in Fiji, insert it into you phone and you have instant connection.
- A Fijian SIM card can be bought at Nadi International Airport or in any local phone stores in Nadi or Suva.
- Budget approximately £30 if you wish to purchase a Fijian sim card and basic plan.
- Telecards can also be bought on day one of the itinerary to make use of solar powered land line telephones in.
Buying a mobile phone in Fiji
- You may wish to buy a cheap ‘burner’ phone in Fiji. Budget around $30 for this.
- It will come with an accompanying SIM and you can buy a simple pay-as-you-go plan for texts and calls.
Wifi
You can also simply use your mobile or devices to connect to local Wifi hotspots if you wish to avoid paying for data. Your resort and accommodation will provide Wifi.
All the information above is most relevant to your time in tourist areas or Suva. Electricity is readily available and connections is strong.
In the Village
Although you will not be spending an extended period of time in a rural village, you may still need to prepare for the 3 days!
Laptops, Tablets & Electronics
- There is limited electricity within rural communities
- Although, you will be too busy within the community and learning about Fiji to use a computer!
- Remember to be careful also, electronics can easily be damaged within rural communities or travelling in remote areas.
Electricity & Internet
- You can charge up electrical items in the village but often only now and again, using solar chargers or communal generators.
- This is enough to be able to keep a mobile phone charged for occasional calls home.
- Fiji uses a 3 pin plug, similar to Australia, so you may need to bring an adapter.
- Expect to go off-line and have no internet connection whilst you’re in a Fijian village.
Top TP Tip.. Enjoy Going Offline!
- Whilst we provide tips for you to stay connected. Our advice would be, don’t!
- Take this chance to put away your phone and embrace life without internet. Forget about Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram and contact home only once a week or so. You have 24/7 support and an entire team and community surrounding you each and every day.
- Be present and mindful in Fiji and with your interactions in the community. You will settle much quicker, appreciate the experience better, overcome challenges easier, and leave more connected to Fiji.