|
Don’t get so overwhelmed by all the great buys that you spend your money on stuff that won’t be allowed back into Australia. Snakes and live chickens are a definite no-no, and anything made from animal products and plant material must be declared to Quarantine (and may need treatment) when you get home.
SUVA
Pure Fiji
52 Karsanji St
Tel 338 3611
This spot is actually a classy day spa, but every Saturday morning you can purchase its exquisite creams, soaps and scrubs made from coconut oil and other natural extracts.
Suva Curio & Handicraft Centre
Stinson Parade
This craft market has endless stalls and is an interesting place to wander through. It can offer some fantastic buys but be prepared to bargain! Not all artefacts are as genuine as the vendor would like you to believe; if you aren’t an antique expert, only pay what the object is worth to you.
Wai Tui Surf
Queensland Insurance Bldg,
Victoria Pde
Tel 330 0287
If you’re looking for beachwear, daypacks, snorkel gear or surfboards, Wai Tui has lots of name-brand goods to keep you afloat.
Free Shop
1st fl, Garden City,
Raiwai
Tel 359 3201
‘Free’ stands for ‘Fiji Retail Enterprise Engine’ and this shop is supported by the UN Development Program. It sells excellent jewellery, clothing and crafts by local artists. Each item is given a small write-up to provide background information on the piece. Prices are also reasonable.
Bob’s Hook, Line & Sinker
Harbour Centre, Thomson St
Tel 330 1013
Sells good snorkelling, diving and fishing gear, whether you want to use it on the beach or take it home.
Government Handicraft Centre
MacArthur St Tel 331 5869
Although its goods are generally more expensive than elsewhere, this craft shop sells high-quality work by local artisans so it’s a better place to head for a unique piece. Moreover, by you’ll assist rural artisans.
NADI
Jack’s Handicrafts
401-403 Queen’s Rd
Tel 670 0744
Unashamedly aimed at the tourist wallet, this outlet of Jack’s is colossal in size and contents. Crafts, clothing, jewellery and house items are sold at reasonable prices but it’s all fairly mass-produced and you’re unlikely to find anything truly unique here.
Fiji Surf
cnr Main St & Hospital Rd
Tel 670 5960
This little surf shop sells trendy surf wear, boards and equipment. It also repairs and rents boards and give information on surf conditions.
Nad’s Handicrafts
Main St, Nadi
Tel 670 3588
Competing fiercely with Jack’s, Nad’s has the same stock for the same prices and lures shoppers with a ‘Fijian warrior’ at the gates.
Handicraft Market
Koroivulu Ave
You may pick up something more authentic at the handicraft market but check out the prices in the shops beforehand to ensure you really are getting a bargain. Be aware that wooden items are unlikely to have been treated and may need to be treated by Quarantine once you get home.
Next, Shop Smart >
|
