The much publicised political coup of December 2006 in Fiji caused a sudden dip in the number of holidaymakers coming to Fiji, with many unnecessary cancellations that caused the Fiji tourism industry a bit of a headache to say the least.

Had you taken a trip to Fiji Islands during and since that time you'd hardly notice anything anything different, however. Most 'happenings' were in the capital of Suva, rather than the main tourist areas of Fiji, and even there it was mostly business as usual. Though it would like to welcome more visitors, Suva represents just a small part of the annual tourist trade in Fiji, with the main tourism areas not found in the capital but in other parts of the nation.

Fiji has been operating in the same familiar friendly and welcoming way that they have done for many, many years. Those travellers who did decide to come and who have booked since are the lucky ones - no crowds, personalised attention, and the same tropical sunshine, sandy beaches, and - as the saying goes quite rightly - some of the friendliest people on earth. It's a pity that the political events and overseas media publicity have caused them some hardship.

To twist a well-known Australian phrase but in more modest, and emininently smiling and friendly Fiji style .. "We're here, where the "Paradise" are you" :-)

Notwithstanding the human need for caution when travelling anywhere overseas, travellers over the past few months have been as safe and well-treated as they ever could wish to be. The news of the coup seems to have had the same effect on travellers as if it had been announced that Fiji had returned to cannibalism! Have no fear, for Fijians remain the friendliest on earth in spite of so many losing their jobs or going on short shifts due to the downturn in tourism.

There are some great deals at the moment for Australians who would like to visit Fiji - as the current tourist population have found out already - so check out your local travel agent or maybe contact some destinations direct.