Drink kava, Fiji’s beverage of choice

Kava is the drink of choice in Fiji, from formal celebrations to social gatherings. Kava (yagona) is prepared by grinding pepper root into a fine powder and mixing it with water. It's traditionally served in a coconut shell cup after being scooped from a huge wooden bowl. The drink is slightly bitter, has the appearance of murky water, and has a calming effect that sets in once the lips begin to tingle. Talanoa is the connection that occurs around a tanoa, and it is an important aspect of decision making and communication in Fiji.

When it comes to drinking kava, each Fijian town has its own etiquette and customs, and visitors are swiftly forgiven if they don't follow each indication. When in doubt, adopt Fiji's capital city's customary kava drinking norms. When you are given a cup, clap before receiving it with both hands. If you can, drink the liquid all at once, then hand it back with both hands, clap again, and shout "Bula!" Are you feeling overwhelmed? If you request low tide, your cup will be half filled the next time it comes around. Most lodgings and homestay experiences provide kava ceremonies to guests, but you can also taste it at a café like Mana Coffee in Suva or make it yourself from one of the islands' official (or not-so-official) kava stores.