Fiji

The Sociological and Cultural Impact of Tourism on Fiji

University of South Carolina
HRTM
December 1, 2010











Abstract
Tourism is the field that provides services to those individuals traveling, whether it be for business, leisure, or recreational purposes. The tourism industry is a huge industry bringing in millions in revenue every year. Whenlooking at the tourism industry as a whole it is important to look at the way it effects a country. For some countries tourism is what drives their economic success; it shapes the way of life of the people, and influences the government. A prime example of a country dependent on tourism is the Republic of the Fiji islands, or just simply Fiji. Tourism brings people to the otherwise small island, itprovides them with resorts, entertainment, and anything else they may desire. With Fiji becoming an attraction for many outsiders the government as well as the residents of the islands are forced to cater to the needs of these outsiders. The government has specific organizations all created to bring in, market, and promote tourism. The money made from the tourism industry is what drives Fiji'seconomy. So in a sense the tourism industry effects every aspect of life in Fiji from finances to day-to-day activities.









When is comes to the cultural and sociological economies of countries, they are dictated by a variety of industries. One of the most prominent industries that influences such economies is tourism. Tourism is a multimillion dollar industry that can make or breakan economy for a set area. When looking closely at the field it is easy to see the importance and the effects it has on ones economy. A prime example of how the field of tourism greatly influences the cultural and sociological economy of a country is in Fiji.
Fiji is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean in close proximity to New Zealand. The islands are independently owned now andofficially known as the Republic of the Fiji Islands. However this was not always the case, in fact Fiji was a British colony up until October 10, 1970. The islands themselves were formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago; there was around three hundred and thirty two islands formed. There are two major islands that account for the majority of the population of Fiji; The two main islandsare Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. While many believe the islands of Fiji to be very small and have a miniscule population, in reality there are almost 850,000 residents. Fiji boasts an impressive GDP of around $3.85 billion, even more impressive taking into account that the total size of Fiji if 7,056 square miles (National Geographic). While Fiji may be small in comparison with other countries itdoes not struggle to compete.
The tourism industry is one of the major contributors to Fiji's economy greatly in part to Fiji's attractiveness as a vacation destination. Fiji is unique and rich in resources. The warm climate is not only attractive to outsiders but also allows for a longer tourism season, being that their climate is not temperamental. The weather tends to be warm with aconstant cool tropical breeze, those that visit Fiji describe it as nothing short of paradise. With a desirable climate greatly enhancing the appeal of Fiji, its scenic beaches and rich resources only help to further reinforce why people are so drawn to this exclusive island. Fiji is set apart from other vacation hot spots by its individual assets and abundant natural resources. While many view Fijias just a tropical beach setting in actuality it is so much more. Fiji possesses not only rich beaches but also sprawling mountain ranges and rich tropical forests. Fiji truly has something for all to enjoy. Geography aside, the ever popular indigenous culture and rituals also attract guests to the Islands of Fiji. Spawning from their past ownership of various countries Fiji has a culture...