Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 8, 2023

Do you have any Christmas vacation plans for this year? This article will assist you in locating the world’s top places to visit on Christmas if you are unsure of where to celebrate.  We will transport you on a fantastical voyage to some of the most captivating places to visit on Christmas so you can truly feel the spirit of the festival. These places offer a distinctive and remarkable way to enjoy this joyous season, from colorful festivals and customs to snow-covered landscapes. Here are the world’s best places to spend your Christmas vacation. These are the top tropical getaways for Christmas this year for an unforgettable holiday getaway! Places To Visit On Christmas | Top Destinations For A Christmas Vacation Getaway Christmas is the time to bond with your family and loved ones. A Christmas vacation further gives you the opportunity to strengthen your bond with your family, kids, partner, and parents.  So, if you want to spend quality time with your people and travel to the most desired destination, this guide is perfect for you.  Image Source: cloudfront-us-east-2.images.arcpublishing.com Here are the top destinations you cannot miss: Mexico Philippines Australia Jamaica Puerto Rico Thailand Brazil Malaysia Vietnam Cuba Mexico Image Source: saltandwind.com This country welcomes tourists throughout the year. But when they celebrate, which is often, anyone is welcome to join in. The celebration of Christmas begins on December 12 with a festival called Las Posadas. On January 6, the holidays come to an end in honor of Joseph and Mary's trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Christmas Eve, Nochebuena, is a much bigger day than Christmas Day when processions through the streets are held in observance of Las Posadas. On Nochebuena, they celebrate with a formal dinner and fireworks before heading to mass. Mexico offers fantastic tropical beaches where you can sip on a cocktail during the holiday season. You can surround yourself with soft, white sand, the Caribbean Sea, and palm trees. In Mexico, time seems to stop for a split second as you get a very distinct Christmas vibe. And when it comes to pietas, cocktails, and festive food, Mexicans are the best. Philippines Image source: cloudfront-us-east-2.images.arcpublishing.com Christmas is celebrated for three months in the Philippines! They can be proud that their Christmas celebrations are among the longest in the world. All things considered, the Philippines is a beautiful country, but San Fernando, Pampanga, has the most beautiful lantern festival. The colorful lanterns that line the festival's streets were all handmade by the locals. During the parade, music and dancing fill the streets. Another suggestion to become the culinary center of the Philippines is San Fernando. Though it's not your usual Christmas meal, things could be worse. For beach lovers, Boracay is the place to go. It is known for having the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. Travelers staying in Philippine hostels are also very busy during this time as they plan a special celebration among themselves. If you want something a little closer to home, Vigan is a great place to go. Vigan still has cobblestone streets from the Spanish era. Australia Image Source: cf.ltkcdn.net Therefore, you can be certain that you won't have a white Christmas. But one of the highlights of many backpackers' lives is celebrating it in Australia. It qualifies as a bucket list item, in a way. It would be possible to spend Christmas Day snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, followed by an all-day party on Boxing Day, and then take a road trip across Queensland. This year, the Christmas season falls during the summer. Australia follows the holiday traditions of most Western cultures in a way. December 25 is still the day for Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and so forth. But it's not gloomy, dark, or cold. Everyone is having a good time with the holiday spirit and summertime. One enjoys cold beer by the seaside. Barbecues light up all over the country, sometimes along with shrimp. Everywhere you look, there are gatherings in progress. Jamaica Image Source: www.beaches.com The island of Jamaica is located in the Caribbean Sea. This is the first image you should visualize. It offers a lot to families, couples, and solo travelers in the winter months. Whether you are on a holiday or not, Jamaica is always one of the greatest Caribbean destinations. They celebrate Christmas considerably earlier in Jamaica than it is in the majority of other countries. Though music strongly influences Jamaican culture, Christmas carols play as early as October. You could listen to the holiday songs all year long because they are so great. They decorate with lights, decorations, and holiday touches all around! One of the traditional ornaments used in Jamaica is bright red poinsettias. Even the taxis in Jamaica are decorated for the holidays. Puerto Rico Image source: cdn.destguides.co Puerto Rico offers island life and is the perfect all-around destination for a tropical Christmas. Families, lone travelers, and even couples will find it ideal. People usually assemble at the plaza to partake in lively living, music, dancing, and delicious food, and festive drinks. The classic holiday dish is pig roast, which isn't very vegetarian-friendly, but then again, neither is turkey, right? If you choose to spend Christmas in Puerto Rico, don't miss the San Sebastian festival in Old San Juan. Over the four days, a large number of vendors will be selling food and drinks. There are also a lot of artists and musicians. Thailand Image Source: static.vecteezy.com Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist country, so Christmas is not a public holiday. To locate Christmas celebrations, make friends with expats and other travelers. For single vacationers looking for some company, this is ideal. It's easy to find travel companions in Thailand. Traditional Christmas roast options are available at many hotels and restaurants. Better yet, try dining somewhere new and local. Christmas is not a holiday, so things continue as normal. If you choose to spend Christmas vacation in Thailand, you can be sure of fantastic weather. December is Thailand's peak season. It is usually dry and can reach temperatures above thirty degrees Celsius. Brazil Image Source: traveltomorrow.com Brazil is an unforgettable destination for a tropical Christmas getaway. With a big dash of spice and lime, Christmas comes with warm, sunny weather throughout December. Brazil celebrates Christmas as a religious holiday, which is marked by enjoying local food and drinks and quality time with loved ones. Since it is a Catholic country, a lot of people go to the Missa do Galo, or midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Brazil is decked out for the holidays with lights and Christmas trees, and fireworks are lit every night. Brazilian carols abound, nativity scenes are on display, and Santa Claus—known as Papai Noel in Brazil—is occupied with giving the kids presents. Malaysia Image Source: ik.imagekit.io Even though Muslims make up the majority of the population, Malaysia observes Christmas as a public holiday. It is a rather unique interpretation of Christmas and the ideal beach vacation. If you want to get the most out of your tropical Christmas vacation, you should go to Malaysia's stunning white-sand beaches. Take up water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, or simply cool off by jumping into the glistening clear water. Plenty of family-friendly activities and roomy accommodations are available on the island. Have fun island hopping and discover what's going on on the other islands. There is live entertainment and delicious food. Take some time to embark on strenuous jungle treks so you can explore the rainforest and see waterfalls. Vietnam Image Source: static.vinwonders.com Vietnam is a Buddhist country. Thus, Christmas is not a national holiday there. Despite this, Vietnamese people celebrate Christmas with a variety of festivals and gatherings. Nevertheless, Vietnamese people value Christmas Eve celebrations more than Christmas Day celebrations. The massive statues of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in the nativity scenes demonstrate how strongly French culture has impacted Christmas customs. For a taste of vibrant Vietnamese culture, head to Hanoi's Old Quarter, which is brimming with street food vendors, charming coffee shops, and clothing stalls. After placing your order, you can people-watch from the sidewalk. Cuba Image Source: images.myguide-cdn.com Cuba celebrates Christmas in a less festive manner than other nations. Christmas was outlawed in Cuba from 1969 until 1998, so the people there became accustomed to not celebrating it. Their past has been quite challenging. If you are looking for a place to spend your Christmas vacation that isn't overly commercialized, look no further. Christmas trees and decorations may still be found in hotels built with tourists in mind, but you won't see them as much when you are out and about. Have fun on your Caribbean Sea voyage. Havana will undoubtedly be on your itinerary when visiting Cuba. Salsa music and culture are widely accessible. Get a real mojito from the place where it originated. Bruges, Belgium  During Christmas and winter holidays, Bruges in Belgium exudes the quintessential charm of a medieval town. It is also one of the best places to visit on Christmas for dark academia fans, as its cobblestone streets and the cafes serving the best Belgian chocolate coffee have an unmatched allure.  Moreover, when you choose Bruges as one of the best places to visit on Christmas this year, you can follow the Winter Glow light trail. The trail will take you to at least 10 of the city’s iconic historical destinations.  Moreover, if you have the budget, you can find your accommodation at the Grand Hotel Casselbergh near the market. It has the vibe of a 16th-century cellar, and rooms look quaint with exposed wooden beams.  You can even warm yourself up by the fireplace.  Wrapping Up So, where will you be going for your Christmas vacation? When organizing your next trip, don't forget to take into account the top Christmas celebration locations around the globe, as listed above. Take advantage of these incredible worldwide holidays and experience the celebration like never before. By putting together your preferences, you can also have your itinerary customized. Read Also: Zanzibar Is Luring Tourists With A 30Kg Christmas Cake Scarborough Secrets: Your Ultimate Guide To Coastal Charms 5 Top Christmas Gift Ideas For The Guy Who Loves The Outdoors

BY  Nabamita Aug 17, 2022

Meghalaya, or the Abode of Clouds, here you will find that nature has to give. It is one of the best places for its biodiversity richness. Known best for its famous monsoon seasons, Meghalaya has the most dramatic natural terrains with rich cultural festivals. Having such beautiful natural diversities, which are among the best places to visit in Meghalaya. The tribals of Garos, Jaintias, and Khasis make up the majority of the population. Meghalaya: Abode Of Clouds! Located in the northeastern parts of India, with Shilong as its capital. During the British rule of India, it was dubbed the “Scotland of the East.” With a range of beautiful terrains, Meghalaya is surely going to surprise your imagination. With beautiful greenery everywhere, with forests, valleys, waterfalls, and mountains, that are one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. But since Meghalaya is known for its monsoon seasons, what is the best time to visit there? What Is The Best Time To Visit Meghalaya? Since Meghalaya is one of the wettest places in India, with the occasional cloudbursts and landslides, you need to know the best time to visit there. Weather Condition In Meghalaya Oct-Feb = 9c        Apr-Jun = 21c        June-Oct =15c  Peak Season When the temperature is between 16c and 31c, that is the best time to visit Meghalaya. This will probably be from April and June. During this time, Meghalaya has the optimum temperature for you to explore the place. Shoulder Season From the months of November to March receives a moderate amount of tourists, as the weather is cold and misty at the same time. Low Season The lowest season for tourism in Meghalaya is from July to October. During this time, the state receives about moderate to heavy rainfall. Best Places To Visit In Meghalaya Now that you know what the best time to visit Meghalaya is, you need to know what are the top Meghalaya tourist places. 1. Cherrapunji Popularly regarded as the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji has the best lush greenery you will ever see. Here you will find the highest rainfall any time of the year. Tourists from all over the world come here to see the most beautiful waterfalls, like Dain-Thlen,Nohkalikai, and Kyrem. Cherrapunji is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. Specialty - An abundance of natural scenic beauty and environmental attractions. Places To Stay - Polo Orchid Resort Cherrapunjee, Jiva Resort Cherrapunjee and Saimika Resort. Attractions - Krem Mawmluh, Wakaba Falls, Double Decker Living Root Bridge, and also Nohkalikai Waterfalls. How To Reach - From Guwahati, it's 166km, And from Cherrapunji Umroi Airport, it's 79km. 2. Shillong Known as the Scotland of the East, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. Away from the bustling life of the city, Shillong has beautiful forests, hills, and mesmerizing scenic beauty. Shillong is considered the Meghalayan Gateway. Popular landmarks of Shillong are Elephant falls, Maharam, Lady Hydari Park, Bhowal, Mylliem, and Langrim. Specialty - Mesmerizing view, the beauty of nature, and its popular landmarks. Attractions - Elephant falls, Maharam, Lady Hydari Park, Bhowal, Mylliem, and Langrim. Places To Stay - Pinewood Hotel, The Loft-Executive Inn, Hotel Polo Towers Shillong, and Tripura Castle. Location - East Central Meghalaya. Best Time To Visit - From September to May. 3. Mawsynram Out of all the places in Meghalaya, Mawsynram receives the most rainfall each year. This is why here you will find the most greenery and beautiful green hills and valleys. Mawsynram receives about 11,872 mm of rainfall each year. Specialty - The most beautiful waterfalls. Location - The East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya. Best Time To Visit - From April to June. 4. Balpakaram National Park Known as a traveler’s paradise, the Balpakaram National Park is a “Land of Spirits” for its rich natural biodiversity. With its beautiful wildlife with animals like Tiger, Leopard, Deer, Buffalo, Elephant, and Red Panda. Specialty - It is rich in natural biodiversity. Location - Western Meghalaya and Garo Hills. Best Time To Visit - From October to March. Entry Free - Free. 5. Nohkalikai Falls The Nohkalikai Falls is the 4th most noted waterfalls in the World. The height of this fall is about 335 meters from the cliff to the ground. The falls are considered “the pride of the territory of Meghalaya.” Specialty - It is like paradise with an extraordinary scenic view. Entry Fee - INR 10. Timing - From 8 am to 5 pm. 6. Double-decker Living Root Bridge Located in Cherrapunji, the double-decker living root bridge is famous all over, as the bridge is made up of roots. The roots are of rubber trees. The bridge is about 3km long and about 2400ft in height. Specialty - The oldest of natural bridges. Location - Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. Best Time To Visit - Anytime other than from May to September, due to the slippery. Trek Time - It takes about 4 to 6 hours. 7. Kyllang Rock This extraordinary rock is made entirely out of red stone. The rock is 54ooft above sea level and 1000ft in width. The hike up the rock gives a beautiful scene with rhododendrons and shrubs. Specialty - It is on the highest points in all of Meghalaya. Location - West Khasi Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya. Best Time To Visit - Anytime, except the monsoon. Read Also: Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 8. Elephant Falls Meghalaya is known to have the best waterfalls in all of India. And Elephant Falls is definitely one of that beautiful waterfalls. It is called Elephant falls as it has an Elephant-shaped stone at its foot of it. It is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. Specialty - The falls are surrounded by beautiful scenic beauty. Location - It is only 12km from Shillong. Best Time To Visit - During Monsoon. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Now that you know what the best time to visit Meghalaya and the best tourist places is, you won’t have any other problems. But if you do, here are some questions asked by other people. 1. What Is The Popular Place Of Meghalaya? The most popular Meghalaya places to visit are:1. Mawsynram2. Nohakalikai Falls3. Mawlynnong Village4. Umiam Lake5. Seven Sisters Falls6. Living Root Bridges 2. Does Meghalaya Have Snow? Though the state of Meghalaya has a higher elevation, it doesn’t receive any snowfall throughout the year. But due to humidity and low temperature, frost forms which can look like snow but are not. 3. What Is Famous Food Of Meghalaya? The food that is famous in Meghalaya is a spicy preparation of fish or meat and rice. They are great at rearing pigs, goats, cows, ducks, and fowl for their meat. Visit Now! If you are an avid nature lover, then visiting Meghalaya should definitely be on your bucket list. There are some beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya. And if you are a mountain lover, then you need to visit here once. Hopefully, this article encourages you to book your tickets soon for Meghalaya. Let us know in the comments where in India you wanna visit next. Read Also: Exploring The Unexplored: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling? Top 5 Best Tourist Places In Coimbatore – Travel Guide Best Places For River Rafting In India

BY  Sibashree Feb 12, 2026

Suva has the nickname of “The Green Heart of the Pacific,” and there is a reason behind that. It is more than government buildings and rich cultures. It is a rainforest city. Also, the city has Naitasiri and Rew adventure zones in the surrounding. Moreover, with an annual rainfall of 3000 millimeters, it has natural wonders such as the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park and urban places such as the Thurston Gardens and Albert Park. In addition, the city is home to a “Healthy City” initiative. Newer and greener pedestrian paths, parklands, and improved waste management systems of the city are the major parts of this initiative. Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Suva nature guide. The topics discussed here are:  The best natural places to visit in Suva, Fiji  Suva nature guide tips from experts  Things to know to travel like a local  FAQs. Suva Nature Guide: What Are The Best Natural Places To Visit In Suva? Located on a hilly peninsula on the southeast coast of Viti Levu, Suva is incredibly blessed with lush greenery. Also, starting from Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, to the hidden nature spots in Suva, Fiji, there are many places to explore. 1. The Crown Jewel: Colo-I-Suva Forest Park  Do you know how the locals of Suva pronounce Colo-I-Suva Forest Park? They call it tholo-ee-soo-va. This rainforest has an area of 2.5 square kilometers. Also, this lush green forest oasis serves as the primary green lung of the city. The Upper Vs. Lower Pools  The two pools, the upper and lower pools of Suva, are divided by the main road. On each side, you will have a distinct experience. The Upper Pools Nature lovers and hikers love the steep and well-maintained trails of the Upper Pools.  Also, here it is less about the splash of swimmers. The focus is more on the symphony of the forest. The Lower Pools The Lower Pools have swimming holes and a rope swing that has seen decades of use. Daring travelers and local families love this area. Also, these are the ideal places if you want to cool off after a humid trek. Birdwatching Guide In Colo-I-Suva Forest Park  Suva's rainforests are a symphony of endemic species. Keep your binoculars ready for the scarlet robin and pink-billed parrotfinch. You must not miss the dawn chorus as it is the best birdwatching experience you can have in Suva. Safety And Practical Tips For Colo-I-Suva Forest Park  While the park is beautiful, it requires common sense. Security guards are usually stationed at the main pools and trailheads. It is wise to stick to the populated trails and avoid hiking alone late in the afternoon. Slippery paths are a guarantee, and Suva's high rainfall means the clay-heavy soil is perpetually slick. Wear shoes with aggressive tread, not flip-flops.  2. Hidden Waterfalls And Swimming Holes (Within 20 Mins) If you find that Colo-i-Suva is very curated, you can choose a more local or secret experience and know the rugged side of Fiji.  Here are the best waterfalls and swimming holes of Suva. These are just 20 minutes away from the city.  Korolailai Waterfall (Wailoku) The Korolailai Waterfall in Wailoku is a favorite of the locals. Use the Sikh Temple in Wailoku as your landmark, and the trail starts from here.  The trail passes through local farms and secondary forest.  Also, the main fall features a flat rock ledge directly behind the curtain of water. You can sit there and let the weight of the waterfall pound your shoulders. It’s the best free spa treatment in the Central Division. Navakavu Blue Hole Take a short drive toward the Lami side of the bay to reach the Navakavu coastline.  A short drive toward the Lami side of the bay brings you to the Navakavu coastline. This area is a protected tabu (sacred/restricted) site under the local Iqoliqoli (customary fishing grounds). So, you have to check with the village headman or local guides before entering the village.  Moreover, "Blue Hole" is a stunning turquoise indentation in the reef flats, perfect for snorkeling during high tide. 3. Hiking Suva: From Peaks To Reserves Are you looking for some elevation and solitude? Do you have the fitness to explore heights? Hike these peaks and explore these reserves.  • Mount Korobaba Summit Hike It is the best Suva hike experience you can have. Mount Korobaba rises above the Lami harbor, and from the mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Suva peninsula and Laucala Bay.  This trekking trail starts behind the Lami Cement Factory. So, the start is humble, but it is worth the grand view.  However, the hike is strenuous, and a return trip will take at least 2 to 3 hours. Also, here, you have to be very careful about the mud warning.  If it rains, the trail will become muddy and act like a vertical natural slide. Nevertheless, there are ropes in some sections to help you haul yourself up.  • Savura Forest Reserve Savura Forest Reserve is like a hidden gem, and it is a quiet academic zone that you would love to explore. It is a vital area for the water supply of Suva.  Furthermore, because it has fewer tourists, the biodiversity of the place remains almost intact. Overall, the condition is meditative and peaceful.  4. Coastal And Island Nature To cherish the coastal beauty and Island nature of Suva, you must visit the Nukulau Island and My Suva Park & The Seawall. At these places, you will understand the relationship of Suva with its marine landscape. So, leave the mainland and walk the southern edge.  • Nukulau Island The Nukalau Island is small, but it has a long history. It has served as a quarantine station and a prison. However, ironically, today, it is not a dark tourism site anymore.  In fact, it is now a peaceful place for a picnic.  Sandbank, And The History Of Nukulau Island  When there is a low tide, you will notice a massive stretch of sandbank here. The sandbank is ideal for wading.  You will also find here the remnants of many old structures. Thus, you can blend history with a beach day.  Nukulau Island Boat Logistics  The boats in the Nukulau Island leave from the Suva Wharf or the Vatuwaqa area. Charter a long boat and enjoy a breezy ride across the lagoon for 20 minutes.  A longboat is a fiverglass boat with an outboard motor. • My Suva Park And The Seawall You don’t always need a boat to see the coastal beauty of Suva. You can visit My Suva Picnic Park and explore the rehabilitated mangrove walkways.  Here, you will find the most intricate root systems that protect the shoreline from decay.  On the other hand, the Suva Seawall is the social hub of Suva City. Here, you will enjoy the sunset views over the peaks of Joske’s Thumb.  Also, don’t miss the view of Mount Korobaba in the distance.  During the sunset, the sky has the most fiery shade of violet, and looking at that, you can end a day of exploration on a perfect note.  5. Urban Greenery: Thurston Gardens Suva Botanical Gardens, or the Thurston Gardens, is an urban green space. The place got its name in 1976 after Sir John Bates Thurston, the founder of this botanical garden and the fifth governor of the city.  You can see diverse fauna in this botanical garden. It has water lilies, colorful gingers, ferns, and palms. It is also home to a prominent bat colony. In this context, you must know that bats are the only native mammals of Suva.  Currently, the Fiji Museum maintains this urban park, and other historical landmarks in the park are the bandstand and the Clock Tower.  These were built to commemorate the first mayor of the city.  Suva Nature Guide And Tips From Experts  Now, only the locals and taxi drivers know that Mt. Korobaba, "Pacific Cement Limited" factory in Lami, is better than the "Korobaba trailhead."  You can start your hike behind the factory fence. Now, this is what makes all the difference. The local and expert tips always help to enhance your Suva travel itinerary.  Do you want to know more such tips? Follow the details here.  1. Avoid Heavy Rain Days The weather in Suva is either wet or very wet. So, while it’s not practical to wait for a sunny morning and you must embrace the rainforest bath, you cannot trade the day of or after a heavy rainfall.  When it rains, the trails and forest tracks of Suva become natural and dangerous mudslides.  2. Take The Bus To Colo-i-Suva If You Are Traveling On A Budget  You don’t need to take a taxi for $15 if you are traveling to Colo-i-Suva from the city.  As a budget traveler, you can take the Sawani Bus from the main bus station and ask the driver to drop you at the park gate. The ticket price will be just $2.  3. Suva Keeps It Quiet On Sundays  Sundays are great for exploring the natural spots of Suva. These places are less crowded on Sundays.  Quite a surprise compared to the Western standards.  However, there is a catch! Public transport options are very limited on Sundays. So, you must pre-book a taxi for a smooth experience.  4. Follow The Sulu Rule  Suva is very particular about its customs and traditions.  Suppose you are visiting a secluded nature spot and you have to walk through a village, such as Korolailai, to reach that place.  Then, you will have to cover your legs with a sarong as a gesture of respect for the local community.  5. Be Aware Of Leptospirosis The pools and natural swimming places in Suva have tropical water. So, you cannot swim in them if you have open cuts.  Tropical water carries bacteria, and if you swim in the water with open injuries, you may have Leptospirosis.  6. Use Your Skills To Negotiate  You cannot just agree to whatever the boat owner asks you to pay for a ride to Nukulau. You must negotiate the boat fee at the Suva Carrier Stand, which is near the Suva Market.  If you are taking a private fiberglass boat, a return trip will cost you around $80-$100 FJD.  7. Wear Mosquito Repellent  My Suva Park in Suva, or the mangrove areas and rainforest, has mosquitoes. Also, Dengue is a serious concern here.  So, you have to wear mosquito repellent, and you need to spray to get rid of the mosquitoes.  8. Stay Hydrated  The humidity percentage in Suva Rainforest is more than 90%. So, when you are hiking, sweating will be profuse.  If you are hiking for 1 hour or more, you need to carry around 2 liters of water.  Things To Know In Suva, Fiji, If You Want To Travel Like A Local  You have to embrace Suva, Fiji, as it is, if you want to travel like a local. Also, there are some stories, or rather facts, that only locals know. For example, the Dakua trees are native to this place. However, the Mahogany Trees were later introduced to stabilize the soil.  Here is more about the reality checks, about the weather quirks, and the food of Suva if you soak in the true spirit.  1. The Reality Of The Rain Capital  The precipitation of around 3000 millimeters in a year, or a wet tropical climate, makes Suva the rain capital of Fiji.  In Fiji, it rains for more than 200 days a year.  So, if you want to explore Suva, you cannot wait for the Sun to shine bright. You have to embrace the rainforest swimming.  It means that you can get wet while it rains while exploring the rainforest, and do not waste time waiting for the Sun.  2. Picnic Like A Local In Suva, Fiji  If you are on a Suva food tour and want to indulge in the real flavors, you will have to picnic like a local.  Once you are tired after a long swimming session, you must buy a Bhuja or a spicy mix and have it with a long loaf as a snack.  Quirks And Cultural Hidden Gems Of Suva, Fiji Talking about the cultural hidden gems of Suva, Fiji, the first story that comes to my mind is about the Liuliu.  Liulius are the guardians of the waterfalls.  So, when you visit these waterfalls, you must not shout or scream. The guardians can be angry, and they can curse you if you shout and disturb them.  Along with this myth about the Liuliu or guardians, Suva is also known for its Lami vibe. It is at the base of the Mt Korobaba. It is the town that has the perfect fusion of a silent natural retreat and an industrial town.  In addition, the dark past of Nukulau is very intriguing in Suva, Fiji. It was once a quarantine island and later became a prison for coup leaders.  Moreover, this place has a stark contrast between the beautiful sandy beaches and a turbulent past. Thus, it has all the potential of becoming a dark tourism destination.  Do you want to learn more about the culture of this Fijian capital? Read my Suva cultural guide.  Discovering The Real Suva  The primal beauty of Viti Levu, the amber pools of Colo-i-Suva, the mud-slicked trails of Mt. Korobaba, and finding peace in the hidden Korolailai basin!  Also, the Fijian capital asks you to be a little dirty. So, wear your reef shoes, pack your mosquito repellent, and step off the pavement.  Moreover, allow the trees to embrace you and show you the real Suva.  Suva Nature Guide: Frequently Asked Questions And Answers (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Suva nature guide.  1. Is It Safe To Swim In Colo-i-Suva? Yes, you can swim safely in the freshwater pools of the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. The pools here are in an inland rainforest, and they are not connected to the ocean. So, there will be no saltwater hazards.However, like other natural pools, these pools also vary in depth, and the surfaces can be rocky or slippery. So, you have to exercise caution when swimming in the natural pools here.  2. How Long Is The Mt. Korobaba Hike? The Mt. Korobaba hike is around 6 Kilometers or 3.7 miles long. It is a challenging hike, and the elevation gain is around 404 meters. Furthermore, the red clay path is challenging, and the clay route often gets muddy. Also, based on your pace, you will be able to complete the trek in 2 to 3 hours.  3. Are There Crocodiles In Suva’s Rivers?  Unlike many other islands of the Pacific Ocean, the rivers of Suva do not have crocodiles. However, you can spot saltwater crocodiles in Suva, and these crocodiles come from the nearby Solomon Islands or Papua New Guinea. They visit the region due to the strong oceanic currents. However, their sightings are very rare.  4. Do I Need A Guide For The Hikes In Suva? No, it is not mandatory to have a guide if you're hiking in the Colo-I-Suva forest or areas near Suva. However, the trails can be slippery, and the presence of wildlife in Suva is abundant. Also, often the major trails are linked to minor trails, and staying on the right tracks becomes difficult. So, it is better to have a local guide for safety purposes, and they will also guide you about the flora and fauna.  5. How Much Is The Entry Fee For Colo-I-Suva? The entry fee for Colo-I-Suva is around $1 FJD for the local adults and $0.50 FJD for children. However, if you are a foreign visitor, you will have to pay $5 FJD for adults and $1 FJD for children. 6. Can I Camp On Nukulau Island? Yes, you can camp on Nukulau Island, but you need a permit from the Department of Environment in Suva City beforehand. The permit will cost you around $2 for 24 hours. Also, the island has a shade for camping. However, you will have to bring your own tent, food, and water. 7. What Wildlife Will I See In Suva, Fiji? Suva is rich in wildlife. Places such as the Suva Botanical Gardens and Colo-i-Suva Forest Park are ideal for watching the birds, mammals, and amphibians. Birds to see in Suva are the Collared Lory (Kula), masked shining parrots, Fiji Goshawk, and blue-crested Broadbill. You will also find amphibians such as the Pacific Boa, Fiji Tree Frog, and Fiji Banded Iguana. Furthermore, while bats are the only native mammals of Suva, you will also find the Samoan Flying Fox, the Fijian Monkey-faced Bat, and the Mongoose. Moreover, Spinner & Bottlenose Dolphins, Banded Sea Krait, Spinner & Bottlenose Dolphins and Reef Sharks are the prominent marine animals found in Suva, Fiji. 8. Is Korolailai Waterfall Free? Yes, the Korolailai Waterfall is free to visit. However, there is a border of a settlement around the waterfall. You can pay a small donation of around $2-5 as a polite gesture. Also, you will have to pay a taxi fee of FJ$15–FJ$25 to reach the Korolailai Waterfall from Suva City.  9. What Is The Best Time For Birdwatching In Suva? Early morning is the best time of day for birdwatching in Suva. If you start birdwatching between 5 and 5:30 AM, you will find birds such as the Slaty Monarch, Fiji White-eye, and fruit dove. Season-wise, May to October is the best time for birdwatching. Especially, mid-August 10. Where Can I See Mangroves In Suva?  You will find the mangrove trees along the coastal areas of Suva. The easiest zone to access from the city is, of course, the Suva Seawall & Queen Elizabeth Drive. Another easy zone is the Rewa River Delta. It is around 25 km from Suva. It has an extensive stretch of mangroves. You can take a boat ride from Nausori to explore the area. Furthermore, Kalokolevu Village is a local community that proactively conserves the mangroves and is very particular about the restoration efforts. Moreover, the areas near the University of the South Pacific campus have mangroves. Low tide is the best time of the day to explore the mangrove forests. This is the best time for noticing the intricate root systems and the wildlife in the mangrove zone.