Etiquette and Guidelines

Sevusevu

When a new visitor arrives in a Fijian village, a kava ceremony known as a Sevusevu, is performed to officially recognise your visit to the village. This may happen soon after you arrive or in the evening when it is more convenient for other locals within the village to attend.

‘Sevusevu’ is the name given to the actual gift or token that visitors present to the chief. Traditionally, kava is presented either in root or powder form. Kava can be purchased from all marketplaces throughout Fiji. Approximately 0.5Kg (FJ$40~) is an acceptable amount to provide as a gift (or double this for a large group).

Kava Ceremony

During the kava ceremony, the chief will give a speech and your homestay host will present your Sevusevu to the chief (or if it is Yaqona root, it will be given to some villagers first to prepare into a powder to make kava). Your host will say a few ceremonial words on your behalf, then you will be offered a bilo (coconut shell) of kava to drink. After the initial ceremony, you will be invited to sit around the tanoa (kava bowl) and socialise with the villagers.

Kava Ceremony Etiquette

There are some guidelines to consider when participating in a kava ceremony:

• Participants sit in a circle with legs crossed or to the side. Please try to avoid showing the soles of your feet while seated.
• Never walk in front of the kava bowl (tanoa). When walking past seated participants, keep low or stooped and say “chillo chillo” to excuse yourself. If you do find yourself walking in front of the kava bowl, bow down and touch the tanoa gently.
• Before taking the bilo, clap your hands once, say “Bula”, drink in one go, and then clap your hands three times.
• Guests should not be afraid to decline to drink kava. Simply say “Vinaka” and the bilo will be offered to someone else. 

Dress Codes in the Village

Women

• Females must have their shoulders covered (no tight, low cut or sleeveless tops) while in the village.
• Sulus/wraps must be worn during your homestay. These must cover the legs to below the knees.
• Swimming is allowed in the village, however, appropriate swimwear must be worn that covers the chest, shoulders and legs. Rash shirts and shorts are recommended.
• More formal attire should be worn to church and Sevusevu ceremonies. Long skirts/sulus and a blouse or a long dress are suitable for these occasions. T-shirts should not be worn.
• Hats and sunglasses should not be worn in the village.

Men

• Men have a little more leeway in regard to dress. Shorts and t-shirts are acceptable for everyday wear.
• A pocket sulu and a dress shirt/Fijian printed shirt should be worn for church services and Sevusevu ceremonies. 
• Board shorts are acceptable for swimming.
• Hats and sunglasses should not be worn in the village.

Meals

• At meal times, take only small portions of food but feel free to go back for more. Fijians will expect you to eat a lot, however it is considered disrespectful to leave food on your plate. Food is of limited supply, and waste will likely not be tolerated.
• Ensure that you let your host know of any dietary requirements, intolerances, or food preferences that you have. They will ensure that these are catered for.
• Do not feel pressured to eat more than you are comfortable with. You can politely decline offers of more food by saying “Vinaka” (thank you). 
• In some cases, guests may be expected to eat first as a sign of respect. Typically your family will say a short prayer before each meal.
• Cutlery may or may not be used at meal times. Each family possesses different resources. 

Other Guidelines

• Always remove your shoes before entering a house, church or other building.
• In Fijian culture the front and back doors are not generally used. Please use the same door that you have been asked to use by your homestay family. 
• Bathing and cleanliness is an important and customary part of Fijian life. While you are in the village it is expected that you will shower at least twice and preferably three times each day (in the morning, after an activity, and again in the evening). Fijians will consider it disrespectful of you not to bathe while in the village.
• If you would like to take pictures at any time, please make sure to ask permission first.
• Please avoid carrying anything on your shoulders (including towels or backpacks).
• The head is the most respected part of the body in Fijian culture. Avoid touching the head of a Fijian as it is considered extremely offensive.
• Fijians will take the time to learn your name. You will meet a lot of people in the village and some of the names may seem unfamiliar to you. Try to implement a system to remember people’s names (such as writing these down etc).
• Try to use Fijian words when possible. Feel free to ask locals for assistance with pronunciation or in learning new words. Your efforts will be appreciated. 
• Absolutely no alcohol or non-prescription drugs are to be consumed or brought into the village. 
• Keep your voice down while in the village and refrain from shouting or yelling.

It is customary to bring a gift to your homestay family. Please refer to Packing List for suggested gifts.