For expats and digital nomads residing in Viti Levu, immersing yourself in local culture and activities is a fantastic way to integrate into the community and make new connections. Whether you’re looking to enhance your culinary skills, dive into the local language, or unleash your creativity through art, there’s a variety of classes available that cater to English-speaking adults. These classes not only offer a chance to learn something new but also provide a platform to meet like-minded individuals and potentially forge lasting friendships. Below is a curated list of classes that are perfect for those still mastering the local language but eager to engage in enriching experiences.
Fiji Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Fijian Cooking Workshops
Location: Nadi, Viti Levu
At the Fiji Cooking School, you can learn the art of traditional Fijian cuisine. The classes are designed for both beginners and experienced cooks who want to add exotic Fijian dishes to their repertoire. With English-speaking instructors, you’ll be guided through the process of preparing local favorites, using fresh, tropical ingredients that are the hallmark of Fijian gastronomy.
South Pacific Language School
Type of Class(es): Fijian Language for Beginners
Location: Suva, Viti Levu
South Pacific Language School offers beginner-level Fijian language courses tailored for English speakers. These classes are a great way to start communicating with locals and understanding the culture on a deeper level. The friendly, immersive environment makes learning a new language both enjoyable and practical for daily interactions.
Viti Levu Art Studio
Type of Class(es): Painting and Sculpture
Location: Suva, Viti Levu
Unleash your inner artist at the Viti Levu Art Studio. Offering classes in painting and sculpture, the studio provides a creative outlet for expats and nomads. With no prior experience required, these classes are a perfect way to relax, create, and socialize with fellow art enthusiasts.
Fiji Wine Society
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Various locations in Viti Levu
Join the Fiji Wine Society for an educational journey through the world of wines. Their wine tasting and appreciation classes are designed for novices and connoisseurs alike. Learn about different grape varieties, wine regions, and pairing tips while mingling with other wine lovers.
Island Photography Workshops
Type of Class(es): Photography Basics and Advanced Techniques
Location: Various scenic locations in Viti Levu
Island Photography Workshops offer classes for those interested in capturing the beauty of Fiji through the lens. From basic photography skills to advanced techniques, these workshops are held in some of the most picturesque settings on the island, providing not only instruction but also inspiration.
Fiji Writers’ Retreat
Type of Class(es): Creative Writing and Storytelling
Location: Coral Coast, Viti Levu
Whether you’re a budding novelist or a hobbyist looking to hone your writing skills, the Fiji Writers’ Retreat offers a serene environment to explore creative writing and storytelling. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Coral Coast, these classes provide guidance and support to help you craft your narrative voice.
Local Cuisine Tours
Type of Class(es): Culinary Tours and Tastings
Location: Various locations in Viti Levu
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach to learning about Fijian food, Local Cuisine Tours offer guided tours of markets, farms, and local eateries. These tours provide an opportunity to taste a variety of dishes and learn about the ingredients and traditions that make up the Fijian culinary landscape.
Island Pottery Studio
Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramics
Location: Lautoka, Viti Levu
Island Pottery Studio invites you to get your hands dirty and discover the joys of pottery and ceramics. Suitable for all skill levels, these classes teach the fundamentals of working with clay, glazing, and firing, resulting in your own handmade creations to cherish or gift.
Fiji Ocean Arts
Type of Class(es): Marine Painting and Ocean-Inspired Crafts
Location: Pacific Harbour, Viti Levu
At Fiji Ocean Arts, embrace the island’s connection to the sea by participating in marine painting and ocean-inspired crafts. These classes focus on capturing the essence of the ocean and its inhabitants, offering a unique artistic experience for coastal enthusiasts.
Tropical Gardening Club
Type of Class(es): Gardening and Horticulture
Location: Various gardens in Viti Levu
The Tropical Gardening Club is perfect for those with a green thumb or an interest in learning about tropical plants. These classes cover gardening techniques suitable for Fiji’s climate, plant care, and landscape design, allowing you to cultivate a lush garden or simply appreciate the island’s flora.
