What do I need to know before moving to Lautoka?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Lautoka, they said...
"Lautoka, is the second largest city in the country and is known as the "Sugar City" due to its local sugar cane production. The official language is English, but Fijian and Hindi are also widely spoken. The local currency is the Fijian dollar, and it's advisable to have some cash on hand as not all places accept credit cards. The cost of living in Lautoka is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but imported goods can be expensive. Healthcare facilities in Lautoka are adequate for routine problems, but serious conditions may require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. The climate in Lautoka is tropical with a warm and wet season from November to April, and a cooler, drier season from May to October. It's important to be prepared for tropical storms and cyclones, which can occur during the wet season. Fijian culture is a mix of indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, Asian and European traditions, and respecting local customs and traditions is important. The dress code is generally conservative, especially in rural areas and during visits to villages or religious sites. Lautoka is generally safe, but like any city, it has areas that are best avoided, especially at night. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, so it's advisable to take basic precautions to protect your belongings. Public transportation is available and affordable, but it may not be as reliable or comfortable as what expats might be used to. Many expats choose to rent or buy a car for convenience. Housing options range from modern apartments in the city to traditional houses in rural areas. It's advisable to secure housing before arriving, and many expats choose to live in expat communities. Internet and mobile phone service are widely available, but the speed and reliability may not be up to Western standards. Finally, while Fiji is a beautiful country with a laid-back lifestyle, it's also a developing country with infrastructure and services that may not be as advanced or reliable as in Western countries. Patience and flexibility are key when dealing with unexpected challenges," remarked another expat in Lautoka, Fiji.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Lautoka?
- What do I need to know before moving to Lautoka?
- How do I find a place to live in Lautoka?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Lautoka?
- What is the average cost of housing in Lautoka?
- How do I meet people in Lautoka?
- What should I pack when moving to Lautoka?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Lautoka?
- Will I be able to find a job in Lautoka?
- What is life like in Lautoka?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Lautoka?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Lautoka?
- What is the social scene like in Lautoka?
- What advice to expats in Lautoka have about housing?
- What are medical services in Lautoka like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Lautoka?
- Is the cost of living in Lautoka high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Lautoka?
- Why do people move to Lautoka?
What do I need to know before moving to Lautoka?
If you live in Lautoka, newcomers to Lautoka would love to hear your answer to this question.