What is the traditional drink in Fiji?

Fiji’s national drink has a long history and kava remains a big part of community celebrations in Fiji today. Kava (Piper methysticum: Latin 'pepper' and Latinized Greek 'intoxicating') is a crop of the Pacific Islands. The name kava is from Tongan and Marquesan, meaning 'bitter'; Also known as yaqona or yagona.,Kava is consumed for its sedating effects. The drink itself is made only from the root of the plant. In Fiji, the roots are sun-dried, ground down to a fine powder, then mixed with cold water to create the drink.

Legend has it that kava was the drink of choice for the kings and queens of many Pacific Island nations. If you visit a local village today, it’s good etiquette to bring a small gift of yaqona root to the chief.