People planning a trip to Fiji to help boost the burgeoning backpacker market in the region have the option of buying
online travel insurance.
The Fiji Times Online reports that the backpacker market was worth $3.2 billion (£0.9 billion) through the course of 2008, with growing numbers of so-called 'flashpackers' - backpackers with more money to spend - also bolstering the tourist economy.
Doctor Jeff Javis, head of tourism at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, said that low-budget travelling remains popular during the global downturn and Fiji could look at ways to exploit this even more effectively.
Dr Javis told the paper: "There is not just one type of backpacker but there is a segment of it and they are focused at having an authentic cultural experience."
He added that the country could consider attracting students in Australia, many of whom could be considering buying
worldwide travel insurance and heading to Fiji between semesters.
Many hostels are now appealing to flashpackers by offering much-improved conditions, excellent computer facilities and bedside power points.
Downunder - the market leaders in online
backpacker travel insurance.