23 Dec 2025
Tags: Fiji, Tourism Fiji, Burnout, Pacific Islands, Happiness, New Year, Vacation, Holidays
Sydney, December 23 2025 - New research from Tourism Fiji, conducted by YouGov, reveals Australians are crawling toward Christmas under the weight of stress, with more than 10.9 million people (50%) reporting they feel more stressed during November and December than at any other time of year. One in four (25%) say their overall well-being is worse than this time last year, highlighting a growing need for a holiday reset.
In response, Tourism Fiji has teamed up with leading neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski to encourage Australians to pause, reconnect, and rediscover happiness through the power of a holiday, identifying that happiness is rooted in simple practices such as slowing down, connecting with nature, and spending time with loved ones. These habits, which Fijians embrace every day, make them some of the happiest people on the planet*. Australians agree; time with family and friends (48%), being in nature (46%), and taking a holiday (44%) are the top ways to ease stress. Key stress triggers over the season include financial pressure (67%), family expectations (57%) and social obligations (48%). Among those who feel more stressed during the silly season than other times of the year, prioritising me-time is the most common way to help them break free from stress (50%).
Fiji offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect and recharge, from pristine rainforests and turquoise waters to a culture deeply rooted in community and gratitude. Fiji's famous “island time” isn't just about slowing down, affirms Dr Lila Landowski, it's about reclaiming control over your own time, something Australians say they're missing during the festive rush, with 32% of Australians (around 7 million people) identifying a tropical island escape as their dream stress-free destination. Immersing in nature, whether in clear, blue waters or lush green spaces, has been shown to reduce anxiety and calm the nervous system, while exposure to sunlight boosts vitamin D, supporting serotonin production and overall mood.
Dr Lila Landowski explains: “Stress isn't just a feeling – over time, it rewires the brain, impacting mood, memory, and decision-making. The good news is that simple lifestyle factors like exercise, social connection, time in nature, and sunlight can increase our resilience to stress. In Fiji, these elements are part of everyday life, which is why Fijians rank among the happiest people in the world. A holiday in Fiji gives Australians the chance to tap into these benefits all at once – from reconnecting with loved ones and immersing in nature to embracing gratitude and slowing down. These experiences don't just make you feel better in the moment – they can help rewire your brain for long-term wellbeing."
For those seeking a thrill, Fiji's world-class surf breaks and adventure experiences release adrenaline and endorphins, creating feelings of excitement and wellbeing. These experiences, combined with cultural rituals like kava ceremonies and communal meals, foster belonging and strengthen social connections - key predictors of long-term wellbeing. Even small gestures, like sharing a smile or saying Bula, create emotional resonance, a phenomenon proven to lift happiness and lower stress biomarkers such as cortisol.
In Fiji, happiness isn't just found; it's contagious, leaving visitors feeling lighter, calmer, and more connected long after they return home. Many Australians are already planning ahead, with 39% mapping out their next trip during the holiday season to help them cope. More than half (54%) agree that taking a holiday early in the year helps them feel refreshed and more productive. Among those who feel more stressed during the busy season than other times of the year, prioritising me-time is the most common way to help them break free from stress and feel happier (50%).
Regional Director of Australia at Tourism Fiji, Sally-Ann Rogers, says
“Australians are telling us they're craving a chance to reset. Fiji is more than a destination - it's a feeling. From the moment you hear 'Bula', you're welcomed into a culture that prioritises joy, connection and slowing down. We look forward to welcoming Australians as they embark on their happiness reset across our islands.”
After taking a holiday, 58% of Australians report improved mood, 49% feel more energised and 46% feel less stressed. For those feeling the heat this December, a trip to Fiji could be the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge.
Discover how Fiji can help you reclaim joy this festive season. Visit Fiji.Travel to unlock the World's Happiest Holiday.
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Media Contact:
For media enquiries, contact tourismfiji@havasred.com or slrobinson@tourismfiji.com.fj
Methodology
This study was conducted online between 24–26 November 2025 among a nationally representative sample of 1,092 Australians aged 18 years and older. The questionnaire was designed by YouGov in collaboration with Havas Red. In this report, 'busy season' refers to the end-of-year period.
