Just how rainy is the rainy season?

I am going to be studying at the University of the South Pacific and living in Suva, Fiji from Feb.-July 2008. I am a little concerned about the rainy season and I really want to know how often it can be expected to rain? Also, do people carry umbrellas or wear rain jackets? I am very curious and I want to be prepared for my trip and blend in with those around me. Please give me any advice on this topic that you can. Thanks so much!

Very rainy, especially in Suva. The locals refer to the rain as "Suva sunshine". It doesn't rain constantly though and the sun comes out after the rain. Carry an umbrella which are cheap to buy in the shops. I found it a bit too hot to wear a raincoat, but I'm not a local, so am not used to the heat and humidity.Apart from the weather, Suva is great fun, just keep your wits about you and remember there are a lot of unemployed youths in Suva with attendant street crime. Don't let it spoil your stay there, just be careful.

My wife and me were staying for 10 days on most wonderful Aitutaki Island in 1998 -in february during the rainy season. Believe it or not - we did not see even one sunray lurking through the clouds for one single moment. Overcast for 10 days and raining - though lightly - every single day. I don't recommend travelling to the South Pacific during that time.
Because at the the same time it was warm, we didn't need a coat. T-shirt was fine. Have fun!

You can bring a cheap rain poncho, and a cheap fold-up umbrella, or buy them in Suva. Rains a bit off and on until about the end of April, then tapers off. not as much rain in June/July as in Feb/March, etc.

but it's not that big of a deal, really, just enjoy it. It's a warm rain. Bring an extra T-shirt or island shirt with you if you are traveling around town in the open, in case you get soaked it comes in handy.

As IMACD said, the main thing you'll need to get used to is the humidity (Feb to Apr). Drink a LOT of water. If you don't have a place with AC, make sure it has a big celiing fan. If neither, buy a big pedestal fan, it will be worth it.

Like anywhere else, if you want to blend in, wait and see what the locals do and wear. The advice here is good. Umbrellas are cheap. Rain is warm. Sometimes it is welcome! I lived in Suva for years, and never wore a raincoat. Rainy season is very rainy, but it's still hot. It's beautiful, though. Very lush, thanks to the rainy season. Enjoy it!

My daughter studied at U. of South Pacific 2003, and loved it - it is humid, hot and you will dry out. Live like the locals.