They have a deal with Fiji Government, which is why they have been there for so many years now. They get 50% of their expenses reimbursed as credit. The crew love it as they have a hotel just an island away when they are not on duty. Better location all around.
Jeff has discussed this on interviews and we chatted to our Fiji hosts about it while we were there this fall. They both view it as a win-win situation.
Besides Hypothermia is way too deadly.
Thanks...those tax credits sure come in handy, even in USA locations for filmmakers. So I get it...more Fiji, and hey, wouldn't it be fun to have a TUGger reunion in Fiji? I guess they have timeshares right? Albeit expensive airfares to get there! Thanks for posting your "intel" on this topic...happy holidays!