It was a sad sight as tourists from the cruise liner the Pacific Dawn were being harassed by handicraft dealers and hawkers as they walked the streets of the capital earlier this week.

Fijivillage was out and about and we faced difficulties in approaching our visitors as they quickly turned and started walking away thinking we were trying to sell them something.

After informing them that we were not after their money, the tourists opened up and said they were frustrated at being tugged and pulled by street side vendors and people looking to make a quick buck.

Fijivillage also witnessed how one handicraft dealer along the seawall convinced a tourist to pay $30 Australian for a souvenir bracelet which normally costs around $5 Fijian.

Fijivillage also approached the vendor and questioned why they were selling the items at a different price to the visitors, only to be told to leave.

Some of the tourists also told us that the harassment became unbearable and they could not wait to get back on the cruise liner.

Chairman of Destination Suva David Voss said it is a problem which is difficult to bring under control.