Fiji, The Heart of the South Pacific, Part 1

I recently was given the opportunity to visit Fiji and out of Fiji’s 333 islands, we started our journey up in the Northern islands.

After arriving in Nadi on Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu with Fiji Airways, nonstop from Los Angeles (10 1/2 hrs), we had a short rest at the Sonaisali Resort–a good 4-star resort for both couples and families. We then boarded Pacific Sun Airways (33 lb. luggage limit!) for a 90 minute flight to Taveuni, which is known as the Garden Island of Fiji and is it’s 3rd largest.

MATANGI PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT

We arrived by speedboat to this 240 acre private island which has been family owned for 4 generations and boasts virgin tropical rainforests, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and fringing coral reefs. Our group was taken to Horseshoe Bay which is listed in “1,000 places to see before you die.” We enjoyed a great picnic lunch and then either went snorkeling, kayaking or line fishing. Another excursion would be to the International Date Line where you can stand on one side (to-day) and the other (to-morrow). The property includes beachfront and ocean view bures including 3 tree houses (a long climb up). A very hands on property with the owners usually with various dogs (all black and white) in tow and sometimes ‘Miss Piggy’. You get to feel as one of their extended family members. The ultimate honeymoon or island wedding destination. Adults only – 16 yrs and older. A warm welcoming property…..a little harder to get to……but well worth it.

NAMALE RESORT AND SPA

After a speed boat then vehicle transfer, we boarded an Island Hoppers flight of about 20 minutes to Savusavu and the Namale Resort. A luxury boutique resort that caters to only 44 guests at one time with a staff of 120. Considered Fiji’s #1 all-inclusive resort. Home to the most comprehensive range of activities and is know for its outdoor dining program and award wining spa (90 min. of bliss!). For example, clients can be taken out to the waterfalls and dining can be set up there. I was fortunate to be in a villa with private pool and a separate bure for dining in. A beautiful retreat with everything at your finger tips….just call if you need laundry done, snacks with your champagne, a bula cart for a ride elsewhere on the property, set up a movie in your villa etc. This property is good for honeymooners, couples, families with children 12 and older, and singles. Namale and the InterContinental on Fiji’s main island (and which has a much better beach) have a package for example where you can spend 3 nights at each property. It was hard to leave Namale and all the pampering we had.

KORO SUN AND RAINFOREST SPA

We left Namale briefly to inspect the Koro Sun which is only a short distance away. It is a great 4* property that caters to families (children 12 and under stay free), couples and honeymooners.  Semi-inclusive….3 meals daily. New Edgewater bures are in traditional Fijian style with thatched roofs and a private porch elevated above the water below. Offers a private beach area with ladder that leads directly into the blue lagoon. This property had a warm and welcoming staff who knew your names almost immediately and were featured on the Bachelor or Bachelorette (not sure which). Every guest coming into the property (the 8 of us included) get treated to a 15 min. foot massage. How can you not like this place?!

TOKORIKI ISLAND RESORT

We took a 90 minute flight from Savusavu back to Nadi airport and transferred to Port Denarau to board the Mamanuca Express speedboad to Tokoriki Island Resort (1 hour ride) which is the northernmost of the Mamanuca’s. As with all the properties we were welcomed warmly with song and music….as well as the farewells. This is a boutique resort for couples. No children. 34 beachfront bures with patios, hammocks and outdoor showers. Beautiful chapel on property for weddings. A private island resort (you can picnic on your own private beach) where romance meets affordable luxury and the rich Fijian culture.

Stay tuned for Part 2….

Natalie Tuomi, CTC | VACATION SPECIALIST
Direct 760.479.4328 | Main 760.479.0022
Toll-Free 800.683.1556 | Fax 760.479.1743
1084 N El Camino Real, Suite C | Encinitas, CA 92024

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