You often hear words thrown around like Paradise, Unspoiled, and Friendly. I can tell you as of my visit to the Fiji islands in March 2016, all these words are spot on. Fiji island locals are some of the friendliest people on earth , though poor they always have a smile on their face and greet you with a warm”BULA”! It’s no wonder there are so many Fiji Islands for sale the way outsiders are buying them up to grab a piece of paradise. The islands of Fiji are still culturally intact due to the village tradition that is still firmly in place. I would highly recommend visiting Fiji to see old world south pacific charm and grace.
Here are 5 of my favorite Fiji islands resorts
Turtle Island, Fiji
Know as the ultimate honeymoon island and the back drop for Hollywood movies that need the quintessential blue lagoon this private 500 acre island delivers in every way. The truly all inclusive resort panders to only 14 couples at a time that means each couple can have their own private beach and pick a new one daily. Romantic and intimate dinning arrangements are the signature of Turtle Island resort Fiji. Breakfast on the beach, picnics, dinner served on a floating dock in the middle of the blue lagoon and group dinner party’s served threw out the island. after you dine stay tuned for authentic Fijian song and dance performed by the Fijian natives.
Castaway Island Fiji
For 13 years running Castaway island has been listed as Trip Advisors as a top resort destination based on reviews of millions of real travels. The tiny 174 acre property located in the Mamanuca islands Fiji is covered in tropical rain forest with powder white sand beaches and healthy reef perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Accommodations include 67 traditional palm roofed huts also called Burs that are well ventilated and air conditioned. For your dinning pleasure there are 3 restaurants that offer pool side , buffet style, and sit down dinning. The freshest locally grown produce, Sushi, Fijian Asian inspired fare and for kids burgers and wood fired pizza all made up fresh. For a adult beverage and a ultimate sun set view try the Sundowner Bar.
Jean- Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort
With over 50 years of diving threw out the world with his famous Dad Jacques Cousteau , son Jean Michel has created a all inclusive well rounded 5 star resort. If you are up for world class diving or just relaxing and enjoying the spa, pool or a meal from a renowned chief the resort offers convenience and luxury at a affordable price. Located on the island of Vanua Levu and overlooking Savusavu Bay the resort offers 25 luxurious burs , 5 star accommodations all set in classic Fijian scenery. Three dive boats go out daily visiting world class dive locations. spa packages are available for pampering as well as daily excursions. Enjoy a new delicious Asian , South Pacific inspired meal from executive chef Raymond Lee , served on the shores of the bay at the al Fresco restaurant.
Shangri La Fiji, Yanuca Island
Just a short bridge separates Yanuka Island from the main island of Viti Levu home to the international airport making the Shangri La an extremely convenient location. Once across the bridge you go back in time to the old south pacific with lush gardens volcanic rock and warm Fijian hospitality. Expect be greeted by the Fijian word “Bula” meaning everything from” Hello to” Go for it” and always respond back with your own hardy “Bula”. the Shangri La is the largest of the resorts at 1200 rooms but is spread out nicely over the 500 acre island. located on a beautiful bay with calm warm water three beautiful polls (one for adults only) you will find yourself in the water most of the day. water sports rule with Kayaking, snorkeling and even Fly boarding. A great day trip is a visit to a local village complete with a feast cooked in an earth-oven, knife and fire dancing followed by classic Fijian fire walking. After a day of Polynesian emersion I suggest a pre dinner drink at the Bilo bar a Pan Asian dinner at Takali Terrace restaurant followed by live music and dancing at the black Marlin bar. For the kids there is the Little chiefs Club for a variety of activities as well as a children’s pool.
Treasure Island Fiji
When staying at Treasure Island you can expect a warm welcome at the airport by the families that own and work at the resort. One of the most popular resort islands in Fiji the perfectly oval island is ideal for families, couples and, of course, honeymooners. Established in 1972 the four-star resort boasts 68 recently renovated Bures, three-tier swimming pool a kids club and sophisticated bar and restaurant. With a huge menu of water sports you can have fun all day in the water. If you want to unwind, there is a full service health and relaxation Spa. Ideally located just a short boat trip from the main island of Viti Levue Treasure Island is among the breath taking Mamanuca island group.
My View
The Fiji islands are truly a step back in time to the old south Pacific when material things were not as important as family, laughter and good conversation. It’s amazing to see the joy in the locals faces when meeting people for the first time and the real interest they show to you. Yes, the place is stunningly beautiful but the people are the highlight of these islands.
Happy adventuring.
Stephen Kent
Caribbeansbest.org
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