Exotic Fiji

South Pacific, it doesn’t get much more exotic that this! We flew out on Air New Zealand (I got the use of their new Skycouch, 3 economy seats that convert into a small bed), via LA and Fiji Air onwards. It was a long way to go, a 24 hours flight, but we knew it was worth a wait. Fiji didn’t disappoint! Tour of Nadi followed. The local market was a riot of colours and activity. Fruit, veg, fish, meat, herbs and spices (many of these used by Fijians as medicine) and of course Cava. Cava is the traditional Fijian drink. Made form Cava roots, and drunk everywhere, it is certainly an acquired taste. It looks like muddy water and tastes a bit peppery! Fiji has a big population of Asian citizens, mostly from Indian’s subcontinent. This is one of the reasons why Nadi has the biggest Hindu Temple in South Pacific. We wandered through the highly ornate buildings in awe. After a long day, we were ready for sleep. Next day we headed off to the Denerau Marina to board a Tall sail boat (Captain Cook Cruises) for a day trip to Tivua Island (Robinson Crusoe look) for some snorkelling and beach picnic. After 45 minutes sailing, we were on the finest, powder beach I have ever seen, and that’s no exaggeration! Small enough to walk around in 15 minutes, we had the island to ourselves. Beach loungers and hammocks were scattered around for us to use, and everyone got to use snorkelling equipment to go and explore the waters. We all got a local guide to take us in and show us the most amazing coloured fish all around us. Hundreds of them, quite incredible! BBQ lunch was laid on for everyone and we stayed here till 4pm, enjoying our very own private island (well us and 30 other guests!) Malolo Island was our next stop. It is easily reached on local ferry service (Malolo Cat) in 45 minutes. This Island is home to 3 hotels, Plantation Island, Musket Cove and Lomani, all very different and all with a fantastic beachfront location. We really enjoyed our food at Lomani restaurant that night, under the stars, with few fairy lights scattered through the gardens, making is even more magical. Next day we had a speedboat transfer to Tokoriki Island. On our way we passed Fiji’s only resorts with Overwater Villas, Likuliku, which is also one of the few all inclusive options in Fiji. Tokoriki Island is home to two resorts, Amanauca and Tokoriki Resort. Tokoriki resort is one of the most popular honeymoon options and I could see why. The entire resort is built very cleverly so that you get the views, but also privacy! All too soon we had to leave this lovely paradise island and go back to Viti Levu (main island), to visit Coral Coast. This was Fijian original beach destination. On the south of Viti Levu island and half way between Suva (the capital) and Nadi (the international airport), it was perfectly placed for the early travellers. These days it has a plethora of high end hotels (we stayed at the Warwick) and more basic accommodation (Uprising Beach Resort) ensuring everyone is able to find a suitable place to stay. The Pacific harbour is home to Fijian Arts Village, a must on everyone’s itinerary. We got to board the traditional boat and tour around the heritage island with thatched huts dotted around, re-enactments taking place to show of the richness of the Fijian culture and history. It was a really great way to learn more about this beautiful country. Our last evening was spent feasting on the most delicious sea food, in an even more spectacular setting, - the Warwick hotel flagship Walu seafood restaurant. Next day was our trip home, and although a long one, all of us agreed that we’d do it again if we had a chance, just to re visit this fabulous place!