Fiji Guide

The most trusted source on Fiji

I will be visiting Fiji for 7 days in February/March following a short business trip to Australia and would really appreciate some tips on where to go/stay. Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands definitely look interesting - I've looked at so many hotel profiles and it's hard to discern which places/islands match what I'm hoping to find. Most likely I'll be traveling solo and it seems like it would be better to be at a slightly larger (but not huge) resort with one or more restaurants and a bar where I can socialize a bit. I do tend to like a bit of nightlife but would prefer not to be at a big party place with lots of young kids (in my mid 40s now...been there done that). A bit about what I'm looking for...a place to relax and rejuvenate under a palm tree or next to an (infinity) pool where I can do some writing and reading, preferably with a view of crystal clear water; also might want to do some kayaking, take a day cruise to other islands, or go for a light scenic hike/stroll through beautiful surrounds. And, it would be great to have access to spa services (massage/facial). As far as accommodations, I typically prefer nicer/luxury hotels (not a backpacker-type girl) though my hotel budget is not huge (up to $250/day - not including food - but if I can spend less on a really nice place that would be awesome). Some of the resorts on Taveuni look really nice though I've read in a few places that the water isn't as crystal clear there. Also, I'd prefer to be next to/on the water vs. a resort that is inland or on a bluff. Any thoughts, ideas would be greatly appreciated. Meanwhile...I'll be happily counting down the days until I arrive in paradise... :-)

Views: 318

Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Hi Lauren,

I'm not crazy about any of the largish resorts for your needs.

For what you want, I would definitely check out the Yasawas rather than the Mamanucas, which tend to be more family settings.   Paradise Taveuni, Lalati (in Beqa) might work for you lifestyle-wise but there wouldn't be a lot of singles, if any.  Check out Octopus in the Yasawas.  That would be my first choice.  Check out the series of blogs that Marilyn is doing right now.  They are a perfect primer for the Yasawas...

As a general rule of thumb, the outer islands tend to be more the younger people (so you have things like Beachcomber island, also known as "the party isle") and some are set up specifically to cater to families or couples.  I agree with the comment about the yasawas, they also tend to be the islands that you most associate with the white sand and palm tree fringed beaches. Some pretty good prices there as well.

I havent visited the Octopus yet, though Ive seen some very nice reviews of it. If you wanted to stay on Viti Levu, Coral Coast, then avoid Outrigger (expensive for what it is, and crawling with kids) and try Rydges Hideaway. That is cheaper, just as nice IMO, with a nice bar and pool, and they have a great in house massage girl! Only issue is that there are no nearby restaurants, so you are limited to using their own restaurant for meals (unless you have a hire car or want to take a taxi somewhere). Restaurant is a bit pricey (like most resorts) but good food, and they do some cheaper things like great pizzas if you dont feel like sitting down to a full dinner.

Ive seen plenty of singles at this resort, so you probably wouldn't feel out of place like you might at some of the outer islands. It is right on the water front. Though like much of the coral coast, if you want to swim/snorkel in the lagoon, then low tide is too shallow. On the plus side though, if you are not a strong swimmer, the shallow lagoon is very safe, and plenty of fish life to see if you snorkel there. 

Reply to Discussion

RSS

Sponsors

Sponsors

© 2012   Created by Admin.

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service