5 reasons to love FIJI
I sent Editorial Assistant Jessica Ault on an escape
As a first-timer to Fiji, I didn’t quite know what to expect. And what I found was a foodie paradise! Blanketed in tropical warmth – from the joyful people to the incredible climate – next time I’ll be sure to take the kids.
1 The mainland
Situated on the main island Viti Levu, the Outrigger Resort is a five-star tropical paradise about an hour’s drive from Nadi Airport. It sits on 16 hectares of landscaped gardens alongside a picturesque lagoon. Plus, the five restaurants and bars mean there’s something to tempt any palate. Dinner at Ivi Restaurant – awarded Best Visitor Dining Experience 2016 – is a must, with delicacies like lobster cheesecake, coconut prawns, heart of palm salad, deep-sea snapper and shelled mud crabs. And sign up for lagoon-side rum tasting for your pre-dinner tipple!
2 Relaxation time
If you’re travelling with children, definitely make use of Outrigger’s kids’ clubs and book one of their Meimei nannies while you head off on a romantic night out. But be sure to be in your room around 5pm – that’s when the Talai butlers bring around the daily bubbles and canapés. You don’t get that at home! Then there’s the award-winning Bebe Spa. The Myoxy-Caviar Facial made my skin feel years younger. I also found my petite therapist was surprisingly strong as she gave an amazing traditional massage that ironed out all my kinks.
3 Fresh Fiji fare
Outrigger executive chef Shailesh Naidu took us to visit one of the many produce farms in the Sigatoka Valley, which is referred to as the “Salad Bowl” of Fiji. With lush vegetation bearing chillies, eggplants, herbs and fruit, it really does look like a big, beautiful salad! These modest gardens supply produce to the entire island. Sigatoka Produce Markets is also worth a visit. Held on Saturdays, this is the biggest market day in Fiji. The small stalls sell fruit, vegetables, fish, spices and kava. For authentic homemade souvenirs, there’s a wonderful selection of island crafts to choose from.
4 Thrills & spills
If you feel like a break from tasty temptations, a trip on the Sigatoka River Jet is a fun day out and will get your blood pumping. You’ll learn about the history of the valley along the way, but be prepared to get wet when they turn the boat 360 degrees at high speed! We also visited a Fijian village, where we were met with huge smiles, treated to wonderful singing and a chance to dance, then sat down to a traditional Fijian meal prepared by the village women.
5 The Island
About 30km from Viti Levu, Castaway Island Resort has been operating on a pristine private island for 50 years. Luxurious bures (huts) are set just back from the beach or privately tucked away in the lush, tropical grounds. The food here is also amazing. Executive chef Markus Nufer oversees four restaurants and bars, including Sundowner Bar, where you can enjoy fresh fare or woodfired pizzas while looking out at sweeping ocean views. For something really special, the sophisticated fine dining at Restaurant 1808 can’t be missed – it’ll blow your jandals off! Be sure to try the Fijian raw fish salad kokoda for a true taste of local cuisine.