Love by land & sea
when exploring fiji’s yasawa and mamanuca islands, it’s a journey destined for true romance
Twelve shades of blue. Or is it 20? Maybe 21. As much as you try to focus on the expansive sea views rapidly flooding into sight as your flight lands, one turquoise-tinted hue seems to rise out of another. An archipelago of more than 332 islands, Fiji’s natural beauty stretches across the Pacific Ocean with enchanting vibrancy. Few experiences rival your first encounter with the Fijian landscape and, as you’ll discover when going through customs, the Fijian people. Warm and friendly, locals embrace you with their hospitality. You’ll find yourself chiming ‘Bula’, the Fijian greeting, before long.
Fiji’s a honeymoon fave, thanks to the winning combination of sun, sand, surf and smiles. Adding to its appeal, Nadi, the country’s third-largest city which lies on the main island of Viti Levu, is just a cruisy three-hour flight from Auckland.
If you’re planning on making a pit stop before heading to outer islands, book into The Terraces ( theterraces.com.fj) in Port Denarau, Fiji’s resort hub. The apartmentstyle rooms come complete with a kitchenette so you can make a picnic and head to the pool, or dine on your personal balcony overlooking the 18-hole championship Denarau Golf course. For an even breezier experience, the trendy shops, atmospheric restaurants and buzzy bars of Port Denarau are just a short stroll away.
Land lover
The tranquil Treasure Island (treasureisland-fiji. com) is what dreams are made of – shimmering crystal- clear water, sparkling sand and an enchanting atmosphere make this medium-sized resort one of Fiji’s most dazzling jewels. Only 17 kilometres from Nadi Airport, it’s part of the Mamanuca Island group and is set on a coral and sand-fringed atol. After a 20-minute transfer by boat, it feels natural to slip into island time. The staff greet you with a song and a smile – it’s a hundred per cent clear you’re in good hands.
Relaxation tops the to-do list at Treasure, as indicated by the hammocks swaying from the palm trees and elegant yet laid-back bures located mere steps from the sea. Following damage from Hurricane Evan in 2012, the complex has been rebuilt, with each of the 66 traditionalstyle bures receiving a luxe facelift. New additions – including a larger spa, 1000-square-metre deck and infinity pool that offers 180-degree views over the sea – have given the resort a contemporary feel. Also notable is the minimalistic yet charming onsite chapel. Framed by palm trees and with an intoxicating backdrop of bright sea views, it’s a dreamy place to tie the knot or renew your vows.
Romance is the hallmark of a honeymoon, and there’s a whole lotta love on Treasure Island. It starts with the beachfront honeymoon suite with its private outdoor bath and daybed – casual chic living at its best. Stroll from your private paradise to Senikai Spa for a couple’s treatment, where lying side by side you’ll bliss out to the rhythmic sound of lapping waves.
Make the most of Treasure Island’s surroundings with available snorkel gear. Being a marine sanctuary, the pristine ocean is teeming with sealife, including schools of tuxedo damselfish and parrot fish that beckon you closer with thier brightly hued and hypnotic bold markings. If you’d rather not dip in, paddling alongside giant trevally in a kayak makes for an equally spellbinding encounter. To enjoy wildlife above the surface, take the opportunity to feed turtles at Treasure’s new turtle pond – the first of its kind in Fiji. But if you’re ready for a gravitydefying activity, you can’t go past flyboarding, a twist on waterskiing. You’ll feel your pulse quicken as powerful surges of water propel you through, above, over and under the waves – be warned: the exhilaration is addictive.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, there are a couple of eateries on Treasure Island and the a la carte menus are brimming with local cuisine. The new deli is stocked with light meals, perfect for a picnic lunch to share on the beach, or to take by boat to a sand bar. At sunset, golden light colour-washes the sky to breathtaking effect, making it the optimum time to dine on the deck. But don’t get so caught up in the view you fail to appreciate the world-class cuisine. The spices in the
authentic Fijian curry will set your mouth, and heart, alight. There’s no shortage of drink options either, with a cocktail menu that will take days to work through. After dinner, sit down with some of the locals to experience a traditional kava ceremony. Everyone takes turns drinking from a bowl of the root plant kava mixed with water. While it’s not the most appealing of flavours, the ceremony is a fantastic way to experience a traditional Fijian ritual seasoned with warm waves of laughter.
Sea lover
If you’re wanting to discover an array of Fiji’s gems, take a tour through the Yasawas and Mamanucas by ship from Port Denarau. The team from Captain Cook Cruises (captaincook.com. fj) welcome you aboard the Reef Endeavor with a salusalu (lei), confirming you’re setting sail on something special. A small-sized ship with the capacity for just 120 people, it feels spacious yet intimate. You’ll be supplied with snorkel gear, beach towels, a ship itinerary and a daily menu. Once you drop your gear in your cosy room, it’s time to explore the beguiling three decks.
While day tours are available, the best way to get a good look around the islands is on a three-, four- or seven-night cruise. If you’ve got the time, there’s also an 11-night Lau Cruise. You’ll awaken each morning in awe at the sight of volcanic islands dramatically zig- zagging through the emerald- green ocean, and the bronze light that dances along the sand to form a carpet under the mountainous peaks. Look out for Monuriki, one of the Mamanuca Islands – it’s where Tom Hanks filmed Castaway, and it’s hard not to be impressed by the vastness of such untouched beauty.
And in a place where the natural world is on stage, the Fijian people are the stars. You’ll find the three Waya islands at the southern tip of the Yawawa group. On the largest island you’ll enjoy a children’s performance at one of the local schools. Afterwards, take a gander at the markets to stock up on exotic decorations and shell jewellery as well as sarongs and woven crafts. Join the locals to experience a traditional sevusevu ceremony and lovo feast, which is similar to a hangi. Attending a church service is a must – you will be uplifted by the harmonious, jubilant singing which echoes throughout the village. Just remember when visiting any of the villages: it’s important to be respectful by covering your shoulders and knees and leaving hats aboard the ship.
While you’re on the ship there’s plenty to surprise and delight, including the daily menu. Each dinner consists of a three-course meal, and is accompanied with entertainment and singing – prepare to get your groove on! The bar is open till late; try the cocktail of the day, or embrace the opportunity to experiment – the bartenders will get as creative as you want. When you want to stretch out, book a massage at Senikai Spa. Pampered with the local, organic products used in every treatment, you’ll reach new depths of relaxation.
Kiwis think they know beaches, but the powdery sand and warm sea of the Yasawas take seaside splendour to a whole ‘nother level. Water activities are a highlight of Captain Cook’s three-day cruise – there are at least five stop-offs involving transfers to a smaller boat. Marvel at the wildlife from the glass bottom then wade around the sand bars and swim in serene tepid waters. The captivating colours and incredible variety confirm the Yasawas are the ultimate diver’s playground. There are Padi courses available for those keen on going deep into the blue, otherwise, snorkel to your heart’s content – shallow lagoons invite a playful rendezvous with reef fish and turtles. Alternatively, dive off the boat and make your way to the coastline of the Sacred Islands – it’s home to magnificent neon coral, and it’ll make you believe in other worlds. W