Sunday Star-Times

Save splurge

- With Stephen Heard

Hideaway Island Resort, Vanuatu

Stunning ocean views are guaranteed at this island resort set on the small coral atoll of Mele

Island, just four minutes by ferry from

Vanuatu’s mainland. The Melanesian-style resort is the custodian of one of Vanuatu’s only marine sanctuarie­s. A few steps from the property, guests can snorkel and scuba around a reef home to thousands of friendly fish, or visit the world’s only underwater post office offshore to post waterproof postcards. The only other thing to do here is unwind with your significan­t other. Accommodat­ion ranges from quad share rooms with shared facilities to the more romantic private one-bedroom villa with its own swimming pool. From $247 a night. See: hideaway.com.vu

Vomo Island, Fiji

Vomo Island Fiji is an all-inclusive resort offering a secluded escape for travellers.

Located on a privately owned 87-hectare island among Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands – a

30-minute speedboat transfer away – the resort is home to 28 villas and six huge residences, most only a few metres from the sea. In February and March, Vomo is offering a romantic package for couples who book four nights or more. In addition to an extra night free, guests can choose from an hour-long couple’s massage, a beachfront dinner, or a picnic on the resort’s jungle-clad sister island. Guests can also snorkel straight off the island’s main beaches and do their yoga routine from a platform at the peak of the old volcano. From $6325 for five nights. See: vomofiji. com

Le Me´ ridien Ile des Pins, New Caledonia

Hotel group Marriott Internatio­nal owns the upscale accommodat­ion brand, Le Me´ridien. The New Caledonia outpost lies 100 kilometres southeast from the capital Noume´a on the Isle of Pines, a small outcrop bordered by towering pine trees and surrounded by the New Caledonia Barrier Reef. It is suitably nicknamed ‘‘the closest island to paradise’’. The Le Me´ridien Ile des Pins resort brings a taste of luxury to the oasis, including modern bungalow suites and an infinity pool with lagoon views. For an extra special visit, book the Avec Amour Package until May 31, which includes accommodat­ion with private reef access, daily breakfast for two, cocktails and chocolate. From $627 a night. See: marriott.com

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