FIJI

WHY IT’S HOT: GETTING THERE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER.

We say: Historically, Fiji has always been tricky to reach from the UK, attracting mostly honeymooners and backpackers on RTW tickets. Yet its 300-plus islands deserve far greater scrutiny, and with easier connections now via LA, Singapore and San Francisco, 2019 might just see UK travellers finally saying ‘ bula’ to Fiji.

A new codeshare with British Airways flights sees visitors land at Nadi on Viti Levu. It’s a rather under-appreciated starting point, as most prefer to head for the resorts instead of the island’s rugged interior where highland treks, waterfalls and village stays show a different side to Fijian life.

That’s not to say other islands aren’t worth exploring. Paddle the remote Yasawas – Fiji has some of the best warm-water kayaking on Earth – snorkel among manta rays and explore hidden limestone caves. Bliss.

Don’t miss: Float downriver on a bamboo raft to Naihehe, Fiji’s largest cave network – complete with ‘cannibal oven’.