Archives: Destinations

One of Kauai’s most exclusive oceanfront retreats, Whalers Cove has held the #1 position out of the 8 hotels in Poipu on TripAdvisor for years.

This small resort offers a unique blend of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty. Nestled on Kauai’s sunny south shore, this intimate condominium resort overlooks the sparkling Pacific Ocean and is renowned for its breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere. With only a limited number of spacious units, guests and residents enjoy a quiet, uncrowded setting that feels worlds away from busier resorts.

Perched directly on a lava rock coastline, the rhythmic sound of waves and stunning sunsets create a serene backdrop. From the lanais, it’s common to spot sea turtles, dolphins and – in winter months – migrating humpback whales. The resort features a heated oceanfront pool, spa, and beautifully maintained grounds designed to highlight Kauai’s tropical environment.

MEMORABLE KAUAI EXPERIENCE

Located just minutes from the golden sands of Poipu Beach, renowned for its swimming and snorkeling, the resort enjoys year-round sunny weather. Fine dining, shopping, golf, and cultural experiences are also nearby, making it a convenient yet tranquil home base. Many guests send their wine and golf clubs in advance, and taxi and shuttle services as well as in-room massages can be arranged. These condos are fully equipped and are ideal for longer stays.

Whether for a romantic escape or a family retreat, Whalers Cove offers a truly memorable Kauai experience.

An intimate five-star enclave, Hotel Wailea boasts 180-degree, unobstructed ocean views, breathtaking mountain scenery, and 15 acres of zen-inspired landscaped grounds comprised of tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls and winding pathways.

The epitome of a romantic sanctuary, Hotel Wailea is designed for couples seeking relaxation away from the beachfront crowds.

The peaceful retreat is nestled within a lush tropical hillside perched 300 feet above the sea, with convenient access to island adventures by day – from beaches, watersports and golf to restaurants and shopping – and luxurious tranquility by night.

Accommodation showcases a fusion of Hawaiian island culture and award-winning designs. There are 72 intimate one-bedroom suites each with 720 square feet of space, separate bedroom and living areas, luxury linens, deep soaking tubs, kitchenettes, wireless internet, flat screen TVs, plush bathrobes, and private lanais with chaise lounges and chairs.

Design details such as coral and limestone walls, bleached white oak floors, Sub Zero appliances, and sustainably-farmed Ohia wood from Hawaii’s Big Island all give you the serene sense of space of your own Wailea beach house.

Hawaii’s first and only Relais & Châteaux restaurant, The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea offers a culinary casual experience with creative island-to-table cuisine. Menus are created around what is readily available from Maui’s own farms and fishermen, ensuring that each dish is prepared using only the finest local, seasonal and artisanal products including those grown in the restaurant’s own garden and farming operation.

Perfect for secret romantic evenings, proposals and private parties, The Treehouse is a unique culinary experience you will never forget. Dine within the canopy of mango and avocados in a dramatic treehouse setting complete with stunning ocean views, a seven-course private chef dinner hosted by the award-winning restaurant and sunset champagne toast.

For a relaxed Aloha feel, guests are invited to refresh at The Cabanas, a casual poolside spot perfect for light al fresco meals and drinks. Signature cocktails are prepared with made-from-scratch sodas and simple syrups. Fresh pressed juices and frozen smoothies are also available including special rejuvenation tonics to help guests recover after their flight or a long day exploring the island.

Catering to discerning travellers looking for their own piece of paradise, its unique, deep water frontage allows guests to dive, snorkel and swim from the lava flow edge into pristine warm tropical waters at any time of the day.

Situated on the southern tip of Taveuni, this secluded getaway is only a 90-minute domestic flight from Nadi International Airport followed by a scenic 60-minute drive from Taveuni’s Matei Airport.

Full service activities include kayaking, hiking, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, guided tours, spa services and more. With only 16 luxury Fijian Bures and Oceanfront Vales on-site, Paradise Taveuni offers a personalised and friendly Fijian experience.

This is where you will find the best diving in Fiji and the on-site Paradise Dive Centre offers an extensive selection of courses, dive gear and a professional PADI dive team led by Allan Gortan, Paradise Taveuni’s owner. With a team of local PADI divers, Paradise Dive Centre also has a fleet of custom-made dive boats.

Paradise Taveuni is perfect for first time divers to advanced divers to discover the best diving in the South Pacific. The legendary Rainbow Reef and world famous “White Wall” is right on the doorstep as well as exclusive diving on Vuna Reef, the pristine southern reef of Taveuni. Take advantage of free shore dives from the private marina during your stay with all Dive Packages. There are over 40 spectacular dive sites to choose from at Paradise Taveuni.

PERFECT HONEYMOON DESTINATION

Paradise Taveuni is the perfect Fiji Honeymoon destination with a popular Honeymoon Package for couples to enjoy – intimate dinners for two each evening in the various private dining bures scattered around the resort. Enjoy a romantic beach drop-off with picnic hamper and Champagne, private island tours featuring the iconic Bouma waterfalls, Romantic Honeymoon spa treatments in the Oceanfront Spa and so much more.

Paradise Taveuni offers something for everyone, and all who visit this unique and secluded paradise leave with a very real sense of Fiji in their hearts.

Vanua Levu and Taveuni, respectively Fiji’s second and third largest islands, along with dozens of smaller outer islands are another world from the bustle of Viti Levu and the more-touristic islands.

Here discover a hidden paradise of verdant rainforests with hidden lakes, spectacular coral reefs, waterfalls and tall mountain ranges that are an adventurers’ playground.

Vanua Levu is located 64 kilometres to the north of the larger Viti Levu and is accessible by air with regular flights to Labasa and Savusavu. The dry north coast is scattered with sugarcane farms, while the hillier south is dominated by tropical rainforest and huge coastal coconut plantations. Labasa is the island’s largest city and is predominantly occupied by Indo-Fijians.

To the south, Savusavu is a quaint coastal town backdropped by verdant emerald hills. Its large protected harbour is a stop for yachts cruising the Pacific. There is a growing number of restaurants and cafés on the idyllic waterfront and a number of luxurious hotels nearby.

The Waisali Rainforest Reserve is a spectacular 300-acre stretch of rainforest that blankets Vanua Levu’s hills and valleys and is home to a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna as well as picturesque waterfalls and natural pools. Spectacular reefs can be found minutes from the mainland. Discover pristine dive sites at Namena Marine Reserve, or head to the island’s northern coast for one of its kept secrets, the Great Sea Reef. Nearly 200 kilometres long, it’s one of the largest reefs in the world.

Taveuni, the Garden Island, is Fiji’s third largest island just eight kilometres across the Somosomo Strait from Natewa Peninsula, Vanua Levu’s southeast tip. This long, lush, coconut palm-covered oasis has, in recent years, been rediscovered by those who want a more ‘natural’ vacation.

The Bouma National Heritage Park protects approximately 80% of Taveuni’s land, sheltering scenic waterfalls, rivers, creeks, and canyons, which offer numerous opportunities to swim, climb, and hike. The Lavena Coastal Walk commences on a secluded beachfront sprinkled with rock-pools and small lagoons, its serene pathways navigate an unusual black-sanded volcanic beach, lush rainforest and passes through a charming Fijian settlement, finishing at the spectacular Wainibau Waterfalls where you can cool off. High in the interior mountains is beautiful Lake Tagimaucia, a 900-metre-high crater lake. A beautiful wild flowering plant named tagimaucia grows only on the shores of the lake from which it takes its name. Taveuni is a mecca for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts and experienced divers have access to some of the world’s best dive sites on Rainbow Reef which stretches for 31 kilometres.

Somosomo is the port for inter-island ships and there is an airport in the north, making Taveuni easily accessible by air from the main island, Viti Levu.

Dozens of small islets just off the east coast of Taveuni are home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts. Among them, Qamea boasts palm-fringed beaches lined with gorgeous white sand, and backdropped by emerald-green peaks.

Barefoot Kuata and Barefoot Manta Island Resorts — Adventure, Conservation, and Fijian Heart in the Yasawa Islands.

In Fiji’s remote Yasawa Islands, two resorts invite travellers to trade polished luxury for something more meaningful — connection. At Barefoot Kuata Island Resort and Barefoot Manta Island Resort, adventure unfolds where rugged volcanic landscapes meet turquoise lagoons, and every experience is underpinned by a deep respect for the ocean. Both resorts sit within protected marine sanctuaries, created in partnership with traditional landowners — a collaboration that has shaped Barefoot’s acclaimed marine conservation programme. Here, guests are welcomed like family, greeted with smiles, songs, and heartfelt “Bulas”, and invited to share in the local culture through daily interactions and storytelling.

TRUE FIJIAN ISLAND EXPERIENCE

Both properties offer affordable genuine beachfront accommodation, low and high tide swimming with lush coral gardens accessible from the beach ideal for snorkelling. Dining forms part of a daily resort package inclusive of three meals, guided snorkelling tour, Wi-Fi access, use of snorkelling equipment, kayaks, standup paddle boards and scheduled daily activities. Barefoot Kuata Island — the closest Yasawa resort to Nadi/Denarau — is famous for its reef-shark snorkelling and diving adventures. Barefoot Manta Island, a short journey further, offers three pristine beaches and seasonal manta ray encounters (May to October), guided by in-house marine biologists. Whether snorkelling with sharks, drifting with manta rays, or laughing with the team, Barefoot resorts deliver true Fijian island adventure, authentic and unforgettable.

Experience the revitalized Tanoa International Hotel. Set on 16 acres of lush tropical gardens, Tanoa International Hotel has unveiled a revitalized look and feel, offering guests a refreshed and elevated Fijian experience. Every corner of the property has been reimagined, blending with modern comfort.

The 149 rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed for guest comfort, combining modern amenities with authentic Fijian charm. Guests enjoy premium services and facilities, including free Wi-Fi, an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.

The newly renovated Deluxe King Rooms, opened in November 2024, are a serene retreat. Each room features a private patio with direct garden access, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquillity of the tropical surroundings.

The hotel’s fully upgraded swimming pool offers a sparkling oasis to unwind, soak up the sun, or enjoy leisurely moments with family and friends. Towels are provided and loungers available for guests.

Just steps away, the recently renovated Fresh Pizza, Tandoor & Grill, opened in April 2025, tempts the senses with hand-stretched pizzas and signature tandoori dishes cooked to perfection in a traditional tandoor oven, bringing bold, unforgettable flavors to the dining experience.

Public spaces have also received a stylish makeover, with the lobby, Tanoa Conference Room, Maître D, and main entrance – all create a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere for every guest.

In March 2026, the final phase of renovations will introduce a new Bar, Talei Conference Room, and Convention Centre Conference room, while the Tanoa Event Centre continues to host events in its three distinctive venues, the Orchid Room, Tagimoucia Room, and Vale Ni Kana.

IMMERSIVE FIJIAN EXPERIENCE

From accommodation to dining, events, and leisure spaces, every detail has been carefully crafted to provide comfort, style, and an immersive Fijian experience.

Located just 3.5km from Nadi International Airport, and only 8.5km from Nadi town, makes Tanoa International Hotel well positioned for guests to access major attractions, explore local markets, shops, and take in the famous Fijian culture.

Nadi also offers an array of places to eat and drink plus countless tours and activities. Choose from scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, or a round of golf at Denarau Island. The Tanoa reception desk in the lobby is happy to help guests organise their next adventure.

The revitalized Tanoa International Hotel is not just a place to stay, it’s a destination where every visit feels fresh, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji is a tropical oasis of pure relaxation and indulgence.

Nestled around one of the largest lagoon-style swimming pools in the Pacific, the resort offers 270 spacious, contemporary and luxuriously appointed guestrooms or suites.

Overlooking tropical gardens, a golf course, ocean or lagoon swimming pools, accommodation includes private balconies and courtyard area, LCD satellite TV and complimentary Wi-Fi.

DELIGHT YOUR SENSES

The resort offers five on-site restaurants, two specialty dining options and three bars. Refreshing beverages are available during happy hour every day and nightly entertainment offers unique Fijian cultural experiences. Unique al fresco dining options are available with signature tables set for couples to enjoy their very own butler-style service under the stars and lomani wai [dining in the water].

Choose from a variety of leisure and cultural activities, including worldclass golf, snorkelling, diving, fishing or perhaps a visit to a local village.

Alternatively, just relax by one of the four lagoon swimming pools that include an exclusive adults-only pool or enjoy some pampering of Harmony Day Spa. Finally, explore the 10 acres of tropically landscaped gardens, try your hand at a selection of complimentary non-motorised watersports or enjoy yourself at the swim-up pool bar whilst the younger guests are being entertained on the whitewater tunnel slide or at the resort’s newly-renovated Blu Banana Kids Club.

Focused on sustainable growth, Yavu Collective invests in Fiji – for Fiji. Meaning “foundation” in Fijian, Yavu’s name signifies a dedication to building a resilient and prosperous nation through investments in tourism, infrastructure, and community development.

Yavu Collective is the reimagining of legacy, vision, and purpose and represents the next chapter of Richmond Pte Limited. Founded as a joint venture between BSP Life and Fiji Airways, Richmond Pte Limited has been a catalyst for transformative developments.
From the inception of the iconic Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa to the groundbreaking of the $260m Vatu Talei – The Jewel resort on Denarau Island, Yavu Collective projects set new benchmarks for luxury and sustainability in the Pacific.

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa

www.sofitel-fiji.com

A retreat where beach resort merges with luxury hotel facilities, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is surrounded by Fijian beauty and culture. A 5-star resort located beachfront on Denarau Island, the 295 rooms range from Superior to Beach Club and include 11 suites from Family to Imperial Suite. Room inclusions cover complimentary Wi-Fi, a 55-inch TV with casting capabilities, and daily buffet breakfast.

Enjoy a culinary journey from the four corners of the globe. Solis features seafood and mediterranean cuisine, authentic Fijian dishes are offered by Koko while Waitui Bar & Grill is the resort’s signature, adults-only restaurant. Madame So restaurant features tasty Vietnamese specialties, Bazaar Kitchen & Grill offers an international buffet, on-site café La Parisienne creates delicious treats, while Suka is a rum and tapas bar, and Republik is renowned as Denarau’s best late-night bar venue.

Home to the award winning Waitui Beach Club, this adults-only sanctuary is an exclusive club boasting an infinity pool and luxury cabanas for unwinding in, as well as a bar and restaurant. Enjoy complimentary roving refreshments from 11am to 3pm and in the evening experience cocktail hour with complimentary canapés and a selection of beverages.

For children 3-to-12 years old, Niu Beach Club features splash and play water areas including two new waterslides, a climbing wall, trampoline playhouse and zipline on the beach plus three interactive indoor play areas.

Rejuvenate at Sofitel Spa with a choice of nine treatment rooms, couple’s treatment room, garden jacuzzi, dip pool, jet showers and relaxation patio. Sofitel Salon offers hair and make-up, nail and waxing services while Sofitel Fitness Center features state-of-theart equipment, group exercise classes and personal training.

The Meetings Planner and Concierge is always at hand to ensure a magnifique experience of weddings, special events and meetings. Highlights include the ballroom, 10 meeting rooms, an extensive banqueting menu, plus a large variety of outdoor venues – including poolside, showcasing impressive views of Nadi Bay.

Nearby attractions include the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, Port Denarau Shopping Centre, and Denarau Golf & Racquet Club.

As Nadi International Airport is only 13km away, public taxis are readily available there or private transfers can be arranged.

Vatu Talei – The Jewel

www.vatutalei.com

Set to open in December 2026, Vatu Talei will offer 5+ star luxury on Denarau Island. This $260 million resort will offer the region’s largest pool – adults only, a swim-up bar, waterslides, a lazy river, and rooftop infinity pool with stunning ocean and mountain views.

The 175 rooms planned comprise a mix of luxurious hotel rooms, two-bedroom apartments, and penthouse suites. Additional highlights will offer world-class dining options, a Cultural Centre, gold class cinema and an exclusive rooftop club lounge. Cutting-edge green technology is also a feature of this amazing new resort – including solar power and Fiji’s first green certification.

Nuku Loaloa Living

www.nukuloaloa.com

A bold new concept is being launched in the popular Wailoaloa area. Nuku Loaloa Living will offer fully serviced accommodation alongside a state-ofthe-art wellness and sports centre.

Accommodation will comprise 76 rooms with a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments plus threebedroom villas with private plunge pools. All will be fully furnished and self-contained with kitchenette/kitchen facilities and washer/dryer. Convenient on-site facilities will include a café/ bar and all-day dining restaurant.

A purpose-built facility will feature gym and yoga studios, a spa and hammam, ice pool, Olympic-length lap pool, tennis and pickleball courts as well as physiotherapy services, BBQ area and children’s playground.

Set to open by mid-2026, Nuku Loaloa Living will set a new standard in lifestyle accommodation while solidifying Wailoaloa’s status as a rising destination for wellness, sport, and elevated island living.

Na Tomba

www.natomba.com

The next step in Yavu Collective’s strategic growth, Na Tomba is set to bring a modern 4-star hotel experience to Denarau. Thoughtfully designed to reflect Fiji’s oceans and natural beauty, the resort will feature 116 accommodations – a mix of guest rooms, family rooms and two-bedroom apartments.

The two dining venues will comprise an all-day dining restaurant and a signature burger restaurant. Other outstanding amenities include dual pools – one adult only, a 24/7 fitness center and a 24/7 boutique, and a ballroom/conference area with flexible spaces for up to 300 delegates. With interiors inspired by Fiji’s oceanic tones and natural beauty, Na Tomba is designed to complement Vatu Talei, strengthening Denarau’s appeal as a multi-layered destination for both leisure and business.

Opening in mid-2026, Na Tomba is positioned to serve today’s connected traveller while filling a market gap with purpose, style, and cultural authenticity.

Located right on the beach, Manuia Beach Resort in Arorangi is surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Experience this elegant, adults-only resort, on the beautiful western side of Rarotonga and just 15 minutes from the airport.

The resort’s 24 ground floor suites feature outdoor showers and Polynesian-inspired décor. The accommodation includes VIP Premium Beachfront Suites and VIP Premium Suites which offer complimentary golf membership to guests at the Rarotonga Golf Club.

A great option for those who want a little more independence is the fully self-contained two-bedroom apartment; perfect for two couples, a group of friends or a mature family, it boasts full kitchen facilities, and each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom.

PERFECT PLACE

A perfect place to enjoy a cocktail with sand between your toes is OTB, On the Beach, the resort’s restaurant and bar, or indulge in its award-winning Polynesian-inspired cuisine using superb local fresh ingredients and seafood.

Dinner can be served under the restaurant’s Kikau thatched roof or on your special table by the beach or pool, where you can watch the sun go down and enjoy the clear night sky. Or enjoy a romantic dinner for two in a private setting with a special menu created for the occasion.

Situated close to OTB is the infinity pool – an ideal place to relax and unwind, and view the humpback whales just off the lagoon during the whale watching season. Snorkelling equipment and kayaks are available and complimentary for guests, as are reef shoes and life jackets.

On Sunday evenings, enjoy the popular Fire Show culture show, on Wednesday there’s complimentary cocktails for guests during the Happy Hour, and on Fridays complimentary ukelele lessons are offered. Unlimited Wi-Fi is included as are complimentary transfers to and from the airport.

The resort is centrally located and surrounded by a choice of eateries, cafes and restaurants. Nearby are local cultural shows and the Arorangi Cook Islands Christian Church is a great place to enjoy the amazing singing on Sundays.

Explore Rarotonga by bike or car, available across the road from the resort, or simply take the bus that goes around the island on the hour. Take a complimentary bus trip on Saturday to the markets and enjoy the resort’s two-hour, round island Mystery Tour on Tuesday morning. Check with the Resort at stay@manuia.co.ck for the latest offers and best rates.

Come and experience the beautiful Manuia Beach Resort.

A destination that offers more than breathtaking views and postcard-perfect beaches, The Cook Islands is a place where you can connect with welcoming locals, become immersed in the rich culture, and create unforgettable memories all while making a positive impact.

At the core of the culture are the Kia Orana Values – traditional Cook Islands values that have been passed down through the generations. Of particular relevance is Mana Tiaki – meaning “sacred guardian”. It reflects Cook Islanders’ deep respect for nature and their commitment to preserving it. When you visit the Cook Islands, you’re invited to become a Mana Tiaki — a guardian of Cook Islands’ natural beauty, culture, traditions and its people.

The aim of the Cook Islands is to create a lasting legacy that benefits not just today’s visitors and residents but also future generations. While experiencing the beauty of the Cook Islands, there are some important ways in which visitors can make a difference.

ECO-TOURISM & COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM

Embrace the Cook Islands’ natural wonders by diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or hiking. Choose eco-friendly and responsible tour operators who prioritise conservation alongside exploration. By doing so, you’ll not only experience these pristine landscapes but also help in preserving them.

One of the best ways to experience the Cook Islands is by connecting with the people; connect through traditional dance and music or learn about the history. These experiences, often run by local families and non-profits, support the local economy and conservation projects

AGRO-TOURISM & TRADITIONAL ARTS

Discover the Cook Islands’ heritage through agro-tourism. Learn about and taste sustainably grown food from local farmers. Agro-tourism not only gives you a taste of authentic Cook Islands’ flavours but also supports traditional agriculture that has sustained the people for generations.

The Cook Islands is rich in creative traditions such as weaving, carving, and jewellery making. By purchasing handcrafted souvenirs made with natural materials, visitors support local artists and help keep these crafts alive. Some artists even offer workshops so you can learn techniques, make crafts, and preserve traditions.

By exploring the islands with care, supporting local businesses, and choosing sustainable activities, you help create a positive impact that lasts well beyond your stay. So, whether you’re hiking in the lush mountains, learning a traditional dance, or enjoying a local meal, know that your actions here are guided by Mana Tiaki and contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for our little paradise.