Pacific YOUR GUIDE TO FAMILY GETAWAYS AND ADVENTURES IN THE PACIFIC ISLANDS
VANUATU • NIUE • SAMOA • TAHITI • FIJI • HAWAII COOK ISLANDS • NEW CALEDONIA • QUEENSLAND
How far away from your world can you get? Surrounded by white sand beaches and colorful coral reefs, Castaway Island, Fiji has played host to families for over fifty years. There are endless opportunities to sunbathe, snorkel, windsurf, ride a catamaran, or explore the reef from a glass-bottom boat. And our Castaway Kids Club provides children a unique opportunity to discover traditional Fijian culture by our warm and caring staff.
Find out at Outrigger.com HAWAI‘ I FIJ I THAIL AND GUAM MAURITIUS MALDIVES
Contents 08 VANUATU...................................................................08 NIUE.............................................................................26 SAMOA.......................................................................36 TAHITI.......................................................................... 48 FIJI.................................................................................58
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HAWAI’I.......................................................................86 COOK ISLANDS.................................................... 100 NEW CALEDONIA..................................................118 QUEENSLAND....................................................... 128
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Where can you be welcomed like family in a paradise far from home? Here in this exquisite hideaway, families delight in our magnificent tropical pool, children eat free and frolic in our Coral Kids Club, and our Meimei Nanny Program, staffed by professional, caring nannies, provides parents with time of their own. No wonder that, at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, every moment seems to last forever.
Find out at Outrigger.com HAWAI‘ I FIJ I THAIL AND GUAM MAURITIUS MALDIVES
The gift that lasts. Ask your child what they received for their birthday or Christmas, and there’s a good chance they won’t remember. But ask them what their favourite family holiday was, and they’ll respond immediately, recalling the places they saw, the friends they made and the adventures they had! That’s what family holidays in the Pacific Islands are all about — travelling somewhere completely different, unplugging from the day-to-day back home and spending quality time together. Each of the islands we feature in Family Time has unique characteristics. But they are all home to spectacular natural environments that visiting families can immerse themselves in. Along the way, you’ll also come across some wonderful people, who will make it their mission to ensure your family has a ball! Inside Family Time we introduce you to some of the Kids Club staff members who keep everyone smiling. They do such an amazing job! We hope you enjoy the read. We also hope our ideas and insights help you make your holiday decision easier. After all, it may lead to an experience the family will never forget. It’s just a matter of choosing the place to fits your family best. Happy holidays.
Matt & Fran
COVER IMAGE: BONNIE, EVE AND TEREMAMOA AT PACIFIC RESORT RAROTONGA
ISLAND MEDIA www.islandtime.co.nz PUBLISHER Fran McDermott - fran@islandtime.co.nz +64 21 557 170 EDITOR Matt Taylor - matt@islandtime.co.nz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fran McDermott, Matt Taylor, Nicola Russell, Taylor Cunningham, Kate Rodger ACCOUNTS Lisa Watson - islandtimemag@gmail.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION MacWork Design & Print - blair@macwork.co.nz www.macwork.co.nz PRINTER West Print www.westprint.co.nz ISSN 2382-1248 (Print)
ISSN 2382-1256 (Online)
SOUTH PACIFIC NATIONAL TOURISM OFFICES COOK ISLANDS TOURISM NZ 64 9 366 1106 nzmanager@cookislands.travel Aus 61 7 5504 5488 www.cookislands.travel
TAHITI TOURISME NZ 0800 TAHITI (824484) www.tahititourisme.nz Aus 61 2 9233 4920 www.tahititourisme.com.au
HAWAI’I TOURISM AUTHORITY NZ 64 9 977 2222 dwalshe@hawaiitourism.co.nz www.hawaiitourism.co.nz Aus 61 2 9286 8936 www.gohawaii.com/au
TOURISM FIJI NZ 64 9 376 2533 infonz@tourismfiji.com.fj Aus 61 2 9264 3399 www.fiji.travel
NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM NZ Sally 09 368 1191 s.pepermans@nctps.com www.new-caledonia.co.nz
VANUATU TOURISM OFFICE NZ 021 704 730 new.zealand@vanuatu.travel Aus 61 2 9028 5086 www.vanuatu.travel
NIUE TOURISM OFFICE NZ 0800 359 437 Aus 1300 136 483 www.niueisland.com
QUEENSLAND TOURISM OFFICE NZ 64 9 377 6458 mandy.veale@queensland.com www.teq.queensland.com
SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY NZ 64 9 379 6138 samoa@samoa.co.nz Aus 61 2 9440 0377 www.samoa.travel
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Family Tips Family holidays can be exciting and challenging at the same time. The thought of moving children through airports and on planes can even make some parents quite anxious! So we’ve put together some handy hints to help you along the way.
Stay sun safe. A bad dose of sunburn can ruin any holiday. So make sure you’ve got a full kit of sun protection products to ward against the Pacific sun. Sunscreen, aftersun, hats etc. Long-sleeved rash shirts are also great for the kids when they’re in and out of the water all the time.
Kids meals.
When flying, remind your travel agent to order a kid’s meal. On most airlines they will get an activity pack and a nice little meal perfect for hungry little mouths.
First Aid. Kids at play have slips, trips and scratches, so pack your usual antiseptic cream, antihistamine cream, Pamol and plasters.
Water toys. Purchasing swimming goggles, floaties or inflatable rings from a resort shop can be pricey, so make sure you bring your necessary water toys with you.
Check the daily itinerary. Almost every resort will have a schedule of free daily activities that the kids will love. So it’s really just a matter of checking what’s on, making a note of the time and remembering to be in the right place at the right time. 6
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Enough to make you scream? When your baby cries on a plane, it’s natural to worry about upsetting other passengers. Just remember, many of your fellow passengers have been in the same situation themselves and are feeling your pain. So do what you can and don’t fret!
Stroll on up. If you have a baby or toddler in a stroller, most airlines will let you take the stroller to the departure gate - it saves carrying a little person all the way!
Water. We always pack extra water for the kids and refill the bottles when we’ve cleared customs. It’s good to keep the kids hydrated from the start, the only down side - a few toilet visits!
Remain calm. Above all else - keep calm! It’s all worth it when they do their first bomb into the resort pool and come up with a smile from ear to ear.
Pack colouring-in and other activities. With travel comes time spent sitting around. Whether that’s waiting for an airport transfer, waiting to board a plane or even just waiting for a meal to arrive. At these times, even the most patient of kids can start to get restless. So make sure you’re prepared. Pack a few activities to keep them occupied during wait times – colouring-in books and card games work a treat or whatever else their game of the moment is.
Pack snacks. You never quite know when you’re going to hear “I’m hungry”. If you’re in-between meal times and just want to keep the wolf from the door, or there isn’t any food options nearby – having a supply of snacks can be a lifesaver.
Don’t cut it fine! There’s nothing worse than rushing kids through a crowded airport. So give yourself ample time to check-in, clear customs and get to the gate.
Book seats at the front. Spending ages standing in the line at passport control isn’t how you want to start your Pacific family getaway – Especially if the kids are getting restless. So try and book your airline seats as close to the front of the plane as possible. That way you’ll be out first and be near the front of the queue at immigration.
Cut bag numbers. In our family of five we try and pack light and then share suitcases - the less luggage you have to cart, the better.
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VANUATU
Out of the
ordinary Vanuatu is a destination that is full of surprises. It’s laid back, picture-postcard beautiful, has a rich culture and an excellent selection of family-friendly properties. But then comes the ‘x-factor’ - the things that give Vanuatu its captivating personality. Like hissing volcanoes, secret sea caves that glow from below, blue waterholes hidden in forest, and tumbling waterfalls that cascade into perfect pools. Yes folks, there is nothing ordinary about Vanuatu.
EFATE © VANUATU TOURISM
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EFATE © VANUATU TOURISM
If done well, Pacific Island getaways are a chance for families to share a travel experience that gifts everyone lifelong memories. But for that to happen, mum, dad and the kids need to unplug a little first – and sink into the island vibe! In Vanuatu, that is quickly done. Here, the laid-back living rubs off on you as you soon as you land. There is no stress, no rush. Local Ni-Van people are far more concerned about being happy - than accumulating the material possessions that many Westerners are fixated on. It all makes for a refreshing change and once you’re in the ‘zone’ some fantastic adventures await.
FIRST STOP PORT VILA Vanuatu’s biggest centre (and capital) is Port Vila. Sitting on the island of Efate, Port Vila is home to the nation’s international airport, which makes the busy town the first port of call for visiting families. It’s also the ideal spot to set up base. Port Vila lies around a beautiful, natural harbour. Steep hillsides offer panoramic views, and the dusty streets are always abuzz with locals going about their day and tourists enjoying the local cafés, bars and restaurants. Plus, there are more than enough shops for a retail fix. You’ll find everything from surf wear to local art and crafts. Until quite recently, Port Vila’s main street was the focal point for visitors - browsing the shops or grabbing a bite. This was fine, but just a matter of steps away was a lovely waterfront offering the best views in town.
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MARKET TIME Walk along the main street of Port Vila and you can’t miss the bustling open-air produce market. This local landmark is a brilliant stop for families. Packed full of vendors who bring their fresh organic produce from far and wide, just strolling through is an experience in itself. Especially for kids who only know the orderly, well-lit aisles of supermarkets back home. From a practical point of view, mum and dad can pick up supplies for those hungry tummies! Try green coconuts (about 50 vatu / NZ65c) – put them in the fridge overnight and in the morning, crack them open and drain the cold coconut water into a glass. A most refreshing way to start the day!
Fortunately, the powers-that-be decided to do something about it, and a wide pedestrian waterfront boardwalk was installed, along with other new features, such as a craft centre and a playground for the kids.
the Rossi Restaurant offers the same spectacular views and a wide variety of fresh cuisine.
During the day, the boardwalk has a real buzz, with visitors and locals soaking up the surroundings. The Nambawan Café is always a popular spot - grab an outdoor table, a refreshing drink, a bite to eat and watch the world go by. Just a few steps down,
If you’re after some knick-knacks, the craft market (next to Nambawan Café) is the place to go. The local vendors have handcrafted a variety of quality artworks, jewellery and clothing, plus you’ll find some yummy preserves made from local organic produce.
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RARRU CASCADES The Mele Cascades is one of Vanuatu’s most popular attractions. They’re close to Port Vila and the walk through the lush forest to the green pools and towering waterfall is well worth the effort. But if you’d like to try somewhere different – the equally picturesque swimming spot of the Rarru Cascades will be a real highlight. To get there, you drive east from Port Vila for 30 minutes or so. Look out for the Rentapao Bridge. Before the bridge is Rarru Rentapao River Cascades Tours. After the bridge is Rentapao Riverside Vanuatu. Both venues give you access to the same stretch of water. After a short walk you’ll reach the star attraction – Rarru Falls. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the Falls cascade into a collection of beautiful green pools, the kind you can’t wait to jump into. The kind you can’t wait to jump in to. Speaking of jumping, there are rope swings of varying heights and a couple of high platforms for those in need of an adrenalin hit. Sitting under the waterfall is also fun – the kids will love squeezing into the small holes behind the falling water, hidden from view. There are some old-school car tyre tubes for the kids to float around on too.
RAMADA RESORT PORT VILA
PLACES TO STAY Ramada Resort Port Vila When you step inside the Ramada Resort you can see what an undertaking it was to build. Much of the property was cut into a cliff face overlooking the tranquil Erakor Lagoon. However, taking on this engineering challenge was worth the time and effort – as guests enjoy spectacular views across the water. And the spacious apartment-style rooms seem to fit in perfectly with the natural surroundings. This is one of Port Vila’s prime resort settings. The location is just five minutes from downtown Port Vila, but it feels like a “secret” spot – so family relaxation is guaranteed! The smooth lagoon waters are ideal for “go-to” activities like kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboarding. And there’s a spacious swimming pool too. In typical Ramada style, the accommodation is designed for travelling families. Each option provides mum, dad and the kids with plenty of space, plus a full kitchen. Port Vila’s largest supermarket is close by, so picking up supplies is a breeze. On top of all that, the resort has a first-class food offering and regular entertainment, such as live music and cultural performances.
WARWICK LE LAGON RESORT AND SPA
Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa One of Port Vila’s big resorts, Warwick Le Lagon has over 140 guest rooms. However, the layout spreads sideways along the shoreline of Erakor Lagoon, so the resort has a lovely feeling of space. Le Lagon’s pool area is a hive of activity during the day. There are two main pools, a deeper adults pool and a shallower version that’s great for the kids. Grab a lounger, book and menu and you’ll be set for the day! Speaking of food, make sure you book a seat at the teppanyaki bar inside Le Lagon’s Wild Ginger Restaurant. The family will be thoroughly entertained by the skills (and humour) of the chefs. Yes, there’ll be pieces of omelette flying at your face. And yes, you’ll love every mouthful. Especially the organic Santo beef topped with classic Japanese mayo. Delish! The kids will also love the Funtastik Blong Kids Club. It’s free for kids aged from three to 16. Think cooking classes, bonfire singa-longs, beach Olympics, badge making, musical games, soccer and much more! Add in facilities like a mini-cinema and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled family getaway.
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Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu Further along Erakor Lagoon, you’ll find another family favourite – Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu. The ‘kids only’ pool with giant cascading water buckets and a mushroom-topped water fountain is a highlight. Plus, they’ll be thoroughly entertained in the modernwell equipped kids club. Young (and old) will also love the resort’s weekly fire show. The lagoon side setting provides a stunning backdrop. As night falls, the music begins and the troupe of entertainers go about their fiery work! The choreography is spot-on. Plus, they use their imagination in many unique ways. One of the standout acts is the ‘flaming’ skipping rope – two performers jump in and out as the flames pass just over their head and just under their feet. Add in fire breathing, firesticks, fire gymnastics and spinning fire wheels too and it adds up to a fun night!
Iririki Island Resort and Spa If there’s an iconic resort in Vanuatu, it’s Iririki Island Resort and Spa. The grandstand position in the middle of Port Vila Harbour instantly sets it apart. Although Iririki is only a two-minute ferry ride from town, it does feel different from the mainland resorts. Visiting families love the accommodation options, including the spacious two-level apartments and the deluxe family fares. They also love the variety of kid’s activities on offer. Activities run seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm, and during these hours children can enjoy all the traditional kids club style activities like face painting, weaving and shell collecting. Families also have their designated pool area, which gives kids plenty of space to have fun - well away from the adults-only pool on the other side of the resort!
IRIRIKI ISLAND RESORT AND SPA
THE MOMENT
NOBODY ASKS FOR THE
WI-FI PASSWORD
In Vanuatu you’re always connected with nature. From snorkelling on a spectacular reef to ziplining through the rainforest to snapping a selfie at the edge of an active volcano, you and the kids will be plugged into adventure 24/7. 10.15am Pele Island, Efate
Go explore at vanuatu.travel
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The Terraces Overlooking Erakor Lagoon, The Terraces offers families modern, stylish apartment accommodation, just five minutes drive from downtown Port Vila. The property does have a ‘five years plus’ children’s policy, which rules some families out. However, The Terraces is an ideal spot for older kids, particularly teenagers who can enjoy their own space. The two-bedroom apartments are spread over two levels, with living, dining and a full kitchen downstairs, opening out to a private pool and outdoor living zone. The second bedroom (for the kids) connects at the rear of the living room and upstairs mum and dad have the master bedroom with stunning views over the lagoon. Add a floodlit tennis court, gym and main pool and everyone is sure to be happy!
THE TERRACES
ROADTRIPPIN’ The last thing a family should do in Vanuatu is spend all their time in a resort. Islands like Efate are made for exploration. And the best way to see the sights is by car. There are plenty of rental options, including brands like Avis, Budget and Europcar – and they all have kiosks set up at the airport – so you can grab the keys after you land and drop off before you fly. In Vanuatu the cars are left-hand drive, but driving on the ‘wrong’ side doesn’t take long to get used to. Like many Pacific Islands, the quality of roads can vary. Watch out for potholes, and keep an eye out for locals who like walking very close to the edge of the road. Otherwise, go where the wind takes you! © VANUATU TOURISM
Port Vila’s finest boutique apartment styled resort
Featuring breathtaking views over the Erakor lagoon and tree top canopies, these 16 spacious apartments are designed especially for the tropical lifestyle, beautifully appointed to anticipate every guest comfort including a private pool. A mixture of generously proportioned one and two bedroom combinations span over two levels. Pool side the infinity edge pool is a hub for rest, relaxation and family enjoyment. A tour desk is available to book all your Vanuatu excursions and the central location means you are a ten minute walk from the Port Vila township. The Terraces is suitable for those aged five years and over.
P: +678 24923 E: theterraces@vanuatu.com.vu www.theterracesvanuatu.com
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OUTER ISLAND ADVENTURES Tanna Not all the action in Vanuatu takes place on the main island of Efate. In fact, far from it! Fly south from Port Vila to the island of Tanna and you’ll find natural attractions that rival anywhere in the South Pacific. For families with older children, making an effort to get to Tanna Island can offer a variety of experiences few will forget. Home to just over 30,000 people, Tanna is a place where you can snorkel over some of the best coral in Vanuatu, ride through the jungle on horseback, visit secret waterfalls and experience a culture that continues to live by its age-old traditions. Tanna’s biggest drawcard is Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible live volcanoes. By four-wheel-drive vehicle, visitors can get within a 10-minute walk from the edge of the crater. Ash-laden smoke has smothered the surrounding landscape, creating a scene that’s like something from another planet. Like any volcano, the level of explosive activity varies, but it’s always best to view Mount Yasur at dusk and into the night when the red-hot magma creates natural fireworks against the dark sky. If you think children get excited on Guy Fawkes Day, multiply that by a hundred!
BLUE CAVE, TANNA © JOEL JOHNSSON VANUATU TOURISM
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MOUNT YASUR © VANUATU TOURISM MOUNT YASUR
Bigger kids (and adults) will also love swimming in the spectacular waters of Tanna’s Blue Cave. A hole in the roof of the cave lets the sunshine through, turning the water into a beautiful iridescent blue. If you have a Go Pro or waterproof phone or camera, make sure it’s packed – this is the photo op of a lifetime! There is also more fun outside the caves with jumping platforms for those who love taking a leap.
Play in a private paradise. THREE LUXURY VILLAS. PRIVATE BEACH. INFINITY POOL. PEACE AND QUIET. WELCOME TO VANUATU’S ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPE. Vanuatu is well-known as a family-friendly destination that can offer far more than a fly-and-flop style holiday. And Villa 25 provides the ultimate setting to soak it all in. Conveniently located 20 minutes drive from the airport and 10 minutes from downtown Port Vila, Villa 25 is the ideal place for families who seek luxury without the bustle of a busy resort setting. Set on its own private beach, Villa 25 is home to three graciously appointed two-bedroom, air-conditioned villas each one designed to maximise views across Mele Bay and ensure privacy at the same time. Fitted out and decorated to the highest standard, each villa includes a fully equipped kitchen and private covered patio with sun loungers and a dining area. The full kitchen gives families the option to create meals (or even just snacks). It’s just a matter of purchasing local produce - be it French cheeses, organic beef, fresh fish or seasonal tropical fruits from the market. Or for a treat, Villa 25 can arrange for a private chef to prepare gourmet cuisine for your family, or organise catering to be prepared and delivered to your villa. Plus a handy provisioning service is available too.
The poolside lowana (gathering place) is just a few metres from the water’s edge overlooking a private sheltered beach. It’s the perfect setting for families to kayak, paddleboard, swim and snorkel amongst coral and tropical fish. The lowana features a fully equipped kitchen and dining area too - an amazing place for families to share a meal or enjoy a drink. Particularly as the sun sets over the water. Should you need any assistance during your stay, Villa 25’s manager and staff will be on hand to look after your every need. And they can pass on their local knowledge on everything from supermarkets to scenic flights. They can even organise mum and dad a massage or beauty treatments in the privacy of your own villa. If you and your family are looking for a luxurious holiday, Villa 25 is the perfect place to relax, unwind and feel the sand between your toes.
villa25.vu
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CHAMPAGNE BEACH © VANUATU TOURISM
MATEVULU BLUE HOLE © VANUATU TOURISM
Santo For families on a tight timeframe, jumping on one of Vanuatu’s interisland flights may not be possible or practical. But if time allows, it really should be part of the itinerary. If you think Efate is chilled, Santo is even quieter! Here the locals have a very different outlook on life compared to Westerners. Material possessions are of little concern. Even time isn’t a factor, so people are never stressed out about being late. Welcome to island time! All visiting families should take a drive up the coast from Luganville – home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Vanuatu. About 45 minutes drive away is pure beach perfection, otherwise known as Champagne Beach. As far as beaches go, it doesn’t get any better. Warm, translucent water, powdery white sand and offshore islands in the distance. All surrounded by a headland of dark green tropical rainforest. It’s magic.
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SWIMMING WITH HORSES AT SANTO © VANUATU TOURISM
Perhaps best of all, this beach remains virtually crowd-free. There is no resort or any other form of accommodation on the beach, and the only people you’re likely to see are a handful of local families going about life as they always have. Most visitors will have the place to themselves unless a cruise ship is visiting, in which case it’s busy and best avoided. Santo is also famous for its blue holes, and there are several of them dotted along the eastern coast. One of the best is the Matevulu Blue Hole. It’s signposted on the main road. The short drive inland happens to be along one of the old military airstrips. Like Champagne Beach, it’s a wonderfully peaceful place for families to spend time. The fresh water is a little cooler than the sea. And the lack of salt makes it considerably less buoyant. The kids will also love the big rope swing that hangs from a huge tree - climb the ladder, hold on tight and fly!
SECRET SNORKELLING SPOT Back to Eden (not to be confused with Eden on the River) is another magic spot that is tucked away in a private corner of Efate. To find it, drive past Mele Bay and over the hill towards Havannah Harbour. As you come down the other side, you’ll see the turnoff for Back to Eden. After negotiating a few more tight corners (and potholes), you’ll drop down into Mangilulu Village and pass through it to your final destination. Owned by a hospitable Australian couple, Back to Eden has a relaxed hideaway vibe. The surrounding waters are crystal clear and full of marine life. You’re more than welcome to explore this underwater world on your own. Or you can take a snorkelling tour where you’ll be led to a beautiful sea anemone known as Nemo City, home to dozens of cute clownfish. You’ll also see a bed of the most iridescent giant clams, as well as stunning coral, and schools of fish. With luck, you may come across a turtle or two.
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SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
Halo from Jill
Holiday Inn Resort, Vanuatu Kid’s Club Manager What is the name of your Kids Club? Totel Club. How long have you worked there? My first day was January 1999 - a long time ago!
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? The people I work with! Everyone shares the same dedication to our vision. And at a personal level, this role has helped me develop my knowledge through training and further studies - as I work towards a Diploma with the focus on running and operating a Kids Club Facility.
What do you find most challenging? Managing employee relationships as they are all individuals with different needs both at work and outside of work. Handling customers can be a challenge too, although it is rare to have any issues with parents - as they trust our capabilities and they can see how much fun their children have when they are with us.
Is there an activity that children love most? The local school visit – we often visit and support a local school. Disco Night – a great fun night with music and lights! Craftwork - making a local basket, flute, ball, windmill and weaving they learn local knowledge in a traditional way.
What makes your Kids Club unique? The first impression is key. We ‘welkam’ children upon arrival in a touching, authentic way and they receive an in-house handmade local bag. The friendliness of our staff is very genuine - they have a passion for what they do. And our activities are based around cultural traditions.
How do you cater to children of different ages? We have separate activities for kids 3-7 years old and for 8-12 years old. However, that doesn’t stop them mixing the activities together, especially if the little ones want to be with the older brother or sister.
Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? Always! We are continually seeking new ideas and activities for both within the kids club and outside the kids club. Currently, we are looking to improve our outdoor area, which we have recently been working on. The team often think of new activities and unique options for school holidays and Christmas experiences.
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Jill Pam
O:
MUST D
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One Price, No Surprises in Vanuatu All-Inclusive accommodation packages are here! Those looking for the convenience of a pre-paid island holiday should look no further than the ‘All-Inclusive Packages’ available at Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu. Book an all-inclusive Vanuatu accommodation package with us and clients will take comfort in knowing exactly what their holiday will cost before arriving at the Resort. With three tiers of package to choose from we know we have something to suit every traveller. These newly released packages enable guests to just relax and indulge knowing all Resort accommodation, food and beverage expenses are taken care of – see, no surprises! Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu where experiences are created, and memories made. Book today through your preferred agent. E: sales.vanuatu@ihg.com 678 22040 34000 P: +678 W: www.vanuatu.holidayinnresorts.com
SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
Halo from Graham
Warwick Le Lagon Vanuatu Kids Club Manager How long have you worked there? 11 years. What’s the most rewarding part of your job? The smiles of the kids and the high fives we share every time we meet. I am a father of four so I have this joy being among the kids when I am away from home. What do you find most challenging? Mostly the first timers to the Warwick Kids Club and they don’t want be away from parents. We have to come up with ways to entertain and make the kids comfortable which at times can be very challenging. Is there an activity that children love most? Probably the visit to a local school that sits on the edge of lagoon. We take them there by boat and they are able to experience the local way of living and means of education. What makes your Kids Club unique? We have lots of different activities for kids to choose from - such as watching movies in the movie room, Playstation games, there’s the fun factory and outdoor activities, which are all supervised. How do you cater to children of different ages? There are different options for kids such as Movie room, play stations, kids fun factory and outdoor activities which is all supervised for children from 3 years to 12 years of age. How do you put parents at ease? We talk to the parents about their child during registration, to ensure we are aware of their likes and dislikes. The parents can always come and check on their kids during the day. We also advise the parents of the daily activities, so they can approve them. Plus a daily report is completed by the attendants. Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? To extend the facility, add new equipment such as a trampoline, add new toys and make it even more colourful!
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Graham William
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
First time fun. As Destination Marketing Manager for House of Travel, Rachel Mancini is well-versed with the South Pacific. But one place she’d never been was Vanuatu. So what better place to take the kids on holiday.
What made you pick Vanuatu for your family holiday? Word of mouth! I’ve always had excellent feedback from families who have gone on holiday there, and especially from travel legend Mike Geary!
Was this your first time there? Yes, the first time for us all - which makes it all the more exciting.
Which property did you stay at?
What were the top 3 family activities? Eton Beach down on the south coast was a lovely outing. We also popped into the Blue Lagoon, which was amazing! Otherwise, the resort had a long list of activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming and everything the Kids Club organised.
Warwick Le Lagon which sits on the edge of the Erakor Lagoon.
What are your top tips for taking a family away to this island?
And what was your reason for choosing it?
Go for the Stay/Play/Eat Free packages.
Again, I had some great feedback on the resort. For a family it was good value too.
Do you have plans to go back?
How old are your children? Almost 2, 7 and 10.
What did you all love most about the island? The kids absolutely loved the resort. We had a lovely room that was very private. My husband and I felt Vanuatu is a lot like Fiji, but with fewer people, which was fabulous.
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Definitely!
Any other comments or suggestions? We spoke to several fellow travellers, mostly Kiwis and Aussies. For most, it was their first time to Vanuatu too. All were pleasantly surprised by the destination. Next time I definitely want to head to outer islands – Tanna for the volcano and Santo for the gorgeous beaches.
Vanuatu’s newest resort, Ramada Resort Port Vila, welcomes families with a daily kids club and kids activities, kids and toddlers pool, and great value kids meals. Relax in spacious self-contained 2-bedroom apartments, Family Junior Suites or guaranteed inter-connecting Junior Suites with panoramic lagoon views, accommodating up to 2 adults & 4 children. Parents will enjoy the spa, gym & swim-up pool bar with complimentary WIFI. Located within reach of Port Vila and all the attractions it has to offer, Ramada Resort Port Vila is a great choice for families with kids of all ages!
Phone +678 28000 Fax +678 28002 Akiriki Parade, Paray Bay PORT VILA – Vanuatu www.ramadaresort.com.vu
FAMILY FAVOURITES
Altogether better. 13 people, seven kids! The Feast family wanted an extended family holiday that mixed relaxing resort time with off-the-beaten track adventures. They chose Vanuatu.
What made you pick Vanuatu for your family holiday? We chose Vanuatu because we wanted a family adventure that would work for both young kids and older grandparents, and one that was good value for money. I’d been there a couple of times before and knew Vanuatu had some really isolated, beautiful locations and plenty of culture.
Was this your first time there? It was for the kids and grandparents and for some of the siblings.
Which property did you stay at? We stayed at two. Ramada Resort in Port Vila and Tanna Island Dream Bungalows in Port Resolution, Tanna Island.
And what was the reason for choosing it? Ramada Resort was excellent value for money, especially with our big group of 13 people. In Tanna we just chose properties that were close to attractions like Mt Yasur. The location of Port Resolution looked isolated and interesting.
How old are your children? We had seven children across three families ranging from 4 -13 years old.
What did they and you love most about the island? In Port Vila, the kids loved the pool and daily activities with hotel staff and the events at night. We also went out on a friends boat
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Feast family snorkelling on the reef, which was great. In Tanna, Mt Yasur was a big highlight for everyone. At Port Resolution we walked along the beach and up to the geothermal area, where we painted faces and then lay in heated rock pools on the tide line – that was great fun.
What were the top three family activities? Mt Yasur volcano. Port Resolution walks and beaches. Snorkelling near Vila.
What are your top tips for taking a family to Vanuatu? I think what we liked was the combination of chilling out at a good hotel in Vila with easy access to markets, restaurants and bars, and then having the contrast of a few days of real adventure on Tanna.
Any other comments or suggestions? Take something useful to give away to locals who will inevitably help or look after you. Headlamps or torch caps, paper and crayons or books for kids. Just anything that is hard to get and a nice way to say thank you.
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NIUE
The wonders of winding back It’s hard to find the kind of family holidays you get on Niue. It’s super relaxed, the people are warm and welcoming, nothing is a rush, it’s beautiful and you’re never shoulder-to-shoulder with other tourists. Niue is a destination that will make you feel like a new family.
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©NIUE TOURISM
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Niue, a coral atoll three hours flight time from New Zealand, is a playground for families who love spending time among nature. And away from crowds. With chasms to explore, turquoise rock pools to snorkel, bike rides and fantastic fishing, there is so much to do. To get everyone’s adrenalin pumping there are giant coconut crabs (uga) and heaving blowholes. And if you time your visit between July and October, you’ll see the whales that come to Niue’s warm waters to nurse their calves. Niue is the place to go to experience the untouched beauty of a Pacific Island, far away from the usual tourist hotspots. Welcome to the South Pacific unplugged.
Parents take note – if you are forever telling your kids to get off their devices, Niue will be a godsend. There is no global roaming and the WIFI coverage on the island is patchy at best. The flipside is that most device-dependent kids will not give it another thought. You can buy a SIM card on arrival, if being connected is a priority.
To put things into perspective, make this mental note. Niue is nearly four times the size of Rarotonga, but has about 1,500 residents. By comparison, Rarotonga has more than 10,000 residents. Folks, get ready to drop down a few gears – even by laid-back Pacific island standards.
The connectivity is all about to change as the massive Manatua Cable from Hawaii is snaking its way across the Pacific servicing Niue along with Samoa, the Cook Islands and Tahiti, and this will drastically speed things up.
Even when Niue is fully booked, you would never know the island was at capacity. The locals will joke - “man it was busy today, I went for a swim and there was one other person!” The funny thing is, they’re not actually joking. Indeed, the different walks and swimming spots never get busy and often, you will have the entire place to yourself. When you do bump into someone, it’s often the same people – visitors and explorers who are making the most of the island just like you. Simply stop, have a natter and share your latest discoveries, delights and tips!
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Spending quality downtime with the special people in our lives is always an imperative. While many resort holidays will provide a much-needed break, few can offer the quality time you’ll experience in Niue. The island offers so much more than the regular resort holiday. Regardless of where you stay in Niue, you’ll spend the day exploring and you’ll probably leave with plenty of exploring still to be done. This is far more than just a holiday, it is an adventure that gently pushes your boundaries. The island pace and its people will slow you down, amplifying your senses and fuse your family closer together.
KAIIKA
TOP FAMILY EATS Kaiika When you’re in a place where fresh fish is delivered direct to your door, you have the critical ingredients for creating a quality Japanese restaurant. In Niue, Kaiika is that place. But on top of these fine raw ingredients, they also employ top-class sushi chefs direct from Tokyo! The combination produces a mouthwatering mix of nigiri, sashimi, sushi, chirashi and tempura. Kaiika is open for lunch and dinner, so there’s no excuse to miss it. (Many people walk away saying it’s the best and freshest tuna sashimi they’ve ever had).
Falala Fa Cafe and Bar Falala Fa is one of Niue’s most popular eateries for a very good reason. The food is superb, the service is spot on and it has a vibrant atmosphere to match. Sitting on the main road in the middle of Alofi, you can’t miss it. On the menu you’ll find a selection of delicious dishes – for example, pan-fried tuna, with a tropical relish and a salad. If you’re not such a fan of seafood, not to worry, you can choose a juicy steak and have it cooked to perfection. WASHAWAY CAFÉ
Washaway Café The best burgers on the island and the best place to eat, drink and watch the sun go down. They’ve also invented SYO - serve your own beer, wine and spirits! No kidding, thirsty patrons slip behind the bar, choose (and pour) what they want from the fridge and then write it down a book. When you leave, a staff member tallies your total and you pay. The self-service angle adds to the laid back atmosphere. The kitchen pumps out some great food too – don’t worry, someone cooks that for you. The café also sits above Avatele Beach, so people tend to drift backwards and forwards between the two – taking a cooling dip before kicking back with a cooling drink.
Vaiolama Café Play a round of mini-golf and sip on their excellent iced chocolates or their local specialty - a delicious rockmelon crush. The café offers a full range of espresso coffees, yummy tropical smoothies, shakes, homemade cakes, pastries, delicious sandwiches and more. Happy Hour is Thursdays from 3 pm.
Dolphin Restaurant and Bar, Scenic Matavai Resort
VAIOLAMA CAFÉ
Another amazing spot to enjoy a meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner), Dolphin Restaurant and Bar at the Scenic Matavai Resort has a delicious menu that changes during the week. There are plenty of highlights, including the Friday Night BBQ with Ribeye steak, fresh fish and sticky Niuean pork honey ribs straight from the grill. Or try the umu (earth oven) and spit roast feast on Thursday night.
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SNORKELLING WITH NIUE DIVE Anthony and Tom from Niue Dive (right next door to the Scenic Matavai) are top-notch operators. Your family adventure will begin right from the get-go as you pile onto the back of the ute for the short drive to the boat ramp. Avatele Beach is only a couple of minutes up the road and has a well-kitted out ramp complete with a sturdy crane to lower the dive boat into the sea. In only a few minutes, you’ll be off through the narrow reef channel and out into the open sea. Anthony will share his inside knowledge about both land and sea and especially where the best snorkel and dive spots are for beginners and pros alike. He’s worked as a dive instructor all over the world and he says Niue is hands down the best place he’s dived. Even if your kids have never snorkelled before, they’ll be in safe hands. With Anthony at their side, they’ll tip over the edge of the boat into clear, deep ocean water. The marine life is abundant in Niue, and you’ll see a tonne of big and small reef fish, lots of sea snakes and maybe even full-grown turtles.
PLACES TO STAY Scenic Matavai Resort Niue Sitting high above the sea on Niue’s southwestern coastline, Scenic Matavai Resort is the island’s largest and best-known property. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be drawn to the sweeping ocean views. And the resort has been designed so guests can make the most of them. Sit back in your room – enjoy the view. Sit down for breakfast – enjoy the view. Lie by the pool – enjoy the view. During the whale season (July to September) you’ll probably spot one of those, too. The resort has most mod cons. You can hire a mountain bike and go exploring. You can help yourself to the snorkelling gear and reef shoes and explore some more. The Dolphin Restaurant and Bar serves up fine cuisine from breakfast through to dinner. For breakfast try the yummy eggs benedict, for dinner the Ruby Rare Yellow Fin Katsu with sautéed wasabi risotto, tropical tamarind and sweet soy! The poolside bar is a top spot to kick back with a drink and watch the sun go down. And if you need any assistance whatsoever, the staff are top-notch.
SCENIC MATAVAI RESORT NIUE
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WHALE WATCHING Niue is well known as a spectacular place to whale-watch with peak season between June and late September. There are specialist licensed operators who treat visitors to close-quarter encounters with these magnificent sea creatures – it is an absolute must for families.
TOP FAMILY SWIMS Limu Pools Just as spectacular at low medium and high tides - venture to the right for another crystal clear rock pool complete with a cave to swim through.
Matapa Chasm Surrounded by high cliff walls and a mix of fresh and saltwater, this fabulous spot offers deeper swimming at any tide.
Tamakautogo Beach A short 10-15 minute meander from the Scenic Matavai – this is the closest you’ll get to a beach on the island. It’s a gentle sandy cove and superb for younger, less confident swimmers.
Avaiki Caves Swimming at high tide inside one of the main caves is an almost spiritual experience! The water is an astonishing shade of crystal clear deep blue and turquoise – many visitors have never swum in anything like it.
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
The homecoming. For media personality Kate Rodger and her partner Tristan, this trip was more than just a regular family holiday. Tristan was born in Niue, but has spent his whole life in New Zealand. This would be the first time he had returned. A special time in a special place, exploring the island as family and catching up with family all at the same time. They share their tips from five wonderful days in Niue.
Niue is ideal for school-age kids
Kate, Tristan and kids
If you’re wondering whether Niue is a great place to bring the kids, the answer is a big ‘yes’. But for maximum enjoyment, bring your darlings when they’re school age and pretty confident on their feet and in the water. There are short fun walks to the best swimming places and you can time your visits with the tides depending on how deep you’d like it. If they’ve never snorkelled before, there are a plethora of perfect places for them to get their confidence up without ever being out of their depth. If you’re worried about terrifying sea creatures gobbling up your precious offspring, fear not! Amidst the teeming brightly coloured coral fish, the only mildly diverting pool-dwellers are the slim yellow and black sea snakes. While they are indeed poisonous, they are also very shy with teeth too small to penetrate the skin.
Get behind the wheel Self-drive is the only way to make the most of the island. You can pick up a roomy, reliable rental right at the airport from Niue Rental. And everything is so close. It’s a five-minute drive from the airport down to the Scenic Matavai Resort and short trips to all the best swimming and eating spots. You can even make a game of dodging the potholes! But while the roads vary in quality, you’ll be more than happy getting from ‘A to B’ without having to sit in traffic. With a basic map, you won’t have any trouble finding your destination. The other thing you’ll notice about driving in Niue is that every on-coming car waves to you as you drive past – and each person has their own style – be it whole-hand wave, slow one-finger signal, fast two-finger slide and lots other variations! It’s quite neat and it’s a genuine reflection of the friendly welcome you get wherever you go!
Take a guided tour Even if you’re used to finding your own way around a place, Niue is one destination where you will want to take a tour. Local experts Explore Niue are the people to see. Owner Vanessa Marsh has lived on ‘The Rock’ all her life and knows the place inside out. She’ll show you the best places to swim and snorkel – such as Limu Pools and Matapa Chasm, plus local beaches Avatele and Tamakautogo. She’ll also pass on some great eating recommendations, and you’ll come away knowing about the local landscape, the history of the island and almost every single plant, insect and sea creature that you come across! In fact, if you take a tour at the beginning of your Niue getaway, you’ll be able to set up your entire week based on her suggestions.
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Pack your reef shoes Make sure you pack some reef shoes – even if they are the cheap and cheerful type you get from discount stores. They will serve the family well. They’ll come in handy everywhere you swim, and they’ll make everything so accessible and easy. If you forget though, chances are your place of accommodation will have some spares. Plus there are also a handful of shops in Alofi – the islands only real town centre.
It’s best to dine early When it comes to eating out for dinner, hatch a plan for your entire stay when you arrive. It is also better to eat earlier rather than later, to ensure you get the best of the menu! On the odd occasion, the freshest seafood disappeared quickly and you do not want to miss out.
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
Mother daughter magic. The brief for this mother-daughter trip was great snorkelling! So what better place than Niue for Megan Leigh Dixon and her daughter Tyla to spend some quality time together.
What made you pick Niue for your family holiday? My daughter Tyla decided on Niue as our mother-daughter bonding trip. She absolutely loves snorkelling and being a coral rock in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, this seemed like the perfect destination!
Was this your first time there? Yes, first time for both of us.
Which property did you stay at? Scenic Matavai Resort Niue – an amazing spot overlooking the ocean. It had everything we could possibly want, including a pool that Tyla spent many hours in.
How is are your daughter? Tyla is 11 years old.
What did they and you love most about the island? Tyla loved adventuring in the caves and snorkelling. There were just so many places to walk and explore and the best part was the crystal clear, warm water with loads of sea life. We’d never seen water like it.
What were your top 3 activities? 1. Fishing trip out on a boat 2. Rock pool snorkelling 3. Adventure walks
What are your top tips for taking a family away to this island? I’d suggest waiting until the kids are at least old enough to be confident at snorkelling and will enjoy getting out and about. It is perfect to keep kids busy exploring nature away from devices! We weren’t aware you could take food and snacks, so make sure you pack some supplies.
Any other comments or suggestions? The island has limited internet and phone coverage so be prepared to enjoy the simple things and immerse yourself in activities and relaxation. Our trip was a wonderful experience for my daughter and I to spend some quality time together and make friends with the other visitors. We enjoyed every minute and can’t wait to go back!
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The Dixon girls
Turn down the volume & turn up the
adventure
Take the family to Niue, for the most enjoyable peace and quiet you'll find anywhere.
Call 0800 69 69 63 or visit scenichotelgroup.co.nz/niue
SAMOA
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Samoa is a hands-on holiday for families, in the sense that you mould your own experience and that you’ll be welcomed into the local community; rather than feeling like a tourist in a foreign land.
SALETOGA SANDS RESORT AND SPA
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Indeed Samoa has a rich culture that values simplicity and tradition, and not to mention the stunning beaches and extraordinary natural wonders. This is what makes Samoa so alluring. Samoa is home to two main islands. Each one providing different (but equally amazing) experiences. For the visitor, it’s all about preference. Upolu is the busier of the two and the most popular with travellers. It has a host of top-quality resorts, a dramatic southern coastline and the bustling capital city of Apia. It has all the ingredients for a happy family holiday. On the other hand, Savai’i is more back-to-basics - the ‘Real Samoa’, as locals like to call it. Samoa’s traditions thrive on this land, a land which has an untouched feel and is absolutely breathtaking and full of possibilities. Families choose their own adventure here.
LALOMANU BEACH
Wherever you decide to go in Samoa, however, there is always time to kick back and relax and enjoy the island, the way it’s meant to be.
UPOLU Apia is a city beaming with character, and the markets reflect this. The Fugalei Market, which sits in the middle of town next to Apia bus station, is packed full of souvenirs to take home (such as wood carvings, jewellery, lava-lavas, hats, massage oils), delicious cooked food and a wide selection of exotic local produce. If there ever was a place to get the kids excited about fruit and veges, then this is it!
© SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Apia Fish Market also makes for a fun family visit. The earlier you go the better. Freshly cooked fish and chips should be enough motivation to roll out of bed and get moving! Pay a visit to the Samoa Cultural Village in the heart of Apia, to discover and delve into the Samoan Way – or ‘Fa’a Samoa’, as locals proudly call it – experiencing Polynesian culture and traditions through fun interactions. All guests are warmly welcomed and encourage to respect local customs. Here, you will see how traditional items are crafted, along with the chance to eat freshly cooked Samoan cuisine. Even the fussy eaters in the family will struggle to say no to palusami, a mouth-watering dish made from taro leaves and coconut cream. The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum pays homage to the famous Scottish writer, who settled in Samoa. The informative guided tour is fascinating, even for those who aren’t literary or history buffs, and entails a stroll through stunning botanical gardens circling the homestead. If parents, however, find their kids yawning a little too often, the hike to Stevenson’s resting place, atop Mt Vaea, will reinvigorate them. Pick from one of two routes, carved amidst lush rainforest, to the top of the hill where you will be greeted by an awesome view of Apia and the bay.
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THE ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON MUSEUM © SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY
© SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY
TO SUA OCEAN TRENCH
PIULA CAVE POOL, UPOLU
Another great hike is to Lake Lanoto’o, where volcanic gorges and dense Samoan greenery run rampant. This one’s for the big kids, as it takes two hours to walk there and back. Families will want to spend quite some time at the ancient crater to swim, see some wild goldfish, and simply admire the majesty of this unspoiled pocket. Samoa on Foot can provide a guide, so you won’t get side-tracked – highly recommended.
in beautiful gardens overlooking the coast. Descend a wooden ladder to reach the 30-metre-deep pool, where fresh and salt water meets via an ancient tunnel cave – carved by lava – that leads to the ocean. The kids will have a blast watching the blowholes erupt and exploring the rock pools for hidden creatures, while the adults can kick back on a day fale admiring the scenery.
Be sure to hit Lalomanu Beach, one of the finest in the South Pacific. Spend a whole day relaxing on the endless stretch of white sand and swimming in the crystal blue lagoon, which is a protected marine reserve. So, pack a mask and snorkel for you and the kids – and a waterproof camera while you’re at it – for it is brimming with tropical fish in all directions. Chances are a day isn’t enough to satisfy your family’s Lalomanu Beach craving. Luckily, you can spend a night or three in beach fale accommodation. While you’re at it, and for a truly unforgettable experience, head over to the nearby Namua Island and swim with endangered green turtles.
The cascading Togitogiga Waterfall is a great spot to visit too. This swimming spot was used by great Samoan warriors of the past. And you’ll know why as soon as you glide in the fresh emerald water, surrounded by vibrant tropical gardens. Situated in Saleilua village, in the middle of the South Coast, this is a brilliant place to stop and spend a few hours to cool off and have a picnic.
On the South Coast of Upolu is the To Sua Ocean Trench. The unique swimming hole is found in Lotofaga Village submerged
For some thrilling water action, slip on over to Papaseea Sliding Rocks. Only a 15-minute drive from Apia, this popular natural playground has one five-metre waterslide and three smaller ones. Although the rocks are smooth from thousands of years of flowing water, it may be wise to bring an old pair of togs!
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PLACES TO STAY Taumeasina Island Resort Expansive Pacific Ocean views in one direction, and Upolu’s mountains in the other. A private white sand beach with glimmering blue water. An array of activities on offer; from pools and tennis courts to cooking tutorials and spa treatments. And only five minutes from the capital. Taumeasina Island Resort is a brilliant place to holiday with the family, plus they have host of accommodation options that suit families down to the ground. The self-contained two and three-bedroom waterfront villas are particularly convenient, each kitted out with a complete kitchen, plus other handy facilities like a washing machine and dryer.
Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort
TAUMEASINA ISLAND RESORT
The stunning beach is only a few steps away; safe for the kids and perfect for water sports. Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort’s lagoon pool is also inviting, especially at night when the golden lights and silver moon illuminate the water. There is plenty to do in this secluded spot (which is only a few minutes drive from the airport too). Depending on how energetic you are, you could take the family for a walk at some of the nearby tramping tracks. There are tennis and volleyball courts, or mum and dad can always sneak away to the Manaia Polynesian Spa. With four restaurants and bars, there are plenty of fantastic eating options. But be sure to start the day right and head over to Apolima Fale, to indulge in a satisfying breakfast buffet that fill everyone’s tummy.
Saletoga Sands Resort and Spa Saletoga Sands Resort and Spa is nestled within its own private bay – where palm trees line white sands in classic South Pacific fashion. Water-loving families will be in their absolute element. First stop for the kids will probably be the inflatable water park, which will provide many hours of non-stop fun. Plus they have all the other equipment you need to explore the lagoon and reef – just pick up a paddleboard, kayak or snorkelling gear and go.
SHERATON SAMOA BEACH RESORT
This Kiwi-owned resort specialises in catering for families, offering spacious rooms equipped with nice views of the lagoon and all the essentials. There is also a super fun activity programme for the kids, so parents can nip off to the spa or bar for some downtime. On top of that the resort prides itself on a high standard of service that is warm and personal – needless to say the whole family will be in good hands.
Return to Paradise Resort
SALETOGA SANDS RESORT AND SPA
Tranquil, isolated and located off a private coastal road leading through a rainforest to one of Samoa’s most pristine and iconic beaches – this resort is truly a paradise. There are many accommodation options for families, including two and three bedroom villas with all the features necessary for a fine family holiday – including a kitchenette, dining room, ensuites and spacious outdoor decks. And of course that sweeping beach is right on the doorstep. There’s so much to be experienced here that families will want to return to paradise in no time. Kayaking, cycling, snorkelling with turtles, spas, traditional Samoan culture – just to name a few. On fiafia nights, when the sun has disappeared beyond the Pacific, Samoan’s light up the dark by harnessing the power of fire and music. You’ll feel the pulsating drums and the warmth of the fire swirling around in patterns before your eyes. An unforgettable experience.
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RETURN TO PARADISE RESORT
THE GREAT ESCAPE Taumeasina Island Resort in Samoa offers families a relaxing, tropical island paradise, yet it’s within easy reach of sightseeing, shopping and entertainment in Apia township. The resort offers a great family escape, with a range of Ocean View hotel rooms and spacious two or three-bedroom self-contained villas, all with water views and easy beach access. With two swimming pools, a tennis court, kayaks, snorkelling gear, catamarans and a daily activities programme there is definitely plenty to keep everyone occupied. There’s also a great children’s playground for the young ones to run around on. Bar service is offered around the pool so parents don’t have to move from their spot while they enjoy the wonderful tropical ambience. A full buffet breakfast is included in the rates and provides a great assortment of hot and cold dishes to ensure everyone has plenty of energy for the day. There is also an á la carte menu and themed buffet dinners, plus kid’s meals and snack menus are available. For a good dose of Samoan culture, be sure to experience the spectacular Saturday Fia Fia Night, with dinner and a show, including fire dancing. When a little indulgence is on the agenda, book a time at Fofo Samoa Day Spa and enjoy a relaxing massage or an invigorating facial. There is also a fully equipped gym and plenty of space around the island for a run or a nice evening stroll. Babysitting services are available for parents who would like some time out or to enjoy a romantic dinner. The Taumeasina staff offer friendly Polynesian hospitality and they are always ready with a welcoming smile.
TO SUA TRENCH
Samoa’s Premier Island Resort
Escape to paradise and experience a relaxing getaway at Taumeasina Island Resort. Offering deluxe island hotel and villa accommodation, 4 star facilities and services along with world class dining, it’s everything you want in a holiday and more!
P: +685 61000 E: info@taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com www.taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com
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THE SAMOAN WAY The culture and etiquette of Samoa’s traditional society stems from Fa’a Samoa, the ‘Samoan Way’, which is over 3000 years old. Family is considered the pinnacle of importance and it is thus a duty to be of service to them, and respect for elders is strictly followed. While this may sound strict from the outside, you will soon be welcomed in with friendly Samoan hospitality, as long as you remain open-minded and respectful of etiquette and traditions. One such tradition is the tatau (or tattoo), an art form and often a rite of passage for men. It portrays Samoa’s spiritual and cultural heritage and is an icon of individual and spiritual maturity for those who bare them. Families should also ensure they respect Samoan protocols in villages, beaches and swimming spots. These can be found in detail on Samoa’s official travel site. Definitely worth a read to be mindful of 3000 thousand years of tradition.
SAVAII LAGOON RESORT
Saletoga Sands Resorts is a quality four star resort offering exceptional value accommodation, food & activities. With rooms to suit families of five or those on a budget there is something for all. Nestled within its own private bay on the South Coast of Upolu in Samoa. P: +685 41212 E: reservations@saletogasands.com www.saletogasands.com
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ALOFAAGA BLOWHOLES © SAMOA TOURISM
SAVAII Does your family want to see the ‘Real Samoa’? Then take the 90-minute ferry across from Upolu’s Mulifanua Wharf to Savaii, to experience a quiet side of Samoa that is rooted in tradition. The third largest Polynesian island is a place to reset and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The scenery is beautiful and untouched. A paved road encircling the island makes it a breeze to explore. Fresh off the ferry, you will arrive at Savaii’s main town of Salelologa. It’s small yet vibrant, and a great place to stock up on food from the market and rent bicycles or a car to explore the island. There is also a bus, but no bus stops, so just hail the driver and hop on. Simple as. The Afu Aau Waterfall is a spectacular sight, found in the southeastern corner of the island. Fresh water gushes out of its lush rainforest surroundings to create a natural swimming pool, which goes from very shallow at the rim to very deep towards the centre – so everyone can enjoy a refreshing swim. Another fantastic place to cool off is Mataolealelo Pool, a natural spring and a site of historical significance on Savaii due to the legend of Sina and the Eel, which tells the tale of the coconut tree’s origins. There are two pools available; a smaller one perfect for the children, and a larger one for adults. If you’re up for a walk in the bush, it can’t get much better than Tafua Peninsula Rainforest Reserve, a pristine rainforest with many trails. One such trail leads you on a pleasant walk to the volcanic crater, which towers above Tafua village. For explosive action, take your family over to Alofaaga Blowholes in the south-west village of Taga. At high tide the sea burrows into the blowholes and erupts as high as 30 metres. Sometimes the locals, for a bit of fun, throw coconuts in and turn them into natural canons. Fire in the hole!
Satoalepai is a special village, home to a wetland’s sanctuary for endangered green turtles. The locals take great care to revive the population, through nurturing young turtles until they are fully grown and ready to be released back into the great blue. You can swim with the turtles in the part-fresh, part-salt water pool. And the kids will love feeding them with pieces of pawpaw. There is an entry fee, but you’re essentially contributing to the sanctuary.
PLACES TO STAY Savaii Lagoon Resort This resort is small and intimate, providing families with both a peaceful and fun spot to chill. The beautiful beach is merely steps away, inviting you to laze on the white sand with a delicious cocktail hand-delivered from the bar (the children can have a nonalcoholic beverage) and take a dip in the translucent lagoon. It’s safe for the kids, too, as the waters are calm; perfect conditions for snorkelling and kayaking over the coral gardens. There are various tours and activities on offer. Enjoy a game of petanque, learn how to husk a coconut and make coconut cream, or how to weave a flax basket. The restaurant serves up delicious cuisine and does their utmost to use fresh local produce where possible. Keep an eye out for lobster on the menu, they’re a real treat at Savaii Lagoon Resort. On fiafia night, the resort’s very own staff perform a riveting fire dance and traditional kava ceremony. There is a range of beachfront and garden accommodation, with bungalow and studio options available. They each come with compact kitchen, and the tap water is safe due to a filtration plant, which has also been made available to the village.
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
Chilling island style. Samantha van Houts has always had a soft spot for Samoa. Which made it the obvious choice for her family’s getaway – warm weather, chilled out vibe and lots of time in the water.
What made you pick Samoa for your family holiday? I had been before to visit a friend living in Apia. We travelled around the island in her ute and I just thought it would be the perfect chilled out spot for a family holiday.
How many times have you been to Samoa? This is my third time in Samoa.
Which property did you stay at? Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia.
What was your reason for choosing the resort? My friend who lives in Apia suggested it. And it was a great choice. The resort is clean, modern and the staff are friendly. There is good swimming (pools and beach) and good snorkelling close to resort. The facilities are perfect for a small family.
How old are your children? 6 and 8.
What did the family love most about the island? The lovely, warm climate and swimming every day all day and night!
What were the top 3 family activities? 1. Snorkelling (everywhere) 2. Going to lava ruins and remains on Savai’ i. 3. Up close encounters with turtles.
What are your top tips for taking a family away to this island? If you want to do some sightseeing I’d recommend hiring a local driver. You can sit back and relax and your driver can take you to the best spots!
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Alofa, Samoa Imagine yourself surrounded by natural wonders and colourful wildlife. Where an exotic meal dances off your tastebuds and an adventure awaits around every corner. We’re warriors at heart, our rich history and culture will give you a glimpse into our way of life - Fa’a Samoa. That’s why the minute you arrive in Samoa you’ll be embraced by a warm friendly welcome. There really is no place quite like Beautiful Samoa.
Love, Samoa In response to the measles epidemic, travellers can be assured it is safe to visit Samoa provided your vaccinated at least two weeks before travel. If uncertain of your immunisation status, seek the advice of your healthcare provider before departing.
Find Beautiful WWW.samoa.travel
The place where families come to play. The Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort is a real favourite for families visiting Samoa. And for very good reason. The facilities are first-class, the beach is magnificent, and the location (just five minutes from Faleolo International Airport) makes international transfers a breeze. With so much to do, the question most asked is ‘where to start’. In most cases, the kids will head straight for the water! Either the calm, clear lagoon waters which are fantastic for swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding and lots of other watersports activities. The main resort pool also has plenty of room to move and a shallow end for the small kids too. Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort is also the only resort in Samoa with a kid’s club. Indeed the Dolphins Kids Club is always abuzz with fun and games. There are a huge range of activities to keep the kids busy - including board games, hair braiding, resort walks, fish feeding and weaving - which leaves mum and dad with time to themselves too! Indeed Mums will love sneaking away to the resort’s Manaia Polynesia Spa. The stunning complex of a spa, gym, sauna, chill-out room and spa pool is set inside a tranquil rainforest, a short walk from reception. The Fa’a Samoa Massage comes highly recommended. When it comes to accommodation, the resort has all the bases covered too. The ground floor rooms and suites are particularly popular with families, as they open straight out onto the resort lawn and gardens, i.e. it’s easy for kids to run around or take a dip at the beach which is only 50 metres away! Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort offers a place where families can play, soak up the untouched beauty of Samoa and most importantly, relax and enjoy quality time together.
Phone: +685 8462800 Reservations.samoaresort@sheratonhotels.com
SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
fa Talo from Mataliu
Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort and Spa Kids Club Manager
Mataliu Toomaga
What is the name of your Kids Club? Dolphin Kids Club
How long have you worked there? 12 years!
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is seeing our children tell their parents all about their fun adventures at kids club and the parents being able to put their trust in our staff to keep their kids safe.
What do you find most challenging? Ensuring kids safety is a fulltime job, especially when we take them on adventures around the property. So we ensure we have enough daycare associates to keep a close watch on children, particularly the younger kids who can’t wait to run around and explore!
Is there an activity that children love most? Children love feeding our fishes in our fish pond the most!
What makes your Kids Club unique? Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort is the only resort in Samoa that has a kids club which makes us unique.
How do you cater to children of different ages? We have different activities for different age groups. Younger children love to play on the playground and go out to the beach and build sandcastles. For our older kids from 7-12 years, we will organise crafty activities such as lava-lava printing and weaving.
How do you put parents at ease? We give parents a tour of our kids club to ensure them it is a safe environment before they leave their children in our care. Parents are also made aware that our daycare associates are fully responsible for the safety of their children.
Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? Yes, we have plans to renovate our space and introduce new toys and games.
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a g m i e r
ch ap p
Wh e
TAHITI
s en
If you’re seeking a special family holiday, Tahiti is a premium destination that is guaranteed to deliver the experience you’ve dreamed about.
BORA BORA © TAHITI TOURISM – MARC GÉRARD PHOTOGRAPHY.
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LE TAHITI IA ORA BEACH RESORT BY SOFITEL
© TAHITI TOURISM
FIRST STOP TAHITI The first sight you’ll see when you descend into Tahiti-Fa’a’ā International Airport is the summit of Mount Orohena. At 2241 metres above sea level, it cuts an imposing figure. But this first taste of striking scenery is just a sign of things to come. In a word, the islands of French Polynesia are dramatic. And this spectacular natural landscape provides the perfect backdrop for a fun family holiday. While many visitors are drawn to French Polynesia by picturepostcard visions of Bora Bora and Moorea, Tahiti is an excellent destination in its own right. The city of Papeete, population 25,000, is a natural starting point and a great place for families to sample local sights and sounds. Go for a wander through the long aisles of Le Marché de Papeete market, where fresh tuna, swordfish and other fish are laid out for sale, and the scents of Tiare Tahiti, pitate (jasmine) and orchids waft through with the breeze. In the evening head for the Place Vai’ete with its roulettes, or food carts, choose whatever type of meal you feel like, then sit down at a trestle table. Chances are you’ll have to share, but it’s a nice way to meet locals, and have a go at practising your French. As you explore the island, you’ll also notice local quirks. For example, you may think the boxes outside the homes of Tahitian residents are for mail and newspapers. In fact, they’re for deliveries of fresh French bread. Residents get a loaf dropped off twice a day!
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© TAHITI TOURISM
To see Tahiti’s lush interior, hop on a four-wheel-drive vehicle and head down some back roads. If there’s been rain, expect a proper splashing of mud, but there may well be a swimming hole or waterfall nearby. Tahiti is the only island in the archipelago with black sand - go to the popular Plage de Vaiava, with its calm, shallow water and views across to the island of Moorea.
PLACES TO STAY Le Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort by Sofitel Regardless of whether a family is passing through on the way to outer islands such as Moorea or Bora Bora, or spending time in Tahiti itself – Le Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort is a great place to do both. The kids will love spending time in the pool. Plus they have the option of the resort’s private beach – the calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. Garden Family rooms and Deluxe Family Lagoon rooms offer space and comfort, and the resort’s two restaurants have special kids menus too.
Pearl Beach Resort, Tahiti While many of Tahiti’s larger resorts sit on the southern side of the Papeete, Pearl Beach Resort lies in the other direction. The setting on the fine black sands of Lafayette Beach is unique and equally spectacular. The beach itself is popular with local families who pack picnics and make the most of this picturesque spot. And if you’d like to pop into downtown Papeete, the resort runs a twicedaily shuttle - it’s 10-15 minutes drive depending on traffic.
GET UP AND RIDING! In the surf world, Tahiti is world-famous for the fear-inducing surf break at Teahupo’o - venue for the annual World Surf League event. What’s less well-known is that Tahiti has some much more forgiving sand-bottom beach break waves on the northern side of the island. This is where Julien Miremont, the owner and ‘head coach’ of the Taie Fa’ahe’e Surf School spends most of his days. Many of his students are local school kids in the early stages of their surf journey, but Julien also teaches visitors (young and old) who want their first taste of surfing. “Although surfing takes a long time to master, getting some basic techniques and wave knowledge right at the start will make the learning process easier and more enjoyable. It’s also about getting out there, spending time in the water and having someone who can help you build your confidence,” says Julien.
MOOREA From the western side of Tahiti, you’ll see the mountainous peaks of Moorea. The island is only 20km away, but the feel is quite different. One hundred and eighty thousand people live in Tahiti, and downtown Papeete is busy by South Pacific standards. Cars and trucks ply two-lane motorways, cargo ships come and go, locals buzz about in their daily routine - it’s far from sleepy. By comparison, Moorea is home to just 18,000 people, virtually all of them spread around small coastal villages. Your family will sense the more laid-back vibe the moment you step off the ferry. The drive around Moorea’s coastal road is scenic, to say the least. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road – those towering mountains and beautiful bays have a magnet-like attraction! The speed limit is 60kph, i.e. it’s illegal to rush. So take your time and pull over whenever you have the urge. Moorea’s coastal villages have plenty for families to see. Particularly the bigger ones like Maharepa, which has a wide variety of eateries, plus shops and other services. Pearls, local handicrafts, clothing stores will satisfy your retail fix. You’ll find beauty therapists, and places to hire bikes – the coastal road is (mostly) flat and traffic is minimal. Getting amongst nature is a must for families and Mount Tohivea is the ideal place to start. It’s surrounded by vast tracts of tropical jungle, with the silence only broken by waterfalls and birdsong. The panoramic lookout at Belvedere Point is the starting point for the trails that go around the mountain slopes. (It will be warm, so fill up your water bottle and slap on some sunscreen.) Hike The Pass of the Three Coconuts, or hop on board a four-wheel-drive vehicle or an ATV for a safari tour through plantations and local villages. Tiki Village on Moorea mixes excitement with tradition. The villagers live there and share their dances and songs to keep their traditions alive. Families can learn how to open a coconut, weave a simple basket, or try some basic Tahitian dance moves and drumming.
TAHITI TO MOOREA – A QUICK HOP Getting from Tahiti to Moorea is a breeze. Tahiti’s main port is in downtown Papeete, and you’ll find the passenger terminal right on the main road. A full schedule of ferries run between Tahiti and Moorea’s main pier at Vai ‘are. It’s a quick journey too – 30 to 45 minutes depending on the vessel.
MOOREA © TAHITI TOURISM
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MOOREA’S MAGICAL LAGOON One of the best ways to experience Moorea’s crystal clear lagoon waters is with Moorea Miti Tours. The kids will have the chance to swim with blacktip sharks and stingrays – both are quite harmless by the way. (If you’ve never stroked a stingray, you’ll be surprised at how slippery they are.) During the day, you’ll hear fascinating stories of Moorea’s history, and myths and legends that are an important part of local culture. You’ll get to stop in at a picture postcard motu (islet). The kids will love the snorkelling time – the visibility is fantastic and there are loads of colourful fish to see. They might even spot a turtle too. Ever husked a coconut? You’ll get a lesson on how to crack them, scrape the inside and use the raw ingredients to make the local raw fish dish of poisson cru. And for mum and dad there are Pina Coladas made with local pineapple rum and the ‘just-squeezed’ coconut milk!
MOOREA © TAHITI TOURISM
DID YOU KNOW?
INTERCONTINENTAL MOOREA RESORT AND SPA
The first overwater bungalows were constructed by three American men in the early 1960s. They took the traditional Polynesian grass huts and set them on concrete stilts on the water, and called it “Tahitian television.” They quickly built more on the island of Moorea, and other hoteliers soon saw their attraction.
PLACES TO STAY Manava Beach Resort and Spa A unique part of the resort is the To’a Nui reserve, where corals regenerate in perfect conditions. It’s ideal for teaching kids about this fragile environment. Swim-up to the edge of the resort’s infinity swimming pool, or soak in the spa pool. Older children can learn scuba techniques at the diving school, or enjoy traditional Tahitian treatments at the Manea Spa. The resort has several types of overwater and garden bungalows. There’s a Polynesian dance show every Wednesday night, and on Saturday nights, the Mahana’i Restaurant becomes a showplace for traditional Tahitian dance and music. The resort is also walking distance to Maharepa Village and its various shops, cafés and restaurants.
Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa From Monday to Saturday, twice a day, children aged from four to 12 can run along to the Planet Trekkers Kids Club for some fun mixed with inspirational activities.
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There are loads of other things to do, including a dolphin centre and a special centre for treating sick and injured turtles. Paddle an outrigger canoe, ride a horse or head inland on an all-terrainvehicle. And even six-year-olds can go on the Aquablue Helmet Dive for a special underwater walk. There are overwater, garden and beach bungalows, and three restaurants. Or order room service for a family night in.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa The only five-star resort on Moorea, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa is a real treat for families. The magic starts with the surroundings. The resort sits on a spectacular crystal blue lagoon that’s sheltered and perfect for safe swimming and snorkelling. Families staying in an overwater bungalow can jump in right off the deck. And in the evening, the kids will love watching stingrays and sharks glide by. Back on land there is plenty more to do. Tennis, anyone? The resort has two courts that are free for all to use. Plus the kids can try their hand at other activities such as traditional weaving.
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BORA BORA No exaggeration. Flying into Bora Bora will be the most incredible plane trip your family will take. The collection of atolls below provide an introduction to the paradise that many families would love to tick off their bucket list. A great way to start your Bora Bora family holiday is to get on the Bora Bora Explorer Tour. The full-day excursion will give you a real taste of the area, the culture and most importantly, the people (not to mention some sharks). You’ll begin at a secluded snorkelling spot just inside the reef. In seconds you’ll be surrounded by schools of fish – eager to make the most of your guide’s fish food! Next stop, swimming with stingrays. The stingrays in this area have had their barbs removed, so provide no threat when dropping by. The fish food attracts them too and the stingrays will brush over feet and legs, and even come up to say ‘hi’ sometimes! Then it’s to the outside the reef and deeper water to swim with sharks. The most predominant sharks are the reef sharks, which generally speaking, are not interested in, or of any danger to humans. It’s incredible how quickly you relax once you’re in the water with them and it’s an incredible feeling to be so close to so many! Definitely one for ‘show and tell’ when the kids get home. Back on land, the family will love discovering Mount Otemanu on a guided hike or Jeep Safari tour. Or you can circle the island in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, stopping at local landmarks, villages and historic sites, and watch local artisans at work producing sarongs and other items. Make sure to visit the main village of Vaitape and shop at the local stalls and boutiques. Also, pick an evening to dine at Mai Kai Bora Bora or the legendary Bloody Mary’s for its great ambience - the family can feast on the catch of the day or on the vegetarian options.
PLACES TO STAY Bora Bora has become synonymous with overwater bungalows, lavishly appointed floating villas, often with glass floors so that guests can look down on the marine life below them. Most of the resort hotels on Bora Bora are built on their own tiny island, or motu, and families must order a boat if they want to leave the resort. But you probably won’t want to, as you can swim from your private deck, receive your room service order via an outrigger canoe, and spend your family holiday time in seclusion and opulent luxury.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui If your Bora Bora holiday brief includes private island luxury, long stretches of soft white sand and jaw-dropping views lagoon views, you’ll find this first-class combination at Conrad Bora Bora Nui. The resort sits on Motu To’opua, a lush island backdrop that is quite spectacular. The resort is superbly set up for families too. They have multiple family-friendly villa options with a garden, beach or overwater setting. The Tamari’i Kids Club is available for children aged four to 14 years old and includes a mini-golf course, outdoor play area plus indoor games for older kids. A babysitting service is available, and the resort has children’s menus and handy accessories like highchairs and cots for little ones. On top of all that, families can make the most of the resort’s many activities - swimming in the infinity pool, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and cruising on the bicycle boats or Hobie cats. Not to mention tennis, billiards, table tennis and beach volleyball! It’s all a family could ask for.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora proves that Bora Bora isn’t just for couples! The resort boasts a ‘state of the art’ Kids for All Seasons’ Clubhouse that features a splash pad and comes packed with games, movies and other activities — not to mention a steady supply of ripe local fruits and freshly squeezed juices. Outdoor activities include canoe rides on the stunning lagoon, fishing, hermit crab hunts and races, team sports, island-style fashion shows and limbo contests. Snorkelling with the resident marine biologist, introduction to scuba diving and Waverunners are also available for bigger kids. On top of that, teens get their very own space, Chill Island!
St Regis Bora Bora In keeping with its impeccably high standards, St Regis Bora Bora is home to a top-notch kids club with quality games, toys and a host of activities. The doors open from 9 am to 12 pm and again from 1 pm to 5.30 pm. The children get their own pool. Mum and Dad can make use of the resort’s babysitting services. And while there is no set kids activity schedule, the fully certified childcare staff are experts at keeping the little ones busy and smiling!
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N E V E R
S T A Y
J U S T
S T A Y .
I N S P I R E D .
Conde Nast Traveler 2019 Readers’ Choice Award: #4 Resort in Australia & The South Pacific and #1 in French Polynesia Conde Nast Traveler 2018 Readers' Choice Award: #8 Resort in Australia & The South Pacific Conde Nast Traveler 2018 Hot list of top hotel openings 2017 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award recipient
Adresse : BP502 Vaitape Bora Bora, 98730, Polynésie française Téléphone : +689 40 60 33 00 | cbbn_res@conradhotels.com
ASIA
EUROPE
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MIDDLE
CONRADHOTELS.COM
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#STAYINSPIRED
FAMILY FAVOURITES
Playing in paradise. The Galloway Family are a well-travelled bunch. They’ve ticked off most places in the Pacific, so when it came time for a school holiday escape, they picked a destination they’d never been as a family - picture-postcard Moorea.
Where did you go on your family holiday? The beautiful island of Moorea.
What made you pick this destination? As a family, we’ve been the most places around the Pacific, but the idea of going somewhere different was a big appeal. I’d been to Moorea before and loved it, but without the kids. I was sure they would love it too! Especially all the outdoor activities.
Which property did you stay at? Hilton Moorea Resort and Spa. The location is spectacular, and the beach is stunning. We also wanted to treat the kids to an overwater bungalow experience and the Hilton Moorea has some excellent options. As any parent knows, feeding hungry mouths is always a key consideration - so with three restaurants to choose from we had all the bases covered!
How old are your children? One girl (12) and one boy (10).
What did they and you love most about the island? The warm, crystal-clear water – the kids could stay in all day. And because we stayed in an overwater bungalow, we could dive straight in and swim or snorkel. The kids were also big fans of the French crepes for breakfast!
What were the top 3 family activities? Feeding the stingrays and sharks. Snorkelling with the tropical fish and coral. Belvedere Lookout - the view and photo opp!
What are your top tips for taking a family away to this island? Make sure you rent a car and explore the island. The local eateries, like Moorea Beach Cafe, serve delicious food and have picturesque locations. Don’t be afraid to feed stingrays - it’s a fun experience! Get the kids to practice their French pronunciations with the friendly staff at the Hilton Moorea.
Do you have plans to go back? Yes, we’d love to go back!
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FIJI
NANUKU AUBERGE RESORT, PACIFIC HARBOUR
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Running free
in Fiji
If there’s one Pacific Island destination that can offer a dream tropical holiday for mum, dad and the kids, it’s Fiji. From the stunning outer islands to mainland resorts big and small, to secret off-the-beaten-track getaways, Fiji gives families the ultimate freedom of choice.
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YASAWA ISLANDS © TOURISM FIJI
Do you want to take the kids to Fiji? First, you need to know where to start! There are so many fantastic options to pick from. It comes back to personal preference – decide what kind of experience the family would enjoy most and then match those expectations to your budget and timeframe. Each of Fiji’s popular tourist regions offers a different experience, and within those regions, each resort offers its unique take on the Fijian family holiday. The classic Fiji ‘island’ experience will lead you to the idyllic Mamanuca or Yasawa Island Groups. Families always love the chilled-out island vibe. The beaches are to die for. And as a rule, the island resorts are smaller, more intimate and less frantic than the large properties on Denarau Island and along the Coral Coast. If convenience is a priority, however, it’s hard to go past the resort line-up at Denarau Island. They’re all just a quick airport transfer away. Plus they have an endless array of activities on tap and dedicated kid’s clubs designed to keep every kid smiling. Drive an hour or so further and you’ll come to the Coral Coast. A place where families can enjoy the best of both worlds. Big resort fun, activities and facilities, along with a host of fascinating adventures in the surrounding countryside. If a family has time on their side and a thirst for exploration, places like Pacific Harbour (another 90 minutes drive past the Coral Coast), Savusavu on the island of Vanua Levu, or Taveuni Island might appeal. In Fiji, the world is your oyster. Just have to work out where you’d like to find your pearl.
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DENARAU ISLAND You have to take your hat off to the original developers of Denarau Island. Back in the early 1970s, they had the vision to reclaim this empty piece of coastal land outside Nadi and transform it into a major tourist destination. The first resort opened its doors in 1975, and the rest as they say is history! Today, Denarau is home to a string of large resorts. There is eight in total, each one sitting side by side. With a clear run on the new Nadi bypass road, a family can get through customs and be playing poolside 30 minutes later. Family holidays in the Pacific don’t come much easier. Denarau’s resorts are also home to some of the South Pacific’s best-equipped kids clubs. Each one offers a long list of activities that change daily. And the staff are exceptional with kids of all ages - sometimes you’d swear they are having more fun than the kids! Nannying services are also available. This service ticks the box for parents who’d like to have a little time to themselves. After all, family holidays shouldn’t just be about the kids! Another advantage of staying at Denarau is having easy access to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. If a family feels like a taste of the Fiji island experience, they can choose from numerous daytrips leaving from Port Denarau.
PLACES TO STAY Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa Sitting at the northern tip of Denarau is the Fiji Beach Resort & Spa managed by Hilton. Over the years, this quality resort has consistently been recognised as one of the top family stays in Fiji. The recognition is well deserved.
HILTON FIJI BEACH RESORT & SPA
The resort has a host of quality family facilities, such as the complimentary Kids Club, and accommodation that’s ideal for family groups – with spacious, two and three-bedroom options. The ground floor rooms are particularly convenient as the kids can walk straight outside and play on the resort’s wide grassy lawn out front. During the day, the kid’s activity team keep the young ones entertained with games of touch rugby on the beach, egg catching competitions, ice cream eating competitions and the like! Just listen out for the beating drums by the pool. The signal that the fun and games are about to begin! The addition of the Koro adults-only area has also reduced the ‘busy-ness’ around the resort’s main pool area. There’s still a buzz of people, but with many couples choosing the quieter option at Koro, pool time is more chilled.
Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Radisson Blu Resort is another place where the fun never ends. The entertainment is led by the famous ‘Banana Boys’ activities crew who are experts at keeping hordes of Kiwi and Aussie kids smiling!
RADISSON BLU RESORT FIJI © GERRY O’LEARY
Treasure hunts, touch footy and pool volleyball, are just a few of the activities on offer and the ‘Bananas’ love it just as much as the kids. Radisson Blu is also a resort where staff tend to stay on year-after-year, so every return visit becomes like a big reunion and basically the fun starts where it left off last time. The lively atmosphere means it’s easy for kids to make new ‘best’ friends too. In next to no time they’ll be running around with kids they’ve only just met – having a bundle of fun and keeping themselves happily entertained - without a screen in sight!
Sheraton Denarau Villas Very few properties have accommodation as family-friendly as Sheraton Denarau Villas. The one, two and three-bedroom apartment-style options come with a long list of features that include a washing machine and dryer (guaranteed to put a smile on parents faces). The rooms also have a fully-equipped kitchen with a full-sized fridge, microwave and cooktop. Plus there’s a convenience store and mini food market directly in front of the resort. The cooking facilities are ideal for families that don’t want to eat every meal in the restaurant. Cooking the occasional meal in-room can save a few dollars too.
SHERATON DENARAU VILLAS
And it’s nice being able to whip up a quick snack when kids tummies start rumbling. Add unlimited access to the facilities next door at the sister property, Sheraton Fiji Resort, and what you have is the ultimate in Denarau family convenience.
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SOFITEL FIJI RESORT AND SPA
Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa Sofitel was the first resort in Denarau to create an adults-only beach club - a dedicated space where grown-ups could make the most of their holiday. Now they’ve created the Denarau’s first beach club for kids aged 3-12 years old! Niu Beach Club is located directly on the beach on the family side of the resort and is the first kids club of its kind on mainland Fiji. It will no doubt be a hit with families for years to come! There are seven different interactive ‘fun zones’, i.e. there is something that every kid will love. These include Wet & Wild,
Splash & Play, Artist in Residence, The Chill Zone, Simple Pleasures, the Islander Cabana, along with a Climbing Wall and Trampoline area on the beach. Niu Beach Club will be open for three sessions per day - 9 am till 12 pm, 2 pm till 5 pm and 7 pm till 10 pm. Each session is priced from $25.00. And while they’re at the Niu Beach Club, they’ll be able to enjoy complimentary sunscreen, water and fresh fruit snacks. On top of that, kids will be able to enjoy all the other kids activities that resort offers, including the regular kids club action, the kids pools and the kids waterslide!
DENARAU ACTIVITIES Quad Bike Adventures The Nadi countryside was made for off-road adventure, and there’s no better way to see it than on a quad bike tour. Go Dirty Tours are the local experts. They offer four quad tour options. Depending on your choice highlights will include a ride past the biggest Hindu Temple in the South Pacific, zipping through cane fields, climbing the pine forest mountainside to Nadi’s mountain plateau and a cultural experience at Nawaqadamu Village. Adrenalin mixed with adventure - it’s a buzz!
Big Bula Waterpark For a day of slip-sliding fun, head to the Big Bula Waterpark next to the Denarau Golf Course. Kids will love the adrenalin-pumping speed slides and corkscrew twisters. Plus, there’s a huge inflatable play section with obstacle courses, surf rides and an abundance of other games to keep the kids entertained. And they have a dedicated area for the younger ones. The water park operates all year round, and although it’s perfect for the kids, adults will enjoy it just as much!
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GO DIRTY TOURS
New Memories
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Enjoy a wide range of activities for the entire family. Kids club, kids pool, water slides, water basketball and daily activities entertain younger family members all day. Parents and adults enjoy the sanctuary of the adults-only area with daily activities, restaurant, bars and adults-only pools.
For more information please contact hiltonfiji.events@hilton.com
PLANTATION ISLAND RESORT
THE MAMANUCAS
PLACES TO STAY
When you picture a dream destination for a tropical family holiday, it probably goes something like this - crystal clear waters, swaying palm trees, white sand beaches, and lazy days under the warm sun. In Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, the dream is real!
Plantation Island Resort
Although there are several adults-only resorts in the Mamanuca Group, the majority are family-friendly. There is also a range of resorts to suit most family budgets, and even the most affordable have the picture-perfect setting the families seek.
A family stay here is action-packed to say the least! There is a long list of highlights, but one standout is the resort’s inflatable water park. Each day it’s action central, with six sections that include a spring-free aqua-trampoline and various climbing towers – your children will not want to leave the water, and they’ll soon find other friends to splash away with too!
Each resort will offer a myriad of activities, and if you’d like to venture further afield, it’s easy to do that too. Snorkelling tours, surf trips out to the waves around Cloudbreak, jet ski tours and visits to local villages are all memorable adventures a family can enjoy together. For families landing at Nadi International Airport, island transfers are a breeze too. South Seas ferries have multiple sailings from Port Denarau each day. If you’d prefer to do your own thing, you can also charter a private water taxi. Or if the budget can stretch, families can go the aerial route by helicopter or seaplane. It’s under 15 minutes flight time to most Mamanuca resorts, and the birds-eye-view is quite incredible. But regardless of how you get there, the resorts of the Mamanuca Group offer pure island-style relaxation and family fun in the sun.
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Plantation Island Resort offers a five-star location at a familyfriendly price. A magical mix that’s made it one of the most popular family resorts in Fiji.
The Coconut Kids Club runs three sessions during the day, the first one begins at 10.30 am, and the last one finishes at 8.30 pm – the kids are guaranteed to sleep well after a day of Plantation fun. Then add in other activities like boat making, soccer, talent quest, water polo, crab racing, spoon diving, mini putt golf and kid’s will have a full schedule. For a little family exercise, there’s a fleet of bicycles (Bula Bikes) to explore the island on, plus the resort has two outdoor playgrounds – one for the little ones and one for the big kids. Don’t worry, mum and dad can get their downtime too – make use of the childminding service or the 24-hour nanny service if you’d like around the clock assistance!
Musket Cove
Island Resort and Marina There’s an uncrowded island hideaway in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, fast growing in popularity as an attractive holiday destination for families. Musket Cove Island Resort and Marina, with its acres of tropical gardens and palmfringed beaches, offers a gorgeous getaway for those wanting a relaxing escape at a resort that meets the needs of the whole family. As our lives get busier, spending time together as a family becomes a highly valued commodity, and so when you are choosing the destination, you want it to be somewhere you’ll all love. With adult-only, and age-restricted areas, as well as ample space and activities for children, Musket Cove offers a place for adults to chill out and soak up the tropical island sun knowing the kids are also having a blast. During the day, children can get involved in organised activities designed with their ages and interests in mind. During the school holidays, there’s even more on offer, with supervised kids dinners, night games and movie nights, all with a leaning toward Fiji culture. And for those wanting a more personalised child care service, there is also child-minding available.
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There’s ample opportunity to engage in family activities together. Go snorkelling, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding; take a bike ride around the kilometres of sandy paths or book a cruise around the neighbouring islands to experience the crystal clear reefs and spot playing dolphins, Musket Cove offers a range of restaurants and cafes to suit your families culinary needs. Try poolside dining at Dick’s Place, where Chef Gareth takes pride in his dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and his popular themed weeknight buffets. Check out the Trader Cafe on the edge of the marina for casual all-day breakfast, gourmet pizzas, pies and ice creams or cook your own BBQ at the Yacht Club Island Bar. And on your kid-free nights, treat yourself with one of the private-dining options on offer. Whether your day has been spent exploring the island or lying poolside, you’ll sleep well in one of the air-conditioned garden bures, spaced amongst the lush gardens and open plan lawn. All the bures are within a two-minute stroll to the resort facilities and main pool and have a spacious, open plan layout with high vaulted ceilings, a large bathroom and a king and two single beds. Musket Cove offers a place for the whole family to relax, soak up the beauty of the uncrowded island and make memories together away from the distractions of everyday life, at a pace you won’t forget.
Your Fiji island paradise awaits...
BLUE LAGOON CRUISES
Book 4 or more two bedroom island villas -
receive one group family bbq for FREE inquiries@musketcovefiji.com | musketcovefiji.com
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Castaway Island Resort One of Fiji’s first island resorts, Castaway Island Resort is a long-time favourite for families. So what makes Castaway so unique? Where do we start! The stunning main beach has soft white sand, the water is crystal clear, and because the beach faces northwest, it’s sheltered from the trade winds that often blow during the day. In other words, Castaway offers safe, picture-perfect swimming for kids and adults alike. Older children can help themselves to the kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling gear and explore the rich coral reef system just offshore. And on a low tide (when reef becomes more exposed), kids can migrate to resort’s dedicated kids pool. Being a smaller resort, Castaway has a friendly vibe, and for the kids, it’s super easy making new friends at the kids club, pool or just exploring the resort. Accommodation options are also well set up for families, in particular, the beachfront family bures which can sleep mum, dad and three kids with ease.
Musket Cove Island Resort and Marina Rustic, relaxed and spacious, Musket Cove is another top spot for families. The resort offers a wide variety of organised daily activities. And they tailor these activities to suit the age of the children staying at the resort. During school holidays, they also offer supervised kids dinners, night games and movie nights. Otherwise, there is plenty more to keep the kids occupied. The daily low tide sandbank snorkelling trip, kayaking, guided medicine walks and island treks, cooking classes and Fiji cultural displays such as basket weaving, coconut husking are just some of the activities on offer. And they’re free!
MUSKET COVE ISLAND RESORT AND MARINA
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CASTAWAY ISLAND RESORT
Musket Cove has some fantastic family accommodation too. They have ten two-bedroom waters edge villas which are situated on a private island. The villas also share a pool and BBQ area too. And inside, each villa features two identical bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. And they come with a living room, kitchenette and large outdoor covered terrace. In short, there is plenty of space for families to stretch out! An added bonus is ‘The Trader’ - Musket Cove’s convenience store which offers a complete range of groceries for families who want to prepare their own meals. Fresh fruit and vegetables are stocked daily, fresh bread, milk and eggs are available. Along with cheese, yoghurt, meat, chicken and frozen foods, canned products, chocolate, sweets, ice creams, ice blocks and cold drinks!
Malolo Island Resort
MUSKET COVE ISLAND RESORT AND MARINA
Malolo Island Resort is another property that’s consistently rated as a top family resort. Malolo’s appeal is undeniable. There’s a separate kids pool, an innovative children’s club programme, an entertainment lounge and a dining area for children 13 years and older. The kids club in Tia’s Treehouse, set on the hillside under an enormous mango tree, is always a hive of activity. It’s home to a host of equipment and games and has a fully fenced playground. Malolo’s Yanu Yanu programme is also a real feature and gives children the chance to experience the life of an islander for one or two days, or a whole week! Free for children between four and 12 years old, the programme mixes Fijian fun, while teaching real environmental issues, and the history of Malolo. Kids can also meet the local iguanas that have called Malolo home for longer than anyone!
CASTAWAY ISLAND RESORT
MALOLO ISLAND RESORT
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Mana Island Resort & Spa Another glorious Mamanuca island. Another fantastic family escape. Sitting amongst more than 300 acres of lush tropical beauty, Mana Island Resort is a vast playground for families. The natural highlights are the three separate beaches that provide endless opportunities for snorkelling, swimming and every other water-based activity you can think of. Mana has several unique features that parents will appreciate. In the Mamanuca Restaurant, they’ve set up a separate play area for kids under six. And during breakfast service, kids club staff come in and look after the little ones, so that mum and dad can actually sit down, relax and enjoy their first meal of the day! Otherwise, the Tu Vonu Kids Club has a full schedule of kids activities and events. And should a babysitter be required, an inroom service is available, along with the Mei Mei Baby Care Centre - a creche where infants ages up to two-years-old are cared for, for up to five hours at a time.
Treasure Island Resort A small tropical island surrounded by flawless white sand beaches and colourful coral reef - Treasure Island Resort provides an outstanding Fiji island family experience. With such a pristine marine environment on your doorstep, it’s no surprise that most holiday action takes place on the water with superb snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding happening just off the beach.
MANA ISLAND RESORT
The organised kids activities take place at Little Treasures. The timetable is packed – fish feeding, handline fishing, mini-golf, t-shirt painting, crab racing, treasure hunts are just the tip of the iceberg (or shall we say island). The kids will also love visiting Treasure Island’s on-site turtle rehabilitation centre. The resort puts a lot of effort into marine conservation and education, and visiting youngsters are actively encouraged to join in. If a family is lucky enough to be there when a group of baby Hawksbill Turtles are released into the ocean, it’s a special moment they won’t forget.
Six Senses Fiji Well established through Asia and the Middle East, Six Senses has quickly grown its reputation since opening in 2018. Its brand promises sustainable luxury, and that is precisely what it delivers. Sitting on a sweeping stretch of white sand beach on Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Group, the surroundings are a playground for kids.
TREASURE ISLAND RESORT
Swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling in clear blue waters are the go-to activities. And there’s even a chance of spotting (harmless) back tip reef sharks which breed around the fringing coral reef! The resort’s infinity pool overlooks the beach. Plus, each room comes with a private pool, so there are swimming options around every corner. And because most guests tend to switch between the two, the main swimming pool is never too packed. The resort’s kids club is well set up and the staff do a fantastic job entertaining the children. Plus there are lots of other highlights that kids will love. The resort’s ice cream stand serves free ice cream between 11am and 1pm – it’s like all their Christmas’ have come at once! There’s a funky outdoor cinema where the kids can lie back on beanbags and take in a movie. There’s a resident artist who runs daily painting lessons. Plus the pizza-making lesson (and eating) is a big hit. Just like the resort itself.
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SIX SENSES FIJI
Vomo Island Taking a family away can soon add up, but when the budget can stretch, premium resorts such as Vomo Island can mix 5-star luxury with an unforgettable family experience. Welcoming families all-year-around, Vomo has a purpose-built, air-conditioned Kids Village that’s open from 9 am to 9 pm. The quality is obvious. For example, the toys are wooden and beautifully made, rather than cheap and plastic. There’s a media room, undercover play areas, outdoor climbing frames, craft tables, dress-up wardrobes and an impeccably clean dining area. The Kids Village even has a dedicated chef! They prepare a delicious array of healthy, delicious cuisine. In most cases, little ones eat breakfast with their family, but more often than not, they’ll dine with their Vomo buddies for the evening meal. As you would expect, Vomo’s service levels are exceptional, and so is the standard of childcare. The resort’s ‘baby butlers’ are naturals with the young ones, and there’s a polish and professionalism to everything they do.
VOMO ISLAND
Fiji Hideaway Resort & Spa Coral Coast. This resort offers an island atmosphere on mainland Coral Coast, a 90 minute transfer from Nadi International Airport. With accommodation options ranging from family Frangipani Bures to romantic Ocean View Bures or Beachfront Villas, all perfectly positioned amongst a palm-lined beachfront, facing the ocean, ideal for couples and family alike. Vuda. A boutique luxury resort with a variety of suites and bures located halfway between the township of Nadi and
Lautoka and only 20 minutes away from the Nadi International Airport. The Vuda Point Marina is only a few minutes away from the resort offering easy access to the island resorts, fishing, sailing and cruising.
P: (+679) 6500 177 E: reservations@hideaway.com.fj Sigatoka, Coral Coast, Fiji www.hideawayfiji.com
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FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY
FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY
FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay Serene and secluded, the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is one of the newest properties in Fiji. The luxury hotel opened in April 2017. And in keeping with its five-star standards, Momi Bay has created a host of first-class family-friendly facilities. For non-stop entertainment, the Turtles Kids Club is the place to be. Complimentary for kids four to 12 years old, it features spacious indoor and outdoor play areas where the young ones can play to their heart’s content. The adventure playground with slides, swings and places to climb has proved a big hit, and there’s also a long list of activities to entertain and educate the kids. Kids can get a taste of Fijian culture through traditional crafts (such as basket weaving), can learn how to husk a coconut and there are marine education sessions and even Fijian language classes that take them a step beyond your every day “Bula!”
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The children also have their own designated pool – complete with wind-up water cannons. The action doesn’t stop at night either. The resort offers an evening kids club programme from 6pm to 10pm, where kids can enjoy disco nights or a movie with popcorn. In terms of family-friendly accommodation options, there are interconnecting rooms available in the Deluxe Lagoon View rooms and Deluxe Lagoon Front rooms – these give everyone enough space to enjoy their holiday! It should also be said the parents can have a pretty good time too! Especially if they can escape the little ones for an hour or two. The swim-up bar is a top spot for enjoying a cocktail. And Mums can rest and rejuvenate at Quan Spa while they’re away from their family. Now that’s family bliss.
LO OKS VERY ADULT PERFECT FOR KIDS
T R AV E L B R I L L I A N T LY F I J I M A R R I O T T R E S O RT M O M I B AY Savusavu Road, Momi Bay, Viti Levu, Fiji P +679 670 7000 | E momibay.reservations@marriott.com www.fijimarriott.com
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FIJI HIDEAWAY RESORT AND SPA
CORAL COAST Drive an hour or so south of Nadi and you’ll come to Fiji’s Coral Coast. The area is a hotspot for families that love the convenience, facilities and activities of larger resorts. But also those that enjoy exploring the many natural attractions in the local area. When families stay in Denarau, it’s quite common for them to spend the whole time at the resort. On the Coral Coast, it’s a different story. The Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Sigatoka River Safari, Tavuni Hill Fort and Kula Wild Adventure Park are Coral Coast highlights. And visitors also have the chance to soak up the real Fiji at any number of villages along this 80 kilometre stretch of coast. If a family were to choose one, a visit to Sigatoka Town is a must. The bustling centre is always full of activity, and it’s fun browsing the shops and food stalls alongside the friendly locals.
PLACES TO STAY Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay Serene and secluded, the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay has built a fine reputation since opening in April 2017. In keeping with its 5-star standards, the resort created first-class children’s facilities. Turtles Kid’s Club features spacious indoor and outdoor play areas where the young ones can play to heart’s content on an adventure playground with slides, swings and places to climb. There’s a long list of activities such as basket weaving, coconut husking and pirate ship making. The children also have a
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designated pool – complete with wind-up water cannons. And in terms of family-friendly accommodation options, there are interconnecting rooms available in Deluxe Lagoon View Rooms and Deluxe Lagoon Front Rooms, which gives everyone enough space to enjoy their holiday!
Fiji Hideaway Resort and Spa Hideaway by name, hideaway by nature! For families that prefer smaller resorts with a relaxed, under-the-radar feel, Fiji Hideaway Resort and Spa provides a serene beachfront setting where families can unplug from the daily rush. Watersports are a real highlight, with fantastic snorkelling right off the beach. You can also grab a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters to your heart’s content. There’s even a surf break paddling distance from shore. Back on land, the Hermit Crab Kids Club is full of fun activities – hand-line fishing, hermit carb catching, snorkelling lessons, coconut weaving and treasure – to name just a few. The kids club caters for children up to 12 years old – and it’s free. The resort also prides itself on providing a ‘Real Fiji’ experience. Many of the staff come from nearby Sekoula Village, and there are plenty of opportunities for families to immerse in their local culture. A must-do is the village school visit. This is an eye-opener for Kiwi and Aussie kids used to modern classroom spaces. It’s also a chance to give back by donating small gifts, such and pens and books. The smiles from the local children will tell you all you need to know. Also, don’t miss the children’s village choir when they entertain at the resort - the voices will melt your heart.
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa For a big resort family getaway, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is tough to beat. The clear blue waters of Natadola Beach are a huge drawcard, with safe swimming, kayaking and snorkelling for the whole family. Inside the resort, the family pool is also extra impressive. Measuring 105 metres in length, it’s one of the biggest pools in Fiji. And because it’s only 80cm deep at its deepest spot - i.e. it’s one safe, super-sized watery playground! The Planet Trekkers Kids Club is also an excellent spot for the younger ones. The facility is divided into two areas – one for 4-7 yearolds and one for 8-12 year-olds. They have all the regular activities like crab racing, hair braiding and on top of that, there’s a games room kitted out with a pool table, fussball, air hockey and half a dozen PS3s. Most kids will prefer hanging at the beach or pool, but on a rainy day, the games room comes in to its own.
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort A great resort will recognise that different customers want different things. With families, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort has taken this concept and run with it! Instead of having one or two different sets of kids activities, Outrigger has created three programmes to suit its young clientele. Little Riggers is for kids aged between three and seven, and Beach Riggers is for the eight to 12-year-olds. That way, children don’t get stuck doing anything they’re too ‘old’ or ‘young’ for!
OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH RESORT
SHANGRI-LA FIJI RESORT AND SPA
For example, Little Riggers might relax with Groovy Movie Time or do a colouring-in competition, while Beach Riggers might dance away at the Riggers Disco, or visit the Kula Eco Park to meet a green iguana! For teens (13+ years), an Outrigger holiday is one big fun adventure. Making spears, an excursion to the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, a tour of the Tavuni Hill Fort, hikes to Bebe Hill or the Enchanted Pool are just some of the activities on offer. And to give teens a perspective on local life, there’s even a student exchange trip to a local Fijian high school.
Shangri-La Fijian Resort and Spa Swing off the main Coral Coast road, drive over a short causeway and you’ll come to Yanuca Island, a private island that’s home to Shangri-La Fijian Resort and Spa. Little Chiefs Club at the Shangri-La is kids central. Their mission – to entertain children with loads of fun activities while parents can relax. The resort’s surroundings provide plenty of places to play, with many activities taking place around the children’s pool and on the beach. Plus there’s a children’s playground that gets plenty of use. Otherwise, there is a ton for kids to do - coconut boat races, pottery making, scavenger hunt, crab races, Fijian singing lessons, climbing contests and mini olympics. In other words, the fun never stops!
FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY
INTERCONTINENTAL FIJI GOLF RESORT & SPA
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The Naviti Resort Set on 38 acres of prime Coral Coast beachfront, Naviti Resort is a place where families can enjoy a true Fijian family escape. If action-packed holidays are on the agenda, this is the place to be! The beach and sheltered lagoon waters are an aquatic playground with kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboards, windsurfing and snorkelling on offer. There’s even a coral viewing cruise for families that prefer to stay dry! Back on land, there’s beach and pool volleyball, archery, weaving demonstrations, tennis courts, a 9-hole golf course, pool tables and table tennis. After all that activity, mum and dad might like to book a massage at the Joy Spa. With the Ratu and Adi Vonu Kids Club onsite parents can also get a little downtime while the kids club staff keep their little ones entertained. The kids club is set up for 5 to 12-year-olds. Under 5-year-olds are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult or babysitter. The handy location is also close to Coral Coast highlights, like the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, Biausevu Waterfalls and Kula Wildlife Park. Another fantastic family-friendly feature is the resort’s all inclusive packages that include breakfast, lunch and dinner at appointed restaurants - with two children 12 and under receiving all meals from the kid’s menu. Plus you get unlimited house wine, local spirits, soft drinks and juices from the bar. Cheers to that!
THE NAVITI RESORT
© TOURISM FIJI
Sigatoka Sand Dunes You’ll find these towering dunes near the mouth of the Sigatoka River – they are one of Fiji’s finest natural highlights – and that’s saying something! The dunes formed over millions of years – sediment from the Sigatoka River was washed ashore and then blown into its current state by the prevailing coastal winds. The numbers are impressive - 5km long, up to 1km wide and up to 60m high! The dunes are also an important archaeological site – ancient pottery (dating more than 2600 years old) has been found here, along with one of the largest burial sites in the Pacific. If you do stumble across some bones, pay respect by leaving them alone.
Tavuni Hill Fort Like many nations, Fiji had periods of warfare. On the Coral Coast families can see some of those remnants for themselves. Tavuni Hill Fort was built in the 18th century by Tongan chief Maile Latumai. When you visit the site, you can see his thinking. Perched on a 90m-high limestone ridge at a bend in the Sigatoka River, the fort provided sweeping views of the surrounding valley, upstream and downstream. You’ll also see the earthworks where houses were built and the terraces which were used for barricades. There’s even a vatu ni bokola (headchopping stone) where some unfortunate souls met a grisly end!
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© TOURISM FIJI
— R ADIS SON BLU FEEL THE DIFFERENCE IN OUR NEWLY RENOVATED ROOMS AND SUITES. For booking enquiries, please email reservations@radissonfiji.com or call +679 675 6677
FIJI , DE NAR AU — Enjoy our spacious suites offering full kitchen, laundry facilities and a balcony with stunning views. Our suites are perfectly designed for families, book now!
Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island P.O. Box PD 141, Port Denarau, Fiji Islands T: +679 675 6677 reservations@radissonfiji.com
radissonhotels.com/blu
TAKING THE FAMILY FURTHER AFIELD If you take the time to look outside the most popular parts of Fiji, there are some exceptional places to take the family. Here are a few of our top picks to get you started.
PLACES TO STAY Garden Island Resort, Taveuni The further you go off the beaten track, the more relaxed and authentic your travel experience becomes. Fiji is no exception. Taveuni is Fiji’s third-largest island and only a 90-minute flight from Nadi. It’s home to lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls and arguably Fiji’s most vibrant marine environment. Families who make an effort to explore Taveuni will be rewarded with the kind of experience that mainstream travellers could only dream about. And one of the best places to take it all in is Garden Island Resort.
GARDEN ISLAND RESORT, TAVEUNI
PARADISEIsland COVE BEACH Garden Resort is a favourite with visiting divers, but it would be a mistake to pigeonhole Garden Island as a ‘diver’s resort’. Anyone that has woken up to the resort’s panoramic ocean views will testify to that!
The resort provides families with easy access to Taveuni’s vast unspoilt beauty. The island’s national park is one of Fiji’s treasures and there you’ll find any number of secluded spots. You can take in the surrounding landscape on horseback, enjoy natural waterslides and waterfalls, visit the local villages or head down to the water sports centre to go kayaking or snorkelling. In a nutshell, Garden Island Resort provides the perfect base to explore Taveuni. If you have a thirst for adventure, there is something for everyone.
Paradise Cove Resort, The Yasawa Islands Yasawa locals will proudly tell you that of all the beautiful places in Fiji, they have the clearest, blue water. After swimming in them, it’s hard to argue! Which makes a spot like Paradise Cove Resort a fantastic experience for a family of water babies. This resort sits on the edge of an outstanding beach. Safe for little ones, and out deeper there is plenty of coral for older kids to snorkel around. Plus of course, there’s a family pool up off the beach. The kids club provides plenty of entertainment for the little ones and being a smaller resort the older kids make new friends with ease – so they pretty much look after themselves. Paradise Cove also has an adults-only area with two pools, and it’s own bar, so if mum and dad do have a little downtime, they can walk down the path and soak up some peace and quiet.
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PARADISE COVE RESORT
YASAWA ISLANDS © TOURISM FIJI
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Nanuku Auberge Resort, Pacific Harbour Families searching for true luxury escape will find it at Nanuku Auberge Resort at Pacific Harbour. The adventures begin with a host of family-oriented excursions and activities. It’s all about families having fun together and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. From sky-high adventures by helicopter to scenic hikes through waterfalls, families can create the perfect getaway tailored especially to them. And if a family wants to plan something unique, the resort concierge is on-hand to organise and help manage itineraries, transportation and activities both at the resort and around the islands. For younger kids, there’s Lailai Kids Club, which offers a huge range of daily activities including arts, craft, watersports, games and cultural learning. And older children can pair up with buddies (Nanuku staff), who are experts at making sure teens have the adventure of a lifetime. The resort also has a host of complimentary kids necessities such as strollers, prams, car seats, high chairs, cot and other special baby amenities – which means parents don’t have to cart all the gear back and forth through airports.
NANUKU AUBERGE RESORT, PACIFIC HARBOUR
Day tripping with South Seas Cruises For families that prefer to base themselves on the mainland, South Seas Cruises offer some superb day trips that are great for families and give them a taste of the outer island experience. One of the most popular family-friendly cruises is the full day (7-hour) or half-day (4-hour) cruise to South Sea Island. Just an easy 30-minute ferry ride from Denarau Marina, South Sea Island is surrounded by coral reef, colourful fish and the kind of crystal clear water that makes snorkelling so much fun for the whole family. Families can also make use of the islands saltwater swimming pool, plus all non-motorised watersports equipment is available to use free of charge – including paddleboards and kayaks. Bigger kids (and adults) can also get their first taste of scuba diving. The ‘Discover Scuba’ introduction course starts in the pool, where the basic skills are learned. And then moves to the coral gardens surrounding the island. For families with really small kids, there’s the ‘Finding Nemo’ cruise - a short two hour South Sea Island experience. Guests can see the vibrant underwater world of the Marine Sanctuary from the comfort of the South Seas semi-submersible vessel Coral Explorer. Afterwards, there’s time to relax ashore, go kayaking or go for a swim or snorkel. At a total of three hours (including the 30-minute trip each way), this shorter but highly entertaining cruise is ideal for those with younger families, and who knows, they might just find Nemo!
SOUTH SEAS CRUISES
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ay id ol h y il m fa n ia ij F al re a of y jo e th r Discove
The Naviti Resort is one of those places that offers families the very best of both worlds. If you’re coming to Fiji to relax and enjoy some quality time together, you’ll find that peace amongst the wide-open spaces of this lush 38-acre paradise. Pick a quiet spot on the beach and make the most of the tranquil lagoon waters - swimming, snorkelling and soaking up the sun. If your aim is an action-packed family adventure, The Naviti Resort has every base covered too. From paddleboarding and windsurfing, to tennis, golf and volleyball, the fun never stops. Plus the kids club has a huge variety of organised activities for children under 12. Entertainment is guaranteed, while parents can make the most of their downtime. Add in spacious family-friendly room options, four fine eateries and staff that are experts at keeping everyone smiling - and what you have is the joy of a real Fiji holiday.
www.warwickhotels.com/the-naviti-resort
All-inclusive family package includes: Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at appointed restaurants with two children 12 and under receiving all meals from the kid’s menu. Unlimited house wine, local spirits, soft drinks and juices from the bar.
FAMILY FAVOURITES
Island adventures. This family of Fiji holiday regulars wanted to go to a spot in Fiji they’d never been before. They picked the island resort experience of Plantation Island Resort and had a ball.
What made you pick Fiji for your family holiday? Fiji has been one of our regular holiday spots for some time, so it was more about trying a new Fijian experience.
Which property did you stay at? Plantation Island Resort in the Mamanuca Group.
What was reason for choosing it? We did some research, read some reviews and Plantation Island Resort looked like a top spot – particularly the floating water park for the kids. There were lots of activities for the kids, the resort was big and had three pools. And obviously Fiji’s warm sunny weather makes you feel so good.
How old are your children? My son Rocco is eight and my daughter Mila is six.
What did you love most about the island? Different things. My son loved the inflatable water park, my daughter spent most of her time snorkelling and kayaking. I loved the weather and my husband really loved the surfing and the layout of the resort. There was something for everyone.
What were your top three family activities? 1. Snorkelling 2. Inflatable Water Park 3. Swimming in the sea.
Do you have plans to go back? Yes, we can’t wait for our trip next year.
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Phillipps Family
Let the games begin!
Say bula to six zones of fun at the Niu Beach Club In a destination that’s renowned for its fun family activities, Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa has taken kids entertainment to a whole new level! The new Niu Beach Club is a state-of-the-art facility where children 3-12 years old can play run, climb, create and splash to their hearts content. Kids have access to six interactive play zones - Wet & Wild, Splash & Play, Artist in Residence, The Chill Zone, Simple Pleasures, the Islander Cabana, along with a Climbing Wall and Trampoline area. All the action takes place right on the beach, so they get plenty of fresh air and sunshine too. Plus it’s easy for mum or dad to check in on them whenever they want – which means everyone will be smiling.
reservations@sofitelfiji.com.fj | www.sofitel-fiji.com
SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
Bula from Epi
Hilton Beach Resort and Spa Kids Club Manager What is the name of your Kids Club? Ika Kids Club How long have you worked there?
warmth that we have with the kids and families and the care that we give to the children is very special.
13 years and 6 months.
How do you cater to children of different ages?
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
We have different sets of activities for older kids at the poolside and the younger kids at the kids club. No one is left out.
When the children do not want to leave! To me, it shows that we’ve made them very comfortable in the kids club surroundings, and they are enjoying all the activities we organise.
What do you find most challenging? We get children from all walks of life and sometimes pleasing everyone can be a challenge. However, our team handle this with fun and humour and kids soon forget about their mums and dads and start having fun together.
Is there an activity that children love most? Mostly, the activities that have something to do with getting wet… or water! They just love it.
What makes your Kids Club unique? The ambience - we create a super friendly environment. The
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How do you put parents at ease? A lot has to do with the assurance we give to parents that their children are in safe hands. We care about the children as if they are our own. We are very flexible with activities and we go out of our way to ensure that the children are taken care of properly. Through word of mouth, parents talk about us to other parents and they all start coming to the kids club and enjoying the activities and the nanny services.
Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? We hope to extend and have an indoor teen’s area to add on things like play station, table tennis and fussball. There is so much we would love to do but for now – plans would be to continue to be a place kids love to come to every day during their holidays.
FAMILY FIJI FUN ON REEF ENDEAVOUR! Take the family on a cultural voyage of discovery and fun and experience Fijian culture, idyllic beaches and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the South Pacific on Captain Cook Cruises three, four, seven or eleven-night Fiji Island or remote discovery cruises. For a truly heart-warming cultural experience for the whole family, visit remote Fijian villages and schools where the kids will love meeting the local children, seeing their classrooms and even playing some rugby on the beach. As a family enjoy a Fijian church service and partake in a traditional village Sevusevu ceremony, Meke and Lovo feast. Families will have hours of fun in the water each day kayaking, swimming, snorkelling and learning about marine life on a glass bottom boat ride. The whole family can learn to scuba dive, with diving operated onboard by Viti Water Sports, a PADI5 Star Dive Centre. Children under eight can even do the Padi Bubblemaker program which teaches children to breath underwater (with scuba gear) and swim in shallow water. Onboard the 130-passenger, fully accommodated MV Reef Endeavour, a complimentary Captain’s Kid’s Club operates daily
for children 5-9 years, between 9.00 am and 12 noon, 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm. Children can dine in the dining room at 6pm under Kids Club supervision and have a special kids menu featuring a variety of options like, burgers, pizza, fish, salads, fried rice and pastas. Dinner is followed by fun activities for the kids and a movie. Families can be pampered at the ship’s Senikai Day Spa, featuring a KIDZPA menu, kids can watch movies or play games in the library or swim in the ship’s pool or jacuzzi while mum and dad enjoy a cocktail, or simply watch the spectacular scenery pass by. The MV Reef Endeavour offers a range of family accommodation from family Porthole cabins that sleep four to inter-connecting Ocean family staterooms with child rates available for kids ages 5-17 years. Cruises are designed for children five years and over and families can save up to 20% off the normal fare when booking any cruise 30 days before the departure date, with Early Booking Saving fares. Visit www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com
Book early &
F I J I ’ S
C R U I S E
L I N E
SAVE 20%*
FIJI DISCOVERY CRUISES Take the whole family on a voyage of discovery and fun around the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands or remote Northern Fiji aboard the 130-passenger, MV Reef Endeavour.
captaincookcruisesfiji.com
*Valid on 3, 4, 7 & 11 night cruises departing Port Denarau twice weekly to 31 March 2021. Valid for sale until 31 March 2021 on new bookings only. Limited availability on each departure. Quote EBS20 to book. Children under 5 yrs are not permitted. EBS fares are capacity controlled and subject to availability.
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HAWAI’I
Island hopping
adventures
HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE WAIKIKI BEACH RESORT
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WAIKIKI AQUARIUM © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - TOR JOHNSON
HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, ISLAND OF HAWAII © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - HEATHER GOODMAN
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Hawaii is one of those destinations that offers a supreme amount of choice. The four ‘main’ islands for family holidays are O’ahu (where you’ll first land), the island of Hawaii (Big Island), Maui and Kauai. The sheer variety on offer is amazing and each island has outstanding attractions with their own unique feel. It’s just a matter of deciding how long you’d like to go for and then narrowing down the places you’d like to see and stay. Regardless of what you choose, your family will have a blast!
O’AHU Waikiki Beach and around Waikiki Beach, overlooked by the volcanic peak of Diamond Head, is one of the most iconic beaches in the world. It’s been a magnet for visitors since the very first hotels graced its golden shores and today it continues to pull people from every corner of the globe. While there are plenty of onshore distractions (cafes, restaurants, shops), the first stop for any family should the beach! That sweep of golden sand has gentle rolling surf which is perfect for kids that want their first taste of wave riding. The team at Aloha Beach Service can rent you all a board, paddleboard or body board, along with beach chairs and umbrellas too. They also offer surf lessons (group, semi-private and private) that will have the kids up and riding in no time. If you’d like a spin on a classic yellow and red outrigger, they’ll even do that too. You’ll find them at the Moana Surfrider Resort. Just a short distance from Waikiki is the vast open air shopping experience of the Ala Moana Centre. If you’d prefer to get your shopping done in one place at one time, this is the place to go. At last count there were 290 stores, including 80 different dining options! If you have fussy eaters, you can absolutely sure there will be something they’ll find yummy. Getting there is easy too. Simply jump on a Ala Moana Shopping Trolley which transits between the centre and ten different stops in Waikiki – they leave every 10 minutes. If your budget can stretch, why not get the ultimate view of Oahu with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. The have three tours to choose from taking in a host of city sights such as Diamond Head and Pearl Harbour. And they take you deep into the valleys of Nuuanu Pali, past the cascading waterfalls of Mount Olomana and over the lush tropical rainforest of Nuuanu Valley. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience the family will never forget.
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NORTH SHORE, OAHU © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - TOR JOHNSON
Exploring O’ahu Leave behind the high rises of Waikiki and families can soon soak up the natural wonders of O’ahu. And a great place to start is Sea Life Park which is on the windward side (east coast) of O’ahu about 30 minutes drive from Waikiki. The park is considered one of the best places in Hawaii for families to enjoy close encounters with a variety of amazing marine animals – such as dolphins, sharks, sea lions and Hawaiian stingrays. As well as being tons of fun, the park also puts an emphasis on educating visiting families about marine conservation through exhibits and interactive programmes. For animal encounters of a different kind, families should head to the picturesque setting of Gunstock Ranch. Sitting on 600 acres next to the magnificent Ko’olau Mountains on O’ahu’s North Shore, Gunstock still operates as a working ranch. One of their most popular tours is the 90 minute scenic horseback ride which takes you through the country and up to a panoramic mountain look out. Along the way, your guide will tell stories and legends of the local area. Children must be over seven years to do this tour, however, Gunstock also has a 30 minute Pony Ride experience for the younger ones. If you’re after some aerial adventures, the eastern coast has at least three zipline tours and adventure parks, where kids can sweep down a hill or across a valley, or cross narrow suspension bridges. Lots of fun! Just remember to look around as the scenery whizzes by at high speed. Hanauma Bay is one of the easiest places in all of Hawaii to go snorkelling amid vivid corals and marine life. Mention the North Shore, and anyone interested in surfing will immediately think of beaches like the Banzai Pipeline, which serve up monster waves in the northern hemisphere winter. For the rest of the year, everyone can have fun boogie boarding or body surfing the gentler waves close to the beach. Check out Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay. And don’t forget to call into the surf town of Haliewa for a Matsumoto shave ice. Yum!
USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL, AT PEARL HARBOUR © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - TOR JOHNSON
PLACES TO STAY Turtle Bay Resort Turtle Bay is the only resort on O’ahu’s North Shore, with a ton of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. Snorkel among sea turtles in crystal clear waters. Hike, bike or Segway off the beaten track and discover untamed beauty. Ride horseback along stunning oceanfront trails – or check out the Pony Experience, where the kids will love the experience of feeding, grooming and riding mini horses. Learn to tame the waves of Hawaii with surf lessons. This is only the beginning – no wonder they call themselves ‘Hawaii’s most experiential resort’. The resort features a keiki (kids) pool with a 24-metre waterslide, a range of dining options and homely accommodation. Ocean Villas are perfect for most families, with three-and four-bedroom options available – which cater for up to 10 guests – overlooking the bay. They each come with a luxurious bathroom and a washer/dryer.
TURTLE BAY RESORT
Aulani – A Disney Resort and Spa Experience the magical fusion of Disney and Hawaiian culture at Aulani Resort. There are of course plenty of diverse family-friendly activities on offer here; from simply soaking up the sun on the resort’s award-winning beach and Ka Maka Grotto, to sailing and canoe experiences and painting with light. Many are even included with your stay – such as Mickey Mouse and friends’ character experiences and pool parties, Aunty’s Beach House for kids, exhilarating tubing down Waikolohe Stream, and Disney movie nights. Spacious two-and three-bedroom villas provide families with pleasant views and a comfortable stay. Enjoy an array of resort dining options, where even the pickiest of palates will be satisfied. Indulge in tasty buffet dinners and Disney character breakfasts at Makahiki Restaurant. Or head over to ‘Ama’Ama for delicious Hawaiian classics with a modern twist, served under the setting sun and overlooking the Beach.
AULANI – A DISNEY RESORT AND SPA
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Darmic at the Waikiki Banyan Darmic at the Waikiki Banyan is a collection of over 870 privately owned apartments only one block from the famous beach. This is the perfect location for a family vacation, stacked with everything you need to enjoy your stay; ocean and pool, tennis and basketball courts, a jacuzzi, sauna, coffee shop, laundry, minimart and playground for the kids!
DARMIC AT THE WAIKIKI BANYAN
The complex is conveniently situated on the bus route, meaning you can step outside and go sightseeing and shopping with ease. Fantastic restaurants and bars are also nearby, as well as Kapi’olani Park and Honolulu Zoo. Apartments feature all the basics along with a complete kitchen, bath/shower, and balcony with incredible views of the island. There is no need for service here – aside from cleaning and preparing your room prior to arrival – so families can sleep in and relax without ever being disturbed by housekeepers. Love the sound of comfortable apartment living in the heart of paradise? Look no further.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Stay in one of the beachfront towers overlooking Waikiki Beach. You are always close to the action at Hilton Hawaiian Village. Sunbathing, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding – whatever you’re up for, it awaits on the white sands and lagoon below. Families are spoilt for choice when it comes to food options and activities. With over 20 restaurants and bars each brings something delicious and unique to the table.
HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE WAIKIKI BEACH RESORT
There are five spectacular swimming pools to slip into, including the longest water slide in Waikiki! The kids will love Camp Penguin, a programme packed with inspiring activities and off-resort excursions to local attractions – such as Honolulu Zoo and the Children’s Discovery Centre. Experience Hawaiian culture with a show and fireworks display at the Super Pool. There’s so much to do at this action-packed village!
Sheraton Waikiki Hotel Situated in the heart of Waikiki, Sheraton is hard to beat for family vacations. The beautiful Waikiki Beach and lagoon is merely steps away, along with an array of shops and attractions. There are plenty of fantastic resort features for families to indulge in. The highlight are the two huge outdoor pools, including the Helumoa Playground Pool which has a 70 foot long waterslide, two large whirlpools an interactive fountain area. Spa Khakara will keep mums happy, and there are three restaurants to feed hungry tummies – RumFire, Edge of Waikiki, and Kai Market. The modern Hawaiian style rooms and suites offer magical views of the ocean, city and surrounding hills. And the prime location is steps from everything that Waikiki has to offer.
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SHERATON WAIKIKI HOTEL
ANAEHOOMALU BAY, WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT, KOHALA COAST © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - KIRK LEE AEDER
HAWAII – THE BIG ISLAND Called “The Big Island”, to avoid confusion with the state itself, Hawaii appeals to families who love the dramatic landscapes. For the island’s most famous attraction, simply head for the hills. Or to be more specific - Volcanoes National Park. It reopened in mid-September 2018, after several months of spectacular eruptions from the summit, Mount Kilauea, where rivers of lava spewed across a small part of the island and into the sea. You could say this everchanging landscape is even more magnificent than before. If you head to the Kona and Kohala side of The Big Island, you’ll enjoy some of Hawaii’s most consistent sunshine. Moisture (rain) drops on the east coast and over the mountains, which means families can plan on blue skies and beach days.
The coves near the village of Kailua-Kona is also where you can night dive with giant manta rays – as long as children are confident snorkeling in the ocean, they’ll be fine. There are a number of operators who offer this experience. One of their team will dive to the bottom and shine lights up, attracting the plankton that mantas feed on. And from there, the mantas follow! While The Big Island is home to countless waterfalls, many of them sit on the remote north coast, which is tough to get to. But for families that love getting out into nature, there still some magnificent examples that are easily accessed. Akaka Falls State Park is home to two separate falls: 100-foot Kahuna Falls and 442-foot Akaka Falls. The hike is easy and paved, so it’s an excursion that works well for families of kids of every age.
Waikiki Banyan, 201 Ohua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii Darmic, the only New Zealand company in the Waikiki Banyan offers fully self-contained one-bedroom apartments just one block from Waikiki Beach. All guests receive a welcome pack plus complimentary bathroom amenities. Featuring a large recreation deck with pool, jacuzzi, sauna, playground, tennis court and BBQs, there is also a mini mart, coffee shop and tour desk in the lobby. Free parking, 24 hour security and resident managers on site.
Contact Jamie or Sue in our Auckland sales office: 09 444 7203 • sales@darmic.com • www.darmic.com
DARMIC At the Waikiki Banyan, Hawaii
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WHALE WATCHING © HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY - TOR JOHNSON
PLACES TO STAY Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Children, or keiki, will love making sandcastles on Kauna’oa Bay, the site of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The beach is the centrepiece of the hotel, and their parents will enjoy it too, as they lounge, paddle, swim or snorkel. Tennis players of all ages will enjoy the courts at the Seaside Tennis Club. The staff are also happy to take children out when they cast a traditional fishing net, show them how to open a coconut, or tell them about the giant manta rays which sometimes feed off the rocks. The whole family can tuck into fresh Hawaiian cuisine in one of the restaurants or at a lu’au evening, then watch some authentic hula dancing. The clambake on the beach will also satisfy the kid’s hunger pangs.
MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL © HAWAII TOURISM
Hilton Waikoloa Village Big Island. Even bigger family memories. Located on the Kohala Coast, Hilton Waikoloa Village is a beachfront playground which has everything families need for an unforgettable time – and more. Modern rooms and suites offer stunning views, stylish decor and exceptional comfort. Two tantalising pools sit on the oceanfront, featuring exhilarating waterslides and a river with twists and turns. Retreat to the resort’s white sand beach and plunge into the protected tropical lagoon filled with vibrant fish and rare green sea turtles – don’t forget the snorkels! Sporty families will want to tee off on one of the two championship golf courses and play tennis in the 432-seat stadium hidden amongst tropical greenery. Getting around the resort is fun and easy; rent bicycles or sit back and enjoy the ride on a tram or canal boat. Be sure to check out Legends of Hawaii Luau – a captivating cultural showcase of the resort’s Big Island story.
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HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
experience true aloha
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MAUI Maui is well-known as a hot spot for honeymooners, but the island also has plenty to entice visiting families. A good place to start is the ocean. In Maui, the snorkelling is first-class and it’s easy for kids to get in on the action. Even the smallest of children will have a ball – simply buy a lifejacket as extra floatation. Black Rock on the famous sands of Ka’anapali Beach offers some excellent snorkelling right off the beach. All that’s required is a mask, snorkel and fins, which most resorts will provide free of charge. If you’d like to go a bit further afield, there are a number of operators who offer specialised snorkel tours. They’ll show you some of the secret spots around the Maui coastline to search turtles and any number of tropical fish. They’ll also be able to keep an eye on local weather and pick the most sheltered spot.
MAUI ©HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY
Whale-watching season in Maui runs from December to May, with the peak months being January to April. Lahaina Harbour is the launching point for numerous whale-watching charters. At the height of the season more than a thousand whales will cruise off Lahaina’s coast, so a close encounter is close to guaranteed! If you’re lucky, a whale will swim right next to you and, depending on the size and design of your boat, kids can put a mask on, dip their head in the water and watch the whale swim by. Haleakala National Park is also well worth a visit. The sunrise tour is the most popular way to see the park, but a 3 am hotel transfer isn’t the best way for kids to start the day! The other option is to do a day visit, where you can hike and visit the summit. The kids will love the dramatic ‘Mars-like’ landscape.
PLACES TO STAY Ka’anapali Beach Hotel For one of the most authentic Hawaiian resort experiences, on one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, head to Ka’anapali Beach Hotel. Four low-rise beachfront buildings offer splendid views from your room of either the tropical garden, breath-taking oceanfront or alluring pool. Connected rooms are perfect for families who want a little extra space and privacy. The resort also has a cool Kids Aloha Passport, which is a fun and educational way for the entire family to learn about the Hawaiian culture. Guests and their family can simply stop by Hale Ho’okipa, the Hawaiian cultural centre to get their Aloha Passport. Here they’ll get their very own Hawaiian name - an equivalent to their name/meaning of their name. Rather than being a typical ‘drop and go’ programme, it’s a wonderful way for the entire family to learn about the Hawaiian culture together. There are various spots throughout the property, from the deli corner, to Hale Huaka’i, the beach activity centre, where they can visit and get some trinkets and collect a stamp at each location. There they’ll learn bits and pieces of Hawaiian culture at each of various stops!
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KA’ANAPALI BEACH HOTEL
KA’ANAPALI BEACH HOTEL
NAPALI COAST ©HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY / BEN ONO
TUBE RIDING DOWN FLUMES ©HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY / TOMMY LUNDBERG
The dining experience is also fantastic for families. The Tiki Terrace restaurant serves authentic Hawaiian regional cuisine – including special kids’ menus and numerous gluten-free options – brimming with flavour from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy breakfast and dinner here in the open-air courtyard as the beating sun ascends and descends beyond the glowing lagoon. You should also stroll over to Tiki Bar and Grill and sit poolside with a cocktail and nibbles knowing the stunning beach just a few steps away.
KAUAI One of the most appealing things about Kauai is that it’s low-key. No town has more than 11,000 people; no building is allowed to rise higher than a coconut tree; and most of the land is a patchwork of taro farms, untamed valleys and tangled rainforests! This change of pace is quite refreshing, especially for families who have spent most of their time around the constant buzz of Waikiki. The landscape of Kauai is breathtaking (even by Hawaiian standards). Tell the children they’re going to the island where the movie Jurassic Park and its sequels were filmed, and they’ll probably insist that you take them on a helicopter ride. If your budget can stretch it is well worth it. The Napali Coast on the North Shore is as rugged and spectacular as you can imagine. No roads traverse its 900 metre high densely green cliffs that drop dramatically to the coastline. The coastal waters are home to several species of dolphins, as well as humpback whales during the winter. Crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay, with its backdrop of a misted mountain range, is the centre activity on the North Shore. The surf is calm during the northern summer, but during the winter it becomes a focus for surfers keen on riding the giant swells. As well as water sports, including kayaking, hire some fishing rods and baits and fish off the old pier, or visit historic landmarks and galleries.
Hanalei town has colourful shops, galleries and restaurants. You’ll also find Lumaha’i Beach. It may look vaguely familiar for some parents, as it was the setting for the movie South Pacific. Just beyond the main town of Lihue is Kilohana, a restored plantation estate that provides a glimpse of Hawaiian life in the 1930s. The mansion was once the home of a prominent family which owned a huge sugar plantation, and you can still explore the old plantation village or ride on the old railway train as it tours Kilohana’s working farm. Kilohana also has a Hawaiian luau experience with dancing and a banquet meal. Ziplining across lush valleys is another great family activity on Kauai, even for those with a fear of heights.
PLACES TO STAY Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa Kauai A luxurious family holiday can be found at Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa Kauai. Situated on the East Side of the Garden Isle, this beachfront retreat is fit for kings and queens, and the glorious backdrops inspired famous creatives such as Hemmingway. The suites are like mini homes, equipped with a complete kitchen, dishwasher, laundry, and the choice of one, two or three blissful baths. Get lost in paradise when you float in the two-acre fantasy pool and garden, with poolside services available. What could be better than having drinks and lunch served to you without leaving the comfort of the pleasant Pacific sun. After a long and revitalising dip, take your family to Oasis on the Beach Restaurant, a name that perfectly fits the bill. Stunning views of the oceanfront compliment the high-quality service and cuisine – which the chefs take pride in using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients produced by Kauai farmers and fisherman.
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SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
Aloha from Olivia
Aunty’s Beach House, Aulani Resort Ko Olina, Oahu
Olivia Ho
How long have you worked there? My first day was June 27, 2011….just before Aulani Resort’s opening. I have been on this magical journey for eight years so far.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is seeing keiki (children) walking around the resort wearing their Aunty’s Beach House Keiki Band (a special tracking band they receive after checking in to Aunty’s Beach House), talking to their parents about their time with us, and showing off something special they made. These small gestures all help show that our behind-the-scenes work is really creating happiness and lasting memories for our guests.
What do you find most challenging? The most challenging part of my job is trying to find ways to keep things new and fresh, finding something that everyone will want to participate in, knowing that you can’t please everyone!
Is there an activity that children love most? Right now, our most popular program is Kakamora Chaos with Moana. During this experience, the keiki learn some local games, decorate their very own mini bamboo paddle and then play the games they learned with Moana. She even teaches them a game she knows, the Kakamora relay.
What makes your Kids Club unique? Aunty’s Beach House is unique because we celebrate both Disney and the Hawaiian culture. We share that love for both cultures with our guests, creating an experience that keiki can’t get anywhere else.
How do you cater to children of different ages? Aunty’s Beach House programming is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12. We have a variety of self-directed activities, like iPads loaded with Disney games for all age ranges, as well as dress up areas, play kitchens for the creative little ones and a large back yard for all the keiki. All of our crafts and activities are created with all abilities in mind, and Youth Counsellors are always available to lend a hand to make sure keiki are successful. We also offer a Tween Zone, for ages 10-12 nightly. During this time, tweens get to do crafts, play game or do an activity with keiki their own age.
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How do you put parents at ease? The security of our facility and our highly experienced, caring Youth Counsellors always put parents at ease. Many of our counsellors are former teachers or skills trainers and they all have extensive childcare backgrounds. Many are parents as well. Their passion for working with keiki shines and often puts parents at ease, knowing their keiki will have a fun time in a safe environment.
Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? The future is bright for Aunty’s Beach House as we explore new, creative ways to incorporate Disney and the Hawaiian culture. Be on the lookout for some new surprises in the next couple of years!
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
Local knowledge. You could say Cody and Paddy Flavell and their kids Kalani (12) and Talulah (9) are Hawaii regulars. For good reason! Their family roots are on the North Shore of Oahu, and although they live in Auckland, they make an annual trip back home to reconnect with their ohana (extended family). So who better to share their tips and some local secrets!
Waikiki Shopping It doesn’t take long to figure out that Waikiki is a shopping mecca! But if you want to narrow things down a little, there are two places you’ll want to go. The iconic Ala Moana Shopping Centre and the International Market Place. Of course, they have an enormous number of outlets, but they’re also a great place to have a bite to eat, and you’ll enjoy some live entertainment too!
Beach time on the North Shore Compared to Waikiki, the North Shore is like another world – very chilled out! There are plenty of picturesque spots to spend a day at the beach, but the picks are Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay. The kids (and adults) will love jumping off the big rock at Waimea Bay.
Dine at Duke’s One of Waikiki’s most iconic eateries, Duke’s is one of those places we always go! The food is always consistently delicious and the staff are warm and welcoming. It’s a big menu, but our favourites would have to be the Fish Tacos and Hula Pie! On Sunday’s they have live music from 4 pm – including performances by local legend Henry Kapono.
Waiahole Poi Factory If you want to try (delicious) traditional Hawaiian food, this is the place to go. Their kai is made from locally sourced ingredients that support local farmers. Try the Kalua Pig, Beef Lu’au, Squid Lu’au, Chicken Long Rice and lots of other goodies! They also do demonstrations and tastings.
Shrimps to go! The North Shore is home to a fleet of food trucks – shrimps being the specialty. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is one of the most iconic. It’s hard to miss – being big, white and covered in signatures from people who have had the pleasure of dining on their dishes. You’ll find them on the main street of Haleiwa, plus they have a second truck on the Kamehameha Highway in Kahuku.
Kualoa Ranch This amazing valley is where they filmed parts of Jurassic Park, Godzilla and a host more. You can tour the movie sets, plus you can get a little more adventurous with an ATV tour, jungle jeep tour or meander the ranch on horseback!
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Flavell family Best sandwiches in Waikiki! If you’re searching for a first-class sandwich (and smoothie), pop into Pa’s Deli at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. Then you can pop down the beach and have a little picnic!
Stripsteak Waikiki As the name suggests, steak is their speciality! But they also have some delicious seafood dishes too. The food is excellent and so is the service. This fine-dining option is a real treat, but it is well worth it.
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COOK ISLANDS
Cool for kids
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©MY_RAROTONGA
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COOK ISLAND TOURISM © KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
If you’re searching for a laid-back destination where there’s plenty for the family to see and do, but you can see and do it at your own pace – no rushing, no stress, no worries then look no further than the beautiful Cook Islands. The Cook Islands is made up of 15 islands – the best known being Rarotonga and Aitutaki. The pair are also the most popular with families in search of that classic island holiday. The first stop for all incoming flights is Rarotonga International Airport in Avarua, the islands biggest centre. After you’ve settled in, it’s an excellent place to start your Cook Islands family adventure. Avarua is a laid back little town with more than enough shops, cafes and restaurants to keep everyone busy. Plus you’ll find interesting sights like the Para O Tane Palace and the National Museum. The kids (and adults) will be able to learn a thing or two about the events, artefacts and people that have helped shape the Cooks Islands. A lesson like this isn’t compulsory. But having some understanding of local culture will only add to your holiday experience. The main market is also worth investigating and is another fun way for families to soak up local life. There are all sorts of food stalls - grab some fresh fruit and veges. Or maybe pick up a few handicrafts to take back home. If the kids’ tummies are still rumbling, pop into the iconic Trader Jacks Bar and Grill on the waterfront. The views are spectacular, they have a kids menu, plus plenty of drinks options for mum and dad! When you’ve seen the sights of Avarua, going further afield is a breeze. The coastal road that circles the island is only 32km from
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point to point, so you can get the whole way around in less than an hour. Of course, that will never happen because there are far too many fun things for the family to see and do. In terms of transport, scooters are the most popular choice of traveller transport, but families can opt for a rental car. There are numerous rental car companies on the island. Or you can travel ‘local’ by jumping on the public buses that circle the island. Either way, you’ll have the freedom to explore. If you’re doing the circuit (i.e. driving around the island), you’ll find a variety of locally run cafes, restaurants and bars. The standard of fare is excellent, so when you feel the need, simply pull over and stop for a bite or refreshing drink. As you might expect, seafood is a speciality. In most cases, the fish would have been caught earlier in the day. It’s as fresh as you can get! As a general rule, the cost of eating out is on a par with what you might find back home, so there’s no reason to be concerned about over-the-top prices. If you’re looking to stretch your legs (and take in some stunning views), Rarotonga also has some great hiking trails. The best known is the Cross Island Track which winds its way from the
COOK ISLAND TOURISM © KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
COOK ISLAND TOURISM © KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
COOK ISLAND TOURISM © KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
north coast down to the south via the 400m high peak called the Needle. The scenery is quite spectacular, and if you go on a guided trip, you’ll get to learn fascinating facts about the plant life, animals and the history of the island. The climb can be a challenge, so it is more for bigger kids. After something like that, it will be time to head for Rarotonga’s southern coastline - an area that is blessed with superb beaches and clear, tranquil waters. The best-known is the stretch of fine white sands that run along Muri Lagoon. This beautiful location is fantastic for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and kite surfing. Families can take one of the lagoon cruises to excellent snorkelling and swimming spots with brilliant coral and countless, colourful fish. If you don’t want to snorkel, you can swim next to the boat or sit and watch the fish. The cruises may include a stop at a tiny motu, or atoll island in the lagoon for a barbeque lunch, and there’s plenty of time for the kids to explore or go in search of hermit crabs. Back on land, cute Muri Village has a good choice of cafés and restaurants, as well as the Muri Night Market. Held every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5 pm, it’s a pleasant way for everyone to spend a few hours tasting local food from one of the stalls, enjoying some free entertainment and local dancing. In the middle of the resorts and hotels of Muri Beach is Te Vara Nui Village, the cultural centre of the Cook Islands. The kids will enjoy the guided tour as it includes information and demonstrations of Cook Islands’ culture, including weaving, coconut husking, woodcarving, cooking, medicine, fishing and costume making. They will be welcomed to try, and there is a big lunch and a cultural show to conclude the visit.
Don’t miss one of Rarotonga’s most popular and enjoyable tours, fun for all ages. Daily 11am to 3pm. Includes: snorkelling gear, BBQ Lunch, island coconut husking and pareu tying show.
www.captaintamas.com
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Further along the southern coast, families will discover more fine beaches. The best snorkelling can be found at Aro’a, Titikaveka and Tikioki. The calm waters of Titikaveka are especially good for children who may be wary of the ocean, as they can easily see schools of colourful fish while their feet are still on the sand. There is a snorkel rental shop at Titikaveka Beach. If your children are keen to try playing the ukulele, stop at Natua Ukelele at Aroa Beach. Natua will show you the timbers he uses, how to tune a ukulele, and maybe even play for you! Also make sure you book a guide to look around the privately owned Takitumu Conservation Area, a community-based project. The guide will tell you how they are helping to save the very rare yellow kakerori, one of the world’s rarest bird species, and help you spot them among the ferns, orchids, chestnuts and other native plants.
SEE LEGENDS COME TO LIFE! Te Vara Nui Village is one of Raratonga’s most popular attractions and is a must-see for any family coming to the Cooks. The highlight is the Over Water Night Show and Buffet Dinner. Set against a beautiful rock waterfall backdrop, talented dancers and musicians bring to life the Legend of Tongaiti a voyaging warrior who set sail from a faraway land with his tribe. Upon discovering “Tumu-Te-Varovaro” (Rarotonga) he and his people find hostile natives, throwing spears and yelling to scare them away from their shores. After days sailing around the island, tired and hungry, Tongaiti calls upon his beautiful daughter to dance for the Chief of Tumu-TeVarovaro, hoping her beauty would soften his heart and allow them to set foot on the land.
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CAPTAIN TAMA’S LAGOON CRUIZES For one of the most unforgettable Cook Island experiences, hop on Captain Tama’s award-winning cruise around Muri Lagoon. Spy the tropical fish and their homes through the glass-bottom boat and dive off to get up close and personal with them. The captain has you covered for snorkels, life jackets and other gear, even a fresh fish BBQ lunch! You will only need to bring sunscreen, towels, togs and a camera. The crew will have you entertained with hilarious island stories and demonstrations throughout the cruise – but be warned, there will likely be a flux of dad jokes from spectators during the 100 ways to tie a sarong demonstration.
PLACES TO STAY Moana Sands Hotel Sitting right on the white sands of Titikaveka Beach, Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel is a slice of paradise featuring beautiful views of the lagoon and a range of studio rooms perfect for small families. After a long day spent soaking up the warm Cook Island sun and swimming in glassy waters, Moana Restaurant and Bar will satisfy your hunger and thirst with mouth-watering modern Pacific cuisine and an array of refreshing beverages.
Pacific Resort Rarotonga Located on the edge of 5.5 acres of pristine beachfront is the beautiful Pacific Resort Rarotonga. This authentic property offers a range of suites and villas, with two and three-bedroom options that overlook either the lush tropical gardens or the salt-white sands and translucent waters of Muri Beach. Head over to the Beach Hut to check out its daily scheduled activities. Here, you can rent all the gear you need for a funfilled day out on the water – paddleboards, kayaks, snorkels, you name it. Muri Lagoon is a safe swimming spot for the whole family to enjoy, and the alluring sands make for the perfect
MOANA SANDS HOTEL
relaxation spot. Feeling peckish? Have lunch or dinner at Sandals Restaurant without taking your feet out of the sand. Keep the children occupied with the resort’s Kids Club, for ages six to 13, which has an array of activities; from traditional dancing and drum playing to making floral head leis. The kids will be able to teach you a thing or two about Cook Island culture.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium Set on one of Rarotonga’s most stunning and secluded beaches, the Rarotongan Beach Resort and Lagoonarium is a fantastic family holiday destination. You’ll find an array of free daily activities for you and the kids to enjoy and perhaps learn something – including water sports, island dancing and drumming, coconut husking, karaoke and trivia nights. Enjoy the free Tropical Breakfast Buffet daily before heading out front to Aroa Lagoon Marine Sanctuary. Here, you will find an excellent snorkelling spot teeming with tropical fish so tame they will eat out of your hand. Families can stay in two-bedroom suites, catering for up to four children and overlooking the tranquil lagoon. There’s a bunch of complimentary options and bonuses to make your family feel welcome and comfortable, such as Kids/Teens Stay & Play (when sharing room with parents) and Moko’s Kids Club.
THE RAROTONGAN BEACH RESORT & LAGOONARIUM
PACIFIC RESORT RAROTONGA
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Edgewater Resort & Spa The biggest resort in Rarotonga sits on the edge of a 600-metre expanse of white sand, overlooking a stunning marine reserve. With nine different accommodation styles and spots to choose from – including two-bedroom apartments and rooms with views of the lagoon, and three-bedroom garden and beachfront villas – families have the perfect place to kick back in private. Coconut Kids Club will keep the children entertained with fun and traditional Rarotongan activities, while mum and dad spend some quality chillout time at the spa getting pampered with coconut lotions and body scrubs! Edgewater Resort and Spa has delicious dining options, with menus great for fussy and adventurous family members alike. Grab a table at The Brasserie Restaurant. Its surrounded by palm trees, has lovely lagoon and sunset views, and live entertainment every night. Or hit The Spaghetti House for Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta.
Nautilus Resort On the magnificent Muri Beach lies an elegant, authentic Polynesian resort. Leave the real world at the airport and escape to this paradise with your family. There’s a lot to indulge in here. Mum and dad may like to stroll over to Spa Nautilus for some good old-fashioned pampering, topped off with a fruity cocktail by the infinity pool. The kids, on the other hand, will have a blast having a go at making crafts and playing music. In the evening, the whole family will love dining at the Nautilus Restaurant - an award-
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winning eatery where the chefs showcase their flair for crafting Pacific inspired cuisine. The resort’s beachfront and garden villas reflect the Rarotongan style and setting in stunning fashion. These spacious rooms come with luxurious bathrooms, Bluetooth entertainment systems, and mini kitchenettes; equipped with all the essential appliances along with espresso coffee machines and more. It’s easy to fall in love with your room and just as hard to say goodbye upon departure!
Cook Islands Holiday Villas Cook Islands Holidays Villas are located at four prime spots around the island, ideal for families who want the convenience of resort-style accommodation with the added privacy of having your own place. Stay in one of four Tuoro Holiday Villas, situated in Arorangi village, and enjoy the spacious indoor-outdoor flow and shared swimming pool – perfect for large families and groups, as they can each house up to eight people. Alternatively, Turangi Holiday Villas can comfortably hold up to a whopping 16 people and is located in Turangi village looking out to the sea. Want direct access to Rarotonga’s best lagoons. Muri Lagoon Villa only has two bedrooms but offers the peace and comfort that comes with staying in a private beachfront property. The view of the vibrant turquoise lagoon from your deck is tantalising. The Blue Lagoon Five-Bedroom Villa will feel like your home away from home – it has everything thing your family will need for a memorable Raro retreat.
9 VILLAS TO
CHOOSE FROM
Cook Islands Holiday Villas Find a home away from home
Aere maru… in Cook Islands Maori means to ‘take it easy” and that is exactly how we want visting families to feel when they stay in any one of our well-appointed and comfortable villas, complete with a BBQ on the deck. We have a total of nine villas scattered around the main island of Rarotonga, both on the Eastern and Western sides of the island. So you can enjoy either a sunrise or moon-rise (if you’re lucky enough to be here during a full moon), or a sunset from our beautiful beaches. Our largest villas offer 4 and 5-bedroom layouts which are ideal for small families or large groups wanting a ‘home away from home’ experience in beautiful Rarotonga.
@cookislandsholidayvillas @cookislandsholidayvillas E: stay@cookislandsholidayvillas.com W: www.cookislandsholidayvillas.com
Cook Islands Holiday Villas
AITUTAKI © COOK ISLAND TOURISM
AITUTAKI
options are available and visitors can enjoy the full range of lagoon activities like fishing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, tube riding and of course snorkelling.
Think Aitutaki. Think dreamy tropical paradise. Coconut palms swaying in the breeze, the bluest of the blue water and a laid back island atmosphere that gives you no choice but to relax. In a nutshell, this is a magic spot for families. And although the extra flight from Rarotonga to Aitutaki can prove a barrier for some, the extra effort is well worth it.
Market Day Island Style
With such serene surroundings to soak up, you might picture lazy days of doing nothing more than swim, sleep and sip on cooling beverages. This holiday agenda is certainly one option, but this magical island can also keep the families surprisingly busy if they so desire.
Here you’ll find local people selling fresh local produce to locals and tourists alike. Souvenirs can be found among the stalls, selling locally made arts and crafts and woven goods or you can stroll the markets and take it all in. Either way you’ll be richer for the experience.
Lagoon exploration
Escape to paradise
The Aitutaki experience revolves around the lagoon, and there are half a dozen companies that operate cruises. While their exact itineraries vary, they usually stop by well-known motu (tiny islands) such as Tapuaeta’i (One Foot Island), Honeymoon Island, Maina and Akaiami. Snorkelling gear is provided and lunch typically consists of a delicious fish barbecue. Half-day and full-day
Getting to Aitutaki is easy. It’s only 220 kilometres north of Rarotonga, which makes for a short 45-minute flight. The Cook Island’s national air service, Air Rarotonga will fly you there in the comfort of their modern aircraft. From Rarotonga they operate several flights a day from Monday to Saturday with a single flight on Sundays.
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Visitors who make an effort to get out of their resort and experience the local people and their culture will have a far more satisfying holiday. On Aitutaki, a good place to start is a visit to the local markets. While they’re open every day, Saturday is the biggest and has the most to see and buy.
PAC I F IC R E SORT R A ROTONGA Laid back fun in the Sun! With a complimentary kids club and a wide range of water activity equipment, families often make use of the snorkelling equipment exploring the underwater sea life or venture out on a family kayak adventure together. With plenty of activities for children of all ages, and relaxing options for adults, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the award winning family friendly Pacific Resort Rarotonga. AU T H E N T IC B OU T IQU E pacificresort.com
PAC I F I C R E S O RT H O T E L G RO U P
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A KIWI CONNECTION. For many Kiwis, the Cook Islands feel a little like home. Which is not surprising, given the links. Cook Islands Maori and New Zealand Maori share historical ancestors, many ancient stories and a similar language. The Cook Islands are self-governing in ‘free association’ with New Zealand. Essentially the Cook Islands administers its own affairs, and Cook Islanders are New Zealand citizens who are free to live and work in New Zealand. And a big bonus for Kiwi travellers is the currency. The Cook Islands use New Zealand dollars. So there’s no need to exchange money (saving on fees and rate differences), and there’s no need to do mental arithmetic every time you buy something!
RAROTONGAN LAGOON© COOK ISLAND TOURISM - DYLAND HARRISON
Your ul timate Cook Islands cultural experience!
A choice of three experiences at our multi-award winning village Cultural Village Tour Spectacular Over Water Night Show and Buffet Dinner The Combo Extravaganza (combines the Cultural Village Tour with the Spectacular Over Water Night Show and Buffet Dinner) Ask us about our Special Family Passes and Group Rates
Muri Beach, Rarotonga | P : +682 24006 | E : culture@tevaranui.co.ck | www.tevaranui.co.ck 110
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FEED THE FISH! There are so many cool things to see and do at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, like walking straight off the beach into the Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve and feeding the fish by hand! Because these fish live in a protected reserve they know they’re safe so they don’t dart away. Instead, they love making new friends. The Rarotongan’s Aroa Lagoon is a very special spot – it’s right on the southwestern coast so receives all-day sun, it’s able to be used at all-tides for free snorkelling, fish-feeding, kayaking, standup paddleboarding and swimming, and because it’s been a ra’ui (reserve) for nearly 20 years, it offers Rarotonga’s best snorkelling straight off The Rarotongan’s Aroa Beach. Aroa Lagoon has many colourful tropical fish with cool names like butterfly, squirrel, rabbit and angel. You can even go on The Rarotongan’s Night Snorkelling Tour and see “the night shift” in action – like the parrot fish in its cool “jelly sleeping cocoon!”
giving parents space for quality time together in the evening. At The Rarotongan Kids Stay & Play free (to age 11), and even teen families are catered for, with Teens Stay free and the free Teen Zone for 12-16 years.
For children aged to 11 years The Rarotongan offers a fun Cook Islands Nature & Culture Discovery Programme through their free Moko’s Kids Club which is open year-round, Monday to Saturday, from 9 am-12 noon, 2-5 pm and the all-important 7-9 pm…
Families can choose standard Beachside or Beachfront Rooms which all come with microwaves and a fridge, two-bedroom interconnecting family suites, three-bedroom private pool villas or self-catering two-bedroom or grand beachfront suites.
MAKE NEW MEMORIES! Did you know that at the Cook Islands’ leading family-friendly beach resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, not only do KIDS STAY & PLAY FREE to age 11, but TEENS STAY & PLAY FREE too aged 12-16 years inclusive! Such a wealth of quality FREE activities to enjoy in the clean, clear waters of Aroa Lagoonarium including snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and fish feeding. Sheltered, all-tide lagoon and white sandy beach set on the island’s southwest coast for all-day sun. FREE Moko Kids Club open Mon-Sat, 9am-12noon, 2-5pm + 7-9pm. The Rarotongan. Where the best family holiday memories are made. Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Sanctuary | Rarotonga | COOK ISLANDS Tollfree from NZ: 0800 727 686 | P (+682) 25 800 info@therarotongan.com | www.TheRarotongan.com (Live Chat available)
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YOU R P I E C E OF PA R A DI SE For family relaxation in a tropical paradise look no further than Moana Sands Group. With two family friendly locations, the little (and big!) kids will be frolicking in the water or building sandcastles in the sun in no time. Perfectly situated on the Southern coast of Rarotonga, Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel and Villas will be your pacific home away from home C O OK I SL A N D S
www.moanasands.co.ck
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PAC I F I C R E S O RT H O T E L G RO U P
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
Unwinding Cooks style. Like most city parents, Blair and Julie Wadman lead a busy life. So when it came to taking a break from their numerous work and family commitments, they choose a destination that offered the chance to truly unwind.
Where did you go for your family holiday?
Wadman Family
The Cook Islands - Rarotonga and Aitutaki
What made you pick this island for your family holiday? Rarotonga has been a personal favourite holiday destination, however we had never taken our daughters there, but had been wanting to for some time.
Was this your first time there? No, Julie and I had our honeymoon and also our 10th wedding anniversary in Rarotonga and Aitutaki, it was the first time for our girls.
Where did you stay? Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas (Raro) and Tamanu Beach Resort (Aitutaki).
And what was reason for choosing the accommodation? We were after some well needed ‘R ‘n R’ and these places were recommended to us. Crystal Blue was perfect and was right in the heart of Muri Village so it was easily accessible to great restaurants, the night market and the beautiful lagoon. Tamanu Beach was really nice and the Sunday night family BBQ was a highlight.
How old are your children? Amy is 15 and Tash is 13.
What did they and you love most about the island? Just the relaxed feel wherever we went. The fresh food is amazing and range of activity options (deep sea fishing, SUP yoga, kayaking/ snorkelling to name a few) was great if you so desired.
What were the top 5 family activities? 1. Island night at Te Vara Nui is a must-see – amazing performance and buffet dinner 2. Snorkelling at Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve on Rarotonga
What are your top tips for taking a family away to 3. Renting a convertible Mini on Rarotonga and cruising around the Island this island? 4. Having lunch at The Mooring Fish Café – fresh fish sandwiches to die for!
Hire a car or a scooter and double up to get around the island and have the luxury to stop anywhere around the island. Buy fresh fruit (bananas, paw paw or Nu) from roadside stalls and support the locals.
5. Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise with Puna & Aitutaki Adventures – visiting One Foot Island and snorkelling with the Giant Trevelly (GTs) and the psychedelic coloured giant clams.
Do you have plans to go back? YES!!
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Rarotonga rocks! Busy Auckland couple, John Coll and Ally Lee, wanted to treat their family to a special family holiday with swimming, snorkelling and lots of other adventures. They chose Rarotonga and had an absolute ball.
What made you pick Rarotonga for your family holiday? We’d heard lots of great things about ‘Raro’, especially from friends who had taken their kids there before. There were a number of other factors too. We could use New Zealand dollars. Everyone said how welcoming the people were. And we wanted the kids to have a place that was safe for swimming and snorkelling. We also liked that Rarotonga wasn’t too touristy – more of a ‘true blue’ island holiday.
Was this your first time there? It was my second time in Rarotonga, but the first time for my wife and children. And there will be more!
Which property did you stay at? Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel on Titikaveka Beach. The connecting rooms were ideal for five of us. And of course the location was top-notch.
How old are your children? 14, 9, and 4.
What did they and you love most about Rarotonga? The weather was a balmy 26C every day. The water was warm and clear, and the snorkelling was brilliant. Our children are real waterbabies, so it was ideal. Going for walks along the beach every morning, chasing ghost crabs in the sand at night and hopping around the island to different beaches. We found a few huts serving cold beer and refreshing cocktail too - just what the wife and I needed!
What were the top 3 family activities? Snorkelling, kayaking, and cruising around the island without a care with the windows down in the car or on the scooter. (We plan to catch a game fish on a charter next time which should be fun.)
What are your top tips for taking a family away to Rarotonga? You don’t need to pack much at all! Favourite shorts and singlets with a pair of jandals and some sunnies is about it! If you like your fine cheese and meats, bring them over from New Zealand. Plus, leave the devices at home – they won’t be needed. Our kids actually picked books up and started to read. The sea salt does funny things!
Do you have plans to go back? Absolutely. We are planning our mid-winter escape already. There are fish over there that still need to be caught too!
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Coll-Lee Family
Look for this symbol... The Cook Islands Tourism Accreditation Scheme is designed to set minimum standards. Whenever you see this logo, you can be sure that the business establishment meets requirements to ensure good service, good facilities, safe practices, and of course friendly Cook Islands hospitality. We highly recommend you use the services of our many Accredited businesses:
2019
1AAA Taxis 21.3 Vaiana’s Bistro and Bar Adventure Hire Cook Islands Air New Zealand Air Rarotonga Aitutaki Escape Aitutaki Lagoon Resort Aitutaki Village Akura Fishing Charters Anchor Sands Anchor’s Aweigh Anchor’s Rest Antipodes Restaurant Aqua Café Arcadia Retreat Rarotonga Aretai Beach Villas Ariki Adventures Ariki Holidays Aro’a Beachside Inn Aroa Beachfront House Aroa Kainga Bungalows Arorangi Beachfront Bungalow Avana Waterfront Apartments Avis Cook Islands Bank of South Pacific Bella Beach Bungalows Bergman & Sons Betela Beach House Black Rock Villas Blue Lagoon Villas Blue Water Tours Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes Casa Del Sol Castaway Resort Charlotte Piho Weddings Clear Water Lagoon View Villas Club Raro Resort Coast House Studio Coconut Tours Cook Islands Canoeing Association Cook Islands Holiday Villas Cook Islands Sun Cook Islands Tours Cooks Bus Passenger Transport Coral Sands Apartments Crown Beach Resort & Spa Crusoe’s Restaurant
Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas Destination Management Cook Islands Dive Rarotonga Dorothy’s Muri Beach Bungalows Dorothy’s Taxi Service Emily’s at Panama Escape Magazine Etu Moana Beach Villas Executive Islands Transfers Experience Cook Islands Explore.com Going Troppo Nightlife Tour Goldmine Heron’s Reef Holiday Apartments Highland Paradise Horra Ltd Ikurangi Eco Retreat Inano Beach Bungalows Inspirations of Raro Island Booth Photo Island Car & Bike Hire Island Discovery Tours Island Harmony Cottage Island Hopper Vacations Jetsave Travel JJ’s Retreat Kaireva Beach House Kia Orana Villas Kikau Hut Restaurant KiteSUP Koka Lagoon Cruises Lagoon Breeze Villas Little Polynesian Resort Magic Reef Bungalows Makayla Palms Mal’s Bar Mama Tara’s Manea on Muri Manuia Beach Resort Marlin Queen Fishing Charters Matriki Beach Huts Moana Cook Islands Adventures Moana Sands Group Motu2Motu Muri Beach Club Hotel Muri Beach Cottages Muri Beach Haven Holiday House
Muri Beach Resort Muri Beach Villa Muri Beachcomber Muri Hillside Guest Houses Muri Lagoon View Bungalows Muri Lagoon Villas Muri Lodges Muri Vista Villas Nautilus Resort Nirvana Cottage Ocean Spray Villas OTB On the Beach Restaurant Pacific Cars Pacific Resort Aitutaki Pacific Resort Rarotonga Palm Grove Resort Paradise Holiday Homes Polynesian Rental Cars & Bikes Price Taxis Punarei Cultural Tours Raela Villas Raina Beach Apartments Rapae Bay Restaurant Raro Cars Raro Reef Sub Raro Safari Tours Raro Tours Rarotonga Babysitting Services Rarotonga Beach Bungalows Rarotonga Brewery Rarotonga Daydreamer Resort Rarotonga Rentals Rehab Nightclub Rehab Pub Crawl Rendezvous Villas Rito Cook Islands Rongohiva Watersports Royale Takitumu Ru’s Lagoon Cruise Rumours Luxury Villa’s & Spa Sails Restaurant Sanctuary Rarotonga Sands Villas Sea Change Villas Seaside Beachfront Villas Seaspray Beach Villa Serenity Villas
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Shipwreck Hut Snorkel Cook Islands South Pacific Publishing Spaghetti House Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours Sunhaven Beach Bungalows Sunset Quay Sunshine Cultural Activities Tamanu Beach Resort Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Te Puka Estate Te Vakaroa Villas Te Vara Nui The Anchorage Restaurant & Bar The Black Pearl at Puaikura The Bond Store The Cooks Oasis Holiday Villas The Dive & Surf Shop The Dive Centre The Edgewater Resort & Spa The Islander Hotel The Lazy Trout Café The Lucky Rooster Café The Mooring Fish Café The Palms Holiday House The Rarotongan Beach Resort The Sunset Resort The Vaka Cruise The Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant & Bar Tik-e Tours Tivaevae Collectables Tropical Sands Tuoro Holiday Villas Tumunu Restaurant & Bar Turama Photography Turangi Lagoon Villas Vai Villas Vaikoi Ltd Vaima Lagoon View Holiday House Vaima Restaurant Vibe Café Wahoo Fishing Charters Wedded Bliss Rarotonga Weddings Cook Islands Wellesley Hotel Whitehouse Apartments
Rarotonga’s most drea med a bout beach villas!
3 x three bedroom quality, serviced villas each sleeping up to six. A genuine family beach retreat...
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RAROTONGA
SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
Kia Orana from Api
Puapii Piho (Api)Tamari ki
Kanga
Pacific Resort Rarotonga Kids Club Manager How long have you worked there? I have been at Pacific Resort Rarotonga for four and half years. What’s the most rewarding part of your job? When kids don’t want to go home with their parents or when they say “I want to work at the beach hut”. Receiving letters from parents and their kids saying how much they enjoyed spending time with us is very satisfying too! What do you find most challenging? We’re always go, go go - so having enough time to complete all my tasks in a day. Is there an activity that children love most? All the children are different, but if there is one activity they all enjoy doing with us, that would be crab hunting. We will go to the Motu Koromiri or walk along the beach and collect hermit crabs. We will then return to the beach hut and build a crab arena and have crab races. What makes your Kids Club unique? Of course we want to make everything fun, but we also try and incorporate our Cook Islands culture into some of our activities. That way visiting kids will leave us having learned just a little bit about our history, culture and way of life. Every Thursday is our Kids Club Cook Islands Culture Day. How do you cater to children of different ages? The age for Kids Club is between six years and 12 years. How do you put parents at ease? Reassurance that we will take good care of their kids. Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? We hope to share more daily activities with our guests (past and future) on our own social media channels watch this space!
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NEW CALEDONIA
m a F il
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New Caledonia is home to stunning scenery, action-packed adventures, and a charming fusion of French and Melanesian culture. And it’s only a three-hour direct flight away from Auckland, making it the perfect destination for a unique family holiday – whether it be a short trip, adventurous escape, relaxing getaway, or anywhere in between.
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©NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM
©NEWVATA CALEDONIA TOURISM ANSE BEACH ©NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM
What makes New Caledonia such a brilliant place to take the kids, is the fact that parents can plan their holiday around a seemingly endless list of activities and sights to explore. Saddle up and go horse riding across spectacular South Pacific terrain. Snorkel and sail in the world’s largest lagoon – boasting 24,000 square kilometres of crystal blue and the world’s second largest barrier reef. Become immersed in the unique mix of French-Melanesian culture and sample delectable foods that kids just don’t find back home. Snails anyone! Indeed, your experience in New Caledonia can be whatever you make of it. There’s so much available to families; it’s like a buffet that keeps on giving and making you want to come back for more.
NOUMEA CITY SIGHTS Noumea is the cosmopolitan capital of New Caledonia, with a population of around 100,000 and an array of beautiful sights and intriguing attractions. The seaside city is culturally diverse and the French way of life adds a new dimension that you don’t get in your regular Pacific family hotspots.
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A tell-tale sign is the abundance of neat cafes, restaurants, markets and bakeries that can be found all around the city, stocked with delicious authentic French cuisine and treats to satisfy everyone in the family. Think yummy handmade pastries and a multitude of desserts. The grown-ups don’t miss out either. Mums and dads can sample and savour fine French wines – as Noumea is brimming with specialist wine shops offering a wide range of imported varieties. Noumea is also home to some fine city beaches. Families visiting Noumea should take a stroll along Anse Vata and Citron Bay, where a stunning setting, chill vibes, and plenty of fun awaits. Various cafes, bars, restaurants and shops align the pristine white sands. The perfect place to slow down, grab a bite, and cool off with a refreshing drink and a dip in the calm, crystal blue lagoon. For a relaxing family escape, where stunning beaches meet vibrant cultures and exquisite cuisine, Noumea is a great base for families. There is a wealth of family-friendly activities to experience and beautiful sights to absorb in and around the city – and it’s in the perfect location for families who want to launch day trips or go further afield in Grand Terre and New Caledonia’s other islands.
ISLANDS A HOP, SKIP AND JUMP AWAY Duck Island, or Ile Aux Canards, is a serene spot located just a kilometre or so off Anse Vata Beach and it makes for a must-do family day trip. No need to book a ride across in advance, as taxi boats bounce back and forth between the islands all throughout the day. Just hop on and enjoy the short ride from white sand to white sand. Here families will discover excellent snorkelling, where the pristine seafloor and translucent water is bursting with colour and creatures all around. There’s snorkelling gear for hire and a little restaurant and bar where you can catch some shade and grab a bite and drink. But visiting families are more than welcome to bring their own supplies. (Stop in at the local supermarket, grab a few supplies and save a few South Pacific Francs). Families with time to spare, will love devoting a whole day to an island further out. Amedee Island is a magnificent spot 45-minutes boat ride away. Its packed full of fun possibilities, but the star of the show is 60 metre high metal lighthouse standing tall in the middle of the island – a long way above the lush palms that surround it. Here, a history lesson is in order for the kids. The lighthouse was constructed in Paris, by the same engineers who built the Eiffel Tower, before standing it up on Amedee. Admire the craftsmanship from below or, for those daring enough, traverse 247 steps to the very top.
AMEDEE ISLAND
Families can also go for the full day package, which includes a glass-bottom boat ride, cocktails, a buffet lunch, demonstrations and more, plus the opportunity to go snorkelling or paddle boarding – equipment available by hire. But you are free to do whatever you please, from simply relaxing in the lagoon to taking on each and every opportunity.
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PLACES TO STAY Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residences For a retreat in the heart of the capital, families are very well catered for at Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residences. The two-and three-bedroom studio apartments are particularly handy, and they come with stunning views of the beaches and city. Each apartment contains fully equipped kitchens, too, making it easy to eat in and sort quick meals for the kids. And if you all feel like a meal out, there are quality restaurants within walking distance. And just downstairs is La Terrasse, the hotel’s very own restaurant which serves local cuisine with a notable French influence. For those old enough to drink (i.e. mum and dad), it’s worth sipping on an ice-cold cocktail while gazing out over the picturesque Anse Vata Bay. The kids will love the resort’s outdoor pool. Or you can stroll down to the sands of Anse Vata Beach.
Chateau Royal Beach Resort and Spa This fine hotel accommodation, situated right on Noumea’s pristine southern beachfront, is for families who cannot get enough of salt-white sands and warm, crystal clear water. The two-bedroom suites provide more than enough space for small families, and they come with a fully equipped kitchen too. There are plenty of dining options within the facilities, boasting two restaurants and three bars. La Pirogue, for instance, has an open deck surrounded by magnificent gardens and clear views of the ocean and flaring sunset. Or enjoy a refreshing drink and a snack, sitting on underwater stools, at the Piscine pool bar – a pool that is safe for the kids. Feel like venturing out for food? There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby in Anse Vata.
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Ramada Plaza Noumea Ramada Plaza is another fantastic family-friendly option located in walking distance of the vibrant Anse Vata Bay. This apartmentstyle accommodation offers various suite choices. For instance, the two-bedroom option is ideal and comfortable for two adults and two children. Plus, there are two bathrooms, a living room, dining room, kitchen, and even a laundry. Talk about a practical paradise! There is also a three-bedroom suite for larger families, featuring all the above and an outdoor terrace to marvel in the magnificent views. Ramada Plaza also hosts the famous Entrecote au 360 restaurant, which revolves atop the 17th floor, displaying spectacular views of New Caledonia at every moment. A truly unforgettable dining experience.
Le Meridien Noumea Resort & Spa Sitting on the very southern tip of Anse Vata Beach, Le Meridien Noumea boasts one of the city’s most sought after locations. This is beachfront holidaying at its best. Kids will love swimming in the warm, clear, calm waters, and they can grab a paddleboard, kayak and snorkelling gear when they feel like being active. Even just lying back and watching the kitesurfers fly past is fun. The resort location is also close to Citron Bay and the city centre, so everything is within easy reach. Plus you can stroll to the restaurants and cafes in Anse Vata in no-time-at-all. Le Meridien Noumea’s spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom Voyager Suites are the pick for families – they come with a host of handy amenities like a kitchenette and microwave. Dad and the kids can give Mum a bit of ‘her time’ at the luxurious Deep Nature Spa that includes a fitness room, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, sauna, steam room and nine treatment rooms!
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©NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM
GRAND ADVENTURES IN GRAND TERRE There’s a lot to see and do everywhere in Grand Terre – yet, understandably, many families remain in Noumea for the (good) reasons we have already covered. But for families eager to go well beyond the comforts of the cosmopolitan capital, there lie a myriad of adventures. There are four main provinces on the main island, which is around 450 kilometres long and 50 kilometres wide: Noumea, The West Coast, East Coast, and Great South. All offer vastly different landscapes and experiences but are equally beautiful and enjoyable. A great to see it all is by renting a car and hit the road for a memorable family road trip. (Remember they drive on the left side of the road here.) Hiking in New Caledonia’s vast countryside will give families a sense of freedom and joy. Any lingering pre-holiday stress lifts and floats away with the calm ocean breeze as you walk through the Giant Ferns Park in the Southern Province. Head west to the town of Sarramea and pick one of several trails, of varying skills levels, to become submerged in the wild landscapes, underneath captivating fishbowl skies. For experienced hikers with teenage kids, a trail, several hours long, will lead you to the plateau of Dogny, a 1010-metre-high elevation with magnificent views of the SHERATON DEVA NEW CALEDONIA AND SPA Bays of Bourail, and Canala, and the Valley of Sarramea.
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Grand Terre has so much untouched beauty to see, which cannot always be explored effectively by either car or on foot, so climb up on that horse and explore the trails less traversed for a back-tonature experience like no other. From wide plains and mountains to the water’s edge, there’s a horseback adventure for all skills levels, making for a fantastic family adventure. The Lebris Peninsula is the perfect coastal stretch to trot along at your own pace and soak it all up. Experienced riders may look to Grand Terre’s mountainous peaks to scale untamed terrain and gaze out to incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Fancy flying through the lush forests, zipping past tropical wildlife? Then clip onto La Belle Verte Canopy Tours, offering 1.2 kilometres of zip lines, separated in to four stages, along with an on-foot tour through 600 metres of forestry. No doubt an exciting outing for the whole family. Plus, you can get a sizeable discount if you book for four people, Wednesday to Friday. Water sports are aplenty around Grand Terre, with kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing on offer. Kayaking is excellent for exploring the many rivers of New Caledonia. The Dumbéa River and the Ouenghi river, for instance, are perfect for cruising along and absorbing the scenery and serenity of calm waters. The hot water springs at Prony Bay are also delightful. There are challenging experiences to be had in the kayak, too, such as taking to the sea and the surrounding islands or visiting the mysterious Drowned Forest of Blue River Provincial Park.
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PLACES TO STAY Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort A two hour drive north of Noumea, inside the tranquil Deva Domain, is where Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort awaits. The resort itself sits on an isolated lagoon, where the water is always inviting. Kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing are on the cards, and the kids will love snorkelling in the calm waters teeming with colourful fish. The glass-bottom boat tour is an amazing experience for older kids, where the possibility of seeing turtles is high. There’s nothing quite like floating over an undisturbed coral reef with its vibrant inhabitants. Moreover, the tour includes a chance to stop and go snorkelling, for a more up close and personal experience. The resort’s pool is a brilliant spot for families to relax in any time of the day. Kids Club is free for guests and open seven days a week from 7 am to 5 pm, so parents can ‘sneak off’ for a couple’s spa treatment or a round of golf, whilst the kids have a blast playing and doing activities with the friendly resort staff and other children. The Deva Domain is surrounded by lush tropical forest and easily some of the best hiking trails in New Caledonia. The nearest tracks can be conveniently found across the road from the resort’s entrance. One is a 30-minute walk, suitable for all fitness levels, that takes you up the hill for a nice view. Further, families can rent some mountain bikes and hit the other trails. Bring water bottles or ride early in the morning, however, as it can get hot.
SHERATON NEW CALEDONIA DEVA SPA & GOLF RESORT
Notchup P2018144 - Crédit photo : Getty Images, © Ethnotrack / NCTPS
The Best Family Holidays await in New Caledonia
Only a short flight from New Zealand, Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort offers a unique South Pacific experience for your next family holiday. Comprehensive leisure facilities, complimentary Kids Club, comfortable accommodations will set the scene for geat adventures. Sheratondeva
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*Conditions apply. ©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.
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Kids Stay and Eat for Free from XPF25,000 + tax incl. breakfast for 2 adults*. For reservations or to learn more, please visit Marriott.com/NOUSI Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort
Lot 33 - Domaine de Deva, BP 50, 98870 Bourail, New Caledonia T +687 26 50 00
FAMILY FAVOURITES
Road-tripping New Caledonia. Julia Dietz and her family are an active bunch that love exploring new places. In New Caledonia they were in their absolute element, finding loads of hidden gems off-the-beaten track.
Dietz-Lazayres Family
What made you pick New Caledonia for your family holiday? We wanted to go away during the October school holidays, we heard it was the perfect time to go to ‘New Cal’ – nice and sunny, but not too hot and not too wet. Also, we didn’t want to fly too far and New Caledonia is a touch under three hours away. Plus we were keen to soak up the French Pacific culture.
Was this your first time there? Yes, first time for all of us – which made it all the more exciting.
Which property did you stay at? Because we wanted to get out and explore, we hired a rental car and did a round trip of Grand Terre – the main island. Along the way we stayed at many different locations. Ka Waboana Lodge in Hienghene, Le Relais de Poingam in Poum, Camp de Kaoris in Blue River Park, Yate and La Cabane de Gil in La Baie de Carenage, Yate. We also took a short flight to the island Lifou where we stayed for a couple of nights at a “tribu” called “A La petite Baie” (Luengoni Beach). With the rental car we explored the whole island, highlights were ‘Les Falaises de Jokin’ (Cliffs), the natural aquarium at ‘la Baie de Jinek’ and Kiki Beach a beautiful white sandy beach.
How old are your children? Seven and nine. What did they and you love most about the island? The beauty and diversity of the island was spectacular and very different to New Zealand. The weather was great, the ocean was warm and wonderful to swim and snorkel in.
What were your favourite family activities? Snorkelling at Ile aux Canards and Lifou island Swimming with turtles in Lifou Kayaking in Hienghene and in the drowned forest at lac de Yate Hiking in Poe Riding bikes in the Blue River Park
What are your top tips for taking a family away to this island? If you’re on a budget, just go to the great French supermarkets and buy baguette, cheese, pate, cornichons and fresh fruit to make your own little picnic. Also book your trip well ahead as many places fill up fast. Some basic French can be helpful at times.
Do you have plans to go back? Yes! There is so much more to do and to see.
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Enjoy space and comfort in one of Noumea’s prime locations
Find a place where families can make themselves at home. It doesn’t matter where you go in the world, having extra space makes all the difference for families that travel. In Noumea, you’ll find this at Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Noumea. Room options go right up to three-room suites that include a full kitchen and a host of other facilities such as free WiFi. As well as that, you can enjoy a meal and sweeping sea views from the Ramada’s iconic revolving restaurant, or the family can enjoy a casual drink and snack the Rendez-Vous Sports Bar. When it comes time to cool down, the kids (and adults) will love spending time by the pool. Or the lagoon waters of Anse Vata are just a short away. For families who want to venture further afield, the pick point for water taxis to Duck Island is an easy stroll. At Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Noumea, it’s where fun family holidays are made.
Phone +687 23 90 00 Rue Louis Blériot, Noumea, New Caledonia www.ramadanoumea.com
SPOTLIGHT
KIDS CLUB
jour Bon from Alida
Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort Kids Club Manager
Alida Lelièvre
What is the name of your Kids Club? Sheraton Deva Kids Club.
How long have you worked there? Since the resort opened back in 2014.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? You meet some really neat kids doing this and we have a lot of fun. The most rewarding part of this job though is the smiles and the joy of the children when they come to play with us. And they don’t want to leave!
What do you find most challenging? We are always busy, but child numbers do sometimes vary, which can make it a challenge to plan our days. It is possible to reserve a child’s place in advance, but most holidaymakers tend to ‘pop in’. So being able to adapt is key!
Is there an activity that children love most? They love the hands-on craft activities and the face painting!
What makes your Kids Club unique? We’ve created a real family atmosphere where everyone is made to feel special. We also welcome children from the local village all year long. The mix of French and international kids is stimulating for everyone!
How do you cater to children of different ages? We have activities and games for every age, and we adapt to the age of the children we take care of. We are very attentive to their needs.
How do you put parents at ease? We greet the parents with a smile; introduce them to the structure, the team and the course of the day. We listen carefully to their expectations and reassure them about how we will be taking care of their child.
Does your Kids Club have any plans for the future? We plan to keep creating a maximum of beautiful memories!
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QUEENSLAND
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Say G’day to paradise With a nickname like the Sunshine State, it’s no wonder Queensland is popular with holidaymakers. Sitting off this very-lengthy stretch of coast (it’s over 1,500km from Brisbane to Cairns) is an abundance of islands with stunning beaches.
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HAMILTON ISLAND
Holidays in the Pacific are all about the beach. Swim, snorkel, sail and surf, or sunbathe. So when you tell the kids you’re going to fly on a floatplane or take a boat to a beach with lots of really white sand, they may take a lot of notice. But when they see Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands, they will marvel at its pure, white sand. It feels like talcum powder, not coral or shell. Even better, the area behind the beach is untouched. Climb up to the Hill Inlet lookout, to view the swirling patterns of sand and turquoise water and the surrounding islands. These are the kind of family adventures you’ll find off the coast of Queensland. The absolute hero in this part of the world is the Great Barrier Reef. It is one of the world’s most unique and precious marine sites – with 3,000 separate reefs and over 1,500 fish species, making it easily one of Australia’s most significant conservation areas. For visiting families, it’s a major drawcard - after all, what could be better than snorkelling in a real-life aquarium. These aquatic wonders are easy to access too. Jump on a boat, helicopter or seaplane, and you’ll be there in no time at all. The islands and their resorts provide plenty of other day trip options, so you and your family can soak up as much beauty and tranquillity as possible during your stay.
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THE WHITSUNDAYS The Whitsundays are a cluster of 74 beautiful islands, sitting in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Families will have the time of their lives exploring new islands, where the lush rainforests, beaches and snorkelling sites are worthy of anyone’s bucket list. The mainland’s Whitsunday Coast should not be missed either. With beautiful beaches, national parks and the vibrant town of Airlie Beach – you’d be pushed to find a more idyllic departure point to the offshore islands. There’s plenty to love about the Whitsundays. You can catch a boat ride and hop from one mini paradise to another, or rent a boat and plot your own course. Stepping foot on Whitehaven Beach is a must – it’s one of the best beaches in the world – and plunge into the magnificence that is Blue Pearl Bay and The Woodpile on Hook Island. There’s diving suitable for every level around the islands, so the kids and snorkelling enthusiasts in the family can happily paddle on the surface admiring the jaw-dropping marine life below, while veterans can venture into the depths.
HAMILTON ISLAND With its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Hamilton Island – or ‘Hamo’, as locals say in their local twang – is one of Australia’s best family holiday destinations – an idyllic place to unwind. This is the biggest and most populated island in the Whitsundays, with 1,000 inhabitants, along with an airport – offering direct flights to and from mainland cities. There are endless activities for your family to enjoy; from go-karting and off-road adventure tours to water sports and simply soaking up stunning sunsets. There is plenty more to do on the island as well. Hire a couple of golf buggies and stop off wherever you like. The Resort Centre is the island’s focal point, with its restaurants, shops, cafés and a swimming pool. If it’s raining, take an art class, even if you’ve only ever picked up a paintbrush to paint your house. If that sounds too quiet, go-kart racing and offroad adventure tours will satisfy the motor enthusiasts in the family. There are tennis courts and a wildlife reserve, and youngsters can hang out at their own Clownfish Club. With the wide selection of restaurants, cafés and takeaways, mum and dad will need to make some executive decisions on where to eat. And look out for ‘kid’s eat free’ deals for children up to the age of 12. Or stock up at the IGA, the local supermarket! As you’d expect, Hamilton Island offers a myriad of way to explore ‘the reef’. Spend a full day out on the blue glass waters with a snorkelling or diving tour – which can be booked on the island. Families can visit famous sites, such as Manta Ray Drop Off,
Paradise Lagoon and Stepping Stones. You can also hover or fly above it all in a helicopter or seaplane, admiring jaw-dropping views in every direction. A day trip on a catamaran is another amazing experience for families who want to see the incredible coral structures, fish, manta rays and turtles.
DAYDREAM ISLAND This island is aptly named - the family may still be dreaming about it long after you’ve returned home! It is small, at just one kilometre long, and is one of the quieter islands in the Whitsundays – great for a relaxing holiday. Daydream Island is surrounded by secluded beaches, vibrant waters and beautiful rainforests, that teem with parrots and sunbirds. Daydream Island Resort caters for families, with an array of accommodation options – such as family rooms that come with spectacular balcony views. The resort also has a wide range of activities. Check out the latest blockbuster films in the outdoor cinema, go putting on the 19-hole mini-golf course, play a game of tennis or volleyball, or take to the water on jet skis and paddleboards. There is also a Kids Club if parents want some time alone together, and the children certainly won’t mind spending a few hours there, with all its fun-filled activities. The resort’s Living Reef and Education Centre will teach everyone about the Great Barrier Reef and what they can do to help. There will also be a four-metre deep underwater viewing area and a turtle rehabilitation centre. There’s also a rainforest walk with a viewing platform.
HAMILTON ISLAND
HAMILTON ISLAND
DAYDREAM ISLAND
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LIZARD ISLAND
TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND ISLANDS Lizard Island This island is a secluded paradise, one that has a historical feel, as if Captain James Cook would have washed up on its shores during his travels around the Pacific – and that’s because he did! The great explorer instinctively named this plot of paradise Lizard Island. Why? Yep, you guessed it – it’s home to the odd lizard or two. Lizard Island Resort is a luxurious haven and the northernmost resort on the Great Barrier Reef. There are 24 private beaches and only 40 suites and villas, meaning you and your family you could very well have an entire plot of paradise to yourselves.
Green Island
GREEN ISLAND
Fill your days with diving, snorkelling, swimming, windsurfing, touring the Great Barrier Reef and delving into the tropical jungles of Green Island. Or kick back on the white sand beaches and indulge in the many treats the resort has on offer. There is fantastic family holiday accommodation – Reef Suites and Island Suites – and activity packages, along with brilliant dining options.
Fitzroy Island Located 29 kilometres off Cairns and only a 45-minute boat ride away, Fitzroy Island is an unspoiled sanctuary. The island is primarily covered by National Island Park, where pristine forests, coral beaches and reefs provide some of the best walking trails in the Great Barrier. The waters are bursting with sea life, such as green sea turtles. The island’s boutique resort offers a wide selection of excellent accommodation for the family, including Ocean Suites, Resort Studios and Beach Cabins. It also features a restaurant, inviting swimming pool and spa – along with a swim-up pool bar – a cinema, games room and kids playroom.
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FITZROY ISLAND
LADY ELLIOT ISLAND
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER Heron Island A nature-lovers paradise, Heron Island is a World Heritage Marine National Park. All its tropical plants and wildlife are protected. As the name suggests, herons love calling the island home, but they are just one of the many exotic species that have made this island their nest. Visit Heron Island between January and March, and you’ll be in awe over the turtle hatchlings racing from sand to sea. It is peak bird season at that time of year too, and there are seemingly endless flocks of colour and charming birdsong, but this also means there is a higher chance of receiving some good luck from your feathered friends above. HERON ISLAND
Heron Island resort blends seamlessly into the land, with nothing built higher than the palm trees. It’s calm and convenient, just like the tranquil waters of the barrier on its doorstep.
Lady Elliot Island If your family is strapped for time, Lady Elliot is a fantastic option for a day visit. This includes a marvellous scenic flight, all the gear you need, a delicious buffet lunch, and plenty of time to spare for exploring the translucent waters. Kids and parents wanting to chill will adore the lagoon, with its easy to follow underwater trail and flurry of vibrant fish. Experienced divers will want to check out the deeper waters beyond the lagoon where manta rays, dolphins and whales peacefully reside.
LADY ELLIOT ISLAND
However, if your family does have time to stay, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort is a peaceful place to put your feet up. They educate guests about the island’s fragile ecosystem and how you can enjoy your stay with a minimal footprint. You and your family will come away satisfied and relaxed but also inspired by the resort’s commitment to green initiatives.
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SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND
PLACES TO STAY
Fraser Island
Tangalooma Island Resort
Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, at over 123 kilometres long and up to 22 kilometres wide! But sand is only the beginning. Forestry and an array of birds, reptiles and other animals – including dingoes – occupy the land. And over 100 freshwater lakes dot the land, perfect for taking a refreshing dip after an adventurous hike through one of the island’s many trails.
Tangalooma Island Resort is the only accommodation on Moreton Island. From small beginnings, it has grown into a substantial operation with over 1200 beds and 400 plus staff. But the resort has very much retained its family-owned, familyfriendly atmosphere.
There are two resorts on the island – Kingfisher Bay Resort and Eurong Beach Resort – to pick from, along with a range of camping, beach house and apartment options. Or your family can experience all the island has to offer as part of a day tour.
Moreton Island Known as ‘The Gem of South East Queensland’ by locals, Moreton Island boasts expansive white sand beaches, spectacular scenery, crisp lakes, and awesome activities. Tobogganing down enormous sand dunes on a waxed sandboard is an exhilarating experience. Little Sand Hills and Big Sand Hills are the spots you’ll want to carve. But remember to keep your knees and elbows in and the front of your board pointing up, unless you want a mouthful of Moreton! Go snorkelling among wrecks just off Moreton Bay take a boat ride, where you may spot some dolphins and whales. There’s something for all ages and all tastes on Moreton Island.
TANGALOOMA ISLAND RESORT
TANGALOOMA ISLAND RESORT
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It’s hard to explain in words, but when you stay at Tangalooma, it’s like visiting an old friend. You’ll receive a genuine, warm welcome and a level of personal connection that’s impossible for global hospitality brands to replicate. There is never a dull moment at Tangalooma Resort, and there is certainly no excuse for kids to be glued to their screens! Trampolines, table tennis, golf, boule, basketball, badminton, squash paddleboards, kayaks, banana boats, beach Segway, parasailing, swimming pools and a glorious beach. They also have some classic old-fashioned activities like bingo, talent shows, ‘horse’ races and karaoke! The resort even has a pub with live sport on big screens, pool tables and a piano – it’s called B&B’s – named after owners Brian and Betty Osbourne.
TANGALOOMA ISLAND RESORT
entertaining the family from beginning to end Awarded the best Airline staff in Australia/Pacific
Fiji is a place of breathtaking natural beauty, unique cultures, idyllic landscapes and home to some of the warmest and most welcoming people in the world. Our 333 islands are a treasure trove of natural wonder and beauty. With exotic wedding destinations and romantic escapes we have a little something for everyone. We have connected the Pacific for over 65 years and continue to be the airline that connects the world to our beautiful home, Fiji. Our genuine Fijian warmth adds the touch of family to your holiday from the moment you board our airline to the moment you depart home for home. With a route network that spans across 22 destinations in 13 countries Fiji Airways provides unequalled access to the Pacific through our hubs in Nadi and Suva, Fiji to destinations in Australia, NZ, USA, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan and the Pacific Islands. Fiji Airways operates a fleet of Airbus A350, A330 and Boeing 737 aircrafts, offering worldclass service in both Business and Economy class. Within Fiji, Fiji Link offers services that are reliable, comfortable and competitively priced with a comprehensive range of schedules to connect to and from international flights.
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