Islandtime - Fiji Winter 2023

Another Side of Paradise.

Exploring the Lau Group and Kadavu Island with Captain Cook Cruises

By Scott Lee

Captain Cook Cruises is one of Fiji's most well-respected tour companies. Since the 1990s, they have been offering sunset cruises, day trips, and multi-day trips to some of Fiji's most beautiful destinations. Islandtime senior writer Scott Lee joined a 7-day cruise to the remote Lau Group and Kadavu Island.

I've been fortunate enough to visit Fiji many times and have enjoyed some spectacular places, but the Lau group of islands has stubbornly remained on my bucket list.

Known to international yachties as one of the best cruising destinations in the South Pacific, the Lau group covers 44,000 square miles of ocean, and only 30 of its 57 islands are inhabited. If you don't own a half-million-dollar yacht, a Captain Cook Cruise small ship expedition is the only way to get there.

Setting Sail

Check-in at Denarau Marina is at 10 am, and the boat Reef Endeavour departs at noon. We arrived early, and the Captain Cook Cruises check-in staff offered us a discount voucher for the nearby Sails Restaurant. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast until the crew informed us it was time to board.

After a detailed safety briefing, an induction to the vessel, and an introduction to the crew, we set sail. Our first stop was Tivua Island, Captain Cook Cruises' private island about two hours north of Denarau.

The day trippers had all gone home, so we had the island to ourselves for the afternoon, where we swam and paddleboarded in the sheltered waters. After a relaxing afternoon, it was back on board for cocktails and canapés before a magnificent smorgasbord dinner and an official welcome. This set the standard for the cruise – beautiful fresh food, relaxed company, and entertainment into the evening.

It's a long way to the Lau group, and the distances between some of the islands are nearly as far. However, Captain Cook Cruises has planned the itinerary so that most of the travel is done at night – a kind of "wake up and you're there" experience.

Makogai Magic

We woke up at Makogai Island, about halfway to the northern Lau Group. After an early morning swim and a hearty breakfast, we were welcomed ashore at Makogai village just in time for their Sunday church service. And what a rousing service it was. The men, dressed in white shirts and dress sulu’s, the women in their brightly coloured dresses, and the children in their Sunday best, sang hymns and gospel songs with Pentecostal fervour. Their powerful harmonious voices filled the village green and echoed along the beach.

This uplifting service was contrasted with a rather sombre half-hour walk to the leper colony ruins. From 1911 to 1969, the colony was run by Catholic nuns, and many of the old buildings, including the movie theatre, still remain. Over 4,500 patients were treated, and 1,241 souls are buried in the cemetery, including Mother Mary, who ran the facility for 34 years.

After the walk, we enjoyed a swim and snorkelling to view the giant clams that are being bred for repopulation around Fiji. The afternoon was spent on a beautiful beach, swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling.

Qilaqila. Fiji’s Bay of Islands

After steaming overnight, we arrived at Qilaqila, known as Fiji's Bay of Islands. From the tenders, we explored the labyrinth of small mushroom-shaped islands, their bases eroded by the constant motion of the water. In some places, we could barely fit between the islands as we played hide and seek with the other tenders. It was a spectacularly beautiful sight, unlike anything I had seen before.

Fulaga beach couple © Lau Group

In the afternoon, we ventured back into the water for a snorkel and a swim into the limestone caves. These islands are riddled with caves, and ours had an easy entry at water level before opening into a cave the size of a small room. Sunlight streamed through the shafts from above, and the walls were stained pink, green, purple, and black as water leached through the limestone and vegetation. A small colony of bats screeched their obvious unhappiness at our intrusion.

Cocktails on the aft deck at sunset were followed by an à la carte dinner at the captain's table. We realised that we had settled into the rhythm of ship life and were enjoying the company of our newfound friends.

Fantastic Falaga

We travelled south during the night and woke up at the beautiful island of Falaga— or should I say the hundred islands and spectacular lagoon that make up Falaga.

These islands are some of the most remote in the world and, surprisingly, closer to Tonga than mainland Fiji. Throughout history, there has always been a strong Tongan influence (they even attempted to take over at one point), which can be seen in the bure design, the large stature of many inhabitants, and the fact that some villagers speak Tongan.

Interestingly, the villagers often travel by longboat to Tonga for supplies rather than waiting weeks for the only freighter.

As impressed as we were by Qilaqila, Falaga surpassed our expectations. A string of islands and rocks enclose an 8km long and 4km wide lagoon. The lagoon, about 3 meters deep, is flawless. The white sand bottom extends to the islands beyond, creating a surreal turquoise perfection throughout the entire area.

The small mushroom-shaped rocks surrounding the lagoon were completely covered in fan palms, giving the whole scene a Jurassic Park feel. It was definitely one of the most beautiful vistas I have ever seen—a true balm for the soul.

Village life on Vuaqava Island

On Day 5, we reached Vuaqava Island—another slice of perfection with its white

sand, crystal-clear water, and coconut palms. We chose to swim and paddleboard, while half of the passengers set off on a hike to an inland saltwater lake. Villagers had set up rudimentary stalls on the beach, showcasing their specialty craft of wood-carved bowls with shell inlay, woven baskets, and carry bags. They also offered freshly cut coconuts.

We were invited to the village at Kabara Island that afternoon. Before disembarking, the ship's entertainer, who also acted as a cultural guide, educated us on village protocol and the importance of the sevusevu ceremony.

Captain Cook Cruises is extremely mindful when it comes to showing respect wherever they visit. Fijians take great pride in their culture, and long-term relationships depend on this mutual respect.

After completing the sevusevu, we were free to wander the village, the schoolhouse, and the basic medical center. It was fascinating to spend time in the village and have extensive conversations with the elders. Life on these remote islands is tough, but the sense of family and community is strong. They lead a basic yet content existence that revolves around fishing and subsistence farming.

That night, we were scheduled to partake in a lovo feast in the village, but rain (the only rain we encountered during the trip) prevented that. Instead, the villagers brought the entire earth-cooked feast to the Reef Endeavour, and we enjoyed the feast, a kava ceremony, and meke (song and dance) on the boat. I don't know who had more fun, the guests or the villagers — it was an enjoyable night for everyone involved!

Farewelling Lau at Totoya Island

Our final day in the Lau Group took us to Totoya Island. We were welcomed ashore by the village elders and escorted to the village school, where the children had prepared a concert for us. While the older children attend boarding school in Suva, the younger ones put on a spirited show, with parents watching through the louvre windows with pride.

Afterward, as the children divided up the school supplies donated by the passengers, I joined the menfolk under a large tarpaulin for an impromptu kava session. As we passed the bowl around in the time-honoured tradition,

© Lau Group

our conversations ranged from fishing to the weather, from the history of the islands to the concerns of sending their children to boarding school in Suva and the dangers of living in a large city. It was a very pleasant two hours, and their generosity of spirit and kava was overwhelming. I was the last to return to the boat, and I slept until dinner.

Untouched Kadavu

Our final full day was spent at Kadavu, the third largest island in the Fiji group. Known as "little New Zealand" because of its southern location, Kadavu stands out for its breathtaking views and endemic biodiversity, including beautiful birdlife.

It still retains 75% of its original rainforest, and due to its climate, it is known for producing the sweetest mangos, the largest dalo (taro), and the strongest kava. We had a VIP onboard, so the sevusevu presentation took on a special meaning, with the gifting of the actual kava plant instead of the usual swapping of roots. This was highly unusual and demonstrated the reverence accorded to this person. The celebration that followed was a sight to behold—a joyful celebration of life. Adorned with paper hats, Christmas tinsel, flowers, woven palm leaves, and colourful sulus, they sang, clapped, danced, and laughed. There was even an exhibitionist who took up a position at the front and swayed his snake-like hips to the delight of everyone present.

The Final Day

Denerau was bustling when we arrived at 7 am. It was time to pack, have a final breakfast, and bid our farewells. Farewells are usually sombre occasions, filled with hugs, kisses, promises of future reunions, and tears. But not with Captain Cook Cruises! Twenty staff members had gathered on the pool deck, and accompanied by a guitar and lailai drum, they belted out several Fijian classics. With perfect harmony, clapping, and cheers, it felt more like a party than a farewell. Everyone disembarked feeling elated, relaxed, and happy. What a fantastic trip it had been.

Kadavu © Lau Group

Happy crew always there to help © Lau Group

The leper colony ruins on Makagai. © Scott Lee

Cruise Highlights

Food glorious food

The food was excellent! Sumptuous smorgasbords, enticing à la carte options, and themed nights provided plenty of variety. The lunch smorgasbord was particularly impressive, featuring smoked salmon, king prawns, roast meats, and a wide selection of salads.

Additionally, there were gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring there were plenty of healthy choices. The fresh fruit was outstanding, and I noticed bags of fruit being brought aboard after some of the village visits. Pawpaw (the incredibly sweet, red variety), watermelon, perfectly ripe pineapple, passionfruit, oranges, and bananas adorned the table at every meal.

During one shore visit, I purchased two coconut crabs from the villagers. That night, the chef prepared the crabs with several sauces, and we enjoyed a magnificent meal with a glass of chardonnay on the aft deck at sunset – pure magic! There were always plenty of freshly baked sweet treats for morning and afternoon teas, as well as savoury canapés to accompany pre-dinner drinks, all prepared by the on-board pastry chef. For early risers, the barista made excellent coffee starting from 7:30 each morning.

Beyond Bula

Fijians are renowned for their hospitality. Their friendly disposition, happy nature, outgoing personalities, and beaming smiles make them the perfect hosts. As one of the larger tourism operators in Fiji, Captain Cook Cruises has the privilege of choosing the best staff, and it shows.

The crew members are obviously selected and trained to bring out the best in each individual. Captain Cook Cruises offers a cadet program to train new staff, and all hospitality staff are graduates of the University of the South Pacific hospitality course. Some of the crew members were from the remote islands we visited, and their pride was evident as they showed us around their villages, lagoons, and islands.

Fellow guests

One of the truly great aspects of travelling on a cruise ship is meeting the other guests. We had 60 guests on board, ranging in age from 6 to 86 years old. They were individuals, families, and groups escaping from New Zealand, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Thailand. The composition of guests can vary greatly depending on holidays and the ebb and flow of international markets.

What was particularly interesting was that about half of the guests were repeat Captain Cook Cruises clients, with several having multiple cruises to multiple

destinations under their belts. One lady had done 22 trips with Captain Cook Cruises, including 6 to the Lau Group!

There was a common theme among our shipmates, and that was the desire to cruise on smaller ships like Captain Cook Cruises, enabling everyone to have more quality and relaxed experiences – ships that are intimate enough to foster connections yet large enough to provide safety and comfort.

Easy embarking/disembarking

Several times each day, the tenders needed to be unloaded as guests embarked on various activities. Captain Cook Cruises has mastered the art of getting 100 passengers on and off with ease and safety.

The floating tenders are secured across the back of the boat, and then a large hydraulic lift raises the tender out of the water to deck height, allowing guests to simply step off onto the mother ship. The same process occurs in reverse during disembarkation, and once ashore, a ramp is lowered to the beach. Even elderly and less mobile guests found it very easy, and there were always a couple of crew members available to assist.

Captain Peter Martin

Captain Peter Martin embodies the image of a ship's captain with his full head of sandy grey hair, seaman's gait, ready smile, and intelligent green eyes. His affable nature and relaxed professionalism make him respected and popular among the crew.

A proud 24-year veteran of the Royal Australian Navy, where he reached the rank of commander, he has more recently captained charters to the Kimberley region of Western Australia on the Caledonia Sky until its recent purchase by Captain Cook Cruises.

Captain Martin grew up around Alice Springs, and his love and appreciation for indigenous cultures serve him well in his career. His love for Fiji and his thirst for knowledge were evident as he personally attended every sevusevu presentation at every village, forging long-term relationships for the company. Captain Martin holds a doctorate in Maritime Affairs and is often invited to lecture on cruise ships.

Blue heaven

With crystal-clear waters, colourful corals, and abundant marine life, the diving and snorkelling experiences were superb. Sheltered sites were carefully chosen, and the accompanying tenders had two crew members on board and two in the water. Boarding the tender was easy, even in deep water.

Divers were well taken care of, with a dive instructor, two dive masters, and a marine biologist on board. All diving gear was brand new, and there was a pool available for refresher courses or introductory SCUBA sessions.

Vanuabalavu bay of islands © Lau Group

Coconut crab for dinner, caught that day. © Scott Lee

Happy children after church at Makagai. © Scott Lee

The marine biologist was always available to discuss marine life, answer questions, and view photographs. He also gave daily talks on marine environments and conservation. One couple managed to do 10 dives during our cruise, and they were adamant that these were the best dives they had ever experienced!

Pampering at sea!

It wouldn’t be a luxury cruise without a bit of pampering.

All passengers are offered a complimentary foot massage, then it’s a matter of how much indulgence you can handle. The Senikai Day spa offers every option imaginable to spoil you. Facials, pedicures, manicures, therapeutic and relaxing massages, and couples romance packages.

Catherine organised a five treatments spa indulgence package which could be used at any time throughout the cruise. After an early morning ocean swim and breakfast of fresh fruit, she’d be off to the spa. Blissfully relaxed and glowing with health, she was ready for the days’ activities, and it was only 9am!

The Kava ceremony

Kava is a slightly intoxicating drink enjoyed throughout the South Pacific, made from the dried roots of the yaqona plant. Every important occasion begins with the traditional kava ceremony. Steeped in meaning and guided by protocol, the ritual of pounding the roots and straining the liquid is performed by the young men of the village, while everyone looks on.

Once the brew is considered ready, a bowl of the bitter-tasting liquid is passed to the chief (or the most senior host present), and each participant empties the bowl when their turn comes up. It's a joyous gathering, a celebration of life, an opportunity to give thanks, and a chance to establish connections and strengthen relationships.

The kava ceremony often includes sevusevu – the presentation of gifts, usually kava roots – and provides an opportunity for the hosts to show respect to the visitors and vice versa.

Many Fijians are skilled orators, and they never miss a chance to showcase their abilities. Long-winded speeches, accompanied by hollow hand clapping, laughter, and cries of "Bula" (as everyone agrees with the speaker's point), are the norm. While the kava and sevusevu ceremonies are performed daily throughout the islands, they seem to hold extra significance on these remote islands. This is their culture, a living culture that has been enjoyed and celebrated for hundreds of years.

New ship coming - MS Caledonia Sky

Bigger, faster, and offering an even higher standard of luxury, Captain Cook Cruises' new boat, Caledonia Sky, will be put into service in November 2023. Refurbished in 2018, the Caledonia Sky measures 90 meters in length, cruises at 12 knots, and will have 85 crew members, accommodating up to 110 guests.

This vessel will enable Captain Cook Cruises to offer high-end cruise experiences never seen before in Fiji. It will also open up more remote destinations, such as the outer islands of Tonga and Samoa. The marketing team is already working on one-way destination cruises between Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji, and there is even a whale migration expedition that offers the opportunity to swim with the whales in Tonga.

In a nutshell

Authentic culture - This is the real deal.

Remote – Only a select few have the opportunity to visit.

Raw – Stunning scenery in its natural state.

Active – Swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, dive, explore, hike.

Unplug – Relax and indulge in doing nothing but eat, drink, sleep, and repeat.

Variety – Wake up each day at a new destination.

Easy – Unpack once, and everything else is taken care of for you. Totally safe – Rest assured, your safety is ensured throughout the journey.

Picnic beach on Vuaqavu © Lau Group

© Lau Group

Beautiful crafts for sale at Fulaga. © Scott Lee

Village boys at Totoya © Scott Lee

Fijian Tourism Expo 2023

Fiji goes from strength to strength

by Fran McDermott

It was a pleasure to be back on the ground at the Fijian Tourism Expo 2023, held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. As always, Tourism Fiji hosted a wonderful event. There was a real buzz of energy, with attendees celebrating the resilience and growth of Fiji's wider tourism industry. There's something special about the spirit of the people here; their determination and ambition were on full display during the expo.

Setting the scene.

The Fijian Tourism Expo 2023 kicked off with a burst of energy, full of engaging updates and announcements from both Tourism Fiji and other industry representatives. The morning briefing began with Brent Hill, the CEO of Tourism Fiji, presenting several key achievements — each reflecting the strong resurgence of Fiji's tourism sector since re-opening.

The numbers speak for themselves.

Since its borders reopened, Fiji has welcomed over 900,000 visitors and was gearing up to celebrate the arrival of the one-millionth tourist who was expected to arrive late May or early June.

Tourist spending also exceeded expectations, reaching an impressive $3.55 billion, pushing the value of the visitor economy to a robust $2 billion. Figures also showed that guests are spending more time enjoying their stay in Fiji - the average length of stay has increased to 9.7 nights. Moreover, guest satisfaction rates are standing strong at 93%.

Australian visitor numbers have been particularly robust, and new routes have been established with Wellington, Christchurch, Adelaide, Canberra, Vancouver, Hong Kong, and Tokyo – further boosting Fiji's global reach.

Other developments.

Noteworthy developments also included the reopening of markets in China and Japan, the launch of bi-weekly flights to Canberra starting in July, and plans for additional weekly flights to Hong Kong in August and September. The anticipated arrival of two new A350s for Fiji Airways has the potential to generate significant revenue.

There's substantial investment on the ground, too, with new properties being developed and several significant announcements expected in the near future.

A bright future.

Fiji's tourism industry is in great shape and continues to expand. Moving forward, there will be numerous opportunities around sustainability, MICE, sports tourism, transit, luxury, and surf and dive sectors. Indeed, the future is exciting.

Crowne Plaza set to enter Fiji

IHG Hotels & Resorts has recently signed an agreement that will welcome the Crowne Plaza brand to the shores of Fiji - further expanding IHG's Fiji portfolio to five hotels. Formerly the Pullman Nadi Bay, the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa is set to open in late 2023 after undergoing an extensive multimillion-dollar renovation. Led by well-known interior design firm P49 DEESIGN, known for their work on the Kimpton Kitalay Samui in Thailand, the resort is being transformed into an exceptional example of the Crowne Plaza brand.

The resort's existing 324 rooms are set to be revitalised, with the addition of new two-bedroom family rooms and ocean-facing king suites expected to be the standout attractions. The hotel will also introduce a luxurious day spa with six double treatment rooms, and a new convention centre, capable of accommodating 600 guests. Foodies will enjoy Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay's epicurean precinct, featuring seven dining outlets ranging from an all-day dining restaurant to a lively nightclub. These venues have been designed in collaboration with the renowned food and beverage consultancy Blue Salt.

This addition to the IHG's Fijian portfolio, which includes prestigious hotels such as the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa and the Grand Pacific Hotel, will enhance the group's presence in Nadi, Fiji’s key tourism hub.

Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort: Feet in Sand Ritual

One new highlight at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort is the "Feet in Sand Ritual" at the Tatavu Grill and Bar. This dining experience, deeply rooted in Fijian culture and elements of water, fire, sand, and sky, allows guests to partake in the traditional custom of barefoot dining. Post-meal, guests are treated to a soothing floral footbath. Tatavu Grill and Bar also launched its own website, www.tatavufiji.com, where guests can explore the menu and make reservations.

GM of the Year Award: Charles Homsy shines at Radisson Blu Fiji

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji is delighted to announce that Charles Homsy, the Resort General Manager has been honoured with the prestigious General Manager of the Year 2022 award. The recognition was bestowed upon Mr. Homsy during the Radisson Hotel Group South-East conference. The distinguished award celebrates Mr. Homsy's outstanding achievements, unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership skills.

Under Charles Homsy's guidance, Radisson Blu Resort Fiji has achieved unprecedented milestones and surpassed key performance metrics, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the industry. Through his effective management strategies, Mr. Homsy has enhanced operational efficiency, optimized customer satisfaction, and fostered an environment of collaboration and teamwork.

The accolade not only highlights Mr. Homsy's accomplishments but also acknowledges the unwavering support and trust placed in him by the company's owners. The visionary leadership of the Owner's and the entire management team has been pivotal in creating an environment that fosters innovation, encourages growth, and rewards excellence. Their continuous guidance and commitment to providing the necessary resources have empowered Mr. Homsy to thrive in his role.

Tourism Fiji adds new communications role

Tourism Fiji’s Auckland office has recently added to their team with Ana Mckearney joining in the role of Communications Executive for New Zealand. Ana graduated from Auckland University of Technology with a Business degree, majoring in Marketing. She previously held a position at Samsung as a Digital Marketing Specialist. Her strengths in marketing, digital communications, and stakeholder engagement are bound to prove valuable for Tourism Fiji.

Sonya Lawson, Tourism Fiji's Regional Director for New Zealand, expressed her delight at having Ana join their team, citing that her skills and qualifications will add new expertise and support to their Auckland office. Sonya stated, "Our aim is to maintain our achievements in public relations and communications. With exciting plans and campaigns in motion, Ana's role will be crucial to amplify our impact with these activities and future prospects."

SeaFiji launches fast airport to island transfers

SeaFiji's Fast Boat transfer service is well-known for its modern, comfortable fleet, and now they're introducing a new service that offers an additional level of convenience.

Their latest addition, 'SeaFiji Direct', is a fast boat transfer that establishes a direct connection between Nadi Airport and the Mamanuca Group of Islands. This new service provides a more efficient and convenient way for travellers to get from Nadi Airport to their chosen resort in the Mamanucas, with the journey taking less than an hour from the airport.

Ron Bradley, Director of Sales and Marketing at SeaFiji, commented on the development: "We are pleased to introduce SeaFiji Direct, providing our customers a more streamlined way to reach the Mamanuca Islands." He also reaffirmed SeaFiji's ongoing commitment to ensuring smooth, comfortable, and reliable water taxi transfers, always with a focus on value. For travellers planning a visit to the Mamanuca Islands, SeaFiji Direct promises a smooth transition from the plane to their island destination.

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Fiji Airways. The remarkable journey continues

From its first steps as a small island carrier to becoming a leading airline of the South Pacific, the journey of Fiji Airways is a story of resilience, innovation and ongoing expansion.

The origin of Fiji Airways goes all the way back to 1947, with the first international operations beginning in 1971. The introduction of the iconic Boeing 747-200 aircraft in the 1980s, marked a new era in trans-Pacific travel. In 2012, the airline returned to its roots and rebranded as Fiji Airways, a symbol of its commitment to showcasing the very best of Fiji and staying true to its rich culture.

Expanding its reach

Fast forward to today. Fiji Airways boasts a modern fleet of Airbus A350s XWB, A330s and Boeing 737 MAX 8’s and operates international and domestic flights, extending across the Pacific, North America, Canada, Asia, and Oceania.

Recently, Fiji Airways expanded its flight services to match the increasing demand from travellers wanting to make the most of this stunning tropical destination.

For Kiwi travellers, Fiji has never been so easy to access, with daily flights from Auckland to Nadi, and a boost in services from Christchurch and Wellington to Nadi to four and three times a week respectively. This added flexibility is especially handy for travellers transferring to the Coral Coast or offshore islands.

On top of that, Fiji Airways also provides Kiwis with a variety of direct flights to North America – one minute you can be lazing on the picture postcard beaches of Fiji, and next, soaking up the iconic landscapes of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Vancouver - a connection that marks another step in Fiji Airways journey.

Check-in direct from the resort

The golden rule of any modern business is finding ways to make the customer experience more streamlined. Which is where Fiji Airways 'Resort Check-In' service comes to the fore.

This service allows passengers to check into their international Fiji Airways flight directly from their resort. It is now available at a number of resorts including the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, and Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa, and will continue to be rolled out at additional resorts over time.

This innovative feature allows you to savour every last moment of your Fijian holiday, free from the constraints of traditional travel timelines.

Here’s how it works:

At resort check-in, luggage is tagged and safely transported to the airport on behalf of passengers, with boarding passes handed out at the resort. Upon arriving at the airport, travellers can bypass check-in queues and proceed directly to security and immigration. Easy!

It should be noted that, due to additional airport security checks required by the United States Immigration, the Resort Check-In service is unavailable for guests on U.S-bound flights.

Flexibility to ‘Fly Your Way’

Another great example of Fiji Airways customer-first approach is their ‘Fly Your Way’ branded fares. The concept offers four categories for economy travellers - Lite, Value, Comfort, and Plus.

All category options provide a variety of standard amenities, such as in-flight meals and beverages, onboard entertainment, and a carry-on luggage allowance of up to 7kgs.

As you move up the categories, additional benefits come into play – for example checked baggage allowance, flexibility for ticket changes and cancellations, seat selection, priority check-in, priority baggage handling, and many more perks. Passengers simply choose the category they would like to pay for.

Images Credit: fijiairways.com

7000 newspapers at your fingertips

Inflight entertainment is a key to the in-flight experience and with Fiji Airways collaboration with PressReader, passengers get access to a vast selection of over 7,000 newspapers and magazines from 120 countries in over 60 languages.

The partnership caters to a wide range of reading preferences, satisfying the tastes of both holiday-goers keen on exploring new cultures, and business travellers wanting to keep their finger on the pulse of global news. Access to PressReader begins 48 hours before departure and extends for a full 24 hours after landing.

To delve into this rich pool of content, passengers simply click on the link in their check-in reminder email, browse the catalogue and pre-download their chosen reading material for in-flight enjoyment.

Teaching conservation to kids

"Our Ocean, Our Life" is another unique onboard initiative for younger flyers. The award-winning programme, features a series of activity packs and books, dedicated to teaching the future generation about the importance of preserving and safeguarding Fiji’s delicate marine environment.

The main character, Saboo the turtle, is supported by a team of vibrant marine creatures, each with their own conservation message. Fifi the flying fish champions efforts to reduce plastic use, Skipper the seahorse raises awareness about the harmful effects of climate change, Starry the starfish advocates for reforestation, particularly mangroves, and Okie the octopus encourages the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse & Recycle.

Various Fijian resorts have also adopted conservation programmes aimed at preventing the decline of these majestic creatures, offering tourists hands-on, family-friendly conservation activities. Visitors have the opportunity to contribute to preserving the planet’s marine biodiversity.

Award-winning recognition

Fiji Airways' commitment to excellence extends well beyond the airplane cabin. This dedication is shown by the international recognition the airline continues to receive –a reflection of its commitment to world-class service and passenger satisfaction.

In 2023, Fiji Airways was honoured as a Five Star Major Airline in the APEX Official Airline Ratings™. The accolade recognised their renowned hospitality, the quality of their onboard amenities, and their dedicated team's unparalleled service. The airline has also been acknowledged for prioritising passenger wellbeing and providing excellent services for younger travellers, receiving the Best for Wellbeing Onboard and Best for Kids Kits Onboard awards at the Onboard Hospitality Awards. On top of that, Skytrax World Airline Awards acknowledged the company's extraordinary staff service, ranking them among the Top 10 and Top 20 for World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew in 2022, and also in the Top 20 for World’s Best Airport Services in 2022.

These accolades not only highlight Fiji Airways' quality service but also confirm their official status as an award-winning airline.

A remarkable journey

The tale of Fiji Airways is a remarkable journey. The airline continues to go from strength to strength, and in many way, its helping to reshape the travel in the South Pacific. From fostering sustainable practices to its dedicated services designed to offer guests the ultimate in comfort and convenience, Fiji Airways remains committed to delivering an extraordinary experience to all passengers.

Denarau Golf & Racquet Club:

New website launch

Denarau Golf & Racquet Club launched a new website at the end of May. The website features the club's 18-hole championship golf course, and provides essential details on golf and tennis packages, upcoming tournaments, and has a platform for making restaurant reservations and booking accommodations at the Sheraton Denarau Villas and Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort.

Talanoa Treks launches immersive 3-day experience

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Talanoa Treks is introducing 'Highland Escape', a 3-day immersive journey into the heart of Fiji’s Viti Levu region. This social enterprise, specialising in multi-day hikes, offers travellers a unique insight into Fiji’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Talanoa Treks has also partnered with NatureFiji-MaréqetiViti, a Fijian conservation organisation. A team member will now lead trips, educating trekkers about Fiji’s biodiversity, ecosystems, and conservation challenges. The Highland Escape launches on May 27th, with monthly departures and private bookings available for 2023 and 2024. This initiative offers travellers a unique opportunity to explore Fiji's interior, away from the conventional coastal attractions.

A Free Night and a Free Nanny!

Malolo Island Resort is all about a bure near the beach, surrounded by the world’s friendliest people and their living and authentic culture. Perfect for families and couples alike, fill your day with myriad activities or simply unwind and do nothing at all.

During February and March* 2024, Stay five nights and get the sixth night free PLUS your own Malolo Mei Mei (nanny). But we’re not stopping with a free nanny – we’ll also give you a free port-a-cot to use during your stay, children under four-years eat free AND, if parents purchase a Meal Plan,* all kids under 13 years eat for free!*

Malolo – the way the world should be.

For reservations and information visit maloloisland.com

*Conditions apply. Approx rates only - check daily FOREX rates.

T +679 672 0978

E maloloares1@ahuraresorts.com

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for six nights for a family of four 2,600* from NZD$

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Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa’s exclusive adult only sanctuary; a chic spot for you to enjoy the amenities of summer with its own pool, swim-up bar, poolside cabanas and award winning Waitui Bar & Grill restaurant. Luxuriate in the infinite delights this club can offer, including a dedicated reception desk, complimentary roving refreshments and snacks throughout the day and a complimentary cocktail hour with drinks and canapés every evening from 5-6pm. This is a well considered paradise for those who are inspired by the pleasures of life.

Tons of family fun at Plantation Island Resort

Plantation Island Resort has always been a top choice for families seeking a budget-friendly island vacation. Known for its warmth, hospitality and stack of kids activities, it’s a place where guests of all ages have a ball.

The resort's new Kid’s Club, Coconut Kid’s Club, opened in 2022 and welcomes children aged 4 to 11 to enjoy free activities throughout the day. Activities range from engaging Fijian traditions such as basket weaving, to tie-dyeing the resort's signature kids t-shirts. A Kids Eat Free buffet and an elaborate indoor climbing gym, along with an outdoor playground, add to the charm. Outside of the Coconut Kid’s Club, the resort offers two additional playgrounds for children's fun and safety. Complimentary inflatable water parks floating in the lagoon and the forthcoming Jungle Float attraction provide further entertainment, allowing guests to climb, jump, swim, and slide.

While many guests are there for tropical relaxation, those seeking physical activities can make use of the half basketball court, handball court, tennis court, volleyball court, and 9-hole golf course, there’s something for everyone!

Shangri-La Yanuca Island: Embracing Farm-to-Table Dining

Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji, has long been a champion of the farm-to-table dining concept. This dedication is evident in their 'Rooted in Nature' programme, launched in 2014, which puts fresh, sustainable dining at the forefront.

The programme promotes menu items that predominantly feature ingredients sourced from local producers, in line with the 'Rooted in Nature' guidelines. These special dishes, distinguishable by a pea shoot logo, reassure guests that they're savouring ethically sourced, sustainable food.

Today, this philosophy is led by Executive Chef Arnold Alphonsus. The initiative encompasses six objectives: utilising local seasonal produce, fostering community engagement, offering fresh, seasonal food and beverages, encouraging culinary innovation, inspiring guests with healthy and nutritious meals, and aligning with sustainability goals.

Blessed to be situated in Fiji's "Salad Bowl," Shangri-La's Yanuca Island resort enjoys daily deliveries of fresh fruits and vegetables from three local suppliers. In addition, the resort sources seafood, including freshly caught lobsters, from local fishermen. Sounds delicious!

Captain Cook Cruises sails into a new era of luxury

In exciting news for Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, the company is gearing up to launch their newest ship, the MS Caledonian Sky. This modern, small luxury ship is set to replace the much-loved Reef Endeavour, a stalwart in the fleet since the late 1990s.

The introduction of the MS Caledonian Sky marks a step forward for small ship cruising in Fiji. Future passengers will enjoy superior facilities, unrivalled comfort, along with a variety of unique itineraries led by a knowledgeable expedition team.

While Captain Cook Cruises Fiji acknowledges the significant contributions of the MV Reef Endeavour over the years, its final cruise will take place on November 4th, 2023.

From November 11, 2023, the MS Caledonian Sky will commence its voyages from Nadi. The ship will offer an enhanced range of itineraries previously covered by the Reef Endeavour and improve onboard accommodation and services. The MS Caledonian Sky will also explore further afield, visiting some of the most remote and exquisite parts of Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa.

The MS Caledonian Sky is designed with 57 suites spread over four decks, all boasting ocean views. These suites offer private bathrooms, ample wardrobe space, and comfortable sitting areas, with some even boasting private balconies. We look forward to seeing this wonderful new vessel on the water!

Sigavou Studios: Experience Fiji's vibrant art scene up-close

Sigavou Studios, a vibrant arts space in Nadi, has recently expanded, providing visitors with an immersive cultural and creative experience. Once a small home-based family studio, Sigavou has evolved into a larger warehouse bursting with the colours and traditions of Fijian culture.

Recently introduced, Sigavou will offer visitors a curated two-hour session, featuring a tour of the gallery, a demonstration of traditional barkcloth painting, and a chance to participate in the creative process. Guests can try their hand at stencil work, blend vibrant acrylics to make their own island-inspired art, or design a functional piece like a tote bag or scarf.

Collaborative mural painting is another unique experience Sigavou offers. Visitors are invited to contribute to mural boards, creating colourful works of art to be donated to local community spaces. For those keen on mural painting, the studio also facilitates tailor-made Corporate Social Responsibility events that support local capacitybuilding initiatives.

Ahura Resorts: Groundbreaking Fiji Iguana Conservation

As well as being an amazing adults-only haven, Likuliku Lagoon Resort (part of Ahura Resorts) is home to the flourishing Iguana Sanctuary and Assurance Colony – a world-leading conservation program for the critically endangered Fijian Crested Iguana. The sanctuary, which saw twelve new hatchlings during the COVID hiatus and into 2022, is the world's only captive breeding facility operating under natural conditions.

In 2010, the rediscovery of a Fiji Crested Iguana at the resort sparked significant conservation efforts, considering the species' unique geographical distribution and the potential contribution to Fiji's eco-tourism. Fijian Crested Iguanas, believed extinct on Malolo Island for over 25 years, are now thought to number around 80 in the wild.

Human activities and introduced species have contributed to the decline of the Fiji Iguana, devastating its dry forest habitat - one of the planet's most endangered ecosystems. To counter this, Ahura Resorts initiated a significant regeneration program, including establishing the first dry forest nursery on Malolo Island and creating a seed-bank to preserve the unique eco-system. Over the past eight years, nearly 9000 trees have been planted within the resort's premises.

Ahura Resorts ultimate goal is to minimise environmental impact and enhance the habitats of endangered species through various programs and initiatives. In partnership with the US Geological Survey, San Diego Zoo, and Taronga Zoo, the team is set to conduct a comprehensive survey of Malolo Island's wild Iguana population in July, including a 'tag and release' program and a check-up on the Assurance Colony's health. Great stuff Ahura!

Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island: Yoga at Sunrise

At Sheraton Resort & Spa on Tokoriki Island in the Mamanuca Islands, guests can start their day with "Yoga at Sunrise" on the resort's Heli pad, which boasts panoramic views of the surrounding islands. This can be followed by wellness offerings that include “Chef’s Garden: water infusions and juices” and a unique "Garden to Glass" cocktail-making class led by the Resident Mixologist, Ralden Paul Santos.

Exclusive overnight experience at Seventh Heaven

Having operated successfully for over a year, floating pontoon experience Seventh Heaven has now added an Overnight Experience to its roster of unique offerings. This option presents luxury glamping, decadent dining, and pure relaxation for couples and groups, surrounded by the Mamanuca Islands' crystal-clear waters!

The experience includes private hire of Seventh Heaven, overnight glamping-style accommodation, all-inclusive food and beverage, cocktail making class, a sevencourse dinner, champagne breakfast, massage, private snorkelling tour, loaded iPad for movie enjoyment, and a gift pack.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Mamanuca Island group, Seventh Heaven provides an incredible sense of remoteness while being only a short boat ride from Port Denarau.

Chef Seeto cooks up a tasty new project

If you’re looking for a special Fijian dining experience, it’s hard to go past Kanu, by prominent Australian Chef Lance Seeto. With locations in both Nadi and Suva, Chef Seeto showcases his deep understanding of Fiji's history, produce, and cooking techniques with a unique style of cuisine that incorporates Polynesian, Melanesian, Indian, and Chinese influences.

"Fiji's unique cultural gastronomy and unspoiled produce have the potential to evolve into a cutting-edge, 21st-century cuisine that embraces health and flavours rarely experienced in the world," says Seeto.

Seeto's latest culinary project, Chef’s Table Fiji, draws from his philosophy of food, ancestral diets, and existentialism, coupled with a deeply personal story of redemption. Part storytelling, part cooking class, part lunch or dinner, this project offers one of the most moving, hands-on, and tasty cultural experiences in Fiji. Chef's Table Fiji features a 5-course degustation showcasing the finest local Fijian produce, blended with indigenous, Indian, and Chinese culinary elements.

Experience Chef’s Table Fiji at Kanu in Nadi or Kanu in Suva.