Go Travel the Pacific Issue 1

the Pacific

Island

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NZ 9.90 EUR 7.50 USA 12.50 AUS 9.90 INR 450 www.gotravelthepacific.com

Romance

Dive The Pacific Natadola Golf The Whales Of Tonga www.gotravelthepacific.com

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ParaDise awAitS Discover the South Pacific and Fiji’s stunning 333 islands.

With connections direct to Fiji, it’s closer than you think.

See your travel agent or visit FIJIAIRWAYS.COM

Monuriki island, Fiji Featured in the film Cast Away

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With a route network that spans 15 destinations in 10 countries, our airline provides unequalled access to the Pacific through our hub in Nadi, Fiji and beyond to Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Hong Kong. Daily flights from Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland to Nadi, you can explore Paradise in a few short hours. Travellers will find convenient flights departing to Fiji and beyond using Airbus A330 and Boeing 737 aircrafts, offering world-class service in both Business and Economy class. Our airline is also a partner in the Qantas Frequent Flyer, American Airlines AAdvantage and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan programmes and members can earn and redeem points as well as credit flights towards their tier status. Within Fiji, Fiji Link offer services that are reliable, comfortable and competitively priced, with a comprehensive range of schedules to connect to and from international arrivals.

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COOK ISLANDS

Tropical Island Sunset Beach Weddings where two hearts beat as one

“ We were truly blessed to be married on Aroa Beach at The Rarotongan. Our family and friends experienced a wedding like no other.

The day was truly magical!!” Roy & Claudine

NEW!!

INCLUSIVE AITUTAKI + RAROTONGA COMBO & WEDDING PACKAGES! 4 www.gotravelthepacific.com

COOK ISLANDS

Honeymoon in Heaven - Aitutaki “The resort was the most beautiful place we have ever stayed at. Our accommodation was the best we have ever had in every aspect.Thank you for everything.”

Love, Kevin & Tammy

 The ONLY Resort set right on the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon; now Adults-Only info@aitutakilagoonresort.com AitutakiLagoonResort.com

SANCTUARY rarotonga

Adults-Only Seclusion on Absolute Beachfront info@sanctuaryrarotonga.com SanctuaryRarotonga.com

 The Cook Islands’ leading Wedding Resort info@therarotongan.com TheRarotongan.com

EMAIL info@therarotongan.com for details on our NEW ‘DREAMTIME’ INCLUSIVE Wedding, Reception & Accommodation Package! www.gotravelthepacific.com

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the Pacific

Editor’s corner

Editor-in-chief Gary J Cody gary@waterfordpress.co.nz +64 (0)22 431 0208 Publisher James Lynch Golf Editor Steve Khatib General Manager Rex Lynch Senior Designer Daniel Grey Graphic Designers Sadhna Nath Jesse Calder Samantha Stuart Customer Services Sarah Bell Administration, Helen Bourne, Jill Holland Subscriptions Jill Holland Office Manager Scott Homer +64 (0) 3 983 5519 scott@waterfordpress.co.nz Sales Manager Eimear Mc Keever +64 (0) 3 983 5510 eimear@waterfordpress.co.nz Island Representative Shayal Naidu +679 8059832 NZ, Australia and International Distribution Gordon & Gotch New Zealand IPS Australia Jetstar In-Flight Digital New Zealand Head Office Waterford Press 112 Wrights Road Addington Christchurch +64 (0) 3 983 5500 Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown Melbourne Office 176 The Boulevard, Ivanhoe, Victoria 3079 +61 4 16 326 464 Fiji Office Port Denarau Marina 1st Floor Terminal Building Nadi, Fiji Islands Published by

ISSN 2382-0977 (Print) ISSN 2382-0985 (Online)

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Welcome to the inaugural issue of Go Travel The Pacific.

Romance goes hand in hand with all the beautiful locations in The Pacific and we have tried to give you an insight into what it is like and what needs to be done prior to having your nuptials performed in the warm balmy climate of your chosen destination. There are some wonderful locations, top planners and professionals available if you choose one of these special locations.

Steve Khatib our roaming Golf Editor is privileged to play Natadola before the big tournament that is coming soon to this amazing course. Enjoy Steve’s roundup of this great golf course and don’t delay in experiencing it for yourself.

Diving in the Pacific is also another wonderful way to fill in your vacation time and we have a piece by Kat Thompson that looks across this vast Ocean and some of her favorite places to go below.

Skydiving a sport that our sister publication Go Travel New Zealand has covered often however this wonderful adrenaline activity in the warm sunny Fiji Islands lends itself to even more amazing sights and sounds.

You also receive a section on different destination choices.

They all have their own personality, wonderful cultures and warm welcoming smiley faces.

I really hope you enjoy this read and any feed back as to what you would like to see or read will be taken on board and worked on for future editions.

We already have some exciting content for our November edition. Watch this space.

Gary J Cody Editor-in-chief

Cover image: Malia Johnson - www.StuandMalia.com

CONTENTS ISLAND ROMANCE 12 DIVING IN THE PACIFIC 32 SKYDIVE IN PARADISE 42 GOLFING IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC 46 REGIONS COOK ISLANDS

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FIJI

62

VANUATU

88

TONGA

96

TAHITI

104

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

108

SAMOA

112

NEW CALEDONIA

118

SOLOMON ISLANDS

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PALAU

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PALAU

NAURU

WHITSUNDAYS

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TAHITI

NIUE

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The perfect day,

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the perfect place

by Carla Mangles

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Y

ou awaken to the soothing sound of the waves lapping the shore. It’s sunny, warm and the vibe is relaxed and exciting. It’s time. Your special day is finally here!

A wedding on any of the South Pacific Islands is a dream come true.

Almost any island you choose will be the idyllic location for your wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway.

Surrounded by your family and friends who will love the excuse to join you in Paradise on this special day!

There are a few things to think about, when considering the Pacific Islands as a wedding destination.

- What time of year you want to get married (in the South Pacific, cyclone/the wet season which is generally more humid, is from November to March each year).

- Budget - a South Pacific Wedding can be surprisingly affordable compared to a traditional wedding.

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- Guests - will your guests have the means to afford attending your wedding?

- Your time - while a wedding in a South Pacific Island is worth the effort, it may be beneficial to enlist the help of a wedding coordinator such as South Pacific Weddings.

They have the contacts and the knowledge of all the available options. They can also help guide you through the myriad of jobs you need to get done to organize the whole event if you need it.

- Legalities - all of the Islands have different legal requirements, however most require the bride and groom to arrive at least 3 working days prior to the wedding in order to visit the registry office and submit the required information.

- Location - Would you prefer a beach or chapel wedding?

So which Island is the best to be married on? The answer to that

question comes down to 2 things you and your fiancé! No one island that is better than another.

Based on value for money, resort facilities, quality management & services, amazing wedding settings and feedback from clients of wedding coordinators, here is a quick rundown of some of the most popular Romantic Island destinations:

COOK ISLANDS / RAROTONGA The destination itself is a wonderful choice. The main island of Rarotonga is only 32 kilometers in circumference making it very easy to get around. A coral reef almost entirely surrounds the island ensuring that the white sandy beaches are protected. The swaying palm trees and beautiful aquamarine lagoon are constant reminders that you have arrived in paradise, while the local people will greet you with a big friendly smile and most speak good English. There are

many things to see and do including an island safari, glass bottom boat cruise, bush walks, snorkeling, quad bike and adventure buggy trips, fishing excursions and cultural/village tours.

The bustling capital of the Cook Islands, Avarua, has a market on Saturday mornings, a variety of shops, 3 banks plus a supermarket. The local public transport system works efficiently and stops outside most resorts or properties every 30 minutes and is a very cost effective way of traveling around the island. For something different, hire a scooter and discover the island at your own pace.

There are many hire companies dotted around the island with a variety of bikes, scooters and cars to suit everyone. Taxis are also available. The Rarotongan people are very proud of their island and the main roads are in very good condition.

Temperatures range between 20 to 30 degrees, depending on the time of the year. The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATM’s are available at some resorts and in Avarua.

Accommodation options vary from beach-side resorts to smaller boutique properties offering villa and bungalow style accommodation. Private houses are also available to rent. Resorts are graded between 3

A fabulous beach to marry, renew your vows or just rekindle romance at sunset

Relax, enjoy tranquility, privacy and romance!

Make wonderful memories for a lifetime 2013/14 Air NZ Cook Island Tourism award winner for Self Catering Villas and for Customer Care.

Rarotonga is a magical location and Makayla Palms is a very popular honeymoon romance destination where your villa and the stroll to the stunning beach and lagoon, is pure paradise.

E johndmr@gmail.com P +682 229 36 • M +682 70 25

www.makaylapalms.com

Small, boutique and privatewww.gotravelthepacific.com our villa is just a short 15 stroll to the stunning Titiksveka beach and laoon

to 4 star and smaller properties and houses range from 2 star through to 4 star plus.

Rarotonga is renowned for dining out. There are many restaurants and cafes dotted around the island offering a selection of international cuisine including Italian, Mexican and Chinese to name a few. Many are situated overlooking the lagoon creating an exotic, peaceful and relaxed atmosphere to make your dining experience a truly memorable one. The nightlife in Rarotonga is enviable with over 20 bars offering everything from live bands to dance music.

and breathtaking lagoons. The outer islands are accessed by speed boat, sea plane or helicopter and there are many to choose from that cater to all budgets and preferences, ranging between 2.5 star to 5 star plus. Many of the outer islands are surrounded by a coral reef and have striking beaches and crystal clear lagoons. The Fijian people are one of Fiji’s best assets with their big smiling faces, welcoming manner and great sense of humour. Sightseeing tours, day cruises, cultural tours, fishing excursions and day trips to the

outer islands are all on offer at this unforgettable destination.

The town of Nadi is a bustling place with many shops, banking facilities, supermarket, local craft market and much more. There is a local public transport system on the main island as well as private coaches and taxis.

There are also several rental car companies on the island if you wish to hire a car, bike or scooter.

Temperatures range between 18 to 30 degrees depending on the month of the year and the local currency is Fijian Dollars.

FIJI

www.StuandMalia.com

Uncrowded, unpolluted and unspoiled Fiji is perfect for relaxing on beautiful beaches or taking an adventure off the beaten track. This destination gives you the choice of a wedding on the mainland or one of the many pristine outer islands. There are many resorts on the mainland dotted along the Coral Coast and on Denarau Island ranging from 3 to 5 stars. Many of the resorts on the mainland have white sand beaches

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South Pacific Weddings Your Pacific Island wedding specialists

Carla and her team at South Pacific Weddings have successfully arranged hundreds of weddings in the South Pacific.

A South Pacific Island wedding is a “dream come true”. It is very cost effective, compared to a wedding at home and is free of the usual stress that can sometimes be experienced when arranging your wedding in New Zealand.

We will take care of all the arrangements for you including your own accommodation and flights, travel arrangements for your family and guests, your wedding and reception arrangements to include the wedding venue setting, celebrant or minister, flowers, photographer, music, hairdresser, pre-dinner function and dinner menu.

We also advise you on the legal requirements and the necessary documentation required to obtain your marriage licence.

Contact us TODAY!!!

Carla Mangles – Wedding Specialist 0800 167 761 e-mail spweddings@xtra.co.nz

www.spweddings.co.nz

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SAMOA An almost unknown paradise in many ways the destination itself will pleasantly surprise you with beautiful beaches, white sands lined with coconut palms and aquamarine lagoons. The local Samoan people are very welcoming, helpful and most speak very good English.

They are proud people who still honour and nurture a culture rich in age-old traditions and ceremonies.

Samoa offers a range of things to see and do from beautiful walks and waterfalls to local villages and sailing trips. A visit to the town of Apia is a must with its buzzing daily market, many shops and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. Savai’i, a large outer island, can be explored on a day trip or overnight trip. Samoa has a regular public transport system operated by traditional local buses, each decorated with the owners’ personal favourite choice of colours and designs. Alternatively rental cars and scooters are available for hire and there are also taxis operating on the island. The roads are in good condition and you can easily travel around the main island. If you decide to include a day trip or an overnight trip to Savai’i, there are currently 4

ferries per day that operate at various times. It is approximately a one and a half journey and is reasonably priced.

You can hire a rental car upon arrival and there is a selection of properties to stay depending on your individual taste or preference.

Temperatures range between 20 to 30 degrees, depending on the time of the year. The local currency is Samoan Tala. Your choice of accommodation in Samoa can range from B&B’s and Lodges to beachfront resorts with a variety of facilities. These properties range from 2 to 4 stars. If you wish to be a little more adventurous there are also traditional Fales (open sided huts with bedding provided). These are dotted at various locations around the island and some are on the most pristine beaches. Fales are often very basic, but clean and are graded between 1 and 3 stars depending on the property, location and facilities.

These are great fun for a few nights, for the young at heart and those with a sense of adventure.

TAHITI Tahiti. The word evokes visions of an island paradise. Officially known as French Polynesia and comprised of 118 romantic islands and atolls, the

Iririki Island Resort An inspirational start to a journey of new beginnings and new discoveries.

Iririki Island Resort is one of the most exotic paradise Islands of Vanuatu and tropical destinations of the South Pacific region. A perfect place to commemorate your special wedding and honeymoon where we can make it happen for you.

Visit our website www.Iririki.com or enquire with one of our specialised team at info@iririki.com

Win 4 Romantic nights at the renowned Iririki Island Resort, VANUATU Prize valued at $ 2,258! Airfares not included.

Includes: • Four (4) night’s accommodation in a Premium Waterfront Fare • Valid for two (2) adults • Full buffet breakfast daily • One romantic dinner on the beach • Return airport transfers • Complimentary access to 24-hour ferry transfer services from Port Vila Visit www.iririki.com to enter!

Terms & Conditions of prize: 1) Draw will take place 15th September 2014 @ 15:00 EST 2) This prize is valid for travel between 16th September 2014 – 31st August 2015 3) The prize is not available during blackout periods: 15th December 2014 – 15th January 2015 & 28th June 2015 – 28th July 2015 4) Reservation requests must be made 21 days or more prior to preferred arrival date and is Subject to availability 5) Extend stay maybe requested at time of booking and subject to availability 6) The prize is strictly NON TRANSFERABLE and carries no cash value.

www.iririki.com Celebrate and escape to a tropical paradise

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islands of Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a and beyond continue to seduce travelers in search of a tranquil escape. With its islands boasting Palm fringed white sand beaches, high glossy green mountains, colourful coral reefs, turquoise blue lagoons and emerald-green waters, this South Pacific paradise has something for everyone and is the perfect setting for that unforgettable big day!

From intimate resorts and small peaceful villages to overwater bungalows and 5 star hotels, the choice of accommodation will live up to your island paradise dream!

Experience true relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the many luxurious Polynesian spas while nurtured by the tropical ambience of your surroundings. Explore the pristine interior and beautiful coastline by 4x4 excursion, guided nature hikes, escorted tours, or rental car. Crystal

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clear lagoons are perfect for a wide range of activities including diving, snorkeling, boating and fishing! Tahiti is the perfect setting for your romantic island getaway!

For years, getting married on any of Tahiti’s pristine islands was simply a dream, since it wasn’t possible for visitors to legally marry. In 2009 the French government amended the laws and requirements so now, couples who are not French nationals, not currently married and are at least 18 years old are welcome to tie the knot in paradise. Most resorts are happy to assist with getting all the paperwork in order. At least 45 days prior to the ceremony couples must complete and submit the following documents to the local Tahitian mayor’s office: a marriage application, a letter of intent signed and dated by both future spouses, and a certificate that proves that neither is currently married, along

with a copy of each person’s passport and certified birth certificate that has been apostilled and translated. All forms can be found on the Tahiti Tourism website.

Lalati Resort & Spa Beqa Island

Just 30 minutes from Viti Levu, your island escape awaits. 17 luxury villas on the shores of the renowned Beqa Lagoon. Enjoy the comforts of 4 star luxury amongst the lush tropical rainforest of Beqa Island. Indulge your senses as you enjoy the beauty & spirit of the Fijian people.

www.lalatifiji.com

CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

WINNER

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or a spectacular hill top ceremony, overlooking the sea. Espíritu Santo attracts divers and adventurers with its underwater WWII wrecks, reefs, dense jungle, caves and secluded freshwater swimming holes. Tanna is the perfect island for adventurous travelers keen to explore rugged volcanic landscape and come face-toface with the still active Mount Yasur volcano! Vanuatu is a perfect setting for a truly enchanting celebration of love.

Special Times

VANUATU With breathtaking scenery, world famous diving, snorkeling and swimming in crystal clear waters, Vanuatu is an unspoilt haven for travelers. More than 80 volcanic islands make up the nation of Vanuatu, with mountainous interiors, delightful beaches, dive spots and friendly locals Vanuatu is fast becoming a top romantic destination for couples looking for an unforgettable and exotic South Pacific escape.

Vanuatu caters for any budget,

from simple yet stunning to elaborate luxury, you’ll find accommodation to host your special day and get married barefoot on a tropical beach, at the top of an active volcano or aboard a yacht while you cruise around the beautiful islands. Éfaté is home to Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila and is the most developed and populated of all the islands boasting a wide range of resorts, activities and restaurants and the nearby Iririki Island offers a choice of waterside venues, beach setting

It is common to hear comments about the benefits of getting married in the South Pacific, the most common being ‘the amount of quality time spent with family and close friends’.

Your guests will often look at your wedding as a way to have a holiday at the same time, therefore enjoying your special day and the fun and activities on offer in a tropical paradise

Travelling with Children?

Family holidays are fun but let’s be honest, they can be a logistical nightmare! Below are a few tips and useful links to take the stress out of planning your getaway with the kids.

Keeping kids entertained from sun

Ph: 27769 or 55769 10am Sunday - Friday www.kokalagooncruises.com

• SNORKELLING FUN • COCONUT TREE CLIMBING/HUSKING • GLASS BOTTOM VIEWS • TALENTED CREW • FISH BBQ FEAST • GUARANTEED FUN FOR ALL 22

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up to sun down really is child’s play in the Islands. There’s plenty to do all day long and family fun for all ages and budgets. The island people have a natural love for children and a strong affinity for family.

As we all know from experience, parents won’t relax on holiday until the kids are happy!

Being prepared for the plane travel, a much hotter climate and a different (and sometimes traditional) island style of accommodation will really help your little ones to settle more quickly into their new environment, which means parents will get some much deserved R & R too!

Here are a few tips to make your family getaway a more relaxed and pleasurable one. * Bring a change of clothes for arrival as the heat can be a shock! * Purchase a case of bottled water on arrival at Duty Free – saves time & money. * Consider resorts with interconnecting rooms – you’ll

appreciate the extra space. * Don’t forget the first aid kit, ensuring you have plenty of insect repellent, antiseptic gel, sunscreen etc. * Ask about kid’s clubs and babysitting services - fun for you and the kids! * Fan cooled rooms may be cheaper – but when it’s hot everyone will appreciate an air-conditioned room – especially the kids!

Wedding Tips Choose a dress that is practical in the heat of the tropics – a simple dress in a cool natural fibre will be more comfortable, as will appropriate shoes as high heels could be a nightmare in the sand!

Tell the team at South Pacific Weddings if you intend to take a wedding dress. We will then advise the airline so they expect a boxed or bagged dress to be stored on the aircraft.

Hang your dress up as soon as you arrive at the resort. The humidity of

the tropics will help any creases to fall out.

Take care in the sun before your big day, use plenty of sunscreen – you don’t want to look like a lobster in your wedding photographs!

So does this sound like your idea of a great wedding? Then get planning!

If you want to make the whole process simpler, then why not enlist the help of someone who specializes in this niche market and has firsthand experience and contacts with all the major resorts and venues.

Often good wedding coordinators can come up with better deals than those who try researching it alone and at the same time, giving you total control over the situation.

They can take care of virtually everything from invitations and seating plans to dinner menus and all of your guests travel arrangements, including flights and accommodation.

It’s also very reassuring to have a professional team handling everything and ensuring your paradise wedding is truly memorable.

Blue Lagoon waterfall, Vanuatu

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Dream Wedding O

ur wedding day was nearly upon us. We arrived in Fiji to a hassle free pickup from the airport and were taken directly to Matanivusi Resort on the Coral Coast. Our friends had stayed there and loved it. They told us what a magical setting it would be for our wedding – isolated, unique environment, right on a white sandy beach, with an amazing turquoise lagoon in front of our rooms.

At first I wasn’t sure if we were on the right road. A long winding dirt road, hugging the shoreline and under a cascading treed path, led us to our ultimate dream. Everything my friend had said was true – we walked onto a deck with an amazing outlook. Over the edge of the infinity pool was that majestic lagoon rimmed by the reef.

We had discussed our wedding plans with the owners and nothing was too much trouble for them. All options were available – a ceremony for just my future husband and myself,

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an intimate group of friends or if we wanted the maximum number of 24 guests. No matter which we chose, it was going to be intimate and very unique.

Now that we were actually here, it was difficult to make a decision which venue to choose. It was between a beach wedding on the private white sand beach, a ceremony beside the infinity pool or for an amazing backdrop, we could exchange our vows under the 300 year old banyan tree, which is nestled in the rainforest.

I had my heart set on a beach wedding and so it was. The staff did everything to make our day and reception stress free. Early in the morning I chose one of the many pampering massages Matanivusi’s qualified masseuse offered in the privacy of my room. I had no worries about my hair and make-up either as a professional was also organized for that too.

We decided to enjoy our private

Wedding Breakfast under that amazing tree. It is so hard to describe the magical day we had. Everything was perfect!

Both before and after our wedding our group found activities which suited all of us - surfing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, fishing, snorkelling, guided plantation walks, scuba diving or just relaxing by the pool and spa with the ultimate tropical cocktail.

An aspect of the Resort which helped to ‘seal the deal’ is that it is a certified Eco-Resort. We were able to wholeheartedly embrace the sustainable practices operating throughout the Resort. Each room is only metres from the white sandy beach and that amazing, turquoise lagoon.

Above ground walkways meander through the property, fresh rainwater tanks supply the Resort with all water needs and with an abundance of fruit trees for us to pick, our tropical dream wedding really did come true.

Matanivusi Resort Fiji www.fijiweddingresort.com www.gotravelthepacific.com

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BORA BORA - ST REGIS

BORA BORA - FOUR SEASONS

BORA BORA - HILTON

Where else could it be more romantic? Legal weddings are now official in French Polynesia for non-French nationals and we offer you the possibility to customise your legal Tahiti wedding destination package.

All wedding packages include planning with city hall and an on-site wedding coordinator/interpreter who can also act as your witness. A beautiful wedding bouquet made of tipanie flowers and the boutonnière are provided after you've been picked up by private boat. Of course many other services can be added to packages, such as festive, traditional wedding ceremonies without legal value, honeymoon packages, photographer, make up and hair dresser, romantic dinners‌ Please feel free to give us a call, or email us at accueil@pacifictravelsolutions.co.ck we will be delighted to assist you.

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www.gotravelthepacific.com Phone +682 54584 www.pacifictravelsolutions.com

EXCLUSIVE WEDDING CEREMONY ON TUPAI

The Sacrament of Nature...

Dressed up for the occasion.

Fly to the small deserted open heart-shaped atoll for and unforgettable ceremony.

Red carpet as you descend from the helicopter, exchange your vows in complete privacy on a beach of fine sand with just the turquoise lagoon and the shade of the coconut palms as witness.

After a few Champagne bubbles, leave this unspoiled paradise...

And so that the magic does not stop, back to your hotel, dancers and musicians will welcome you around a wedding cake and Champagne.

Rate: 6000 Euros Including: Wedding Coordinator, Hair Dresser/Face Makeup, Flower bouquet and boutonnière Private helicopter transfers to/from Tupai (departing from Bora Bora) On Tupai: Wedding ceremony, Champagne toast, photo shooting, wedding certificate.

At the resort: Dance show, wedding cake, a bottle of Champagne.

Phone +682 54584

www.pacifictravelsolutions.com

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TOBEY & NATHAN

Their Wedding at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, Cook Islands

The Couple: Nathan Tipene & Tobey Biggins The Date: 4.30pm, 4 April 2013 The Destination: Rarotonga, Cook Islands The Accommodation: Beachfront Suite @ Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach The Ceremony Location: Aroa Beach @ The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa (adjacent sister resort to Sanctuary Rarotonga) Wedding Package: Aruru ‘Haven of Love’ Wedding Package with tailored additional options Location of your Wedding Dinner: Tropical Garden Gazebo @ The Rarotongan Photographer: Jenna Tere Contact: info@therarotongan.com or weddings@therarotongan.com TheRarotongan.com | SanctuaryRarotonga.com | AitutakiLagoonResort.com 28

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1. Why did you choose a destination wedding? We always thought we would elope, however when the time came we realized it wouldn’t be the same without our closest family members, so we decided on an amazing location that neither us nor our family had travelled to before.

2. Why did you choose Rarotonga in the Cook Islands? We had some friends who got married on Rarotonga. Once we saw their pictures and heard all about their wedding experience, we didn’t even consider any other options. We had made up our minds, we were getting married in Rarotonga!

3. How did your friends and family react to the news? Everyone was so excited, not only was it going to be our wedding, but also a well deserved relaxing holiday for everyone as well.

4. How long did it take to plan? A few exchanges of emails between the wedding planners at The Rarotongan and us and it was done. Every question was answered, and every detail was completed. We felt so relaxed because we were in such good hands.

5. Describe the special touches you chose for your ceremony. We kept it very simple.

We were at a beautiful location on the beach with the lagoon and sunset as our backdrop.

Being there barefoot on the sand with our closest family was all we needed.

6. Describe your reception/wedding dinner. As there were only 8 of us, we chose the Tropical Garden Gazebo @ The Rarotongan and had a sit down dinner with several courses. Everyone got to choose their meals, and the food was delicious. We couldn’t even fit in the cake! We all enjoyed a few too many champagnes before we pushed the tables aside to make room for our dance floor on the sand. We had shown the wedding planners pictures of how we wanted things set up, and they had recreated the romantic, candle-lit look we wanted perfectly.

“It was everything we had ever wished for.

We would do it all again, we loved it that much!”

7. Any advice for couples planning a similar wedding? This is the ultimate place for a destination wedding! Whatever it is you want, just ask for it! The Rarotongan and the wedding planners will do anything for you to make your day unforgettable. www.gotravelthepacific.com

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Simply romantic South Pacific weddings

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www.lelagonvanuatu.vu

Pamper yourself in Vanuatu in the Luxury Villa Range

Your Vanuatu Wedding

Warwick Le Lagon Resort & Spa invites you to discover a new level of

The Erakor Residence, named after Erakor Lagoon, is a two-bedroom

luxury where guests are spoilt with individual attention in the elegant

villa with a King bed in the main bedroom and two double beds in the second bedroom. Large ensuite

surroundings within the new villa range.

The Private Pool Villas are cocooned within high walls and positioned Lagoon-side. They embrace uninterrupted scenic views of turquoise waters, for gazing at while relax-

bathrooms, spacious lounge area, large furnished balcony with private plunge pool with full views across the private lawn terrace and water combine into a holiday so relaxing you won’t want to leave.

ing on your furnished private deck.

These villas are spacious, with large

Guests

king bedrooms, generous bathrooms and plunge pools for your personal

Ambassador tailored services which include arranging restaurant and tour bookings and delivering sun-

enjoyment.

Appealing to individual guests are the special design elements within each villa. The Efate Villa with its own pergola is perfect for reading a book before a swim in the free form pool with steps that lead through an alcove directly into the bathroom with an outdoor shower and huge pod bath tub ideal for a warm soak. Shefa Villa guests can view the lagoon from the bed, and then step out to their secluded deck and into the heated spa while those in the Pacic Pool Villa, recline into the huge lounge while gazing out to the water, or relax in the day bed before cooling off in their own pool.

The Pacic Pool Villa and Shefa Pool Villa can be combined by rolling back the large timber gate on the deck, for family and friends to enjoy the shared pool and heated spa.

Erakor

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Design your wedding celebration or choose from the newly launched wedding packages ‘Stylish & Simple’ Ceremony ‘Renewal of Vows’ Ceremony ‘Wedding on the Run’ for cruise ship guests ‘The Elegant Wedding’ inclusive of a light cocktail after the ceremony ‘Island Bliss’ which is your complete All Inclusive ceremony & reception with drinks package, 2-course dinner and with a choice of wedding cake options as dessert

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set champagne and canapés daily.

Further to this, breakfast dining can be savoured either in your villa or in the child-free zone of the Wild Ginger terrace. Added creature comforts are an iPod docking station, espresso coffee machine and generous bowl of chocolate that is replenished daily.

Warwick Le Lagon Resort & Spa offers 143 guest rooms, bungalows and villas situated on 75 acres of tropical gardens on the edge of Erakor Lagoon. Just a 5-minute cab ride to Port Vila township, and 15 minutes from the airport. Services include three dining venues, three bars, Oasis Spa for relaxation, extensive conference and events centre, a fun Kids Club and complimentary activities including non-motorised watersports, day tennis, and golf on their 12-hole resort course.

This beautiful resort features a purposebuilt wedding deck set against the turquoise backdrop of Erakor Lagoon.

Capture lifetime memories with photography on the water’s edge or by the tropical manicured gardens, followed by cocktail receptions or wedding dinners savoured on the beach terrace under a marquee, or dining under the stars with candlelight. Enjoy the convenience of this perfect setting with everything at your ngertips - let the team organise everything so you relax, enjoy the experience and feel the sand between your toes.

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Diving in the Pacific

by Kat Thompson

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Photo by Jens Troger www.gotravelthepacific.com

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T

here are many reasons for holidaying in the tropical Pacific, balmy weather, views to die for, clear turquoise water, and of course palm trees to lie under sipping your favourite cocktail.

For me however, the main reason to visit is always the diving. Living in Samoa I’m a little spoilt, the warm temperate waters and great visibility have me hooked; luckily it’s all in my own back yard!!

SAMOA

many times I’ve done these dives there is always something new. Sunk just over 18 months ago the Tava’e is continually morphing, adapting to its new home on Aggies Reef. Tunnels’ staple school of big eye tuna, black tip reef-sharks, giant clams, occasional turtle, and array of colourful tropical fish, are just a bonus as I meander my way through the many reef openings forged by ancient lava which give this site its name. At Apolima Gardens the great visibility, spectacular coral and wide variety of colourful reef fish, eagle rays, hump-head wrasse, fusilier, turtles and black tips give this drift dive the ‘wow’ factor. An oceanic botanical garden...

Living in Samoa - almost dead centre of the Pacific - means many diving destinations are within easy reach allowing me to indulge my passion around the Pacific.

Photo by Jens Troger

Diving in Samoa is still fairly new with no doubt much, much more to be found. Currently there are only two dive operators - Aquasamoa on the main island Uplou – who offer a full range water sports as well, and Dive Savaii on Savaii.

Aquasamoa, at the Aggie Greys Resort (James A Micheners’

character Bloody Mary in the Tales of the South Pacific was based on Aggie Grey) is where I do most of my diving. Largely volcanic, I love the topography created by the lava flow – pinnacles, caverns, chimneys, swim throughs, walls, drop offs and cracks in the reef. In Vanuatu (Vila) everyone raves about the Cathedral - a cavern like crevice at the head of an old lava flow. Much of the diving around this part of Samoa is similar terrain - it’s like having a whole world of ‘Cathedrals’ to discover! And to do this Aquasamoa offers ‘explorer’ dives; for advanced divers and above - ‘go where no diver has gone before’ – and a bonus, get to name the site!

With over 40 sites my favourite dives here would have to be Tunnel and Apolima Gardens, although the ever-changing wreck of the Tava’e is a close runner-up. No matter how

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FIJI

...we get you wet!!!

Scuba Diving PADI Courses Fishing Snorkelling Catamarans Kite Boarding Wake Boards Water Skiing Tube Rides Tattoos

Photo by

Jens Trog

er

Diving in Fiji would not be complete without experiencing a shark dive.

While a number of operators offer this dive I chose to go with Beqa Adventure Divers. If you like sharks, this is an awe inspiring must do. Lying on a reef ledge at 30m surrounded by up to 8 different species of countless sharks (including Bull sharks and a Tiger shark) so close you can almost touch them is a surreal experience - something you will never forget.

These massive animals range from 4 to 15 feet long and weigh

hundreds of pounds. This dive should be on every divers bucket list!

From Beqa I travelled east to the Lomaivati group of islands for more sharks. Approaching the Nigali Passage through the Gau Island Barrier Reef I could already see shadows slicing through the clear water 30m below us. Still high from the dive with Beqa, the adrenaline keeps flowing; the visibility is incredible as we are surrounded by around 50 grey reef sharks, large curious grouper, and huge shoals of barracuda and trevally spectacularly showcasing what Fiji is all about.

Further north in Bligh Waters lies Namena Marine Reserve, a stunning dive location. With extensive reef walls, pinnacles rising out of deep water and superb drift diving options, it is somewhere well worth visiting. Crystal water and healthy reefs attract a wide variety of life including the occasional hammerhead, closer to the surface the reef is alive with colour; abundant soft corals,

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gorgonians fans, black corals and every reef fish imaginable.

VANUATU

Dive the clear tropical waters of the Cook Islands with experienced guides Small friendly groups Full safety equipment and a qualified skipper on board our custom built dive boat Diving around the island for over 30 years!

www.diverarotonga.com Email: info@diverarotonga.com

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Perhaps the most renowned dives in Vanuatu are the President Coolidge on Espiritu Santo and nearby Million Dollar Point. Booking late I was unable to get a dive on the Coolidge, however Million Dollar Point was a fascinating experience diving on jeeps, lorries, tanks and trucks discarded by a departing American Army after the Second World War. A must do for wreck enthusiasts.

My favourite diving in Vanuatu is to be had on its reefs. With many small islands there is a bounty of jewels to discover, shallow coral gardens, deep water drop offs, pinnacles and everything in between.

A highlight for me is the uninhabited Sakao Island off the northeast coast of Espiritu Santo. As with everywhere in Vanuatu, make sure

you consult with the local landowners regarding access to their reefs.

Many communities operate marine protected areas conserving natural beauty and healthy ecosystems.

Perfect for divers like myself - willing to do a little exploration and get off the beaten track.

Vanuatu offers a number of well

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established dive operators to choose from in and near Port Vila, and Luganville, the two main diving bases in the country.

COOK ISLANDS Rarotonga offers a great destination for those who wish to mix good diving with a relaxed, south seas vacation.

Isolated by thousands of square miles of ocean, Rarotonga’s fringing reef is washed by the clean, clear waters of the South Pacific.

The fringing reef is characterized by a gently sloping plateau out to about 30m / 100ft, where the reef steepens

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and ‘drops off’ into the abyss. There is a variety of terrain and fish life at different parts of the reef and with over 30 dive sites there are plenty of options to keep you interested.

The south side of the island is characterized by a shallow lagoon which empties to the ocean by passages or passes. These passages offer exciting canyon like dives with sharks, rays and turtles often present.

Access to these is only by boat and we dive them from the outside of the reef.

The north coast of the island has the most coral cover with huge

island, a favourite resting place of white tip reef sharks. The drop off is also accessible and looking from 30m / 100ft to depths of over 80m / 250ft can make your heart flutter.

The east and west coasts are typically steeper with boulder like terrain sloping out to the drop off.

Photo by Jens Troger

Porites bommies mushrooming up and forming overhangs and gullies.

Turtles, Napoleon Wrasse and the myriad of reef dwellers can be easily approached on this coast offering great interactions and opportunities for photography.

There are a few wide sandy runoffs located on the northern side of the

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SOLOMON ISLANDS

of World War II. Most are accessible by boat only, but a number of shore dives are available. I recommend hiring a local Divemaster to show you the best of the sites (My choice was Johnny Rocket whose name

Photo by Jens Troger

Offshore from Honiara is the famous Iron Bottom Sound, named for the 50 or so American and Japanese vessels sunk during the Battle of Guadalcanal, the largest naval battle

Bula Welcome To Reef Safari Fiji!

With literally hundreds of dive sites, our Fiji locations make planning your diving holiday a breeze. Whether you want to swim with Manta Rays, dive with the sharks, explore wrecks, experience cave diving or see the beautiful coral reefs, Fiji has the water action you require.

Reef Safari has many diving locations throughout Fiji, from the Coral Coast up through the Mamanucas, all the way up to the beautiful Yasawas. We invite everyone to join us - from those who have never dived before through to divers with hundreds of dives in their log-books.

At Reef Safari we have a belief that it’s not only where you take people diving but how. Our aim is to make every dive fun and interesting. Our professional and friendly dive teams are waiting to introduce you to the mysteries of the underwater world. So come join us for your underwater experience of a life time.

P +679 6750566 +679 7077333 or +679 7077329 E fijisales@reefsafari.com

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swimming by in the blue, while 20 juvenile grey reef sharks circle up out of the depths to investigate our dive group is an image that will stay with me forever.

Back in Samoa the weather is perfect, the seas are calm, we’re diving daily, and life could not be better. So while I’m signing off now – the dive boat is waiting..., I leave you with my favourite quote...

“How inappropriate to call this planet Earth, when it is quite clearly Ocean...” - Arthur C. Clarke

Experience the abundance of marine life, with over 18 incredible dive sites.

Dive off tranquillity’s shore on shallow reef or experience the crest of sheer 114m drop just 100m off the beach, or join one of our dive boats for some of the best diving in Vanuatu.

Coral gardens, swim-throughs, cave & thermal vents, bommies, drift dive and two wrecks, are all to be explored. Amongst the corals and reef fish, you may see eagle rays and a range of marine mammals like dolphins and dugong.

The clear, warm water often exceed 25 - 30m visibility.

Discover Scuba Sessions - Dive packages & full dive courses are available For non divers - snorkelling safaris, kayaking beachcombing and bush walking Photo by Jens Troger

speaks for itself!) Having been in place for around 70 years the wrecks are well established, with beautiful soft and hard corals and a plethora of fish.

Further afield from Honiara are plenty more diving opportunities, although my experience is limited to the Reef Islands in the east. Here deep water meets islands and atolls resulting in a breathtaking coral reef.

Being surrounded by bump-head parrotfish and hump-head wrasse, with manta rays, turtles and tunas

Eco Tourism Accommodation also Available Email: drewco@vanuatu.com.vu Phone: +678 25020

www.tranquillitydive.com www.gotravelthepacific.com

41

Blue skies over Fiji

by Claire Whittaker

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I

’ve experienced many great activities over the years, but this holiday, I wanted something different. It was time to finally cross something of my Bucketlist. Enter Skydive Fiji!

It’s a beautiful blue-sky morning.

I’m picked up from my hotel by the courtesy transfer and taken to the head office where the paperwork, weighing, buckling of the harness

& safety procedures briefing takes place. Jason, my tandem instructor, is extremely relaxed which helps calm my nerves. I tell him I’ve got a fear of heights, but he explains that it wont bother me during skydiving, because it is nothing more then a plane ride.

The flight is complemented by stunning views over the Mount Evans range, turquoise reefs and white sandy

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beach islands of the Mamaca Islands and the Yasawa’s on the horizon. A free aerial scenic tour on top of my skydive. That’s what I call value for money!

As we approach the 14,000ft (4km) mark, the door is flicked open, the wind gushes through the aircraft and without hesitation, out we go. The first few seconds are overwhelming. The

admin@skydivefiji.com.fj

www.skydivefiji.com.fj

sensation of freefalling is a cherished feeling I wish would never end. It feels like I’m floating in the air, not like falling at all. We’re going 200km/h but I feel relaxed and am smiling away.

After a minute of freefall, Jason opens the parachute and I can enjoy the canopy ride with uninterrupted views of Nadi Bay down to the landing area. We fly the parachute together and take a few photos with the GoPro action camera Jason is wearing on his wrist. Best ‘Selfies’ ever!

We glide into the beach where my two friends are waiting and I am speechless and simply in awe of what I have just experienced. Why didn’t I do this before?!

Jason jokes to my friends that they’re next. They are adventurous, but they need a bit more time to think about it. After me raving on about the views, they want to see it for themselves and get in touch With Heli-Tours Fiji.

They opt for a 40-minute scenic flight that takes them all around the Mamanuca Group of Islands and into the Mount Evans Mountain range. Heli-Tours uses their 3-seater helicopter for this flight. It has a window seat for everyone, so perfect for scenic flights. Tyson, the pilot, asks if I feel like joining my friends on this flight.

Yes Please!

A short briefing and away we go. Tyson clearly loves his job and knows a lot about the sights. Beautiful sand cays, idyllic islands with stunning reefs, fancy resorts, raging waterfalls and lush valleys. Fiji just doesn’t stop to amaze me. The whole trip has left me with one problem.

How am I ever going to top this?

E sales@helitoursfiji.com | P +679 675 0255 www.gotravelthepacific.com

45

A New era of Golf in the South Pacific

by Steve Khatib

Natadola Bay - 15th Hole

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I

boarded my early morning Jetstar flight from a chilly Melbourne Airport full of anticipation, as my travel itinerary has me landing in the tropical Nadi, Fiji in six hours time.

The destination is Natadola Bay and the Intercontinental Resort on the Fiji’s Coral Coast, home to the countries number one ranked and newest championship golf course located on the south west coast of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu.

After a smooth flight, I was collected by my complimentary shuttle and after a comfortable forty-five minute costal drive south, I checked in at the magnificent five-star InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa. The resort is located on Natadola Beach and features restaurants and bars, a luxury spa, swimming pools and conference facilities. My room had all the modern conveniences one would expect from such top class resort including wireless internet and cable television, so I could keep in touch with golf happenings back home.

However, I had no time for taking in what the resort had to offer; as I headed straight to the driving range and short game facility for some much needed practice prior to my round the next day.

The practice facilities where first class and after a couple of buckets of balls and plenty of bunker practice

I felt comfortable to take on a course, that has a reputation of being very unforgiving to errant shots.

That evening I headed to the Vatu Lo bar to meet up with some other golfers that I had met on the practice range. The Vatu Lo bar has spectacular views across the golf course and was a great place to watch the sun go down while sampling some of Fiji’s best beers. For the record my favorite was the Vonu Pure Larger; a very nice drop indeed.

To compliment the amber ale, I dined on some succulent local seafood, choosing the Sigatoka River prawns battered in coriander accompanied by a traditional dish of freshly caught reef fish called “Kokada”. Feeling very satisfied after sharing golfing stories and experiences with my new friends in fine surroundings enjoying great

local Fijian food, I adjourned back to my room for an early night before tomorrow’s round.

I awoke to another day in paradise with a classic South Pacific vista from my hotel room. After breakfast I headed to the course and in the pro shop I met the resident professionals Amitesh and Apenisa. Two absolute gentlemen, and in my opinion you could not meet a friendlier, more welcoming team at any pro shop anywhere in the world. I subsequently proceeded to pick their brains about the championship layout designed by Fijian former world number one and three time major winner Vijay Singh, and about techniques and strategies I could use to tame the tough Natadola Bay layout. In summary, they advised me to “to be accurate off the tee and if the wind does pick up throughout

Intercontinental Resort

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your round take one extra club than you may think” Oh and also “due to the thick vegetation, make sure you have plenty of spare balls in your golf bag, just in case”!

Bearing all their combined local knowledge and wisdom in mind, I confidently placed my tee in the ground on the first hole and threw caution to wind with my best driver swing. The first hole is a par four and I stood perched on top of an elevated tee with one of the best views you could possibly imagine for an opening hole. It really does set the scene for the course and the round ahead.

My tee shot seemed to stay in the air forever as it found its way safely onto the fairway below. I safely found the green for a two putt par and just prior to reaching the signature hole, the par three forth hole even with the card I passed a little white building.

It was the Somosomo church that had been retained by the course architects as maybe an opportunity for golfers to seek some potential divine intervention for any wayward shots that may occur in the remaining fifteen holes.

The staff in the pro shop had told me all about this hole and its Pacific Ocean backdrop. It certainly did not fail to disappoint, with three bunkers guarding a green that slopes from front to back and ocean to the left it would be a brave golfer to fire at a back left flag location. However, I had the golfing gods on my side, so why not. A little too much draw and my four iron just landed on the left side of the green rolling off onto the fringe. Phew!

I escaped with a par and gazed up to the heavens upon leaving the green.

The next two holes were solid back to back par fives, which require water carries from elevated tees, are a good

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test and reward strategic positioning rather than brute force.

I reached the back nine and the par four tenth hole at one over the card satisfied with the strategic, tough, but fair nature of the front nine holes I had just played. The tenth is a testing gentle dogleg right hole, with trees strategically positioned down the right side of the fairway. I drove safely down the left hand side right near the native bala-bala tree distance marker; these trees can be seen throughout the course are said to be home to ancient spirits. Unfortunately however, I misjudged my approach shot to the green just short and found the deep greenside sand trap.

Regrouping from my previous rookie error, I stood on the eleventh tee, a strong par five aiming to make amends. By this stage of the round the breeze had picked up considerably and I was in store for a genuine three shot par five; so I punched my drive low into the wind with an abbreviated swing. The eleventh is a real classic hole with fairway bunkers and an undulating deceptively narrow fairway.

The back nine continues with some fabulous short holes that provide golfers with some realistic birdie opportunities. The most memorable being the short par four twelfth where a creek guards the right hand side the fairway and extends all the way up to the front of the green, preventing players simply blazing away with their driver. Rather, a lay-up and well judged approach shot is required.

My other favorite was the short par three fifteenth, a hole that requires an accurate wedge or short iron into a small green surrounded by sand; every course needs one these holes.

After some medium to short length holes, the course closes with two

solid finishing holes. A reachable par five dog leg to the left and the strong par four eighteenth, where there are a series of fairway bunkers lurking to trap your tee shot, including my pulled drive. A long iron approach shot is then required to a generous undulating green with bunkers again ever present.

As I sat back and contemplated my round in the traditionally designed styled Fijian clubhouse, I couldn’t help but think of how important this course could be in the development of the game of golf in the region, with the staging of the million dollar PGA Fiji International tournament and the appearance of local golfing legend Vijay Singh. Natadola is a simply unique course with fifteen ocean side holes, spectacular panoramic views and quaint traditional Fijian charms; such as the tee markers shaped as coconut openers called “neckbreakers”. This excellently manicured course will certainly attract a lot of attention and interest in the sport, with hopefully many local youngsters being inspired to swing a golf club.

I will definitely be back again and look forward with anticipation to the watching how the big names tackle this course in future tournaments.

Steve Khatib founder of Golf Dynamics is an internationally respected authority on all matters golf, owing to his affiliations through many years spent with the worlds leading golf minds in the USA. Steve presents several popular radio and television programs throughout Australia and has been awarded PGA Teacher of the Year, PGA AAA Specialiast Coach and Master Clubfitter accreditations.

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• 18 Hole Championship Golf Course • VatuLo - Bar and Restaurant • Golf Shop • Driving Range and Tuition • Practice putting Green • Practice Short Game Area • Rental Equipment • Locker Room Facilities www.gotravelthepacific.com

Natadola Bay DPS

Natadola Bay is a championship golf course that is regarded as one of the best in the South Pacific. The Course measures 6566 meters from the championship tees and is a journey through the stunning Fijian landscape revealing a showcase of Viti Levu's topographic diversity and its breathtaking views across the magnificent Coral Coast. The Par 72 golf course is unarguably the best golf course in Fiji and has hosted two Fiji Opens since it first opening in June 2009, the Nomura Cup in 2011 and is the joint host of the annual Starwood Classic. The Golf Shop is open from 6.30am daily through until 18.30pm. First tee-time each day is 7.30am.

All players at Natadola must follow dressing standards as below: Men – Collared shirt, tailored shorts or pants, golf shoes or sports shoes.

Ladies – Sports shirt, tailored shorts, pants or skirt, golf shoes or sports shoes.

Vatu Lo Bar and Restaurant captures all that Fiji is famous for, great food, refreshing cocktails, spectacular views with warm Fijian hospitality. Vatu Lo seats 70 and is a wonderful venue for a quick snack at the end of the round, or a sophisticated dining experience. Natadola Bay is also ideally equipped to host larger scale functions, such as weddings and special corporate events. Open daily from functions, such as weddings and special corporate events.

Open daily from 7.00am to 18.30pm For Course layout please visit the Natadola Bay site - www.natadolabay.com Hole by hole layouts and scorecard are also available on the website www.gotravelthepacific.com

51

Cook Islands

Intoxicating Atiu

by Gaynor Stanley

It’s not until it arrives that I realise it’s been absent. Blissfully. The ambient noise ever present in inner city life momentarily shocks the island’s serenity when three utes start reversing all at once. And then the wind gently carries that raucous intrusion out into the vast Pacific Ocean and the natural state of calm resumes.

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I

’m visiting the tiny Cook Island of Atiu, pronounced Ah-tee-you, with a bunch of very well travelled professionals from London, Los Angeles, Munich, Sydney and Auckland. Despite, or because of, the lack of urban trappings on this island of just 500 inhabitants, we all just love this haven from the everyday.

Atiu is one of the few places left on our planet that is pretty much the same slice of paradise as it’s always been. (You can get internet if you really must. But forget the mobile phone.)

Atiu is a little sister to glamorous Aitutaki and lovely Rarotonga. This coral island is not such a looker, but Atiu’s got personality in spades.

I’m infatuated from the moment we disembark our 16-seater Air Rarotonga plane into an open air ‘arrivals lounge’ and the high wattage energy of smiling, excited locals greeting us or seeing off loved ones. And you gotta love the way the Air Raro boys load up the ute to get the bags off and on the plane. Or the sign that respectfully

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Providing you with premium and unsurpassed location, accommodation and hospitality.

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Captain Tama’s

requests you hand in any AK47s before boarding.

Over the next few days we adventure via majestic beaches, rainforest as tangled as jungle, coral plateaux and limestone caves.

Bring sturdy shoes and a reasonable degree of fitness to go coral hopping deep into the lush hinterland and down into the Anatakitaki Cave with Marshall Humphries to find shimmering stalagmites and the teensy Kopeka bird, a clever little swallow unique to Atiu, that navigates into pitch black caverns like a bat.

On another tour, I meet an amazing man named Birdman George, humble, informative without ever being dull and worthy. Passionate about conserving his home, this guy’s expertise in bringing species back from the brink of extinction has been recognised by the World Wide Fund for Nature.

You know what else Atiu’s also got to please a city slicker like me?

Acres of high quality Arabica coffee plantations. And an amazingly sophisticated gallery called Atiu Fibre Arts Studio, where world class textile artist Andrea Eimke exhibits her exquisite work (35 of Andrea’s pieces featured in Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum’s Love Lace exhibition). We have a coffee tasting here at the end of a connoisseurs tour with Andrea’s husband, Juergen Manske, having learnt why the beans are so good customers have standing orders from as far away as Sacramento, USA. But don’t expect a café. There is one friendly little western style bar at Aitu Villas. Stay in one of the six villas here and you’ll find coffee in what is hands-down the best stocked ‘mini bar’ I’ve ever seen, see pic. They also host a wonderful cultural night of Cook Islands song and dance.

I’ve saved my best tip for last.

While there’s only one bar in the sense we know it, there are no less than nine of Atiu’s

One Foot Island, Aitutaki

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Experience

PACIFIC RESORT AITUTAKI, 5 Star “World’s Leading Boutique Resort” World Travel Awards

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The key to your Raro adventure

  

Airport Branch for pickup & drop-off Unlimited Kilometres Afterhours Roadside Assistance

RESERVATIONS P: (682) 22833 E: reservations@aviscookislands.com www.aviscookislands.com

Avis Quality. Best Rates.

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legendary tumunu or homebrew clubs that date back to missionary times (when they banned kava drinking the locals turned to homebrew). This is a must-do Atiu experience that all visitors are encouraged to participate in. It is best to go with a local who can explain the protocol and rituals of

this drinking ceremony (take some cash along to contribute to the brew’s costs too).

The tumunu is the name for both the simple, grass roofed and opensided shack that is the ‘bar’ and the barrel carved from the trunk of the coconut tree in which the fruit flavoured beers are brewed (these

days it’s more likely the barrel will be a plastic bucket). You sit down in a circle around the barman seated at the barrel holding a small cup carved a from coconut shell. Everyone drinks from this single cup. The barman dips the cup into the barrel and presents it one by one to those gathered in the circle. Look him

in the eye and, if you decide to accept the drink, down it in one gulp. Round and round the cup goes. More convivial and convivial the night gets. Until the barman taps the barrel and signals it’s time for a prayer to close the session and bid goodbye to some very happy campers.

Cook Islands, Aitutaki

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No Frills, Big Thrills

T

he sound of the flight attendant announcing the landing instructions to the cabin roused me from my dozing nightmare of last week’s miserable weather and work.

We were about to land in sunny Rarotonga, the major island in the 15 island group known as the Cook Island for a family wedding.

I had other intentions as well as I had heard that the game fishing was great. My son Graeme was with me and I decided to take this opportunity to see for myself.

Wedding done and dusted I took Graeme and mosied down to the wharf to see what was available.

I wanted to check the boats first hand and talk to the skipper before I made my decision. As a mad keen fisherman back home I had high expectations. There was only one boat I liked the look of which appeared solid and seaworthy.

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by Jack Greene

The skipper was friendly enough and seemed to know his stuff. We were given the option of a shared charter of up to 6 people maximum or a private charter. Since it was my birthday I shouted the son and myself to a private 5 hour charter the following day. It was a glorious day when we arrived at the wharf. We were welcomed aboard and given a briefing about the fish we would be targeting and what to expect. Our first big impression was heading out. The water there is a turquoise colour and so deep. 300 metres out it is 300 meters deep and the lines are fishing the moment you leave the harbour.

We headed for the first FAD which is a Fish aggregate device used to attract little fish which then attracts the bigger fish. Here we picked up a couple of small Yellow fin Tuna then about an hour into the trip the shogun starts to scream. It’s a strike and the way it is running shes a big one. Graeme jumps into the gamechair and I can see his face as he takes the rod. It’s a big one. Graeme has never caught anything bigger than a 12kg snapper so this is going to be good. 20 minutes

later with mussels aching and the heart pounding Graeme reels in to the boat a 38kg Wahoo. He is happy to let the deckie gaff the fish and bring it aboard. Hes buggered but mighty happy and im hooked if this is game fishing in Rarotonga I will be back.

I caught up with some old friends when I returned to NZ to see if they would be keen to do a weeks charter on Seafari. All keen fishos they agreed and we were away.

It was a fantastic week in July. A blokes dream, to wake up every day and go fishing. Fish was taken on every charter. Mahimahi and Wahoo being in predominance with multiple strikes on lures and local baits. Our morning charters were something else out there where we got to see the sun rise over the horizon. The days got even better as we were here during whale season and several times we got to see the great humpback whales breach so close to the boat. Rarotonga is truly paradise. The week came and went far too quickly so before we left we booked our spots for another week this time waiting until late October to do the trip and tie it in with the Cook Islands Game fishing club tournament. On arrival we took the first charter we could just to practice, just in case we had gone rusty.

Great excitement a short time out while passing one of the FADs the rods goes off and we are hooked into a Marlin jumping crazily out the back of the boat. Cameron jumped into the chair pumping and working the rod. After 20 minutes the marlin came up beside the boat was gafted and hauled on board. Unfortunately for us it was not the competition until the next day.

Last year 2013 we again went back in October and once again the fishing excelled. We caught everything from trolling for yellowfin Tuna with quintuple hook-ups. Our best day saw us come back to the wharf with 27 fish. 5 Mahi, 1 Wahoo, 18 Tuna and 3 Skipjacks. Not bad in our books. While the fish was getting filleted we got to drink a few ales and dine on fresh fillets of Yellowfin Tuna, sashimi style.

This is tuna dipped in Kikkoman sauce and wasabi. If you have

never tried this put it on your to do list. In Japan they pay a small fortune for this. It doesn’t come any fresher or get any better.

The “Happy Hookers” as we call ourselves keep coming back not just for the fishing but for the hospitality and friendliness of everyone we meet. It is a very special place for us.

Seafari is a great sea boat and has proved it to us on several occasions. The skipper Kevin and crew are excellent and do everything they can to ensure that we catch fish. The gear is well maintained and nothing is too much trouble. The cusine that is sent out on each charter is always plentiful and delicious and is made

by Sharon who also organises our accomodation, transport and itinery.

The island is laid back and everything is reasonably priced.

Accomodation, at least from our perspective, has been excellent.

www.gotravelthepacific.com

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Fishing

Charters

RAROTONGA

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Seafari Game fishing charters Rarotonga, Cook Islands This is the longest, most established charter boat in the waters of Rarotonga. “Time Proven & Trusted” “No Frill, Big Thrills” for the serious fishermen. Seafari is a Canadian built west coast trawler, purpose built, strong and comfortable seaworthy boat. Designed with the serious fisherman in mind. Original and best. Seafari continues to be regularly featured in print and TV media around the world and is as successful today as she was 30 years ago. We pride ourselves on offering a professional, friendly and safe service to all anglers.

The qualified crew holds all legal certificates and are first aid certified. We cater from small to large groups. No experience needed.

We cater for Fishing charters both private or shared. Half & full days available 7 days a week.

Your charter includes everything needed for a day fishing on the beautiful waters of Rarotonga where the fishing begins the moment you leave the harbour.

Top quality shimano reels, full IGFA approved lines, full range of tried and proven lures including local and international variants. Home catered lunches and refreshments. Full toilet facilities, roomy cabin and safety equipment. All you need to bring is your camera. Transfers on request.

Tailored fishing holiday packages available for group bookings. Let us do the work……

Shared charters = Minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 6 people.

Private charters = Up to 12 people maximum.

Catches include: Mahi mahi, Tuna, Marlin and Wahoo Owned and operated by Kevin & Sharon Reichardt.

Visit our website on www.seafari.co.ck or find us on facebook.

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Fiji

Bula ...

Welcome to Paradise

By Gary Cody

Alighting from my flight at Nadi always feels like dĂŠjĂ vu. The tropical smells, wall of warm humid air and the walk along the open walkway towards baggage claim and immigration. The melodic sound of native music and the sweat already forming on my brow is a reminder of exactly where I am. Leaving behind a Queenstown ski season and frosty mornings was no hardship. I took the short trip, from the airport to Denarau and checked into one the the 7 first class accommodation properties on offer.

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“B

ula Sir” I was quickly checked in and it wasn’t long untill I was lounging beside the pool with a nice cold Fiji Gold and observing all the white skins enjoying the tropical sunshine and cold “bevvies”. There is something about the atmosphere around a tropical swimming pool, kids squealing with delight, romantic couples seeking out a private spot and friendly natives continually chanting “Bula”. The Fiji tourism industry has really used this word as a brand and marketing tool possibly following on from the famous “Aloha” used regularly in the Hawaiian Islands.

Later in the day as the sun went down I took a ride on Excitor a purpose built boat that carries 55 people. This ‘weapon’ is powered by a huge 1500 hp engine and is the fastest boat of its type in the pacific.

The amount of sea we covered in just 35 minutes was amazing.

Had a couple of interesting stops and a wonderful commentary and entertainment on board.

After a tropical breakfast it was

back out to the airport to catch a commuter plane to Savusavu and experience the famous Jean-Michel Costeau resort in the northern section of the huge island atoll. A 1 hour flight over the islands is fun and interesting. Fiji Airways not only run International flights but also fly numerous domestic flights to most

major island towns.

Obviously named after one of the famous Cousteau family.

Renowed for knowing more about scuba diving than most. Hence this amazing location situated so close to some of the best dives on the planet. Set on 17 acres of an old coconut plantation the lush far north

Award Winning authentic Luxury resort Discover intimate luxury & legendary personal service in a pristine setting. Home to just 25 Fijian style bures, our lifestyle resort overlooking the calm waters of Savusavu Bay welcomes guests of all ages. Relax, enjoy creative gourmet cuisine under the stars, take a guided snorkel trip with our resident marine biologist & discover the surrounding unspoiled natural environment. Our inclusive tariff includes an exclusive nanny for each child under 6 and a Fiji buddy for older children & teens.

For our special packages see www.fijiresort.com email: sales@fijiresort.com Tel: 61 3 98150379

www.fijiresort.com www.gotravelthepacific.com

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vegetation is amazing. Quite different to the more dry plants and trees of the southern part of the Islands.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a true 5 star property and I had the privilege of staying in a Villa that was vacated a couple of hours earlier by

STAY AND EAT FREE HOLIDAY FOR FAMILIES KIDS STAY AND EAT FREE VALID 7TH OCTOBER 2014 TO 31ST MARCH 2015 STAY CONNECTED WITH FREE WIFI FREE NON MOTORISED WATER SPORTS MEET THE BANANA BUNCH ACTIVITIES TEAM (MAXIMUM TWO KIDS 4-12 YEARS OLD) QUOTE PROMOTIONAL CODE GOTFAM TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

RADISSON BLU RESORT FIJI DENARAU ISLAND T: +679 675 6677 reservations@radissonfiji.com www.radissonblu.com/resort-fiji www. facebook.com/RadissonBluFijiResort

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the Disney family. Unfortunately they did not leave any DVD’s behind but needless to say it showed me that the word is certainly out about this glorious resort.

The property caters for families and honeymooners alike with

Yasawa Island

THE ORIGINAL TASTE OF ITALY IN FIJI Flavio’s Italian Shop is Fiji’s sole importer of authentic Italian taste, style and freshness. We proudly import our goods directly from Italian producers on a regular basis.

If you love Italian food and you’re in Fiji, Flavio’s Italian Shop is a must see.

Wide range of Italian ingredients:

We import regularly via air:

Wide selection of Italian beverages:

Pasta (semolina, whole-wheat and gluten-free) Sauces Condiments (olive oils, vinegars and more) Aperitifs and appetizers

Fresh and Matured Cheese Prosciutto Salame Smallgoods

Red, White, Rose wines Sparkling wines Liquors Grappa

We organize delicious tastings, lunches and dinners in a cozy Italian atmosphere with our masterchef Flavio.

FLAVIO’S ITALIAN SHOP Wholesale and retail of authentic Italian food and wine

Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm - Saturday from 9am to 2pm - Sunday closed.

Lot 11, Narewa Rd, Nadi, Fiji Islands - Ph. +679 6707317 Mob. +679 9929316 elpisogps@connect.com.fj - https://www.facebook.com/flaviano.pisoni DOWNLOAD OUR PRICE LISTS AND CATALOGUES FROM http://www.italianiafiji.net www.gotravelthepacific.com

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children hardly noticeable as they have day care and separate pools where loving local girls make the most wonderful Nannies and spend most of the day with the children.

There are romantic walks and

special areas where loving couples can escape the guests for hours at a time. The are all manner of water sports available however total relaxation is encouraged with a totally equipped spa to relax and

Savusavu harbor, Vanua Levu island

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TOYOTA RAV4 • Radio/CD Player

• Remote/ Central Locking

• Air Conditioning

• Dual Airbags

• Cruise Control

• 4 Cylinders

• Power Steering

• 4 Door

• Automatic

To rent the RAV4 call: (679) 672 2233 (24 hours) info@avis.com.fj

www.avis.com.fj

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pamper the more stressed visitors This great location has been designed and built for the climate, sun and winds and really is so sheltered from all the tropical changes. With my Villa down the far end overlooking a beautiful tidal bay

it felt like I was there on my own.. bliss. My own swimming pool and fully equipped kitchen with no less than three showers, full wi-fi and satellite TV. It was super-luxurious.

I did not use the full kitchen as the restaurant had such a yummy choice

of Island and European fusion foods on offer I actually spent a great majority of my time in there. The seafood and fruit is also one of my loves in the tropics and Jean-Michel Cousteau chefs know exactly how to prepare and present the best

Tokoriki Island, Fiji

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Paradise Cove

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort

Fiji Travel Network brings to you a choice of 3 Award winning resorts – all located in the stunning, majestic Yasawa Islands in Fiji. Visit the exotic Limestone Cave’s from the movie, The Blue lagoon, swim with the magical giant Manta ray’s or dive through world class underwater caves, you choose as the Octopus Resort

Luxury Rooms

adventure and memories await you.

Traditional Bures

Beachside Villas

www.fijitravelnetwork.com E: reservations@ftn.net.nz P: +64 3 442 9998

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available.

The night to remember was the kava ceremony I attended. Held out by the pool in the evening many guests are inquisitive enough to give it a go. It was not my first time however being a bit of a “been there done that” kind of guy I led the way. I really did over indulge and my whole face went numb similar to dentists “painless”. I went back to my villa

and recalled what an old native guy in Vanuatu had told me. “Lie down and listen to the kava”.. I did and woke the next morning with no real adverse effects.

After 4 indulgent days I decided to take a floatplane back to Nadi and ordered one to pick me up on the resort jetty. Not only the Disneys can do this I wanted to have a special transport treat also. Flying with a

westside motorbike rentals (fiji) ltd

Hire affordable Scooters, Motorbikes & Harley Davidson’s. Tours Available.

GO PINK PINK RENTALS RENTALS GO Support Fiji Cancer Society

Adventures Buggy Tours into the Interior of Fiji “Go Trek” with our 500cc Quad Bikes and explore the hidden places of Fiji Great combo deals, group discounts & monthly specials available fijimotorbike

www.motorbikerentalsfiji.com 70

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Navala village, Viti Levu

voLIvoLI

B E A C H

R E S O R T

TM

F I J I

heart Fiji Dive into the of

Welcome to Volivoli, the very Heart of Fiji!

You will find us in Rakiraki on the northern tip of Viti Levu in the heart of the Fiji Islands. We first opened our doors in November 2005 to welcome travellers from around the globe and have been growing our Volivoli family ever since.

Volivoli Beach Resort is family owned and operated with help from the wonderful people from neighbouring villages. Our vision was to open a world class dive resort attracting divers from across the globe. What started with Ra Divers has evolved into the relaxed full service luxury resort which you will find today. We, the Darling family, are actively involved in the smooth running of the resort to bring you a holiday second to none. We ensure everyone who visits us receives personal service and the opportunity to share our love of the Fiji culture.

We have a private beach and 80 metre all tide sand spit which provides guests with an exquisite location for a romantic candlelit dinner. With our swim up pool bar, a la carte restaurant, beach bar and relaxing day spa we offer everything you could want on a relaxing but fun filled holiday. You can dive some of the worlds best soft coral reefs, go deep sea fishing, or try kite surfing. Or just relax by the pool and be pampered in Fiji’s amazing tropical weather. An experience unique to Volivoli is to spend time on the Fiji Siren, our live-a board diving vessel.

Come and see us and dive into the heart of Fiji!

Volivoli Beach Resort Rakiraki, Fiji www.volivoli.com www.gotravelthepacific.com

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pilot that is knowledgeable and friendly is always a bonus and my guy was one of the best. Pointing out different Islands and what they had to offer was a treat.

Back at Denarau it was time to hit the fishing seat. I still want a big Marlin and maybe one day he will

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take my bait. Lady Lily is custom built sports fishing vessel that comes complete with a local experienced skipper who knows exactly where the big ones hide!!! The vessel is designed for serious game fishing .

The qualified crew was skilled and helpful. The eye catching rate is

Come visit more of SeaFiji at

www.seafiji.net

Phone: 675-0611, Mobile: 708-0608, Email: seafijires@connect.com.fj

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Qamea Island

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100% Fijian 1000% more fun!

Boutique small ship exploration of Fiji’s stunning Yasawa Islands Take a boutique cruise of exploration amongst Fiji’s mystical Yasawa Islands. With itineraries specifically designed to keep you active and engaged, there’s snorkelling, diving, swimming with sharks and manta rays, guided hiking and visiting sacred caves, uninhabited islands and remote villages with just 34 cabins Fiji Princess is like your own floating boutique hotel with its own private beach. A different day, a different bay.

Same exquisite service. Same friendly smiles. Small enough to care, big enough to go anywhere. By selecting our 4 or 7 night cruise, you’ll swim in the world famous Blue Lagoon. Your perfect cruising holiday.

BLC4982

Relax in the on-board Senikai Spa, cocktail bar, sun lounger, or the next beautiful beach.

Dine under the stars... your vessel awaits, tied to the gently swaying coconut palms.

100% Fijian crew, experience hospitality from the friendliest people in the world.

Visit some of the most secret places only accessible by small ship. Untouched Fiji.

www.gotravelthepacific.com Experience, invigorate and rejuvenate / info@bluelagooncruises.com / bluelagooncruises.com

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outstanding and they are also very familiar in where to find your fish for the day. With professional crew and top of the range tackle The charter experience was one to remember.

I managed to land 3 beautiful Tuna and was given one to take back to my hotel and have the chefs prepare it for me that evening. Sashimi then

Vanua Levu island

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some Tuna steaks accompanied by a cold Fiji Gold was a great way to finish off another day in one of the world’s nicest and friendliest places on earth. I know why a few of my mates have retired and work there in the nice climate and activities that enthrall all ages.

As they say, all good things must

come to an end, and checking out of the hotel is always sad.

Back to loved ones and work is wonderful, don’t get me wrong, however there is something about leaving the beautiful islands. The staff sang me Eisa Lei on departing and I always become choked up when the melodic island guys and gals sing this wonderful song from their hearts.

Vinaka again Fiji.

The Pacific is home to an extensive array of ULTRA-FRESH, FLAVOURSOME and UNIQUE artisan products.

True Pacific brings you the BEST‌

FOOD & BEVERAGE

BEAUTY

BOOKS

Look for the True Pacific Quality Mark on your products www.gotravelthepacific.com 77 www.truepacific.com

Savusavu

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Excitor Fiji

E

xcitor is the fastest boat of its size and kind in the South Pacific and definitely not to be missed whilst on holiday in Fiji!

Introducing Excitor Fiji, a customized purpose built 18 metre, 55 seat 1500 Horsepower exciting vessel, with such stunning lines.

Operating numerous and varied excursions daily out of the marina in Port Denarau, Nadi.

The name says it all and in its short time here in Fiji waters many people already have been quoted as saying, that boat is Awesome, Amazing and a fantastic ride!

Excitor Fiji is a unique high-speed vessel that offers you the opportunity to experience the beauty of the islands, Port Denarau Harbour and the fabulous resorts in a short time. If you have a little more time Excitor can whisk you away to a tropical island for a memorable lunchtime experience

and still have you back to Port Denarau by 4pm to continue your Fiji discovery.

Excitor is suitable for all age groups. Excitor cruises at 30 knots (60kph) through most sea conditions, Excitor thrives in larger waves and choppy seas.

The semi-sheltered waters of the Mamanucca group out from Denarau are the ideal conditions for everyone to enjoy Excitor.

Excitor’s style and presence, offers a definite point of difference to other water based activities in Fiji, with its superior speed and ride options available.

Excitor departs daily at 10am and 4:30pm, on its scheduled 35-minute excursions. Excitor provides free bottled water, sunscreen, and Free Bula Bus connection to and from Excitor for hotels in Denarau or shuttles from the airport and Nadi

areas, for all daily tours. Coral Coast area transfers will incur an additional surcharge to advertised rates. Pre tour transfer bookings are essential.

Excitor is available daily between 11am and 4pm for passengers to experience some of the finest tropical islands and locations in Fiji. Optional lunch, snorkeling is available or just chillin out on a beautiful white sandy beach with a cold drink may be preferred.

Excitor is MSAF Surveyed for the Mamanucca island group with certified captain and crew to take good care of everyone on board.

Excitor is also available for group transfers, private charters and special events.

fast!

fun! affordable!

- Excitor 35 minute blasts - Excitor lunch time combo’s - Excitor on-board entertainment - Excitor Island Transfers - Excitor Private Charters - Excitor for Special Occasions - Excitor operates 360 days (weather & sea conditions permitting)

For information and ticketing visit:

www.excitorfiji.com

Fiji’s best value fast big boat experience! visit the Excitor booking office in the terminal Port Denarau, Ph: 675 1161 or book with your preferred hotel tour desk or travel consultant

scan QR code79 to go direct to Excitor website

www.gotravelthepacific.com

A Guests impression of Beachcomber

by Justin Taylor

I

recently returned to Beachcomber Island Resort after several years and I was amazed at the changes.

It was obvious to me that a lot of work had been done since my last visit.

From the crystal clear water upon arrival and being welcomed with a big Bula!, I was happy to be back at my favourite island.

When I stepped off the boat onto the island I was greeted by some of the most amazing staff I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. The friendly island smile that they had on arrival remained there throughout my stay and is a great memory of such lovely people and island hospitality.

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I loved my room in the new building that has been built since my last stay, it was so fresh and clean. It had the most amazing view out over the water and even the luxury of airconditioning.

I was happy to see that they still had the buffet meals as not only do you get to pick and choose depending upon your own tastes, you can eat as much as you want. Meal times are great for meeting new people in a relaxed setting.

The island also met its expectations as the party island and all of the staff that make your stay so pleasant I can’t wait until my next trip. I could not recommend this island enough

to travellers passing through the Fiji Islands and to get the full experience I highly recommend that you stay at least a week to enjoy everything because as well as all the activities such as great snorkelling and turtle feeding in the afternoon, the island really comes to life at night and the floorless young fire dancers really get the night off to a great start. The night is then followed by hours of drinking, dancing and meeting other travellers who are there to have a great time.

I cannot stress it enough, get yourself to Beachcomber Island for the time of your life! I can easily say that they were the greatest 6 nights of my trip.

Anchorage Beach Resort is an We are located only 15 minutes intimate hillside boutique resort from the Nadi International www.anchorageeiji.com with its own secluded beach. www..ijiweddings-conferences.com Airport and two minutes from Phone: (679) 6662099 the historical Viseisei Village.

Relax & unwind, it’s Fiji Time! anchorage@connect.com

The ultimate island getaway to suit any budget. This island paradise offers you a great time in Fiji, a place to let it all out!

www.beachcomberriji.com Phone: (679) 6661500 info@beachcomberfiji.com.fj

Funky Fish

If you love a great time in the sun with great company in a casual, relaxed atmosphere, then this is the place for you.

Beach Resort

“Your Surfing Paradise!

The resort offers dramatic sunsets, is close to Fiji's world famous surf breaks & delivers a very special & unique experience to remember!

www.funkyyishresort.com Ph:(679) 6282333, 6661500. enquiries@funkyfishresort.com

12 minutes to Wilkes Passage, Namotu Lefts, & Swimming Pools, and only 20 minutes to Cloudbreak, and Restaurants! www.gotravelthepacific.com

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No Man Friday Story and images Gary Cody

L

eaving Denarau in anticipation of a full day out on an island was exciting especially when the island was called Robinson Crusoe. I was hoping to see a wooden legged pirate with a parrot on his shoulder. However he wasn’t there.

Although I soon forgot about what I had dreamed of and started on a day of action.

A short drive from Denarau and we were soon boarding a shuttle boat that ferried us down to the mouth of a big river and out into the open sea. The Island was visible immediately and we were very soon approaching. Our first big surprise was some native cannibal warriors who charged out onto the beach and starting heaving coconuts at the vessel. We were conveniently out of range. However this was our first surprise of many that the performers pulled on us that day.

A warm beach welcome and we were ready for the busy schedule.

The day was full of numerous activities both designed for family fun. Visitor involvement is so important here that nothing is done without all or some of the visitors taking part.

The coconut a familiar drupe that is found on most tropical islands is something that the demonstrations on Robinson Crusoe are renowned for. Husking and shaving to extract the milk was also very entertaining

with the visitors sampling the milk in a very awkward way. We watched as the staff climbed the coconut tree to retrieve coconuts, and then took part in the juice tasting demonstration fresh from the coconuts.

I took a tube ride, also available was stand up paddle board or mangrove fishing, massage or a refreshing drink in the Wreck Bar. The free activities include kayaking; swim in the pool or in the private lagoon while others did some snorkeling on the nearby coral reef. The jungle bush walk was educational and relaxing. I found time to just laze on the beach, catch some sun and look at the magnificent island scenery. We then then meandered over to the Lovo pit where Fijian traditions and cooking Lovo style was explained. When the food is taken out of the Lovo the Fijian warriors walk the hot stones and coals then it’s on to a fresh healthy lunch consisting of garden salads, chicken, ham and fish all served buffet style. The traditional Kavaholic Band plays island guitars & sings whilst we enjoyed our lunch.

The fantastic & world famous South Pacific & Fijian Dance Spectacular Show began with traditional Fijian Warrior dances, traditional Polynesian, Melanesian & South Pacific dances

with knife dancing and to finish off the spectacular Fire Dance. After a fabulous finish to a great show. we boarded the snorkeling boat “Adi Katarina” and took a short trip out to the magnificent coral reef for some snorkeling. We then ventured down to our turtle viewing area where we were lucky enough to see one . Then followed by the crab race and then finally a very heartfelt “Moce Sota Tale” from all the staff before boarding the boat again at 4.30pm to take the return jungle cruise back down the Tuva river back to our Jetty. What a day. Sun kissed and tired it was a treat to shower, eat in our room and lights out.

Clear Crusoe Water

Crab Race Winners

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FIJI’S

E

TIMAT L U Day

Trip

The Ultimate Island & Underwater Experience

TROPICAL BOUNTYISLAND Transfers to & From Bounty Island & BBQ Buffet Lunch 1 hour Underwater Experience on SeaView Snorkeling, Kayaking, Turtle Feeding, Sup’n, Snorkeling BOOK YOUR ISLAND ADVENTURE NOW: + 679 9959 810

www.fijitropicalwatersports.com 84

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Join us out at Tropical Bounty or Treasure Islands for the best in watersports in the Mamanuca Islands. As well as our famous day trip which features the worlds largest semi-submersible, the SeaView (see opposite page), we also have Fishing (Trolling, Popping, Hand-line and game) , Diving (PADI approved dive center), FlyBoarding (the only operator in Fiji), Snorkelling, Water-skiing/Wake-boarding, SUPS's, Kayaks and many other exciting activities.

Come and see us at our Port Denarau T icket Booth or call +679 999 1208 for reservations or email us on fun@ fijitropicalwatersports.com and leave the rest to us. Hotel pick-ups are included Tropical Watersports offers the best in Watersports in Fiji

www.gotravelthepacific.com

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FIVE STAR LIVE Fiji Beach Resort & Spa managed by Hilton

by Gary Cody

T

he short transfer from Nadi International to Denarau fills us with excitement. Im back and looking forward to my first stay at The Fiji Beach Resort and Spa managed by Hilton.

Check in was slick and quick.

We were on our transfer buggy in no time and being chanted “Bula” by every staff member that was within earshot. The word becomes so second nature that even small children wander around the resort saying it at any opportunity they receive.

Upstairs into a studio beach front apartment and “wow” the view. I’m definitely back in The Islands. A room beautifully designed and equipped with everything a Euro guy like myself requires. Wi-Fi, Satellite Television, beautiful soaps and beauty products, fluffy towels and robes and a beautiful frangipani flower on the comfortable bed. What else would you expect from a property that is managed by Hilton.

The concierge explained all our switches and plugs and other finer points to ensure our stay

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was comfortable. The resort is approximately 1.2 km in beach frontage therefore on a balmy day the hike from room to restaurant or reception can be taxing.

Solution: This property has a fleet of buggies that run like a taxi service on demand. Nothing nicer than a ride with a friendly Islander who is often willing to help with local info.

The next highlight on arriving at a new resort is the dining facilities.

This premium resort has a great selection. “Fresh international cuisine and mouth watering local specialties” is how The Resort explains the options on offer here.

I tried all the options and we even had a BBQ outside my friend’s apartment one evening.

Nuku was the most frequented dining establishment. The buffet breakfasts were sensational complemented with tropical fruits and local delicacies. In the evening happy hour was a must and a meal again was just was the body felt like after swimming and shopping at the local Denarau Marina.

We thoroughly enjoyed a

romantic dinner at Nuku another unique location that is surrounded by water. The food here is again very interesting with the warm gentle sea breeze keeping us comfortable a nice bottle of bubbly and a South-East Asian menu we had a glorious evening.

Patience is a virtue in Fiji. They have a way of slowing our crazy hyped up expectations right down. However the service at Nuku was as good as I have experienced at any international establishment.

During the day a first class flat white and some gourmet delicacies were enough.

L’Epicier was the venue for this desire. Very convenient also, as we had emails to reply to and other business chores that never leave us. Free Wi-Fi and plenty of caffeine was the recipe that helped us complete our tasks.

Families are encouraged to this property also however the children are virtually invisible with play groups, a separate swimming pool and local Island Nannies available at all times. No see no problem.

Hilton Wedding

The accommodation also offers so many options. Even up to a 5 bedroom apartment that is big enough to have board meetings and the likes.

From Mum Dad and the Kids

to a Corporate with all the Board Members The Fiji Beach Resort and Spa is certainly the property to choose.

Bula Vinaka to all the staff that made our stay so memorable.

www.gotravelthepacific.com

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Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Experience

by Nicolas Perham

My first introduction to the South Pacific Islands was far back as 1983 when I’d taken advantage of the Easter holiday period by taking a few extra days in annual leave.

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he trip was for nine days taking in Vanuatu and New Caledonia, a much shorter version to the 21 day tour of the South Pacific I pulled out from some years prior due to the cancellation of a connecting flight between Pago Pago and Tahiti.

I was at the young age of 23 looking for new adventures and new experiences. I loved the excitement that travel brought to me and to the unknown in what to expect, but I find this to be the most exciting part of a holiday when visiting any country for the first time. I had thought about Fiji but I had come to hear different stories and thought it be just too commercial for my liking.

I had come to book through Orient Pacific Holidays at that time as there wasn’t the capability of being able to do this all on one’s own without the services provided by your local

travel agent or airline. Today, there is so much choice at ones finger tips and is pretty much a buyer’s market with the advantages of being able to book everything yourself direct online from almost anywhere on our portable devices.

My flight departed Sydney 2nd April 1983 at 09:30 flying Air Vanuatu and arrived into Port Vila 2pm local time. I can recount this as I have

still retained my airline ticket and itinerary. My ticket still remains stapled with the green coupon departure tax of $20 dollars.

I recall walking off the plane to a climate to be hot and humid as I experienced on a tour through Asia. The airport was relatively the size off a regional airport one would find in a small country town. After

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having checked through customs and immigration, I presented myself to the Pan Tour Desk where I was transferred to the Intercontinental hotel I had come to book from the only two hotels featured in the brochure on Port Vila. My itinerary only included flights and accommodation and therefore I arrived with no plans as I wished to discover Efate Island on my own.

The Hotel Resort location was on a lagoon and some distance away from the capital city Port Vila and therefore required local transport or taking a taxi. The best way I found was to hire a car to circumnavigate around the island of Efate which takes less than two or three hours

but I recommend do it on island time take it slow! This allows for many stops and believe me, there are many places you’ll find interesting and beautiful to stop for.

I remember one instance in particular when driving through a plantation of coconut trees either side where we had to stop and sample the abundant supply of fresh coconuts around us. To my amazement I turned around to find our dear friend endeavoring to crack open the hard shell of a coconut by pounding it with a rock against the hard gravel road. This captured the attention by a local Ni Van with afro hair welding a machete half the length of his arm and a broad smile

beaming from ear to ear, walked over and peeled away the hard Rusk within seconds for us to share.

For me, Vanuatu provided me many fond memories I treasure to this day. The most vivid memory I recall was having walked outside onto the terraces of a hotel we visited where the night sky captured

my attention to one of nature’s spectacles on full display, countless stars as though they were in arms reach. I’ve never seen anything that comes close to what I had witnessed that late evening. If there was ever a time to propose to special woman in your life, this would have to of been the moment.

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There was a day during my visit to Port Vila I come to meet a beautiful woman, native to Vanuatu. It so happened I had to take a journey into town concerning my passport to the very place where she worked.

We soon become acquainted and the next thing I remember we were on the golf course together. Strange but true and only sad I can’t recall her name but I would have to say this was my true Vanuatu experience I hold dearly.

Thirty years on, it just so happened

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to be a coincidence I returned to Vanuatu just after Easter in April 2013 to a place I’ve held dearly with many fond memories since all those years ago. I was expecting to see so many changes after 30 years , especially in the development of tourism but to my astonishment I was so happily surprised to find the quaint town of Port Vila and surrounding country side pretty much the same.

I had experienced living in Asia for seven and half years where I

had seen development in tourism grow year on year. More large hotels and new markets required to fill all their rooms was the requirement, which only lead to the detriment of the surrounding environment and expectations of finding paradise.

It puzzled me for awhile in thinking what is wrong with Vanuatu or for that matter, what is wrong with the island of Efate as I had not as yet visited Vanuatu’s other 82 Islands that make up this beautiful part of the World.

And then it dawned on me, Vanuatu is somewhat isolated from the rest of the World. I would go as far to say it’s protected, protected by the influx of mass tourism from Europe, Middle East and the America’s as it’s just too far for them too travel. Australia and New Zealand and not to forget Vanuatu’s neighboring Islands have all this to themselves. This is why it’s remained as it has for all this time without being over developed or more to the point exploited. It must be the only part left in the world where its natural rhythms of life and natural beauty remained as they have from when I first visited back in

1983 and all the more glad for it.

I still identified to town Centre, and the market along the foreshore but more so to the BIG smiles and friendliness from the local Ni Vanuatu people. I noticed a few new coffee houses and restaurant’s but still very much resembles the place I recall.

Yes, I must admit there are a few more hotels than the two International resorts from all

those years ago but most are predominately either small boutique in size or locally run guest houses.

The one acclaimed hotel that seems to have made it’s mark as an international resort in Port Vila is the “Iririki Island Resort”. I found the Resorts location to fit perfect during my stay as it’s central to downtown Port Vila and less than five minutes by their resort boat that is free to

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their guests. The hotels accommodation varies from Island bungalows to family style deluxe rooms with all the facilities of a 4 star resort. You can find it at www.iririki. com Iririki is highly renowned for their own Restaurants and their signature banquet “Taste of the Real Pacifik”.

You can have the best of both worlds and highly recommend it’s worth staying here should there ever come a time to visit Vanuatu. Just don’t leave it too long as places like this are hard to come by and for me, it’s one of the best kept secrets out there.

We all seem to look toward holiday destinations in search of tranquility, the peace & quiet we want to escape

to from our hectic lives, to a remote beach of pristine white sands and coral seas in a tropical climate on an island somewhere!

But for some strange reason most of us end up in places far from it where the places are overcrowded, polluted, noisy, shops and bars and neon lights? Why ? Find the places that are not and you’ll find the place you’re really looking for! Visit Vanuatu and you’ll know why.

There is certainly a lot more to Vanuatu than we are made aware of. The blue lagoons of Espiritu Santo, The tranquility of Champaign Beach, visiting an active volcano on Tana Island, the Diving, Fishing, Horse riding, Sunset Cruise, Sailing, Cultural Village tours, Mele cascades waterfall, the summit plantation, visit their underwater Post Office, the only one in the World or simply hire a car and find it all yourself, you can’t get lost and if you do, their always a friendly local to help you out.

A History In Brief Vanuatu has a deep history culturally and historically. Vanuatu was first discovered in 1606 by a Pedro Fernandes de Queiros of Portugal working under the Spanish Crown. In 1768, Louis Antonie de Bougainville, A French Admiral & explorer returned in rediscovering the islands and 6 years later by Captain James Cook in 1774 who renamed the Islands, the New Hebrides.

The indigenous people of Vanuatu are Melanesian who I have found kind and warm hearted in welcoming you to their country. It’s without a doubt Vanuatu was voted as one the happiest place to visit by Lonely Planet. Their native language is Bislama, a mix predominately of the English vocabulary and part French as Vanuatu prior to gaining independence was governed by the England & France from 1906 for 74 years prior to Vanuatu gaining independence on 30th July 1980.

Much more than just luxury, private beach accommodation in a tropical island paradise....

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Tonga

A Whale of a time

by Tracey Jones

Lying in a shaded hammock at Ha’apai Beach Resort, with a gentle breeze on my face and the sound of the waves lapping the sand only metres away, I can see where hundreds of years ago; Captain Cook dropped anchor, the British privateer vessel Port Au Prince was sacked by Tongan warrior, her bounty of gold lost to the sea and out on the horizon the active volcano island of Tofua where Captain Bligh was set ashore during the mutiny on the Bounty.

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rom my swaying perch amongst the trees it’s hard to imagine a 280km/h cyclone had ravaged this small island community in January of 2014.

The Kingdom of Tonga is a magical 176-island archipelago of pristine waterways and secluded island getaways. The main three Island groups are Tongatapu in

the south, Vavau in the north and Ha’apai in the middle. I chose to spend my time in the lesserpopulated group of Ha’apai to get away from it all only to find more than I ever thought possible.

From mid July to the end of October each year humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) come to birth, breed and socialize in

these protected, warmer waters.

Whale watching trips depart daily, weather permitting but unlike the usual whale tour, Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can slip quietly into the water with a professionally certified guide to view these gentle giants in their realm.

The guides genuinely care for the whales and your experience with

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them. After a detailed briefing about safety, what to expect and how to behave around the whales we left Pangai harbour to begin our search for blows, breaches, tail slaps and other acrobatic behavior. Today our search was short and two adult whales circled the now stationary boat seeming to urge us into the

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water. Apprehensive at first with my less than average confidence in the water, Iker our guide took me by his side as I lay with mask and snorkel in the water marveling at what had earlier been but a dream. The whales approached our small group, turning to curiously make eye contact with each and every one of us as

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they glided by, barely moving their powerful tails. We were left staring through the crystal clear water with shards of light disappearing into the depths below us. The comfortable wetsuit provided the perfect amount of buoyancy to keep me afloat without the need to kick or wave my

Beluga Diving Vavau is associated with Flying Annie Moa a brand new Bed & Breakfast motel. Located 1minute walking distance from the dive base.

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arms around and I could feel my confidence grow.

The special thing about Ha’apai is the limited number of whale operators and the abundance of whales. We barely saw another boat except on the horizon during the whole day.

In the afternoon we swam with a relaxed 15metre mother with her curious 4m calf swimming closer to inspect us while rolling and turning like a playful child. After 6 hours of whale watching and a feeling of tranquil exhilaration we headed back to the resort for a delicious meal and a few stories around the bar.

I had only booked 3 days of whale

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True Exploration

Tonga offers the true Pacific playground.

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For a couples escape or family break, it’s a fun destination with activities to fill every day. Kayak to untouched islands, swim with whales and experience the friendly islands culture at a traditional Tongan Feast. The Kingdom of Tonga looks forward to welcoming you.

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swimming and was delighted there was room for a 4th day out as every encounter we had was different and the interactions addictive.

The experience leaves me wanting to never leave this magical place

but I’ll come back to Ha’apai Beach Resort again sometime. It’s a fantastic holiday destination that has something to offer all year round and maybe next time I’ll snorkel the reef, paddle a kayak or even try scuba

diving.

For now though, I’m off to explore the southern end of the island by bicycle, meet some of the friendly locals and have lunch at the wellknown Mariner’s Café.

A brand new Bed & Breakfast set up for the scuba diver and whale watch/swimmer in Vavau

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Tongan Parliament Building

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Tahiti

Surfing Tahiti

Photo by T McKenna

by Dr Tom Mulholland

Having spent most of my adult life living in Taranaki New Zealand and chasing waves around the planet, one of my favourite trips is definitely Tahiti. With a flight time of 5 hours and escaping a wet and cold New Zealand winter, the French vibe and clear waters of Tahiti were a welcome tonic to the winter chill.

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now, I would suggest taking a boat to the pass, as the paddle back after 3 to 4 hours of non-stop surfing and paddling leaves you a little tired and harder to get two sessions in a day. Not only were we greeted with world class uncrowded waves, the locals were friendly and one of them was legendary Tahitian surfer Vetea David, or Poto as he was known in the world professional circuit who had won the world junior surf title before turning pro. As we took our respectful place in the lineup we watched the locals rip it up and get so deep in the barrel their flashing smiles almost lit up the tube.

Having surfed in many countries and witnessed ‘localism’ at my own break, respect is a key word and once the locals can see you are

polite and take your turn, generally you can get some waves, especially if it’s not overcrowded. The surf gods smiled on us and after witnessing the world’s best at his home break we were given the local Tahitian handshake on our boards, and it was time to get some waves.

After the warm welcome I didn’t want to kook it and go over the falls in front of the locals or my mates, so put in the extra necessary paddles you need in the islands as the waves travel fast and they pitch quick. The board was moving, I resisted the urge to stand, 2 more strokes then I was up and dropping into a clean perfect wave, I survived the bottom turn and pulled up and set my line before the lip pitched over me and I was in the famed green room, the

Photo by Christian Durocher

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his trip was with my ex flatmate and now Cardiologist, Dr Guy Armstrong, and biochemist Ray Dolan. It’s fair to say that our academic credentials don’t quite match our surfing ability and we were about to get tested against some serious Polynesian swell. Having been the camp doctor at G-Land in Indonesia and having to suture up dozens of people hitting the reef or their boards, I was not unfamiliar with the risks of the reef or your own board as the scar on Guys face was a testimony to.

It was with a sense of relief that we all did the 40 minute paddle across the lagoon at Haapiti to perfect 4 to 5 foot hollow clean waves with only 4 guys out. Being older and wiser

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Photo by G Le Bacon

barrel. It seemed like time stood still as I saw the reef speeding under me, the wave pitching over me and my Seasons surfboard shaped by BJ, humming, and Poto grinning at me down the line, I felt like I was in a movie. What seemed like forever in the tube, is still forever in my mind and easily replayed, that’s the joy of travelling and those special moments.

The barrel became a surfable wall and our we were blessed with a week of uncrowded waves and an epic surf adventure. The last day a new swell arrived about ten foot and it was not the same place when it got big and raw, definitely need a boat in those conditions and

local knowledge, not for the faint hearted or inexperienced. A guide or a local is a great idea anywhere in the world you surf if you can afford it or have friends who are locals. Let them see you surf and find waves and conditions to match your ability if you aren’t a hardcore surfer that can cope with all conditions.

We set sail on an overnight freighter to the island of Huahine.

While the others slept I was entertained on the deck in a rolling swell and warm wind by a local who told me of la grande vague, which means the big wave, on the nearby island of Raiatea. There is a saying, only a surfer knows the feeling and

no translation was needed as this locals eyes lit up as he described this big wave. He was vague on location and I was happy for that, as we headed for the quality waves of Fitii and Fare.

The vibe on Huahine in the water at the time was not as friendly as Moorea, due to ex pats rather than locals, but the waves and swell were epic and as a goofy footer the left at Fitii had three barrel sections and a fun wall to carve and being a pass breaks into deep water and a channel. It was serious fun and seeing your average mates surf like pros, (well it felt like we were all surfing like pros) as the water is warm, only board and rash shorts, and we were living the dream.

Staying in pensions and hotels, great food and French influence makes Tahiti one of my favourite and most memorable locations. There are waves for all abilities and many islands to choose from including the main island. Armed with a big smile, a good attitude and some local knowledge, you can make your own surf video and have the trip of a lifetime, it’s a quality place and perfect in the New Zealand winter.

Take plenty of sunblock, and respect for the locals and you will do well.

Dr Tom Mulholland is an international best-selling author, Emergency Department Doctor, Motivational speaker and Expedition leader.

He loves exploring the planet with education and adventure combined, often to remote and stunning locations. www.exploremedical.net

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Š G. LE BACON

Privacy comes naturally.

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Whitsundays

Every shade of perfect

by Gemma Williams

A carnival of colour awaits you at the Great Barrier Reef as Gemma Williams discovers.

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s I float there, bobbing around in the ocean, adjusting my eyes to take in the bright purple variegated stripes of the clam below me, the electric blue of the fish that just darted past me, the flashing silver of the school of fish in front of me, I sigh the mightiest sigh of contentment and happiness that I am finally here. A trip on my bucket list for so many years I don’t even know where the initial inspiration even started anymore. Then I remember that I have a snorkel in my mouth and I can’t keep sighing like this and I’m snapped back to reality.

I’ve arrived at Hardy Reef after a two hour cruise from Airlie Beach through the Whitsunday Islands and across the shipping channel to the outer Great Barrier Reef. The region’s largest tour operator Cruise Whitsundays has a fleet of vessels that they operate in the area but today we’ve travelled on the pride of their fleet ‘Seaflight’.

“People love travelling with us out to the reef on this boat because it’s large and spacious and has stabilisers making the trip very smooth,” Skipper John Dyson tells me.

I certainly enjoyed lounging on the white leather couches in the Captain’s Lounge looking out of the large windows at the islands that John pointed out as we passed them by, while others sat outside in the sun, wind in their hair no doubt holding themselves back from trying to walk out to the bow of the boat to recreate that scene from Titanic,

and others sat on the lower deck in the air conditioning and watched videos of the coral reefs they were about to see, interrupted only by the comedic safety and snorkelling demonstrations of the crew.

When we arrived at the permanently moored pontoon ‘Reefworld’ I was glad I’d taken the crew’s advice and planned out my activities for the four hours we had here. First thing was first and I went straight down into the underwater viewing chamber to scope out my surroundings. Curious fish swim up to the glass unbothered by the daily re-appearance of curious tourists looking back at them. A large Maori Wrasse swims past but he is upstaged when a small child screams ‘turtle’ and everyone goes running to his window to confirm he had indeed spotted a turtle just cruising past.

Next was a trip in the semi-submersible which takes small groups of about twenty up and down the reef wall throughout the day. The marine biologist onboard talked us through everything we were seeing and even explained why the corals didn’t seem as bright as we might see in documentaries.

“The first colour to be lost underwater is red, and that makes some of the corals here appear less bright than they really are,” she told us.

How to get there: Fly from Australia’s major capital cities to either Hamilton Island Airport, or the Whitsunday Coast Airport. Stay in Airlie Beach or at one of the island resorts. Cruise Whitsundays operates daily trips to the Great Barrier Reef as well as the other iconic parts of the region including Whitehaven Beach and several of the island resorts.

When to go: Year round. August is the region’s sailing season. You might spot whales on any trips around the Whitsundays from July – September. February/March is the tropical wet season so you might score yourself a deal.

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“Often professional photographers will add a red filter to their cameras to bring those colours out.”

Ah huh. Sneaky. Science lesson over and I get back to the pontoon to be fitted in a highly fashionable full body wet suit. Aside from protecting me from any marine stingers, the crew on the pontoon tell me it’ll also stop me from getting sunburnt. Fair call so I agree to put it on (when in Rome…), grab my snorkelling gear and slide in to the water straight off the back of the snorkelling deck on the pontoon. And that’s where I really felt that awesome moment of satisfaction, joy and wonderment of the hundreds of different types and brightly coloured fish. Clam after clam, with none of their bright stripy markings quite the same as the other. Soft corals gently swaying in the current.

All different types of hard corals – brain-like, tree-like, plate-like and some out-of-this-worldlike. The beauty of the Great Barrier Reef has really lived up to it’s name and after the tips and insights from the marine biologist I feel like I’m spotting things I might otherwise have just floated past without noticing.

Before I know it I’m being called back to the pontoon or I’ll miss the huge buffet lunch that’s been served onboard Seaflight while I’ve been

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distracted by Nemo and his friends.

A quick selfie from the sundeck for bragging rights sees me grinning from ear to ear with every shade of blue to green of the reef behind me.

Four hours has flown past and as we pull away from the pontoon to depart I notice a small group of seemingly self-righteous guests waving back at us from the pontoon. Surely they can’t be happy at the fact they’ve missed boarding their boat back home.

“Oh they’re the Reefsleepers,” John tells me.

“They’re staying overnight in swags on the top deck. They’ve got the whole afternoon with the reef

to themselves, as well as tomorrow morning before we get back here with the boat.”

Suddenly I’m the green of the Maori Wrasse I was just looking at.

Lucky things.

Meantime I settle myself back on the lounge and plan out the rest of my week here. Sailing to world famous Whitehaven Beach to sink my toes in the perfect, soft, white silica sand – check. Island hopping to a glamorous island resort for lunch – check. I’m still incredibly jealous of the lucky few staying at the reef overnight but I think I can handle exploring some of the world’s best beaches and resorts instead.

I’ll just have to come back.

e.

r e h t u o g a w s r roll you All the fish you can see by day.

All the stars you can see by night.

2 day, 1 night experience

Daylight. Enjoy the majesty of the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkelling, diving, swimming, massage and heli scenic flights are your activities for the day.

As dusk approaches, the day trippers depart. A quiet settles over the Great Barrier Reef, all yours to enjoy. Drink in the world around you with a well chilled sundowner. Dine in an under sea chamber and watch the nocturnal activity of the reef revealed in the flood-lit depths. Or dine top-side, under a galaxy of stars you only see so far away from land.

When you’ve come back down to earth, climb into your swag on deck for a night under the stars. Tomorrow brings another day to explore the reef. First up, an early dip anyone? H

CW4982

info@cruisewhitsundays.com cruisewhitsundays.com

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Samoa

Living the Dream

by Ross Bidmead

Watching the sunset as we sit in the beach fale, with beer in hand, it’s easy to believe we are living our dream.

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amoa was a spontaneous destination six years ago.

We cycled Savaii, the bigger but less populated island. It was a leisurely trip with no accommodation pre-booked, enabling Frances to get fitter before her hip replacement and a chance for me to unwind after handing over the reins of my IT company.

While the trip started as a bike ride we quickly rediscovered the joys of “camping” on the beach with warm, safe swimming and snorkelling amongst the coral and turtles as well as very friendly people living a much simpler existence.

The 200km ride around Savaii begins with a gentle, flat cycle through villages beside the lagoon.

There is very little traffic on the sealed roads, but we soon had sore arms from waving to the kids and replying to their enthusiastic “bye bye” calls. We were also marvelling at the open meeting houses at the front of most houses and enjoying interacting with the villagers in ways that can’t happen in a car. Later when we stopped in the more remote villagers we would end up in conversation with locals who were

interested in us and our bikes. There was no selling or begging and as English is compulsory in schools we had some common language.

Mostly we stayed in Fale resorts.

These provide accommodation in small traditional beach huts with solid floors and roofs and matting sides. They are often located at the waters edge on white sand beaches in front of stunning lagoons. The resorts are usually in or on the edge of villages on customary land and are very much family run operations.

A booking at a fale resort includes breakfast and dinner and the fales come with mattresses, bedding and mosquito nets. The fales are equivalent of camping, but without the hassles of tents and virtually no risk of being rained out or blown away. It’s a good start to the day, waking to waves lapping at your feet as the sun peaks through the matting, throwing back the sheet and leaping in for a swim.

Each place was (and still is) special and unique. Lauiula has a magic Fiafia night of traditional dance. It begins with guests helping prepare the umu feast (but they are not asked to help prepare the

Biking in Samoa We decided on riding around the Island of Savaii with Outdoor Samoa because it seemed like a great way to not only see the sights of Samoa but also to soak up the culture and meet the beautiful people of Samoa. By biking around with two children aged 2 and 3 the Samoan people came to us. Kids ran out shouting Marlo (Samoan for hello). Families waved at us and the occasional motorist encouraged us with a toot of their horn. I’m sure we would not have come close to this experience any other way.

The kids loved it as they swam for hours each day and played with the locals. We loved it because it was an active and outdoor holiday that felt like a real journey. The trip was really well organised by Ross and Frances. They were thought highly of in the community as many of the locals knew them as genuine trustworthy people.

Thank you Outdoor Samoa for a great memorable holiday. Keith, Jen, Munro and Forbes.

Trip advisor – on Bike Samoa

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suckling pig or required to climb the coconut palms) and concludes with a fantastic display of fire dancing where the performers twirl machete like fighting knives with each end blazing from kerosene soaked cloth.

The speed and dexterity required apparent from the regular burn scars.

Manase is a well established resort area with organised snorkelling, diving, cave touring and a couple of challenging mountain bike trails. At the Vaisala Hotel we had a 4 piece band almost to ourselves and fresh local lobster. We also discovered remarkable coral fields on the reef opposite the hotel. At Falealupo, a deserted beach and magic sunset and at Satuiatua a colourful drift snorkel over dense coral with huge schools of tropical fish. We found that Lusia’s Lagoon Chalets had a good restaurant and a party atmosphere that was very cool.

It was also the things we found on the way that enchanted us. We stopped at a hall and got chatting to the women weaving inside. They met every week to create the fine

London Missionary Society Church, Savaii Island

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mats that are one of the main forms of traditional wealth. The mats represent many months of very fine, detailed work, but we seemed an excuse for a party and the women were soon pouring Samoan Cocoa, dancing and proposing marriage.

The Alofaaga blowholes where locals drop coconuts into the holes than then shoot 30m into the air and the Afu Aau water falls with big jumps and cool water made a welcome swimming hole.

Our involvement here grew slowly as we were seduced by the wonderful beaches and never ending range of adventures. The next year we led a guided trip and soon we were running multiple guided trips, providing freedom bike hires and organising self tours for our clients who wanted to return with their friends and families. Last year we moved here, leased some land and built a bike shop to house our fleet that now has 80 bikes. We now spend the tourist months in Samoa running Outdoor Samoa We still offer guided trips and of course freedom hires, but the most popular trips

are our custom self tours where we look after all the accommodation and provide a bag carry service or support van.

Last year we also bought the local sea kayak business and upgraded the kayak fleet so we can offer new adventures on the main island of Upolu. One of the first guided trips we ran 6 years ago was a sailing and kayaking trip to Antarctica.

Samoa with a year round ocean water temperature of 29 degrees is very different, although we have had close contact with whales here and the turtles are almost as much fun as the penguins. It is also a lot safer here with no risk of hypothermia and no sea leopards or their equivalent.

The kayaking within the lagoons works well for families and beginners and the warm water is a great place to practice wet exits (falling out) and deep water re entry (climbing back in). The turtles, coral, snorkelling in crystal clear water and quiet sandy beaches on uninhabited islands and peninsulas make for memorable days. For experienced kayakers the open ocean paddling in pacific

ADVENTURES IN THE TREASURED ISLES

Explore the white sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons of rural Samoa.

Bike and Kayak Samoa

Meet the locals on their plantations and experience village life first hand.

Our custom tours by bike and kayak are suitable for all levels of ability.

Kayaking • Introductory day trips • Multi day expeditions • Turtles, Whales, Dolphins & Sea Birds • Stunning, deserted beaches • Freedom hires

Cycling • Tours of Savaii & Upolu arranged • Guided trips • Gear transport or van support • Freedom hires • 80 well maintained touring bikes

Day Trips • Snorkel over the Giant Clams • Paddle to remote islands • Mountain bike tours

www.outdoorsamoa.com

Call or email Ross or Frances Bidmead on: Email: info@outdoor.co.nz Samoa Phone: (+685) 45991 www.gotravelthepacific.com NZ Phone: (+64) 4 974 5214

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S A M OA , T H E S O U T H PAC I F I C

Quality Accommodation at Affordable Prices Amanaki combines value with quality.

Fresh Fish Daily Amanaki Restaurant has the freshest seafood in town direct from Amanaki's own fishing boats!

Tribute to Tokelau Amanaki Hotel is the only hotel in the world that pays tribute to the Tokelau islands north of Samoa.

Phone + 685 27889 Fa x + 6 8 5 2 7 9 8 1 Email contact@amanakihotel.com

w w w. a m a n a k i h o t e l . c o m

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swells is exciting and gives almost unique access to remote islands, whales, dolphins and birdlife.

Watching Frigate Birds pinching their food on the wing from other sea birds is quite special (Frigates have no oil in their feathers and so are unable to swim and rely of aerial theft).

Building a new business in a developing country like Samoa has certainly tested my second interest of risk management. We decided at the start to focus on maintaining quality equipment and lifting the quality of our suppliers of accommodation and other services and the rewards come from the very satisfied clients returning at the end of their adventure. Their reviews on Trip Advisor - see separate box are what keep us going. This year we have had a lot more families of all ages, some touring with our baby carriers, tagalong and bike trailer. The whole family returns with the enthusiasm we experienced at the start of our stay (and came back from our best family holidays with). But age is no barrier and last year I greatly enjoyed a guided trip with 12 Kapiti 50 plus riders, of whom the oldest was 83.

Retirement is not a word used around here and we are busy planning and testing new ideas for next year. We are working with other operators to offer canyoning and

coastering (challenging sea, beach and climbing journeys), mountain bike trails, art tours and extended cultural activities. We are also trialing electric bikes and developing a new ride around Upolu. But in between these activities there was time for a gentle ride around the coast yesterday with Frances. She had her hip revised six weeks ago and has just got back on a bike.

Riding gently through the villages, calling “bye bye� to the kids was great and the steady pace was enough to generate a cool breeze that was more pleasant than walking.

We are living our dream.

Soothing Savaii

A

s I walked to my bungalow on the beach, I was struck by the calmness of the crystal clear waters of the lagoon. The beach was light golden sand with tropical beach umbrellas and sun loungers. The bar and restaurant on the beach was in the perfect location for ordering a snack or cocktail without having to move from my sun lounger.

Most of the accommodations are on the beach, some with separate bedrooms to cater for families, and all have cooking facilities. The ensuites have outdoor showers, giving a delightful feeling of showering under the stars.

Filtered and ultra violet treated

water is provided from the taps in each accommodation. This water is also available to the villagers free of charge.

The sheltered lagoon is ideal for swimming and snorkelling to the coral gardens, where the multi coloured tropical fish and the huge brain corals are a must see. I was fortunate to see turtles including some young ones.

The resort has a glass bottom boat, ideal for those who are reticent about snorkelling, For those interested in fishing; fishing charters operate from the lagoon.

If you stay at this resort, it will not be your last time.

At Savaii Lagoon Resort you will find the peace and relaxation for which you have been searching.

Whether you fill your days snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, kayaking leisurely on the lagoon or exploring the island, you will be rejuvenated by the end of your stay.

Your breath will be taken away by our stunningly beautiful beach, one of the most beautiful in Samoa. Snorkel out to the coral gardens which is renowned for its abundance of coral and tropical marine life.

Book a trip on our glass bottom boat for an added experience.

For the fishing enthusiasts book a charter on Savaii Lagoon's own 7 metre catamaran.

Tripadvisor has awarded Savaii Lagoon Resort the number one spot in the whole of Samoa.

www.savaiilagoon.co.nz E: savaii.lagoon@xtra.co.nz www.gotravelthepacific.com

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New Caledonia

Chateau Royalle

by Noemie Presse

The first time we went to New Caledonia, my husband and I had chosen to stay at the Chateau Royal after viewing the impressive website. We were very pleased to find that the reality lived up to the marketing.

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T

he hotel is tastefully fitted out and every single member of the staff was not only pleasant, but considerate and helpful. I would describe them as: ’Service with a smile, toujours ’!

The location of the resort is excellent, just far enough from Noumea to be away from the hustle and bustle, but not to the far from the restaurants, bars and shops of Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons. The complex is also close to the casino just across the car park.

It is also nice and quiet. There are small convenience stores within about 10 minutes’ walk, and a large supermarket about half an hour’s walk away. Alternatively you can catch a bus to it. The buses into Noumea are cheap and an

easy way to get around. Instead of using the bus stop outside the hotel, we would recommend walking to the next bus stop at Anse Vata (only a 5 min walk) as more buses go past this one.

We have spent 10 amazing days on the resort and here comes an example of a perfect holiday’s trip.

We woke up the first day with an amazing view of the Lagoon.

The room itself was very attractive, clean and spacious, it was good to be able to self-cater in the fully equipped kitchen when we wished to. Bed and bathroom facilities were of high quality and the living room was very comfortable and tastefully decorated.

We went at the restaurant Le TAOM for the breakfast and were

once again impressed by the view and the quality of service. The Breakfast buffet offered a range of fresh fruit and a variety of hot dishes, and of course fresh croissants and breads.

After that, we had a relaxing time at the swimming pool where we could enjoy another fresh juice in the pool prepared by the pool bartender!

That was so delightful!

For lunch, we had a meal at the restaurant La Pirogue, one of the 3 restaurants in the complex.

The in-house restaurants are amazing - the food was beautifully presented and desserts such as L’Hibiscus lived up to my expectations of French cuisine with a Melanesian twist.

We then decided to do some exercises and tried the fitness room, which is free for guests and fully equipped with high quality machines, restrooms and showers.

One of the trip highlight was watching the sunset each evening from the pool, beach or the Warai bar, a comfortable lounge bar with nice sofas and an amazing view on the lagoon.

We delighted ourselves

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with a romantic cocktail of fresh fruits. Amazing moment!

At night time, we listened to some jazzy music at Le Deck, the resort ‘café concert’, a place where local people and hotel guests can meet and have a good time.

On the day after, we chose to experience water activities. The location of the Château Royal is excellent for water sports thanks to its direct access to the beach, the hotel is seconds away from kitesurfing and windsurfing spots.

The friendly staff from the hotel boutique gave us very good advices on places to visit, activities to do all around New-Caledonia, and was able to organize everything for us; with a big smile of course.

(The front desk is also entitled to organize tours on request).

After efforts, place for comfort! The Hotel’s Spa offers a wide range of body treatment and massages as well as nail polishing, makeup and water treatments.

The most sensational is the

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exceptional Aquatonic Pool! A 300 m² pool with various massaging jets and water bikes.

The hydro pool is an experience in itself and provided some much needed relief for my aching back.

The water area was really back and offered many different areas to relax with specific jets and massage for nearly every part of the body.

The Complex has a huge tropical garden where events, weddings, parties and concerts are organised.

One day we saw a wonderful wedding in the park. The ceremony took place in the garden, the decoration was beautiful and people had diner in the park followed by a party in one of the hotel spaces with a private terrace, overlooking the lagoon.

I must admit that when we saw that, my husband and I

wanted to marry again!

As we were crossing the lobby, we saw a video showing the Complex luxury motor yacht call IROUE. We asked some information and the front desk explained us that it was possible to rent the 25 meter long yacht for private cocktails, diners or cruises around the island. Amazing!

It is now our 3rd or 4th stay at Château Royal Beach Resort and Spa. When we checked in the last time, it was great to be recognized as a repeat guest. We will come back again!

Hotel

Suite

La Pirogue

Restaurants

Le Taom

L’Escale

Awaken your senses and discover the Complexe Château Royal More than a hotel

Aqua Royal Spa

Bars / Café Concert

Le Waraï

Le Deck

Le Spa Aquatonic

VANUATU lOyAlTy ISlANdS

BRISBANE

2H

NOUMEA

NEW cAlEdONIA Seminars & Cocktails

Events

AUSTRAlIA

2H50

SydNEy

2H55

3H30

MElBOURNE

AUcklANd

NEW ZEAlANd

www.gotravelthepacific.com 121 140, Promenade Roger Laroque - Noumea - New Caledonia - Tel. (687) 29 64 00 - E-mail : resa@chateau-royal.nc - www.complexechateauroyal.nc

Solomon Islands

Welkum to the Solomons

A

scattered archipelago of some 900-odd richly forested and very mountainous islands and low-lying coral atolls, the Solomon Islands has been attracting international tourism since 1568 when Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana first sailed into this tucked away corner of the South Pacific.

Mendana’s legacy can still be found in the Solomon Islands today with many of the islands still bearing the Spanish names he gave them.

These include Santa Isabel, San Cristóbal and perhaps the most famous of all, Guadalcanal, the name synonymous with World War II, which takes its name from a small township in Andalucia in southern Spain.

Bur for the most part the Solomon Islanders were left pretty much alone after Mendana’s visit until 300 years later when Great Britain was given control of the entire territory.

The Japanese invaded the Solomon Islands in World War II when the region became the scene for some of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific theatre, most famously the battle of Guadalcanal.

The British re-gained control in

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1945 and in 1976, the Solomon Islands became self-governing before gaining full independence in 1978.

Little has changed in the Solomon Islands over the years which make the place such a breathtaking destination for international travellers looking for a new and very different experience.

Today World War II buffs and veterans and their families – mostly American and Japanese – SCUBA divers looking to explore the crystal clear, technicolour tropical fish and submerged war time wreck infested waters and surfers looking for the ultimate uncrowded waves make up the bulk of the 25,000 or so international travellers who visit every year.

But the destination is fast attracting a brand new breed of travellers from around the world ranging from family group, honeymooners, sports fishermen, yachties, culturelovers and simply those looking to get off the beaten track and make their own tracks.

The newly emerging,

multi-faceted Solomon Islands can pretty much cater to every taste, desire and budget with its myriad choice of quality accommodation – from the ‘big gun’ hotels of the capital Honiara to boutique resort accommodation, eco-lodges and home stays dotted across the entire archipelago.

Best of all, and quite a surprise for many travellers, the Solomon Islands are so easy to reach – just a quick hop to Brisbane from any major New Zealand departure point and then an even shorter hop (under three hours) from Brisbane International Airport to Honiara flying a sleek Solomon Airlines Airbus A 320 complete with full onboard service.

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Photos by Kevin Davidson

Palau

Syncing with the Flow

by Susan Kloulechad

I got stuck in Palau. It’s not such a bad thing, really.

O

ne of an influx of noncitizen dive instructors that flocked to Palau in the early 1990’s, I was newly equipped with views of marine conservation and an interest in indigenous cultures. It wasn’t long before I became the student, syncing with the rhythm of the tides and currents. I started to know where the fish were, and the right conditions to jump in to see them. Following those that pioneered diving in Palau, I was taught knowledge acquired over the centuries.

“No, I’m not a Peace Corps,” I used to reply to friendly locals in town that introduced themselves.

“I’m a diving instructor.”

“Oh,” they would reply. “So why do these tourists come all this way just to look at dinner?”

When I married a smiling fisherman

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and fellow dive guide, I hung up my fins and found my way into the tourism industry. At the time, Palau was an unknown pencil mark on the map of the Pacific Ocean. Now as a marketing and research staff with Palau’s national tourism organization, the Palau Visitors Authority, I get to work while reminiscing about the old days on the sea.

Palau’s oceanic realm is home to about 400 reef-building hard corals and 150 species of soft corals, gorgonians, and sea pens. Reef fishes in Palau are also far more diverse than those in neighboring Micronesian islands - at least 1450 species. Favorites of divers, the napoleon wrasse and bumphead parrot fish, are protected species here. For shark fans, there are 17 species of sharks and 10 ray species thrive in the dive sites.

When diving the outer reef walls, a diver’s first impression is that they are diving in an aquarium. Rich oceanic currents sweep across the reef at dive sites like Blue Corner and New Drop Off. Ulong Channel is well known for the patches of lettuce coral that rise up like city skyscrapers along a narrow passage, while groupers bustle about the streets.

There are over 60 dive sites and 60 wrecks, and an enormous cavern dive known as Blue Hole. Looking for manta rays? You can find them swooping down in the shallow reef at German Channel. If you have never tried diving, several highly accredited dive shops offer introductory dives and certification courses. Typical dive packages include up to 3-4 dives per day, including a lunch break at one of the sugar-white sand beaches near the southern lagoon.

Palau has received numerous awards for its diving, including being named as one of the underwater wonders of the world

by CEDAM International. But you don’t necessarily need to be a diver to experience Palau’s marine life.

Tour operators offer snorkeling or kayaking tours in the famous Rock Islands of the southern lagoon.

There is even a glass bottom boat tour with informative guides. And who says that there’s jellyfish that don’t sting? At Jellyfish Lake, you can swim with gentle golden mastigas that follow the sun across a land-locked salt water lake while they farm their algae that sustain them. Likened to a lava lamp, floating with these creatures relaxes you more than a spa massage.

Palauan fishing is fun and easy for every member of the family.

Sports fishing enthusiasts will catch a variety of reef fish and billfish, and tour operators offer hand line fishing, trolling, casting, deep bottom fishing, and night fishing. One has the illusion that the world will never run out of fish. Fortunately for Palau, traditional knowledge combined with modern day marine science is working to conserve this bounty.

With the initiatives of the tourism community and environmental NGOs, as well as government sector, Palau has taken steps to keep the balance with nature. In 2009, Palau became the World’s First Shark Sanctuary, setting an example that has been followed by the Maldives, Honduras, the Bahamas, Tokelau, Republic of the Marshall Islands, French Polynesia, Cook

Islands, and New Caledonia.

The famous mushroom-shaped gems of Palau’s Rock Islands Southern Lagoon were inscribed in 2012 as a mixed cultural and natural site into the UNESCO World Heritage List. Covering 100,200 hectares with 445 uninhabited limestone islands of volcanic origin, these unique island formations are surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs. There is also the highest concentration of marine lakes anywhere. These are isolated bodies of seawater that have been separated from the ocean by land barriers that sustain high endemism of populations which continue to yield new discoveries of species.

At the United Nations in early 2014, Palau’s President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. announced his proposal to ban foreign commercial fishing in Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Instead, the republic will generate revenue through sustainable ecotourism activities.

“It makes every sense for our sustainability as island people and for our community,” said President Remengesau during a press conference at UN headquarters in New York. “We have no choice - the ocean is our way of life. It’s our livelihood, it’s our

culture, it’s our economy.”

When I read those words, I jump.

Not just because it’s a move that conserves Palau’s best attractions, but because I still feel the movement of the tides and weather. I think that nature’s architect must have had something special in mind when Palau was made, from the sunburned volcanic soil to the cobalt currents. Historically, the wisdom passed along decades through the counsel of chiefs and fellow fishermen to understand the implications of overfishing have led to conservation efforts that were, still are, and in the end will be a way of life for the people of this island nation. Palau is and will be a destination for those who want to experience the wild side of nature, one of the most amazing sights you will find underwater today...

When you connect with it, you will understand - you just can’t leave.

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