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WHERE THE PACIFIC MEETS THE SEA OF CORTEZ

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At the southern tip of Baja California Sur where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is a thriving tourist region that has only just come to the world’s attention.

The Los Cabos Corridor between the main towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo is a succession of enticing coves with gentle waters for snorkelling or bathing.

On these beaches you may spot whale pods in the distance from November to April.

In the blink of an eye hotel resorts have opened up along this coastline, and are furnished with luxury spas and golf courses that are rated among the best in the country.

The Cabo Pulmo National Park is within the boundaries of Los Cabos and is a habitat for endangered sea turtles and coral reefs, while El Arco de Cabo San Lucas is an awesome natural monument at the very tip of the Baja Californian peninsula.

Things to do

El Larco

What is it? A signature landmark of Los Cabos, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas—known locally as simply “El Arco” or “the Arch”—is a limestone arch carved by time, tide, and wind. The natural attraction runs runs down to the water’s edge at Land’s End, the southern tip of Cabo San Lucas (which itself is at the southern end of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula) and into the Sea of Cortez. From a distance, the rock formation looks like a dragon; up close, the arch frames sky, sea, and sand for prime photos.

Why go? The rock formation is beautiful and you can usually spot sea lions at the base of it. The beaches nearby are called Lovers’ Beach and Divorce Beach: funny names, but the surrounding waters make for great snorkelling or glass bottom boat tours.

Deep Sea Fishing

What is it? Hop on a boat and try catching a marlin or mahi-mahi.

Why go? Cabo San Lucas is the place to be for deep-sea fishing. Head down to the marina and negotiate your own charter for the day, or hire one through Lands End Charters.

Cabo Pulmo National Park

What is it? This marine park is surrounded by undeveloped desert and mountains, which form the shallow bay in which some of the Gulf of California’s healthiest coral reefs reside. Baja California, Mexico’s Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is located just a 90 minute drive north of Los Cabos, the Baja’s premiere tourist destination.

Why go? Cabo Pulmo consists of eight fingers of hard reef, with the widest coral cover in the entire Gulf of California. Among the 875 species that call the park home, there are 226 species of reef fishes and 154 of marine invertebrates — that alone is enough to keep you busy for hours on a reef! But you’re also likely to see 5 species of sea turtles, 3 species of dolphins, 3 species of whales, schools of mobula rays, whale and hammerhead sharks, and a colony of sea lions who will examine you every bit as curiously as you will them.

Cabo Wabo Cantina

What is it? Where the land ends and the party begins, Cantina is one of Cabo’s most famous bars, opened in 1990 by Sammy Hagar of Van Halen. It has long been one of the topmost places to eat and party in Mexico and the world.

Why go? Cabo Wabo is a Cabo San Lucas staple with live music almost every night. Hosting musicians from around the world, it’s one of the largest places for nightlife in town and, if nothing else, you should go for the people watching (it’s not unusual to spot someone dancing on a table). They also have a full menu and lots-o-tequila.

The best time to visit is during October, when Hagar hosts his annual birthday bashes with plenty of big-name guests.

La Coyota

What is it? A shopping village full of hand-crafted glass, local art, and regional finds.

Why go? For hand-embroidered crafts, Mexican art, and beautiful ceramics, a visit to La Coyota is the perfect stop. The multi-room shop sprawls throughout a converted hacienda that once belonging to Edith Jiménez, otherwise known as The Office on The Beach’s founder. The quality and diversity of items are much better than what you’d find near the beach and staff take a no-pressure approach.

References from visit los cabos

YOU HAD ME AT ALOHA

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Translated, the Hawaiian word “alo” means “presence” or “share” and the word “ha” means “breath of life” or “essence of life.” Commonly used as a greeting, aloha means much more than “hello”. It’s an expression of sincerity from the heart. Something to strive for in life – an ethos of treating those around you with love and compassion.

Island Overview

Six unique islands. Six unique experiences. Home to the world’s most active volcanoes, the only royal palace in the U.S. and the welcoming aloha spirit—Hawaii is like no place on earth. Discover the glimmering ocean, emerald valleys and golden sands; get lost in the spiritual beauty of the hula and find out how the warmth of Hawaii’s people wonderfully complement the islands’ perfect temperatures.

While many families decide to visit between December and February during Hawaii’s crowded high season, you can enjoy a peaceful and affordable vacation in November with fewer people around. November is Hawaii’s winter season, but temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy Hawaii’s black sand beaches, lush rainforests, and big waves.

So take a moment. Stumble upon a secluded spot. Discover the food that locals love. Experience a culture full of welcoming aloha. There’s so much more to your Hawai’i holiday than you thought. And you won’t need a road map to find your most memorable moments.

Kaua’i (Garden Island) – Kauai is Hawaii’s fourth largest island. The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs aged by time and the elements. Centuries of growth have formed tropical rainforests, forking rivers and cascading waterfalls! Some parts of Kauai are only accessible by sea or air, revealing views beyond your imagination. More than just dramatic beauty, the island is home to a variety of outdoor activities. You can kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poipu Beach, hike the trails of Kokee State Park, or go ziplining above Kauai’s lush valleys. But, it is the island’s laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns that make it truly timeless. Explore the regions of Kauai and make your escape to discover the undeniable allure of the island.

O’ahu (The gathering place) – The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It’s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oahu — from bustling city life to laidback surf towns — so enjoyable. You’ll find plenty of different options for exploring Oahu’s different regions, the island’s many activities, its eclectic restaurants and accommodations. 

Moloka’i – Hawaii’s fifth largest island, Molokai is only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point and is home to the highest sea cliffs in the world and the longest continuous fringing reef. Molokai remains true to its island roots, with a high percentage of its population being of Native Hawaiian ancestry who continue to preserve their rural lifestyle thanks to their love of the land. Whether you’re led by a guide along the cliffs leading to Kalaupapa National Historical Park or discovering Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches, Molokai is truly an island of outdoor adventure where Hawaii’s past comes alive!

Lana’i – The smallest inhabited island travellers may visit in Hawaii, Lanai offers big enticements to its visitors. Only nine miles from Maui yet a world away, Lanai can feel like two places. The first is found in luxurious resorts where visitors can indulge in world-class amenities and championship-level golf. The other is found bouncing along the island’s rugged back roads in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to explore off-the-beaten-path treasures.

Maui – Maui, known also as “The Valley Isle,” is the second largest Hawaiian island. The island beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, views of migrating humpback whales (during winter months), farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala.

Hawai’i – The island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Nearly twice as big as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined (hence, its nickname, “Big Island”), its sheer size is awe-inspiring. You can travel through all but four of the world’s different climate zones here, ranging from Wet Tropical to Polar Tundra, a result of the shielding effect and elevations of the massive volcanoes Maunakea and Maunaloa. From the many geological features at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the lush valleys of the Hilo and Hamakua Coasts to the jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach, the island of Hawaii is an unrivalled expression of the power of nature. However you decide to experience the island, it is sure to leave you humbled!

Customs & Traditions

Native Hawaiian Traditions

  • The Honi ihu, or the touching of noses, is a traditional method of greeting one another, whether it’s a man and woman, two men or two women. It allows both people to exchange breath, which is the supremely important life force in Hawaiian understanding, and also share scents and convey a closeness in relationship.
  • Lei Aloha – A lei given with love – The giving and receiving of the lei, made out of flowers, bird feathers, shells, seeds, hair or ivory, the lei (garland wreath) has become a symbol of Hawaii. Worn on the top of the head or around the neck, lei were used ornamentally by Native Hawaiians, especially chiefs, to signify their rank. Giving a lei was a traditional practice that has become the local custom today. The manner of presenting was also different: it was tied around the neck, rather than casting the lei over the head, respecting the sacredness of a person’s head and back.
  • Hawaiian parties are called paina (dinner party) or ahaaina (feast), but a misunderstanding by 19th century newspaper reporters gave these distinctive celebrations the name luau (the name for taro tops, a common ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine), and it stuck. Though not an ancient name usage, the sentiments are similar—they brought together groups of people to enjoy delicious food.

Contemporary Local Customs

  • Wearing a flower tucked above your left ear (the same side as your heart) discreetly communicates that you have a significant other, while a flower tucked above your right ear lets others know that you’re available. This practice has no roots in Hawaiian culture, but is a fun local custom.
  • It is not common to use a car horn while driving in Hawaii (unless you are honking a friendly hello). Instead, waving or throwing a shaka when someone lets you into their lane is encouraged.
  • Don’t take rocks or sand from the beach or lava rocks from a volcano. Superstition says that people who take them will be cursed, which probably gets its roots from the high esteem Hawaiian culture has always held for rocks. A lithic culture, stones were used for many things, such as tools, fences, housing – they can even be forms of deities. Leaving rocks as you found them is the best practice.

Experiences

  • Golf – With breath-taking scenery, one-of-a-kind signature holes and championship-caliber course designs, Hawaii attracts golfers of every level from around the world. Discover a variety of unforgettable courses throughout the islands—from greens lined with black volcanic rough to stunning seaside water hazards. And with more than 70 golf courses at your fingertips, it won’t be difficult to find the perfect course for you.
    • Island of Hawaii – The world-renowned Kohala Coast resorts of Waikoloa, Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea feature courses that will linger in your memory long after the game. 
    • Oahu – Hawaii’s first golf course, the semi-private Moanalua Golf Club built in 1898. There are also luxurious golf resorts that play host to the PGA, like Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s famed North Shore; Ko Olina Golf Club, which curves along the Leeward Coast; and the Greg Norman-designed Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, located 20 minutes from Waikiki in a valley so lush it has been nicknamed “Jurassic Park.”
    • Kauai – Three main areas define Kauai golf: Princeville Makai Golf Club on the majestic North Shore; Ocean Course at Hokuala in Lihue – with more oceanfront holes than any other course in Hawaii; and Poipu Bay Golf Course on the on the South Shore.
    • Lanai – The 18-hole Manele Golf Course at Four Seasons Lanai is one of Jack Nicklaus’s crowning masterpieces. With three holes built into seaside cliffs, this target-style course roams across natural lava outcroppings on Lanai’s South Shore, delighting players with dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean.
    • Molokai – The golf on Molokai is as relaxed as you might expect it to be. At the lovely Ironwood Hills Golf Course, it’s okay to just show up for a tee time. There are no golf pros—not even a clubhouse—just 3,088 yards of upcountry pasture with splendid views.
  • Family –
    • Hawaii is literally swimming with water-based activities. Kids can pet a sea lion at Sea Life Park, learn to surf from a pro on Waikiki Beach, and see massive humpback whales splashing around during a whale-watching tour on Maui, Molokai or Lanai. Snorkeling is a kid-approved activity all year long; popular spots include the shallow, protected tide pools of Poipu Beach on Kauai and the island of Hawaii’s Kona coast, where you can even swim with dolphins and manta rays.
    • Learn to dance the hula at the Smith Family Garden Luau, Polynesian Cultural Center and many other authentic luau on every island. Kids can watch planetarium shows and participate in lava demonstrations at the Bishop Museum, or learn how Hawaii’s early explorers navigated to the shores by the stars at the Imiloa Astronomy Center.
    • Let the little ones burn off some energy at Hawaii’s national and state parks from hikes through the clouds at Iao Valley State Park to zipline adventures at Kualoa Ranch, a filming location of Jurassic Park.
    • Family friendly resorts like the Aulani Resort brings Disney magic to Oahu, with daily activities and pool parties with appearances by Mickey and his friends. On the island of Hawaii, Hilton Waikoloa Village boasts a lazy river and sprawling saltwater lagoon that’s home to several dolphins; kids can even shadow a dolphin trainer during their stay! More great family-friendly Hawaiian hotels include Turtle Bay on Oahu, Grand Wailea and Kaanapali Beach Hotel on Maui and Hilton Garden Inn Kauai. Best of all, many resorts offer day camps for kids that give parents some much-needed solo time. 
  • Haleakala National Park, Maui – Here on the slopes of Maui’s volcano, life is a mix of geologic wonders and cowboy culture, with a thirty-mile system of trails to follow on foot or horseback. Watching the sunrise atop Haleakala volcano is an unforgettable experience, as is driving the winding 64-mile Hana Highway. Not for the faint-hearted, this zig-zagging route along Maui’s north-eastern shore affords incredible views of waterfalls, beaches and tropical rainforests.
  • Na Pali Coast, Kauai – Inaccessible to vehicles, the Na Pali Coast can be enjoyed in a number of ways – helicopter, kayak, paddleboard, or boat. For a full-on Jurassic Park perspective, they don’t come better than a helicopter experience. Alternatively, sunset sailing trip affords stunning views of the same coastline from the sea. Or, if you’re fit (and fearless), you could hike the coastline’s Kalalau Trail. While this trek is difficult (guaranteed to get your heart thumping), it’s more than worth the effort, as you’ll discover when you reach the Kalalau Beach endpoint.
  • Hawaii Volcanoes N.P, Big Island – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is made up of its southernmost volcanoes – Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Besides its active volcanoes, the park’s landscape includes the windswept deserts of Ka‘u, arctic tundra, and canopied rainforest. The main attraction of the park is Kilauea, which has erupted consistently since 1983. Getting to the part of the park where you can see molton lava takes time – most visitors spend a full day doing this.

  • World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Oahu – Honolulu’s Pearl Harbour is an important part of this national monument devoted to sites pertaining to World War II history in three states. Guided and audio tours are available to such memorable sites as the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Battleship Missouri, Pacific Aviation Museum and the USS Bowfin.

  • Kualoa Ranch, Oahu – This working cattle ranch on the windward coast is also a center for an array of adventures, including horseback rides, ATV touring, nature walks, catamaran excursions, tours of the many film sites on the property, and their newly added zipline excursions.
  • Hawaii has a tantalising mix of culinary influences and popular dishes typically combine native, Chinese, Portuguese, and American elements, with the state’s bountiful tropical fruit and seafood a feature of most menus.

Luau of Hawaii – One of the most festive experiences to be had on a visit to the Hawaiian Islands is a luau – a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances from Hawaii and greater Polynesia.

History of the Luau – The first feast in Hawaii resembling a modern-day luau was probably held in 1819. Before then, the kapu system of restrictions, religion and resource management separated men and women at mealtimes, even in times of celebration. Other names for these feasts are ahaaina or paina, but over the course of time, the nickname luau – a reference to the taro leaves at the core of many popular dishes – stuck. Two centuries later, luau are still being celebrated. But it is important to note that despite the name and its Hawaiian roots, not all food or entertainment at a luau today is Hawaiian. A contemporary luau in Hawaii reflects our multi-cultural society. Food at a family luau is as diverse as the various branches of the family tree. Entertainment at a visitor luau often includes dances and music from other Polynesian cultures.

Popular Luau Dishes:

    • Poi: Pounded taro plant root; a starch meant to be eaten with everything.
    • Kalua Pig: Pork prepared in an imu (underground oven) and shredded.
    • Laulau: Meat wrapped in luau (taro) leaves and steamed, traditionally prepared in an imu.
    • Haupia: Coconut pudding.
    • Poke: A term that literally means to cut into pieces, this newly global delicacy is traditionally prepared with raw fish, shoyu (soy sauce), green onions, kukui nut (candlenut), and limu (seaweed).
  • Finding Big Waves, Oahu’s North Shore – The winter season (November through March) is Hawaii’s prime surfing season, with the biggest Pacific Ocean waves hitting the north shores of each island. In particular, Oahu’s North Shore boasts one of Hawaii’s best November surfing spots, though you can catch the best waves in mid-December and January. If you’re still learning the basics of surfing, you can find calm waves along the southern beaches year-round.

References from gohawaii.com

Photo Credits to go hawaii

LION CITY: SINGAPORE

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Singapore is a bustling cosmopolitan city populated with high-rise buildings
and landscape gardens. A harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture, Singapore is a dynamic city that’s rich in contrast and colour enabling travellers to ignite their passions. So take the time to explore and discover what awaits in Singapore.

City Overview

  • Singapore is located just off the tip of the Malay Peninsula, about one degree north of the equator. It is comprised of one main island with a number of smaller islets and islands forming part of the country.
  • Language – You will be able to speak English to Singaporeans, most of whom are fluent in it. Many Singaporeans also speak an additional language, usually Mandarin Chinese, Malay or Tamil.
  • Singapore is hot and humid all year-round, with temperatures usually reaching over 30°C. You should be prepared for rain at any time, which can be torrential but usually brief. Planning a visit around January to March will see you coinciding with some of the island’s festivals like Chinese New Year and Holi. Singapore also comes alive from November to December with Deepavali (the festival of lights) and some absolutely epic Christmas and New Year celebrations.
  • The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SG$). Tipping isn’t required in Singapore, however you’re welcome to if you would like to, of course. This would be above the standard 10 percent gratuity to your bill added by some restaurants and hotels.
  • Getting around –
    • Singapore’s public transport system is fast and efficient, and will whizz you to memorable attractions without fuss. Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is probably the fastest way to zip around the city. Most of the popular attractions are just a short walk away from an MRT station.
    • The bus system has an extensive network of routes covering most places in Singapore. Besides being an economical way to get around, it’s one of the most scenic. You can pay for your train or bus fare using an adult stored value smartcard (EZ-link / Nets FlashPay) or the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP). You can also use your foreign-issued Mastercard® and Visa contactless bank cards issued outside of Singapore to pay for your ride.
    • Taxis are comfortable and especially handy if you want to go to places not accessible by the bus or MRT. Cabs here are metered, but there may be surcharges depending on when, where and which company’s taxi you board. To get a rough idea of the final fare, check with the driver on the surcharges and ask for a receipt at the end of the trip.
  • Where to stay? –
    • If shopping is your passion then staying around Orchard Road would be perfect for you. Alternatively look at staying around the Downtown area. Ideally, you want to find a place right above or very close to an MRT station. Look for spots near City Hall, Esplanade, Raffles Place, Telok Ayer and Downtown MRT stations.

Where Foodies Meet

Food in Singapore is taken very seriously. From cheap hawker fare to Michelin-starred fine dining, food-enamoured Singaporeans will line up for it, Instagram the hell out of it and passionately debate whether it is up to the hype. Don’t fret about finding a place to chow down, as each neighbourhood is home to local hawker centres and coffeeshops dishing up some of the island’s best meals for just a couple of bucks. Simply follow your nose or join the longest queue whatever morsels lie at the end, they are almost guaranteed to be scrumptious.

  • Must try –
    • Head to Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Gelam are great places to start if you’d like to try the local Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisine respectively, while the neighbourhood of Joo Chiat/Katong is filled with restaurants serving Peranakan classics.

    • 2019 saw the Lion City upping the ante as a global food capitol, with 44 making the Singapore Michelin Star list, and a host of restaurants and eateries being awarded the Bib Gourmand. If world class dining is what you crave we suggest securing a seat before you touch down in Singapore. Reservations at a number of these restaurants have been known to take months to secure.

    • A visit to Singapore just wouldn’t be complete without a foray or two into the local hawker centres. Pay a visit to Chinatown Complex Food Centre, home to 260 food stalls including Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Noodle, a hawker selling the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred dish.
      • Kaya Toast, made from a sweet, coconut jam, and delicious silk-stocking tea or coffee.
      • Fried Carrot Cake, This savoury carrot cake has no carrot, the core ingredients of the cake are rice flour and white radish, which some call white carrot. The mixture is steamed, then cut into cubes and fried with garlic, eggs and preserved radish called ‘chai poh‘. Commonly referred to as ‘chai tow kway‘ in the Teochew dialect, these smooth and soft fried rice cakes can be found in almost every hawker centre. It is served black (fried with sweet dark soya sauce) or white (original).
      • Chilli Crab, This Singaporean iconic seafood dish is a must try to complete the culinary exploring journey of any traveller.
      • Hainanese chicken rice, It’s so important to Singaporeans they even made a movie about it, a Romeo and Juliet inspired piece called The Chicken Rice War which tells the tale of two star-crossed lovers at the centre of their families’ bitter chicken-rice feud, played out mostly in a Hawker Centre.

A Green City

The concrete jungles that once dominated Singapore’s skyline are slowly giving way to green skyscrapers, which look more like living ecosystems than business hubs. Fervently working towards its “City in a Garden” dream, the nation is ploughing money into becoming more sustainable and, well, green. Head out of town a little and you’ll find plenty of walking trails, treetop jungle bridges, wildlife galore and the city’s green jewel, the Unesco World Heritage–listed Singapore Botanic Gardens: these are the lungs of Singapore.

Shopping Frenzy

When the sweltering outdoor heat gets too much, Singaporeans love ducking inside for a spot of retail therapy and a good dose of air-conditioning. Orchard Rd is the queen of shopping malls: with all the high-street brands, plenty of high-fashion houses, and a few discount outlets thrown into the mix, everyone’s needs (and more often wants) are catered for here. If you prefer your shopping a little less mass-market, head out to local neighbourhoods for independent designers, quirky art galleries, bustling markets, Chinese medicines, Persian carpets and a sari or two.

Let’s Explore

  • Sentosa Island – With its pristine beaches, exciting attractions and tropical landscapes and visit Universal Studios for a fun-filled day. You can get to Sentosa by taking the monorail or riding a cable car, but the pedestrian boardwalk (accessible from VivoCity) is a great option as well if you fancy a stroll.
  • Gardens by the Bay – This is a hugely popular tourist attraction in Singapore, and rightly so. The breadth of plants and the creative ways in which they’re displayed is awe-inspiring. In one part of the conservatory, the Cloud Forest mimics the cool-moist ecology of the tropical highlands. Come face to face with 12 of the Gardens’ 18 Supertrees at the Supertree Grove! Rising up to 50 metres above ground, these iconic giants provide shade in the day and come alive with an exhilarating light and musical show at night.
  • Try the Iconic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel – Think of this as your welcome drink to Singapore. The Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail developed over a hundred years ago by Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese bartender at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, which is still often cited as Singapore’s finest hotel. It’s become synonymous with Raffles and a must-try for first-time visitors to Singapore.
  • Kampong Glam – Blending the religious and historical with a modern take on the city-state. Along with stores and eateries, Kampong Glam is also a treasure trove of cultural attractions like Sultan Mosque, Singapore’s biggest mosque; the Malay Heritage Centre; and the country’s only Vintage Camera Museum (whose facade alone is worth a photo).
  • Soak in the very best views of the island from above by visiting rooftop spots like Pinnacle @ Duxton, 1-Altitude offers the highest views of Singapore’s cityscape, including a breath taking view of Marina Bay and Ce La Vi the most well known rooftop bar in Singapore sits atop Marina Bay Sands.
  • Step back in time to the 1920s and visit Tiong Bahru. From its vinyl shops to boutique art galleries, Tiong Bahru is a treasure trove of inspiration a favourite haunt of many local artists, creatives and culture lovers. Be sure to grab a bite at the iconic Tiong Bahru Bakery and explore Tiong Bahru Markets.

References: https://www.visitsingapore.com
Photo Credits to Visit Singapore

FRIENDLY FIJI ISLANDS

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Happiness is here! While most of us can’t resist the temptation to laze around on one of Fiji’s blissfully isolated shores, there’s so much more to see & do from breath taking scenery, tantalising cuisine and a touch of luxury.

Read on for your friendly Fiji guide.

Island Overview

  • Low Season in Fiji: November to April (with the exception of the Christmas holiday period),                             High Season in Fiji: May to October
  • 333 Islands, more than 500 islets.
  • 2 Main Islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu
  • In the South Pacific Ocean between America and Australia
  • Capital of Fiji is Suva
  • English, Fiji Hindi and Fijian is the official languages spoken in Fiji

Learn a little Fijian

  • Hello = Bula : is the most common word you’ll hear right across Fiji and it is used to greet people or say hello.
  • Thank you = Vinaka
  • No = Seqa
  • Io = Yes : It is pronounced ‘ee-oh’.
  • Please = Kere Kere : Fijians are very courteous so it’s important to use proper manners.
  • No Worries = Sega na leqa : is the Fijian equivalent of ‘hakuna matata’ – it means no worries! The q in Fijian is pronounced as ‘ng’ so leqa is said ‘lenga’. One of the English catchphrases in Fiji is ‘no hurry, no worry’. After all, you’re on island time in Fiji.
  • See you later = Sota tale

Adventure Awaits

Fiji’s pristine waters, white sand beaches, and lush rainforests make up a perfect natural wonderland for a plethora of adventure activities. Whether traveling with friends, family or your partner, you’ll find – culturally immersive experiences to adrenaline pumping activities and everything in between here!

Diving – Witness Fiji’s marine life flourishing in its natural habitat, with stunning coral reefs and thriving marine eco-systems are why divers recognize Fiji as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World”.

Locations: Suncoast – Rakiraki, Pacific Harbour and Beqa Lagoon, Savusavu in Vanua Levu, Taveuni and the Somosomo Strait, Kadavu and The Great Astrolabe Reef, Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands.

Surfing – Fiji’s famous waves have featured in international competitions and are a “must do” for the travelling surfer. Warm tropical waters, uncrowded surf breaks and waves to suit all skill levels, many find it hard say no to a surf trip here. Locations: Restaurants, Tavarua Rights, and the world famous, Cloudbreak. Natadola Beach and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes are two beach breaks where you can easily learn to surf.

Snorkelling – Fiji is a magnet for marine creatures great and small. Have a ball snorkelling their fringing barrier reef eco-systems and stunning island beaches. Here, you can easily swim to gorgeous reefs directly off a white sand beach or take a scenic boat ride to dramatic outer reefs.

Locations: Supermarket Reef within the greater Malolo Barrier Reef area, Beqa Lagoon located within Pacific Harbour, sandbar snorkel spots located centrally within the Mamanuca Islands, Natadola Beach, Yasawa Islands.

Family Fun

One of the great things about Fiji is the easy accessibility between resorts and day trip destinations. You’ll spend less time travelling and more quality time with the family soaking up the adventure.

Kids Club – Fiji is known for kids club, a treat for both child and parent. Adventurous. Hair braiding, crab racing, coconut painting and much more. Nannies become like family, and they provide respite for mums and dads needing a break. And best of all, the kids will go with a smile.

Kula Wild Adventure Park – Located along the Coral Coast, Kula Wild Adventure Park prides itself on being Fiji’s only captive breeding facility for endangered Fiji indigenous species with turtles to colourful parrots, and Fiji’s famous iguanas. Activities to do at the park are limitless! Make your holiday with your family an enriching experience by learning about Fiji’s unique wildlife.

Malamala Beach Club – Dubbed as the World’s first island beach club, Malamala Beach Club brings a picture perfect island day trip to life! A short 25-minute boat ride away Mainland of Fiji, boasting beautiful turquoise waters, good music and delicious food, Malamala Beach Club is the perfect place to enjoy a day of tropical vibes!
Book your own private cabana and spend your day as a family snorkelling straight off the beach, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking.

Resort Experiences – Denarau Island and the Coral Coast offer the ultimate resort holiday experience. In addition to getting out and exploring, be sure to spend some time enjoying the excellent facilities at your resort all together. Whether it’s splashing around in the pool, playing a family volleyball game or enjoying an evening cultural show together, your resort will have multiple options to keep everyone happily entertained! Finding family-friendly accommodation with meal deals and amazing Kids’ Clubs for the little ones in Fiji isn’t hard. If an island getaway is more your style, just hop aboard one of the daily catamarans from Port Denarau to the stunning Mamanuca Islands. With thriving reefs, epic waves and a tranquil lagoon at their doorstep, the region is a perfect playground for water babies.

Indulge in a Little Luxury

Looking for a sense of solace, escapism and opulence all rolled into one, then Fiji has plenty to offer.

Dolphin Island Resort – Nothing says luxury like your own private island. Situated off Viti Levu, Dolphin Island is an award-winning oasis of exclusivity that caters for up to eight guests, making it the perfect option for couples, families or small groups of friends. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and just short 15-minute boat ride from the Suncoast region of Fiji, this elegant beachfront property is completely private and comes with its own butler and personal chef. It’s an incredibly romantic luxury escape that caters to travellers in need of a special place to simply rest and rejuvenate or enjoy water-sports and snorkelling. Every level of guest comfort is catered for at this secluded island resort. With this level of intimacy, you can expect the very best spa treatments, South Pacific feasts and unique amenities merging to create the most magical space.

Kokomo Private Island Resort – Situated in Kadavu, Kokomo is a private island luxury resort offering the ultimate in exclusivity. Beginning the moment you arrive at Nadi International Airport, Kokomo’s exclusive private aircraft will take you on a scenic 45-minute resort direct to the resort. Guests have the option to choose from 21 secluded, absolute beachfront villas or opt for multi-room private residences – literally a luxury home away from home. The resort has its own on-site farm abundant with fresh fruit and vegetable produce, free range chickens and eggs, homemade honey and even a vanilla plantation. Farm to table is Kokomo’s philosophy and its incredible culinary offering is enough to make you want to never leave.

Laucala Island Resort – Located near Taveuni in northern Fiji, Laucala Island Resort is one of Fiji’s leading all-inclusive luxury properties and for good reason. Known as the playground of celebrities, Laucala’s private location and first-class services make it one of the most exclusive island resorts in the world! Step off  your 45-minute scenic flight on the Resort’s private jet and you will discover an 18-hole championship golf course, bountiful water activities, a dedicated wellness centre, 24-hour concierge services, and world-class dining options all cooked fresh daily using local produce from its on-site farms. Accommodation has everything that guests could need, with private pools, personal butlers and gold buggies to explore the island at leisure.

Royal Davui – A secluded boutique island retreat with luxurious touches befitting an exclusive island resort. Intimate, with only 16 spacious, incredibly private pool villas makes this resort unique. But it is the intangible aspects of this barefoot luxury retreat that sets it aside and offers an indulgent escape for true romantics.

Romance in Paradise

Exuding tropical romance from every palm-fringed, sun-kissed beach across the islands, there are countless ways to relish romantic Fiji with your loved one. You’ll definitely dial up the romance with these memorable experiences

Airborne Romance – Nothing beats a helicopter or seaplane flight to enjoy Fiji’s mesmerising maze of jewel-like reefs that colour the ocean in a palette of blues. Depart from Nadi International Airport and enjoy birds-eye views of gorgeous tiny islands like heart-shaped Tavarua Island, with its rim of white sand and fringing coral reef.

Private Island Picnic – Escape to an exclusive-use private island when staying at Likuliku Lagoon Resort. Get here quickly on an Island Hopper helicopter transfer, only 20mins from Nadi International Airport or take a 50-minute cruise through the Mamanuca Islands on South Sea Cruises catamaran. Mociu Island is a tiny uninhabited nature reserve just off Likuliku Island Resort where you’ll graze on a gourmet picnic hamper with a natural soundtrack of swaying palm trees and the lapping ocean. Spend a leisurely day snorkelling, swimming, or relaxing on a day bed beneath a thatch-roofed sun shelter.

Snorkel with Manta Rays – Generally, between May and October each year, the warm Fijian waters are visited by ever-graceful manta rays at just a handful of locations. Snorkelling with these magnificent creatures is a moment not to be forgotten.

Swim beneath a Waterfall – Waterfalls in Fiji are a perfect mix of adventure and romance. Clad in lush rainforest thanks to ample annual rainfall, Taveuni is known as the Garden Island which is only a 45 minute flight from Nadi International Airport. The upside to plentiful rain is Taveuni’s cascading waterfalls, many of which tumble into fern rimmed swimming holes.

Sail into the Sunset – Blessed with reliable trade winds between March and October, sailing into a tropical sunset is quite possibly the most romantic thing you can do in Fiji. Only a 15-minute drive from Nadi International Airport, yachts depart from Port Denarau for day trips to nearby islands or late afternoon for leisurely sunset sails.

    References: https://www.fiji.travel/
    Photo Credits to Tourism Fiji

    The Deep South States

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    Nashville, Memphis, Natchez & New Orleans

    I want to share some highlights of my most recent tour of the Deep South States of the USA.

    Flying United Airlines via San Francisco to Nashville arriving in this vibrant city, home of Country Music.  After some fried chicken and a good night’s sleep we visit the Historic RCA Studio B, Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio.  The famous Nashville Sound comes alive as I wander The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  Our day was topped off with a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry – this entertainment centre that made country music famous.  Audience participation was electric.

    Onto Memphis – the birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll and home to Elvis, the King of Rock ‘n Roll.  Staying at The Guest House at Graceland, located next door to the Presley family home, this opulent hotel is a great choice to explore Graceland which is located directly across the road.

    Graceland is much more than the mansion.  Experience 120 acres dedicated to the life and career of the American legend, Elvis Presley.  See his mansion, the gold records, the jewelled jumpsuits, the classic cars and interactive exhibits that let you enjoy the Elvis experience.

    We continue to travel south to Natchez, located on the mighty Mississippi River, known for its antebellum mansions.

    Next and final stop is the Big Easy, New Orleans.  Discover the historic architecture of the French Quarter, stroll Bourbon Street and its unique music, enjoy Creole Cuisine, oysters and the famous beignets.  It’s easy to fall in love with New Orleans sights, sounds and food.

    Whether you travel independently or on tour the deep south states of the USA are a must for all.

    AYRES ROCK/ULURU – June 2019

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    My Uluru Bucket List Experience. Something that should be on the top of one’s list. A place of Spiritual Significance!

    Flying Jetstar, there was no other alternative than to stay at The Desert Gardens Hotel, in a Deluxe Rock View Room. The only hotel to have view of Ayers Rock. Even though I was still quite a distance from THE ROCK, that first sighting is something quite special.

    As darkness fell, we were transferred to the Field of Lights. As Uluru was thrown into a silhouette, The Field of Light illuminates, as far as you can see. With rhythms of 50,000 solar powered stems of coloured lights, lit up the desert.  It was something quite incredible as you walk through the pathways that draw you amidst the spectacular colour.

    Sunrise & Segway Tour Sunrise Tour, Uluru put on a great show for us. We were picked up at 5.30am, to an area where we enjoy a light breakfast with tea and coffee and watched the magical sunrise at Uluru.

    To explore one of Australia’s most natural formation, on this Segway and Sunrise Tour was so much fun and an experience like no other. In no time we had mastered using the Segway’s and we were on our way. Our guide Meagan, was awesome, she was so knowledgeable and took us to hidden Aboriginal rock art sites and water holes. The stunning view of Uluru as we cruised around the 10km base of Ayres Rock was something quite incredible. This tour was approx. 5 Hours.

    We were lucky Uluru was open to climb, but after hearing Megan speak about the spiritual connection Ayres Rock has with the Anangu people and for the culture to be kept strong for future generations ,we decided not to climb the rock.

    The Sounds of Silence Dinner offered the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours. With Ayers Rock to one side and the Olga’s to the other, an evening of dining under the sparkling outback sky. Our night began with canapes and champagne served on a viewing platform. As the sunsets and to the sound of a didgeridoo, we were led to a table to join other travellers. Our glasses were kept full, with wine and beers as we helped ourselves to a bush tucker buffet, such as crocodile, kangaroo, barramundi and quandong.  After dinner we enjoyed a glass of port, as we listen to a star talker decode the night sky. We located the Southern Cross, The Sign of the Zodiac, The Milky Way, as well as planets and galaxies that were visible due to the clear night sky. An unforgettable dining experience amazing views, amazing food & awesome company.

    Food was outstanding… The Buffet Dinner at Ilkari Restaurant, at the Sails in The Desert, was absolutely amazing. It had the best Oysters I have ever tasted. We found ourselves a few times at the Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge. This had a pub feel with nightly entertainment, it was the happening place of an evening. The Resort Town Centre had a Information Centre, Post Office, Newsagent, IGA Supermarket, as well has several cafes and art and craft museums. The convenience of the Free Resort Shuttle Bus, was so easy and circulates all the resorts every 20 minutes.

    Words cannot describe this amazing place. You must all go see Uluru for yourselves.

    “Best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Helen Keller. …