2017 TRAVEL PLANNER
You , me and a different kind of Fiji
Where better to ignite romance than Fiji ? The land of sunsets and spas , lazy Sundays and languid beach strolls . But if all of that ’ s a little obvious , how about one of these alternative date ideas ?
Inland adventures
When most of us envisage Fiji , we dream of picture-perfect islands with platinum white sand and an ocean dotted with clown fish and coral . Which of course , is all very much available – in abundance . But step away from the beach and you ’ ll soon find a mountainous interior flushed with lush vegetation and fields of harvest . Cruise your way up the waterways of the Sigatoka River on-board a custom built jet boat as part of the popular Sigatoka River Safari , and en-route to remote Fijian villages , you ’ ll encounter fishermen and their helpers , children leaping from trees and locals waving enthusiastically as you pass . Once ashore , immerse yourself in the native customs of the real ' kaiviti ' ( Fijian people ). Ceremonies of kava , singing and traditional dancing , followed by an authentic Fijian feast and the thud of the lali – an indigenous drum crafted entirely from wood . Back on the boat , your return journey mixes starling views with 360 degree donut spins . How ’ s that for a thrill seeking adventure ?
Fiji sunset dinner cruise
The sun sets everywhere , but perhaps nowhere quite as beautiful as Fiji . A startling palette of burnt orange , yellow and purple , if you ’ re going to soak up one of the country ’ s most dramatic vistas , it ’ s best done from a sultry , catamaran boat . With a cocktail in hand , as part of the renowned ‘ Fiji Sunset Dinner Cruise ’ you and your partner will depart Denarau Marina aboard the twin-deck MV City of Nadi , operated by Captain Cook Cruises . With the threat of a sinking sun hanging loosely as a backdrop , a three course barbecue is served to the musical notes of island ballads , dancing and entertainment . The staff are as warm as the last rays that beat down onto the deck , with hosts that will explain every detail about the stunning Mamanuca Islands , as you gently glide past . Tuck into a feast of local Fijian delicacies , from Ota and Miti ( local spinach and coconut milk ) to baked bananas in rich coconut cream , before watching the sun disappear and the night ’ s sky erupt into a blanket of stars . Three hours later , full of Fijian food and spirit , you will return to Denarau – possibly already lulled to sleep by the soft rock of your boat .
Mystery flights
Fiji looks great from a beach hammock . Fiji looks great when you are snorkelling . Fiji looks great from both your hotel room and a luxury boat . But nowhere does Fiji look more spectacular than from the air . Imagine soaring above crystal-clear water dotted with tropical sanctuaries the colour of gemstones ; miles of pristine coastline nudging at lush rainforest and verdant mountainside . The colours alone
PHOTO : Namotu Island , Mamanuca Islands , Nadi , Fiji 14 INSPIRE ISSUE 01 . 2017 | HOUSE OF TRAVEL