Fiji – June 2015
Bought a Groupon 7 night package for airfares and accommodation at Hideaway Resort including buffet breakfast. The resort is situated on the Coral Coast which is on the southern part of the main island and about one hour's drive from Nadi airport.
Package did not include transfers which I found strange. I mean, how are you supposed to get from the airport to the Resort? The package operator was quite happy to book the transfer for us at $40 pp, each way though. Unusual for a package deal when your accommodation is one hour drive from the airport.
Two burres (huts) are side by side with good distance to the next two. Each burre has views to the ocean and are offset from each other so that you never get blocked out. We were in the older section and the room was showing its age. Serviceable enough but may not suit the more discerning tourist. There was a newer block just along from us that looked to have more modern appointments. At the other end of the Resort were standard hotel type rooms that did not have ocean views.
This was a relaxing type of holiday so didn’t get overly adventurous. Not really being pool type people, we gave a miss to the water aerobics and other such organised events. Enjoyed lazy walks along the reef at low tide.
Had a good morning on a horse ride up the hill behind the resort. Just the two of us and our guide with tremendous views back over the coastline and out to sea. Another morning was spent catching the local bus in to Sigatoga to wander through the local markets.
Took a one day boat trip which was a highlight. Got picked up and taken to a wharf where we joined 80 of our newest, closest friends and then motored out to the company owned small island where we enjoyed the snorkeling and other activities. On the way we enjoyed a champagne morning tea and then a BBQ lunch on the island which included all alcohol. This was all in the price. As you would expect, a very friendly crew and the singalongs on the boat on our way back to the harbour were a perfect ending to a good day. Booked it through the resort and would recommend.
I had only been to Fiji once before back in 2002 for work so had not tried the tourist thing before. Worth doing once just to experience the friendly locals. From talking to others at the Resort who had stayed at other places, it appears that they all offer a similar experience.
Following is a movie I made of the trip showing the basic highlights. Unfortunately the camera I was using was on its last legs and ready to pack it in. However, it gives you the general idea of what the trip was about if you can see it through.