The Warwick Resort, Viti Levu, Fiji.

There are many resorts that dot the coast of Viti Levu. We stayed at the fabulous Warwick Resort at Korolevu, on the Coral Coast, where a family wedding was being held.

The amenities are beautiful and nothing is ever too much effort for the staff who work there, comprised mostly of Fijians from local villages. This is a valuable source of employment for them, but their willingness to welcome and host their visitors goes way beyond that. As ambassadors for their country and local communities, these people are among the best.

 

The central building of the resort is the epitome of island luxury. Dark timber contrasts with creamy white walls, accented by comfortable couches and armchairs. The building opens out onto the beach, capturing the refreshing breeze and providing a backdrop that is to die for.

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The beach is dotted with shaded lounges, and the coral reef that runs along the coast ensures that this beach is safe for swimming.

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Further along the beach, just beyond the boundary of the resort, are “shops” run by friendly villagers who sell sarongs and tee shirts, braid hair, do henna tattoos and paint nails, or give massages to folks staying at the resort.

The sunsets are glorious.

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Viti Levu, Fiji.

Everyone talks about that dream vacation on a tropical island, don’t they? My visit to Fiji was my first, and it was absolutely beautiful.

On entering the airport terminal, you’re greeted with a welcoming song – and oh, wow! Can they ever sing! Everywhere you go, you’re greeted with a friendly “Bula!” and a genuine smile.

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The islanders of Viti Levu call this mountain ‘The Sleeping Giant’.

 

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The mountains become more prominent in the scenery as you travel inland from the coast.

 

The scenery is dramatic. Farms and fields of sugar cane and corn give way to mountains dotted with villages.

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The people are vibrant and friendly, the colours are bright and vivid, and the hospitality is warmer than anywhere else I’ve been. Their houses and shops are not like those in Australia or the US – these people don’t place a high value on being fancy. Their values revolve around faith, family and community.

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Among the colourful buildings and homes, the police stations are all white and blue so that people can identify them easily.

The sand on the beaches is golden and the water is clear and almost magically turquoise.

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Many of the beaches feature palm trees that sway in the light breeze, which is almost constant.

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Golden sand and turquoise water make a very inviting vision!

As we drove into the mountains, the beaches gave way to forests, rivers, and more closely settled villages.

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