Out & About with Kids in Fiji

Fiji es for

i l i m Fa

choose your next

family getaway

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BRISBANE SYDNEY ADELAIDE MELBOURNE CHRISTCHURCH

VAVA’U NUKU’ALOFA

AUCKLAND WELLINGTON

Welcome to our home where your adventure waits to be discovered from the moment you step aboard. Welcome to a world where your day is filled with warmth. Where smiles are real and the exploration of happiness is in our nature.

Welcome to where friendships are made over a bula, and friends become family before you know it. Where you’re relaxed in an instant like you’ve stepped inside your own home. Welcome to a place where culture reaches you at 30,000 feet.

Where people are renowned for their hospitality and care for you genuinely. Welcome to an airline where you’re not just flying. Where care and sincerity come together in our service. Where you feel you’ve known us for a lifetime, and you’re treated as one of the family and not just a tourist. Proudly connecting the world to the South Pacific for over 65 years.

To book visit FIJIAIRWAYS.COM or call us any time from AU: 1 800 230 150 | NZ: 0 800 800 178 | FJ: (679) 672 0888

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is…

It’s very easy to say great things about Fiji. beautiful beaches abound, and the water really is clear and clean, and runs the gamut of blue hues, from dark turquoise to soft teal. And if you want tropical iconography, it’s everywhere you look: coral reefs, coconut palms, sensational sunsets reflected in the vast sea, all manner of boats scuttling between islands or gently sailing with the trade winds.

No matter where you choose to stay in Fiji you WILL experience all of these things, and more.

Incredible family-friendly resorts abound – on the main island of Viti Levu, and on Vanua Levu, and nestled on islands scattered across the waters. Take your pick. You won’t be disappointed.

© Malolo Island Resort

But merely running through a list of the Pacific nation’s most obvious assets could never come close to defining the essence of Fiji’s undeniable appeal to families. Time and again you will hear visitors, of all ages, remark on the way in which Fiji captures your heart from the first; and the way in which you are wooed back, from the moment you say your farewell. The high number of returning holidaymakers to Fiji is testament to the authenticity of those feelings.

Yes, proximity to Australia is in Fiji’s favour for a family holiday destination. Yes, the weather is more than conducive, year-round, to relaxing in the sunshine, swimming and cavorting outdoors. Yes,

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” !

A L U “B bal study surveyed In 2014 when a glo of thousands of els the happiness lev es, and declared that people in 65 countri e happiest people in Fijians ranked as th rushed to discover the world, analysts a closer look at the the secret by taking hine, healthy coastal Fijian lifestyle. Suns e, dancing, and kava living, fresh produc ians rank their aside, it turns out Fij with others, and on cti meaningful intera ily and community strong extended fam all e else in the relationships, abov s. ke happiness sta greeting that “BUL A!” – the Fijian full of joy, is d surpasses ‘hello’ an will probably be It .

E!” IF “L translates as

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F I J I F O R FA M I L I E S 2018 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

ar on arrival in Fiji, the first word you he ppily to you and given heartily and ha ut your stay. You ho ug your family thro th the same gusto. should return it wi et during your The Fijians you me ch member ea ow kn stay will soon organically and of your family, quite nt to know more wa ll genuinely. You wi easy relationship about them. It’s an rience the unique and, once you expe d hospitality, your an ss Fijian friendline g the millions of family will be amon that the best part visitors who declare – over and above of their Fiji holiday n gic of the destinatio the undeniable ma . le’ op itself – was ‘the pe

The happiness index

© iStock

© iStock

/Tourism Fiji © Chris McLennan

during your Take part in a meke women from d an stay, where men ce resort guests local villages introdu rytelling sto to traditional Fijian e. You might nc da d an through song r dance, or a witness the men’s wa irling, or the tw e spear dance, or fir dance. And when women’s gentle fan in song, the they come together is sublime. us or harmonious ch ional Fijiandit tra a e nc Experie resort’s ur style barbecue at yo licious de of st fea a lovo night – d an vegetables slow-cooked meats rground ‘oven’, de prepared in an un leaves. Fijians covered with banana the whole for prepare a lovo feast casions. oc ial ec sp village to mark

© Tourism Fiji

Visiting a Fijian Village

al village ilitate a visit to a loc Most resorts will fac vised ad be ll wi u ur visit yo for guests. Before yo ess ten ria op pr ap e th and of general protocol village want to take to the of any gift you may d into a ite inv be to e privileg community. It is a ld always ou les of etiquette sh Fijian village, and ru be observed. dress ibilities and always Respect Fijian sens means at th n e visit – for me ger modestly for a villag lon or s nt pa ar should we ar or shirts, and women we im itely no shorts, sw skirts/dresses. Defin

g tops, ld also avoid revealin minis! Women shou that also to dress in something ove and it is preferable rem ys wa en a t-shirt). Al s oe covers shoulders (ev sh e ov rem d an a village, an red hats when entering ide ns one’s house. It is co ion iss before visiting some rm pe e th k ne’s head. As insult to touch anyo taking photos. e for be sts of your ho includes welcome ceremony A traditional village d the an er, eld an the Chief, or ) an introduction to na qo a traditional kava (ya invitation to join in ceremony.

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River safari

Jet Boats

© Sharyn Burgess

Surf

© Sharyn Burgess

… e n n i l o p i i Z t c a s i h t l l A Mud l e k r o Sn Waterfalls

Kayak …and more!

Quad bike

Fiji © Go Dirty To urs

s Horse

© iStock

© Tourism Fiji/Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

es

© iStock

© Tourism Fiji

© iStock

© Tourism Fiji

Paddle boards

Just for Kids The Fijian people love children. Resort kids’ clubs and nanny programs in Fiji go far beyond the norm when it comes to fun, interactive, entertaining, educational and awesome activities. The care factor is high, and a great deal of forethought and energy goes into creating age-appropriate children’s programs that focus on everything from conservation and preservation to hat weaving and a fun game of beach volleyball. Your children can learn about the fragile corals, Fijian village and school life, cracking a fresh coconut and the things you can make with the husks and the tree’s palm fronds. On guided and unhurried resort walks they will learn about Fijian bush tucker and remedial plants, spot native lizards and birds, smell fragrant frangipani and, generally, bliss out.

They can stand ankle-deep in the shallows giggling as they feed shoals of tiny, colourful fish, and they will make deep and lasting friendships with their carers, buddies and nannies who provide these unforgettable Fiji experiences.

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DI D Y OU KNOW...?

Malamala Beach Club Treat the family to a taste of the Fiji Islands, and spend a day off the mainland –swimming, and relaxing in crystal clear water and on white, soft sands.

The recently opened Malamala Beach Club is just a 25-minute ferry trip from Port Denarau. A Day Pass includes return ground and vessel transfers from a number of resorts located in Nadi, Denarau, Coral Coast, Natadola, Momi Bay and Sonaisali, and includes access

to the Beach Club, complimentary Wi-Fi, towel service and non-motorised sports equipment for snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddling.

Enjoy poolside snacking or seated dining, with everything from fresh seafood to tasty burgers on the menus.

(Food and beverages are not included in the price of the Day Pass). Children aged 4 years and under visit Malamala Beach Club for free! malamalabeachclub.com

My Fiji Exclusive For an exclusive Malamala Beach Club experience, enjoy a day in a My Fiji-only section of this paradise, with private cabanas, curated cocktails and tantalising Pacific-inspired meals, this unique experience oozes luxury. Soak up the sun, swim in the resort-style infinity pool and indulge in exclusive My Fiji treatment, with dedicated staff onhand to take care of your every need! myfiji.com/experience/malamalabeach-club

‘Play Dirty’ on quad bikes Experience on-land thrills with Go Dirty Tours, who offer a range of family-friendly quad bike adventures including ‘Play Dirty’ – a tour combining quad biking, ziplining and a beach pit stop. Tours are suitable for kids aged 6 years and over and mix action and excitement with appeal for all ages. Your teens will have as much fun as their younger siblings, discovering waterfalls, cane fields, dirt tracks, pine forests, cultural sights, villages, mud pools, hot springs, and so much more, in and around Nadi. godirty.wpengine.com/quad-bike-tour

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Float on Cloud 9 Cloud 9 is Fiji's only two-level floating platform, located in the middle of the ocean, and kitted out with relaxing day beds, loungers, and a wood-fired pizzeria and full bar, for the perfect day trip. Cloud 9 welcomes children aged 7 years and over, and holds special appeal for older kids as the launch pad for a host of exhilarating water sport activities. Children 15 years or older can try flyboarding, motorised surfboarding and parasailing (children aged 7-12 years must fly

with an adult).

Experience a jet ski ride out to the world famous surf break, Cloudbreak, or to Monuriki, the island best known for its starring role in the Tom Hanks film ‘Castaway’. Children as young as 7 years can ride tandem on a jet ski with an adult, and over 16s can ride solo.

Daily departures from Port Denarau are at 9am, departing Cloud 9 at 3pm. The boat trip each way is only 45 minutes. cloud9.com.fj

Soso Village © Chris McLennan/Tourism Fiji

Local

Knowledge 1

“BULA!” – always offer, and return, every “BULA!” with a big smile.

“VINAKA” means ‘thank you’.

Fiji Time (FJT) uses the Pacific Time Zone. Fiji is two (2) hours ahead of Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) from April through September, and three (3) hours ahead of Australian Eastern Daylight (Saving) Time (AEDT) from October through to March.

3 4 Mobile phones use the local Vodafone Fiji or Digicel Fiji networks and coverage is generally good in most areas except on some of the outermost island resorts.

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Many popular resorts, particularly island resorts, do not provide in-room television. The kids will be so busy they won’t even notice, but if you think it might be a dealbreaker check with your preferred resort/hotel at the time of booking.

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Wi-Fi is offered at most resorts in general/lobby areas at the bare minimum. While some resorts offer free Wi-Fi to guests, others may charge for Wi-Fi use. Several Denarau Marina cafes and restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi to patrons.

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Ferry timetables from Denarau Marina to some Mamanuca and Yasawa islands resorts may not always coincide with same day flight arrivals from Australia. It may be necessary to spend an overnight in Nadi or Denarau before and/or after your island stay. Mamanuca Express, Fiji’s premier water taxi service, fills the gaps in ferry schedules to get you to your island destination pronto! mamanucaexpress.com You may also choose to speed things up and arrive in the islands by helicopter, seaplane or light plane. Check the options are available at your resort when booking.

If you find yourself with several hours to spare between resort check-out/boat transfer and your flight departure to Australia, take the family to the Fiji Gateway Hotel, directly opposite Nadi International Airport, to relax, chill out and grab a bit more Fiji Time. The hotel welcomes day guests and caters for holidaymakers in transit. Download a VIP Invitation Voucher from the website entitling you and your family to complimentary use of the swimming pool, towels, public showers and even a free transfer to the Airport. Grab a coffee and snack, or heartier bite to eat, at the hotel’s Palm Court Restaurant, open from 5.30am to 10.30pm daily. fijigateway.com/guest-services

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A Home Away from Home A Home Away from Home

Located on private Yanuca Island, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa has one of the finest beaches on Fiji’s Coral Coast and an abundance of activities and facilities to keep every family Located on private Yanuca Island, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and member occupied. A protected bay forms a natural lagoon inside Spa has one of the finest beaches on Fiji’s Coral Coast and an theabundance reef, idealofforactivities swimming watersports including brand andand facilities to keep every our family new waterpark, snorkelling andbay ourforms transparent member occupied.

A protected a naturalkayaks. lagoon inside the reef, ideal for swimming and watersports including our brand

A new traditional Fijian village isand theour inspiration waterpark, snorkelling transparentbehind kayaks.the layout of the resort that features lagoon or Pacific Ocean views. Well A traditional Fijian village is the inspiration layout of is known for being family-friendly resort ourbehind Little the Chiefs Club the resort that features lagoon or Pacific Ocean views.

Well complimentary for children aged between 4 - 12 years. Our known for being family-friendly resort ourchildren, Little Chiefs Club is family-friendly policy allows for up to two aged 12 years complimentary for children aged between 4 12 years.

Our and under, to eat free when accompanied by a paying adult. family-friendly policy allows for up to two children, aged 12 years and under, to eat free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa is a 45 minute drive from Nadi International and is setSpa exclusively on adrive 109-acre private Shangri-La’s airport Fijian Resort and is a 45 minute from Nadi island with a causeway connecting it to the mainland.

International airport and is set exclusively on a 109-acre private island with a causeway connecting it to the mainland.

FACT FILE

FACT FILE

From F$500 + taxes per room night+ taxes per Fromper F$500 room per night

From F$500 + taxes.

Childrens mean plan From F$500 + taxes.

Childrens meanapply. plan applies.

Cond. applies.

Cond.round. apply.

Valid all year

K

K

Under 12 free, may 2 kids.

Children years require a Under 12 free,under may 24 kids. babysitter. breakfast, Children under Meals 4 years- require a complimentary. buffet breakfast, babysitter.

Meals - breakfast, and buffet dinner when dining complimentary. buffet breakfast, with paying adultwhen dining with andabuffet dinner a paying adult 2 courts. Racket hire for

2 adults courts. per Racket hire for hr, children per hr. adults per hr, children per hr.

Applicable rates apply.

Applicable rates apply.

Valid all year round.

Yes

Yes

From 4 years upwards

From 4 years upwards

Yes Yes 9-hole resort course 9-hole resort course + Putt golf,18 + Putt putt,putt, MiniMini golf,18 holesholes

6 6restaurants; restaurants; kids menuavailable available menu CableTV TVinin all all Cable roomsand and bures, bures, rooms TV room adjacent TV room adjacent

F$24 for 3 hrs (or part hr)

F$24 3 hrs (or max part hr) F$7 for thereafter, 3 F$7 thereafter, children per carer.max 3 children per carer.

3 swimming pools

is adultspools only) 3 (one swimming (one is adults only)

SPA SPA

On-site On-site

45 mins/60kms 45Nadi mins/60kms from from Nadiairport international

international airport

Sydney 3 1/2 hrs

Sydney 3 1/2 hrs

Yanuca Island, Coral Coast, Fiji Islands. Ph: +679 652 0155 Email: fij@shangri-la.com

Yanuca Island, Coral Coast, Fiji Islands. Ph: +679 652 0155 Email: fij@shangri-la.com

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t u o t e Gand about in

The most popular regions of Fiji for family holidays are on the main island of Viti Levu around Nadi and Denarau; at resorts along the Queens Highway towards Sigatoka – known as the Coral Coast; the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island Groups; and the second largest island, Vanua Levu, and the town of Savusavu.

Of course, many families venture to Pacific Harbour and the capital, Suva, and to other fabulous islands and resorts scattered throughout the Fijian archipelago that numbers some 300 islands and atolls.

Others opt to discover Fiji from the water, sailing the beautiful Mamanucas and the Yasawas with Captain Cook Cruises or Blue Lagoon cruises.

You can reach the Coral Coast by road from Nadi, and take a short domestic flight from Nadi to Suva.

Mamanuca and Yasawa island resorts are reached via South Seas ferry transfers or dedicated resort transfers, seaplane, helicopter or private boat taxi transfer.

The town of Savusavu, on Vanua Levu is just a short domestic flight from Nadi Airport.

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Vitu Levu

Nadi/Denarau • Nadi town is worth exploring for its bustling main street shopping, souvenirs and fashions for all ages, markets selling Fijian artefacts, duty free shopping, and local supermarket where you can pick up snacks, drinks, and everyday items at local prices.

events, including lovo feasts and picnic days. Introduce your children to a friendly, fun and uniquely Fijian experience. facebook.com/ fijiavivafarms

• Denarau Marina is the busy transit spot for travellers heading out to the Mamanucas and Yasawas. It’s also a contemporary retail and restaurant hub where families can enjoy a spot of shopping and tasty eats, with views from the marina of fabulous boats and yachts – including a few state-of-the-art, privately-owned, luxury craft and even tall ships. denarau.com/shopping

© iStock

• Try family paddleboarding at Denarau Marina. From a 30 minute gentle beginners experience and a 2 hour Mangrove Tour, to a spectacular sunset tour, the whole family can experience Fiji from the water in a safe, fun and easy way, with Paddleboard Fiji. paddleboardfiji.com

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• Visit Aviva Farms in Nadi, a working farm dedicated to re-seeding the connection between Fijian people and their land, and offering visitors authentic Fijian experiences across everything from horse riding to sustainable agriculture and

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• Head to Lautoka, a 30-minute drive from Nadi, and explore the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a 14ha eco-friendly adventure park that features the thrilling Sleeping Giant Zipline and guided jungle waterfall safaris. The Gardens themselves house more than 2000 varieties of magnificent Asian orchids and Cattleya hybrids. gsgfiji.com ziplinefiji.com

Day trip to the islands If you are holidaying on the main island of Viti Levu, take a day’s excursion out to the islands for a whole different perspective of Fiji.

Set sail with My Fiji for an exclusive day of sun, fun and private-island paradise on Tivua Island. The day trip with Captain Cook Cruises includes all food and drinks, activities in the Captain’s Kids Club, and hours of swimming, snorkelling and playing on the white sands of this private coral atoll. myfiji.com/fiji-day-cruises South Seas Cruises offers a great family day trip to South Sea Island, just a 30-minute ferry trip from Port Denarau. Relax, swim, snorkel and maybe even Find Nemo. Be entertained during a Fijian meke performance, and browse the island craft markets Monday to Saturday. Full and half day cruises available. ssc.com.fj With fleet vessels named ‘Excitor’ and ‘Thunder’, Excitor Fiji promises fast, fun and safe adventures out to islands close to Port Denarau, including Bounty Island and the new Malamala Beach Club. Tours range from three hours to a whole day, and Excitor can also arrange pre-tour hotel transfers, including from the Coral Coast (a charge applies). Kids will love the Big Bula Combo that combines Excitor’s Bounty Island Burger tour and Big Bula Waterpark on one ticket – the combo can be used on separate days, giving you two fun family outings for the price of one! excitorfiji.com

© Chris McLennan/Tourism Fiji

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Nadi

Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay The doors to this new 5-star Fiji resort opened in April 2017 – Lagoon Family rooms available, plus three restaurants, café and deli onsite. marriott.com.au/hotel-search.mi (then click on Australia & Pacific Islands) Novotel Nadi A 4-star hotel just three minutes from Nadi Airport and 15 minutes to Port Denarau offering Family Rooms, plus free breakfast for kids 2-16 years when dining with an adult. novotel.com (and search Nadi, Fiji) Tokatoka Resort Nadi Fiji Family Villas accommodate 2 adults and 2 children. There’s also a dedicated kids’ swimming pool with water slide. warwickhotels.com/tokatoka-resort

Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa Kids club, kids pool, waterslides and daily family activities plus room and suite accommodation options.

3.hilton.com (then click on RESORTS/enter ‘Fiji’) The Palms Denarau A luxury complex offering one, two and three bedroom apartments suitable for families. thepalmsdenarau.com Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island A family-friendly, luxury oceanfront resort offering guest rooms with private balcony or courtyard, and spacious one and two-bedroom suites. Six restaurants, including in-pool dining, and four climatecontrolled lagoon pools (plus a fun whitewater tunnel slide) keep the whole family happy. Blu Banana Kids Club offers a diverse range of age-appropriate activities and entertainment for kids from 1 year to 12 years, and Radisson Blu also

© Radisson Blu Fiji

Denarau

has a great Nanny service. radissonblu.com/en/resort-fiji Sheraton Fiji & Sheraton Villas Westin Denarau This resort complex on Denarau Island offers guests reciprocal use of facilities including pools, kids clubs and dining (with room chargeback) at the adjacent 5-star Westin Denarau. sheratonfiji.com sheratondenarauvillas.com westindenarauisland.com Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa The resort includes child-friendly room design, Sony PlayStations, kids club, children’s pool and waterslide. sofitel-fiji.com Wyndham Resort Denarau Island Luxury apartments with pool, café and restaurant, kids activities and kids club. wyndhamap.com (then click on DISCOVERY/RESORTS/Fiji)

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Sigatoka Cultural Historical Eco Tour

© Tourism Fiji

This family day trip starts with collection from your hotel, and a first stop at the famous Sigatoka Sand Dunes for an exciting 30 minute trek to the top. At Nakabuta Village, home of lapita pottery making, the villagers will perform a traditional Fijian ‘meke’ dance to welcome you, and let you in on the secrets of making lapita. After a spot of shopping and lunch in Sigatoka Town it’s off to Kula Wild Adventure Park to meet some of Fiji’s most endangered marine and land creatures. The final stop is the historic Tavuni Hill Fort, built in the 19th century by a Tongan chief, and spectacular views to the Sigatoka River below. fijiecotours.com.fj

Vitu Levu

The Coral Coast/ Sigatoka

• Suva is a 2-hour drive from Sigatoka, but if you’re staying in that region make sure you take a day trip to Maui Bay Horse Riding Adventure in Suva.

Set right on the coast, this familyfriendly outing offers gentle horse riding on the beach, lovo lunches and waterfall tours, among many other adventures for all ages.

Find Fiji Coral Coast Horse Riding Adventures on Facebook • The award-winning Sigatoka River Safari is suitable for all ages and offers the unique opportunity to travel deep into the heart and soul of Fiji, on the magnificent Sigatoka River, aboard safari jet boats. Visit authentic villages along the river and experience a day in the life of the real ‘kaiviti’ (Fijian), with part of the price of each ticket going back to the local villages to help with much-needed community projects sigatokariver.com • Kula Wild Adventure Park in Sigatoka is not only Fiji’s biggest family

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fun park but also an eco park – ‘using nature to preserve nature’. Kula has something for everyone – spectacular bird, reptile and marine life, nature walks on the forest floor and elevated on boardwalks through the canopy, Fiji’s only rollercoaster zip rail – Kula Krazy Canopy Flier – Kula Kiddies Splash Pool, and Splash Mountain Jungle Waterslide.

Plan your own self-guided adventure or take a Behind The Scenes Tour of the park and its attractions. Kids aged between 7 years and 12 years can also become a Kula Park Ranger for the day! fijiwild.com

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Coral Coast/Sigatoka Double Tree Resort by Hilton Set on Sonaisali Island, the resort has a kids club and activities program, playground, children’s menu and childcare centre. doubletree3.hilton.com (then click Resorts/Asia Pacific) InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa 5-star resort located on Natadola Bay offers a choice of rooms, suites and interconnecting accommodation.

Activity program includes excursions to Sigatoka Markets, villages, schools and Kula Eco Park. fiji.intercontinental.com

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort The 5-star resort is renowned for its MeiMei nannies, Talai butlers, Bebe spa, and family-friendly ambience plus children and teen activities and Kids Eat Free Special. outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/fiji Shangri-La Fijian Resort & Spa A 5-star resort that has been a favourite with families for many decades. Set on private Yanuca Island (accessed by road via a small bridge), this lush beachfront property offers fun and relaxation in equal measure. Kids get their own Meal Plan, swimming pool and Little Chiefs Club,

outdoor and indoor daily activities program and movies in the TV room.

Shangri-La’s Reef Care Project is dedicated to preserving the delicate coral life of the Fijian Islands, and the resort’s new coral gardens project and Marine Education Centre are open to guests, to learn more about this important initiative and to get hands-on with meaningful activities, including fish house building, during their family holiday. shangri-la.com/yanucaisland/ fijianresort Warwick Fiji Lase Kids Club for children 3-12 years, kids’ swimming pool and kids club play area, five restaurants, room and suite options, and a range of indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family. warwickhotels.com/fiji-resort

© Sigatoka River Safari

Mango Bay Resort An eco-friendly, laid back resort in Sigatoka. Family Garden Villa is colourful, fun and designed to complement the tropical Fijian charm of the environment. mangobayresortfiji.com

The Naviti This popular all-inclusive family-friendly resort has two kids club programs for different ages and kids under 12 years eat all meals free! warwickhotels.com/naviti-resort

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Savusavu

• Venture into the thriving town of Savusavu and explore its shops, culture and fabulous Farmers’ Market (daily except Sunday). You can shop for t-shirts and casual gear, sulus (Fijian sarongs), supermarket items, and fresh produce.

© iStock

• Take a guided tour of the island’s incredible waterfalls and rainforests.

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• Visit the Copra Shed Marina in Savusavu and admire the array of vessels moored here, browse the handicraft and art shops, and have

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a family meal by the water at The Captain’s Café. The Savusavu Yacht Club at the Marina hosts Movies on the Lawn every Monday and Wednesday.

• The J. Hunter Pearls tour takes you out on a glass-bottom boat for a 40-minute cruise to view the pearl oyster culture, then observe the cleaning process, where workers check the health of juvenile and adult oysters. Back in the showroom, a 15-minute presentation covers the history of the cultured pearl, and you can see a range of loose pearls, and pearl jewellery, on display.

© Tourism Fiji

Vanua Levu

Vanua Levu/ Savusavu

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Koro Sun Resort & Rainforest Spa Loads of activities for kids of all ages, including programs for children 3 years and under, and 4-12 years at Jungle Kids Club, plus eight hours of dedicated nanny service for children under 3 years. korosunresort.com Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort This 5-star award-winning eco resort’s Bula!

Club for kids exposes children to a world of ageappropriate Fijian fun, through entertaining and educational play and activities. The resort also runs a Junior Chef program and a program of family activities. fijiresort.com

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Mamandanuca wa Islands Yasa • If you have chance to visit a village, don’t miss it. Island villages are very different to those on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu for the pure fact that they are remote, and on islands!

The ‘saltwater people’ create their communities to suit their unique environment, and while we might choose prime position on a stretch of island beach to set up camp, the Fijians know better, and build their villages

© iStock

• Snorkel. It’s easy and fun, and every resort has snorkel gear ready and waiting for the whole family to skim the

surface of the clear waters spotting electric blue starfish, parrot fish, colourful coral, maybe even a friendly manta ray, and plenty of opportunity to find Nemo. If you’re staying on a coral atoll pack reef shoes for everyone – it makes it easier to wade out over the coral to begin your snorkelling adventure.

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in the interior, where they are protected from fierce weather and damaging winds. Island communities fortunate enough to have a school, welcome children from neighbouring islands, who commute via a daily school (long) boat, instead of a school bus.

• Fiji boasts spectacular surf breaks, and some, like Cloudbreak and Wilkes, have been tackled by the likes of Kelly Slater, and Aussie Joel Parkinson, competing in the annual Fiji Pro, held late May to early June. Many resorts in the Mamanucas and Yasawas provide guests with the opportunity to get close to the breaks (and the surfers) on dedicated Fiji Pro boat trips when the comp is underway.

© Frogfish Photography (UK)/Tourism Fiji

• Every island in Fiji is unique.

From low-lying, tiny coral atolls ringed with sand and reef to hilly, verdant outcrops rising from the sea, wherever you flop and drop in the Mamanucas and Yasawas, your island deserves exploration. It’s possible to walk around some small atolls in under an hour, or kayak the circumference and take in a whole new vista from the water. Wander up mini mountains through lush vegetation, and take in the views from atop. Stroll along the water’s edge, and sift the clean sands for shells, coral and crabs.

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Yasawa Islands © Chris McLennan/Tourism Fiji

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort Located on Nacula Island, in the “Blue Lagoon” part of the Yasawas, the resort’s one and two bedroom villas are perfect for families, and children 3 years and over will love Green Gecko Kids Club. bluelagoonresortfiji.com Octopus Resort Fiji This luxury resort offers a range of accommodation for families – from bures to suites, villas and a luxury lodge. Little Squids Kids Club caters for children from 3 years. octopusresort.com

Mamanuca Islands Castaway Island 60 traditional-style bures set in lush tropical gardens, plus kids club and a family pool, great dining options, and plenty of family activities. castawayfiji.com

Malolo Island Resort Fiji 100% Fijian owned, the awardwinning eco-aware resort is intimate and friendly, with accommodation to suit all families including spacious Family Bures that can sleep up to seven people.

Tia’s Treehouse, under a big mango tree, boasts the Yanu Yanu Club, featuring an extensive daily program for children. Free for 4-12 year olds, Yanu Yanu gives kids the opportunity to sample life as a Malolo Islander, with a focus on fun activities around Fijian food and culture, traditions, marine and natural environments and arts & crafts. Teens 13-18 years can chill in Khail’s Club, an air-conditioned lounge space with Wi-Fi, games, satellite TV and huge beanbag lounges. maloloisland.com Mana Island Resort & Spa Meimei (Nanny) Centre and

Creche for little ones plus activities on land and in the water to suit older children of all ages. Wide choice of bures, rooms and suites. manafiji.com Musket Cove Island Resort Located next to Plantation Island Resort, Musket Cove offers a choice of bures and villas and plenty of water-based activities. musketcovefiji.com Plantation Island Resort One of the first resorts in the Mamanuca Islands, with kids pool and waterslides, gentle lagoon, kids club and variety of dining experiences. plantationisland.com Sheraton Tokoriki Resort & Spa 5-star family-friendly island resort with Family Suites and interconnecting Island Breeze Rooms, LaiLai Kids Club and onsite movie theatre. sheratontokorikiisland.com Treasure Island Resort 4-star island resort with traditional bure-style family accommodation, kids club, and marine sanctuary. treasureisland-fiji.com

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© Tourism Fiji

STAY

Pacific Harbour

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Beqa Lagoon Resort Just 45 minutes by boat from Pacific Harbour, the resort offers kid-friendly activities and entertainment, on land and in the water. beqalagoonresort.com

all. Complimentary baby/ toddler accessories and Newborn Maternity Leave Package for families with infants cover the under 1s! nanuku.aubergeresorts. com

Nanuku Auberge Resort A luxury beachfront resort offering a dedicated nanny for every child under 6 years, ‘buddies’ for children 6-12 years, a range of exciting activities for teens, and LaiLai Kids Club for

The Pearl Resort Pacific Harbour Kids Stay and Eat Free package for under 12s, Penthouse Suites for families, and an 18-hole championship golf course. thepearlsouthpacific.com

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Suva

Holiday Inn Suva Kids aged 12 years and under Stay and Eat Free and the hotel also has an indoor and outdoor children’s pool. ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels (then search SUVA, Fiji) Grand Pacific Hotel A Fiji icon for over a century, this majestic hotel is a great place for families to stay and explore the capital, Suva. The hotel has a Kids Club and babysitting services. grandpacifichotel.com.fj

Discover these luxury familyfriendly private islanD resorts Vomo Island vomofiji.com Kokomo Island kokomoislandfiji.com Toberua Island toberua.com Taveuni Island Resort (Children over 15 years only) taveuniislandresort

Help with your holiday My Fiji specialises in family holiday packages, and will arrange everything from travel insurance to transfers and tours – all tailored to your family. Exclusive My Fiji tours feature extra inclusions and added value bonuses too! myfiji.com/why-my-fiji Rosie Holidays has well and truly cemented its reputation for providing holidaymakers to Fiji with the best 24-hour meet and greet service, from the moment you touch down at Nadi International Airport. Full concierge services cover everything from car hire and ground transport to foreign language assistance and sightseeing during your stay. rosiefiji.com

Want to discover Fiji from the water?

Need to Know • Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months AFTER your return to your country of origin from Fiji. If you intend to stay in Fiji for less than four months you do not require an entry visa.

• Travel Insurance for Fiji is highly recommended • Bottled water is preferable for drinking, however, your resort will advise if this is the case and will provide bottled water daily during your stay.

• Banks in Fiji open from 9.30am to 3.00pm Monday to Thursday, and until 4.00pm on Friday. All banks are closed on public holidays.

• Fiji uses 240 volts AC 50Hz with three-pin power points – the same as in Australia and New Zealand.

• Getting around Fiji by road, air and sea fiji.travel/au/information/ transport

© Captain Cook Cruises

Captain Cook Cruises Fiji and Blue Lagoon Cruises both sail the beautiful Fijian islands, departing from Port Denarau Marina, on excursions ranging from just a few nights to 11-night cruises.

© Blue Lagoon Cruises

Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of Family Packages, with child minding, nannies and a host of fun kids and teen activities onboard MV Reef Endeavour (including Captain’s Kids Club), and onshore. captaincookcruisesfiji.com/packages/family-packages

Blue Lagoon Cruises boasts an all-Fijian crew aboard the Fiji Princess, which sails to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island Groups. Minimum age for children cruising with Blue Lagoon is 14 years, and special "Family Cruise" departure dates are set within the Australian school holidays. bluelagooncruises.com/packages/families TOURISM FIJI fiji.travel

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Getting There Nadi International Airport, on the main island of Viti Levu, is the primary gateway to Fiji for most travellers, and there are several domestic airports scattered throughout the islands, including Suva, the capital.

FIJI AIRWAYS, Fiji’s national carrier, has regular direct flights to Nadi from Australian cities including Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. The airline’s codeshare agreement with Qantas provides Australians living in other cities and regional areas, including Perth, Hobart, Canberra, Darwin, Townsville and Rockhampton, with quick connections to Nadi via Sydney

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or Brisbane.

Fiji Airways also flies to and from international destinations including Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington (New Zealand), Singapore, Hong Kong, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and seasonal flights from San Francisco. The airline will launch a new direct Nadi-Tokyo service in 2018. fijiairways.com Fiji Link is the domestic carrier of Fiji Airways. fijiairways.com/about-fiji-airways/ fiji-link Jetstar, Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia also fly regularly to Fiji.

Fiji s Familie for

Out & About with Kids Fiji for Families was created, designed and produced by Elwin Media Pty Ltd. Cover © Mark Snyder/Tourism Fiji Publisher Elisa Elwin Editor: Christine Kane Advertising: Wayne Stickel Design Jon Wolfgang Miller Published by Elwin Media Pty Ltd ABN 22 159 093 606 PO Box 4148 Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093 +61 413770550 outandaboutwithkids.com.au Disclaimer: The opinions expresses in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Out & About with Kids.

Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2018. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders.

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